Near Kootenai National Forest, Fortine camping options span elevations from 3,400 to 4,800 feet in the northwestern Montana wilderness. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with cool nights even during July and August. Several designated campgrounds offer vault toilets with limited to no cell service available throughout most of the backcountry areas.
What to do
Forest hiking trails: Access multiple wilderness trails from Big Therriault Lake Campground, where visitors can explore dense pine forests. "I've been camping at this location for several years now, mostly in the fall. Wonderful camping with a lot wildlife around," notes Brian N., who recommends keeping campsites clean due to bear activity.
Creek and river fishing: The waterways near Tuchuck Campground provide fishing opportunities for small trout. "Nice camp for a tent camp or camper. Creek close. Beautiful mountains getting there from Eureka," reports Sonja R., who notes the rough roads make this better for smaller vehicles.
Wildlife viewing: Multiple campgrounds offer opportunities to spot deer, moose, and occasionally bears. "Lot's of deer walking around, very safe, locals are very friendly," shares John P. about Grave Creek Campground, which serves as a gateway to grizzly country with semi-remote camping options.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Caribou Campground offers primitive sites alongside running water. "Three campsites, a gorgeous creek, and a clean vault toilet. It is close to the road but not a busy one, and the sound of the water more than covers any traffic noise," writes Barbara C. about this small but appealing location.
Spacious camping areas: Many visitors appreciate the room to spread out at Big Creek Campground, which features multiple camping loops. "Spacious and private spots. Easy access to Glacier from the rare, unused Flathead river entrance," notes Dirty E., who highlights the extremely clean facilities despite being primitive pit toilets.
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution makes stargazing exceptional. According to Clayton S., "This is a great campsite. The pit toilet is clean and it is set up as a horse camp. Ramps for loading horses and trough for feeding. Plenty of space for tents and small campers."
What you should know
Road conditions: Several campgrounds require navigating rough forest roads. "Rough road going west from Polebridge not suitable for RVs. Much better road eastbound from Eureka side," writes Sonja R. about access to Tuchuck Campground.
Bear safety requirements: All sites in the area require proper food storage. "Keep an eye out and camping location clean due to the bears will visit you if not," warns Brian N. about Big Therriault Lake Campground.
Limited services: Most forest service campgrounds have vault toilets but no running water. "No services, semi remote, very quiet, dusty, views of the mountains. You are in grizzly country," explains John P. about Grave Creek Campground.
Seasonal access: Most backcountry sites close after Labor Day due to snow. "Fall camping here is very peaceful," reports Brian N., though most campgrounds in the higher elevations aren't accessible in winter.
Tips for camping with families
Water activities: Rocky Mountain Hi Campground provides family-friendly amenities near Kalispell. "Great place to camp with children because of the large, grassy playground and swimming area. Showers and a laundry are on site," recommends Kimberly Y.
Playground access: Several campgrounds feature dedicated children's areas. "The kids could play all day in the great park with a whole western town set up and swimming hole in the creek, volleyball net and paved roads to scooter and roller blade," shares Jennifer H. about Rocky Mountain Hi.
Wildlife education: The area provides opportunities for nature learning. "Visitors center nearby had some wonderful guided hikes, including a bird-watching one that I went on," notes Stephanie T., who enjoyed the educational components available near Big Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: When glamping close to Fortine, Montana in larger vehicles, road conditions matter. "The 2 miles of gravel over to Glacier Park hasn't improved any. Literally 5 mph was too fast," warns Phil P. about access to Big Creek Campground.
Hookup availability: Whitefish Lake State Park Campground offers electric and water hookups for those seeking more amenities. "The location of the campground is great, very close to the mountain town of Whitefish Montana and right along Whitefish Lake. The sites are small and the road is narrow but it is beautiful," advises Angela G.
RV size limitations: Many forest roads restrict larger rigs. "I would be cautious about bringing any large campers to this area but the tent sites are nice," cautions Angela G. about Whitefish Lake State Park, where tight turns can challenge bigger vehicles.
