Dispersed camping near Libby, Montana offers alternatives to established campgrounds within the Kootenai National Forest. Located in northwest Montana at an elevation of approximately 2,100 feet, the area features forested mountains and river valleys with dramatic seasonal temperature variations. Late summer brings heightened wildfire risk with many sites implementing restrictions between July and September depending on conditions.
What to do
Visit Yaak Falls: Located near Yaak River Campground, these falls are within walking distance of the campground. "Very cute campground, quiet, no service, right along the beautiful Yaak River and within walking distance to Yaak Falls," notes reviewer Tee C.
Take a scenic drive: The forest roads near Libby offer spectacular views. "For an amazing tour, drive Forest Rd 228 North, maybe 30 miles, until you come to bridge that closes the upper end of the Reservoir. Cross over and follow that road South until it meets back up with 228. A beautiful scenic drive," recommends a camper at Blackwell Flats.
Go star gazing: Clear mountain skies make for excellent star viewing at several campgrounds. At Cedar Creek Trailhead, campers can use the parking lot after 5PM for overnight stays. "Cedar Creek trailhead is not officially a campground but the parking lot can be used for camping at after 5PM. It is not massive lot, but there is plenty of space for five or six tents or car campers," reports Clayton S.
What campers like
River access: Many campsites offer proximity to the Kootenai and Yaak Rivers. At Dunn Creek Flats Campground, one camper shares, "Just stayed a single night here. It's a first come, first serve site with no fee. While we weren't next to the river, we were right next to Dunn Creek. At this time of year the creek is dry but I can imagine it's lovely in the spring when the snow melts."
Privacy between sites: Several campgrounds feature well-spaced sites. "The campground sites are spaced far apart which is nice for privacy," notes Emmett S. about Dunn Creek Flats. Another camper at this location adds, "Widely spaced sites. Right on river. 14 days free."
Shade coverage: Forest canopy provides cooling shade during hot summer days. At Woodland RV Park, a camper appreciated "Having shade in the midst of record breaking heatwave is nice." Another mentions, "Some shade at some sites."
What you should know
Seasonal water access: Streams and creeks may be dry in late summer. A reviewer at Cedar Creek Trailhead mentions, "A spring runs next to the lot and if you have a filter, its makes for a great place to resupply on water."
Train and highway noise: Several campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation routes. At Kootenai River Campground, a camper notes, "Road/train noise but not overbearing." Similarly, at Woodland RV Park, a reviewer mentions "Little road and train noise."
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely throughout the area. At Sheldon Mountain Trailhead Camp, one camper reports, "I get one bar of Verizon service but it's not very useful."
Boat access options: Several campgrounds offer boat ramps. At Dunn Creek Flats, a reviewer noted, "A boat launch and dock as well as large boat trailer parking area featuring a basketball hoop."
Tips for camping with families
Creek play opportunities: Kids can enjoy water features at several sites. At Woodland RV Park, a camper shared, "Though it had a great stream running next it kids were able to play in it could float down it also."
Basketball facilities: Some campgrounds offer unexpected recreation amenities. Dunn Creek Flats features "a boat launch and dock as well as large boat trailer parking area featuring a basketball hoop."
Campground groceries: Fireman Memorial Park & Campground offers convenient access to supplies. "This city owned gem is right off Hwy 2, just on the edge of Libby MT. On Tues during the summer there is a vendor market at the playground and pavilions and on Thursday a farmers market," notes Nancy C.
Bear safety measures: Wildlife protection is available at many sites. A camper at Dunn Creek Flats mentioned, "Bear-proof trash cans were located at each site," while another at McGillivray Campground noted, "If your a biker they have places to put your food in the case of a bear sighting."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many forest campgrounds cannot accommodate larger RVs. A camper at Yaak River Campground warns, "We have a 20ft camper and there was no way that I could back up into any spot that I saw. Looks like it would be nice for a van camper or tent but not ideal for anything longer than that."
Leveling challenges: Some sites require adjustments for RVs. At Woodland RV Park, one camper noted, "Our spot #40 had an incline we had to lower the front end of out trailer to its lowest point to get it level."
Convenient dumping options: Several locations offer dump stations. At Fireman Memorial Park, a camper shared, "RV dump, $2, located in the entry driveway, about 150' into the park. Non-potable and potable water available. Use the large parking lot from which you enter, behind the Chamber building, to pre-stage your sewer and freshwater hoses."
Solar limitations: Dense forest canopy impacts solar power generation. At Yaak River Campground, a reviewer mentions, "Deep woods feel with all the trees and shade. Solar would be a challenge."
