National Forest Recreation Area - Peninsula, near Thompson Falls, Montana, is a fantastic spot for those looking to escape into nature without breaking the bank. This area offers a beautiful, secluded experience with plenty of privacy between sites, making it ideal for campers who appreciate a little space.

The location is right by the Clark Fork River, providing stunning views and opportunities for some peaceful riverside relaxation. Visitors have noted that while there are no amenities like drinking water or electric hookups, the natural beauty and tranquility more than make up for it. As one camper put it, “We loved this spot! It was super quiet minus the sound of the river.”

If you’re up for a little adventure, there are trails nearby that lead to great spots along the water. Just keep in mind that the train tracks are close by, so you might hear the occasional train passing through, but many find it adds to the charm of the area. 

With no reservations required and a laid-back vibe, this location is perfect for those who want to enjoy a rustic camping experience. Just remember to bring your own firewood and be prepared for a bit of a walk to the pit toilets. Whether you’re pitching a tent or parking your RV, the National Forest Recreation Area - Peninsula is a solid choice for a getaway in the great outdoors.

12 dispersed camping sites with fire rings along the Clark Fork River near fishing, rafting, and swimming opportunities. No water or trash receptacles are available - Pack it in/Pack it out.

National Forest Recreation Area - Peninsula

Paradise is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Paradise is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Paradise

The Best Camping Near Paradise, Montana

This is a great place to get away for a few days with the Clark Fork River right below. The road in is gravel and nicely maintained. This is a dispersed camping area with no tables, or metal fire pits, but there is an abundance of rock-lined fire pits of previous campers,  and there is only one vault bathroom.  We have visited this place a few times and finally camped one night in our tent.  The campsites are shaded by Ponderosa pines and a few Douglas firs. There were some rafters in the water when we visited in July, 2019.

Beautiful River View

From other guests it sounds as if there are several sites at this location. The first one was taken and we passed under the railroad trestle and drive 1/4 miles to a pull in place that sits in an embankment overlooking the Clark Fork. 

Beautiful and secluded spot. No amenities other than a fire ring.  We did not drive further down the road to confirm whether there was a toilet there.


Thanks Dyrt! I can’t believe this exists. 

We loved this spot! There were maybe 6-7 dispersed camping areas next to the river (some had metal fire rings, some didn’t). The ground was pretty flat and it was super quiet minus the sound of the river. We didn’t see the pit toilets, but they may have been further down the road. Definitely would recommend this spot!

Great Spot

Easy access road and clean spots with plenty of space between sites (until towards the end of the road). Had great cell service too. Saw a black bear one morning near our campsite.

Very spacious!

Great spot! Plenty of tree cover and great views.  Minimal highway noise.   Right off 135, don't trust map location on this app.  2 bars 4G Verizon.  Right on the water.  

Location differs from map

Super dope spot. Just past the national forest sign on the left. Goes down a trail marked with a sign that says 83525 or something. Just keep going down you’ll be fine and there’s cool spots just above the river 

Saw a train drive by

Close to water. Nice tree cover. Fire pits were taped off at the time of visit due to high fire danger.

Good Spot 

This was a beautiful, free dispersed site with plenty of privacy between sites. They call it peninsula because it is a narrow piece of land between a lively river with nesting eagles and a railway. The train passed through several times in the night, so choose a site further in from the main road. No facilities, no water. 

Beautiful Site with Exception

There are a couple of pit toilets spaced pretty far apart on this road so unless you get a spot right next to them, it's a bit of a walk. Pretty area, pretty secluded. Not directly next to the water but there are plenty of spots to walk down closer to it. Train tracks are right across the water so it can get pretty loud, but trains never bother me, personally. 

Not bad

Do not follow maps directions to this spot. Click the one a little south east next to the river titled “Dispersed Site - Lolo National Forest Recreation Area”. This is the right location. Good spot. 

Photos of National Forest Recreation Area - Peninsula

Real photos from real campers