Tent camping opportunities near De Borgia, Montana are scattered throughout the Lolo National Forest at elevations ranging from 3,000 to 5,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F, with cooler nights even during peak season. Many campsites offer direct access to the extensive trail systems connecting the Idaho panhandle to western Montana, with conditions best from late May through September.
What to do
Fishing access points: Lake Elsie Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities with both rainbow and brook trout available. A camper noted, "We always catch lots of brooke and rainbow trout and wild life is everywhere!" The lake's remote location helps maintain fish populations throughout the season.
Trail exploration: Gold Rush Campground connects to miles of hiking trails through dense forest terrain. According to a visitor, "Great trail for hiking and exploring. This camp is not heavily used so you could possibly get the place to yourself." The trails are typically accessible from late spring through early fall.
Water recreation: Packsaddle Campground offers riverside camping and connects to nearby trail systems. A reviewer mentioned, "If you hike (or ride) on the local trails you find beautiful scenery." The campground's proximity to water makes it ideal for combining hiking with fishing or paddling activities.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Copper King Campground provides well-spaced camping areas. A camper shared, "There are five sites with generous spacing. Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring." The layout allows for quiet camping even when the campground reaches capacity.
Wildlife viewing: Lake Elsie campers frequently report wildlife sightings in the area. One camper warned, "Multiple bears went through the campground in the evening and came back at around 3am. Be careful with your food and be smart." Moose sightings are also common around the lake.
Off-season solitude: Telichpah Campground offers a small, quiet camping experience with basic amenities. A visitor wrote, "This little (5 camping sites) primitive campground suited our needs perfectly. It was clean, no frills, had a well-maintained vault toilet, and there was even a small creek for pleasant background sleeping sounds." Spring and fall camping provides the most seclusion.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to Lake Elsie requires navigating challenging forest roads. One camper explained, "The road up is rough, potholes, it does get better about halfway up. Expect at least 30 minutes to get up after you hit the gravel, and that's pushing it pretty hard." Higher clearance vehicles are recommended for most dispersed camping areas.
Bear safety: Bear activity is common throughout the region, particularly at higher elevations. Bring bear-resistant containers or utilize bear boxes when provided. At Lake Elsie, a reviewer warned, "Multiple bears went through the campground in the evening and came back at around 3am."
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds provide only basic amenities. A Telichpah Campground visitor noted, "Please note that we didn't see a pump or other water source in the campground." Pack in all necessary water and supplies, as most sites lack potable water sources.
Tips for camping with families
Best beginner sites: Copper King Campground offers a family-friendly setting with basic amenities. A reviewer mentioned, "This campground doesn't really accommodate large RVs, but it's great for tent camping. Although it sits along the river, it doesn't really have great river access. The campground is no more than 10 minutes from Thompson falls, so it's easy to get to town if you need to."
Pack adequate supplies: The remote nature of these campgrounds means bringing everything needed for your stay. Many campgrounds have no drinking water facilities, so water purification options or multiple containers are essential.
Seasonal considerations: Late summer and early fall typically offer the best family camping conditions with fewer insects and more moderate temperatures. Gold Rush Campground provides "lots of shade" according to one reviewer, making it suitable for summer camping with children.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most campgrounds near De Borgia accommodate only smaller RVs and trailers. Lake Elsie presents particular challenges as a reviewer warned, "ROAD IS NARROW, WINDY, AND STEEP. not at all trailer or big rig friendly." Scout potential sites before attempting access with larger vehicles.
Alternative accommodations: For those seeking more comfort, Off The Beaten Path Glampground offers unique lodging options. A visitor mentioned, "Nice large tent sites. They also have a geodesic dome you can rent." These alternatives provide camping experiences with additional amenities for those not wanting to rough it.
