Howard Lake Campground

Fishing enthusiasts will find Howard Lake Campground operates as a free Forest Service site accessible via a 15-mile drive on well-maintained roads. The campground sits near both Howard Lake and a creek in open terrain, with a 1.7-mile nature trail circling the lake and additional hiking trails departing from the area.

The site provides vault toilets stocked with tissue and allows 16-night maximum stays from Memorial Day through Labor Day. Campers can access lake water directly, though no potable water system exists on-site. Cell phone service remains unavailable, and pets are prohibited. A nearby gold panning area adds recreational options for visitors exploring campgrounds near Kootenai National Forest. The campground typically sees light use even during peak summer weekends.

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Location

Public Campground

Howard Lake Campground is located in Montana

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

48.10094444 N
115.5306667 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Tent Cabin

Features

For Campers

  • Trash
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol

Contact

General Info

Drive Time


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Reviews

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3.5

out of 5

2 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 18, 2022

Very Quiet Campground

THIS CAMPGROUND IS IN MONTANA, NOT IN IDAHO It’s 15 miles down a well maintained road with beautiful views of the cabinet mountains. I was there a Saturday in July and only two campsites were being used. There is a 1.7 mile “nature trail” that circles the lake, and there is also a trail head to a more substantial hike with reportable good views. The campground is free and has a 16 night maximum stay. There are two vault toilets at the campground supplied with tissue.

SiteDay use
Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Howard Lake Campground by Jill S., July 18, 2022
  • Review photo of Howard Lake Campground by Jill S., July 18, 2022
  • Review photo of Howard Lake Campground by Jill S., July 18, 2022
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Aug. 14, 2021

Nice campground, inexpensive

There's a public access gold panning area near this campground. There's also a nice little lake here. There is a pit toilet a short distance from the campground. The only water source is the pond but it's easy to get to. There is no cell phone service.

Site8
Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Howard Lake Campground by Will M., August 14, 2021
  • Review photo of Howard Lake Campground by Will M., August 14, 2021
  • Review photo of Howard Lake Campground by Will M., August 14, 2021
  • (6) View All

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Howard Lake Campground?

Howard Lake Campground offers basic amenities for visitors looking to enjoy a rustic camping experience. The campground features pit toilets located a short distance from the camping area. There is no potable water system, so campers must rely on the lake as a water source (filtration is recommended). The campground is primitive with no electricity, hookups, or showers. Cell phone service is not available in the area, so plan accordingly for an off-grid experience. Despite the limited facilities, the peaceful setting and natural beauty make it an appealing destination for those seeking a more rustic camping experience.

How do I get to Howard Lake Campground near Libby, Montana?

Howard Lake Campground is located in Montana, not Idaho as sometimes incorrectly listed. To reach the campground from Libby, Montana, you'll travel approximately 15 miles down a well-maintained road. The journey offers spectacular views of the Cabinet Mountains along the way. The road is accessible for most vehicles, though larger RVs might find some sections challenging. As you approach, watch for signs directing you to the campground. The relatively remote location contributes to its peaceful atmosphere, with minimal crowds even during summer weekends.

What activities can I enjoy at Howard Lake in Montana?

Howard Lake offers a variety of outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking on the 1.7-mile nature trail that circles the entire lake, providing beautiful views and wildlife spotting opportunities. The lake itself is perfect for fishing, swimming, and non-motorized boating during warmer months. Additionally, there's a public access gold panning area nearby for those interested in trying their luck. The campground also serves as a trailhead for longer hikes into the surrounding wilderness. With the Cabinet Mountains as a backdrop, photography enthusiasts will find plenty of scenic vistas to capture.