Within Kootenai National Forest, Big Eddy Campground provides free camping along a challenging access road that demands careful consideration. This National Forest site operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day and welcomes both drive-in and walk-in campers, though pets are not permitted.
The campground's small size contributes to a quiet atmosphere during the day, but campers should prepare for significant train noise. One visitor noted that trains pass frequently, especially between 10 PM and 5 AM, with horns blasting at each nearby intersection. The access road presents the most consistent challenge, with multiple reviewers describing severe potholes that make the route "ridiculously" difficult for low-clearance vehicles.
Sites include fire rings and picnic tables, with some positioned to receive good solar exposure for those with solar equipment. A natural spring located a few miles west provides a water source for campers. The campground accommodates big rigs despite the rough road, though the approach requires slow, careful navigation. Cell service is reportedly unavailable, which one camper found problematic when seeking alternative accommodations.
"The road is nothing but HUGE potholes!" warns one reviewer, emphasizing the access challenge that defines much of the camping experience here. Big Eddy works best for campers with sturdy vehicles who prioritize free camping and can tolerate regular train noise throughout the night.
Description
The Big Eddy Campground is located approximately 6 miles of east of the Idaho border in Montana on Hwy 200. The campground has__5 sites with table and fire rings and will accomodate a 30' RV. Amenities include vault toilets and a fully developed boat ramp with a dock. There is__ two__day use sites, one__with a covered shelter,__two picnic__tables and fire__grills, near the boat ramp.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsBig Eddy Campground is located in Montana near Heron
Coordinates
48.06611 N
115.92463 W
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors
T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 6/8/26
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Connectivity
T-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoors- T-Mobile5GExcellent CoverageVerified by 4 usersLast on 6/8/26
- VerizonLTESome Coverage
- AT&TLTESome Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Toilets
- Alcohol
For Vehicles
- Big Rig Friendly
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
PERMIT might be REQUIRED
We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Big Eddy Campground needs a permit.
Drive Time
- 1 hr 28 min from Coeur d'Alene, ID
- 1 hr 58 min from Spokane, WA
- 2 hrs 19 min from Missoula, MT
- 3 hrs 23 min from Lewiston, ID
