Dispersed camping near Libby, Montana offers campers remote access to the Kootenai National Forest with numerous primitive sites along forest service roads. The region sits at approximately 2,000 feet elevation with surrounding mountains reaching over 8,000 feet, creating diverse camping microclimates. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms between June and August.
What to do
Hiking from campsites: Multiple trails connect directly from camping areas, especially from Lake Creek Campground, which serves as "a great central location if you are interested in checking out some of the hiking trails in the area. The Fisher River is also close by and there is no camping fee," according to Darrin L.
Fishing opportunities: Many tent campsites near Libby provide direct water access. At Whitetail Campground, campers can enjoy riverside fishing. As one visitor noted, "Our site had a nice open meadow and was right next to access to the river. We spent the afternoon with our chairs on the riverbank and dangling our feet in the water."
Paddling and boating: For a unique experience, consider Yarnell Island Campground, accessible only by boat. "It took close to an hour for us to paddle over to the island, though admittedly we were not expert paddlers. The lake has a very slight current but it wasn't a problem," reports Hannah O. The island offers secluded tent camping with concrete picnic tables and established tent pads.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location of many campsites provides exceptional night sky viewing. At Yarnell Island, one camper experienced "the view of the stars was amazing. The Milky Way was bright and also I was able to see the comet that was passing by at the time."
Waterfront access: Tent campsites near Libby often feature direct water access. Green Bay Campground (temporarily closed for 2024) provides "water that is crystal clear, you feel secluded and safe," according to Emily S., while another camper noted, "You can walk all the way out to where you cannot touch and still see the rocks on the bottom."
Wildlife viewing: The region offers opportunities to observe local wildlife safely. At Scotchmans Peak, campers should "be aware of wildlife as well! Scotchman's is known for mountain goat sightings, but as they become more accustomed to people they can be a little aggressive. Keep a safe distance!" warns Celine K.
What you should know
Remote access challenges: Many campsites require significant travel on unpaved roads. Solomon Lake Campsite is "quite the drive in, the roads were decent at the time, all gravel, narrow at some points, through some private property, with limited signage. No Verizon cell service, very remote, with lots of Grizzly warnings," cautions Alex P.
Cell service limitations: Most camping areas have limited or no cellular coverage. At Green Bay Campground, visitors noted having "no phone service once you get a short ways down slagle rd."
Wildlife precautions: Bear activity requires proper food storage throughout the region. Solomon Lake Campsite has "lots of Grizzly warnings, so proper food storage is required!" Lake Creek Campground offers bear boxes at most sites, with "3 of the 4 sites had bear boxes, it was only site 2 that appeared to not have one," according to one visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Look for campgrounds with safe water access for children. Green Bay Campground features "a beautiful removed campsite overlooking the water" where "you can walk all the way out to where you cannot touch and still see the rocks on the bottom."
Campsite selection: Choose sites away from high-traffic areas for a quieter experience. At Green Bay, one camper advised, "In the future, I'd choose a site on one of the far ends versus the middle. We were virtually trampled once it filled up."
Accessibility considerations: Some sites require hiking to reach camping spots. Green Bay Campground has "two parking areas, and you have to hike down a short hike (moderately steep hill) to get to the campsites," which may be challenging for families with very young children or lots of gear.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Many forest service roads are narrow with limited turnaround space. Lake Creek Campground is "about 6.5 miles off the highway which feels pretty far once you get there," but has "a decent gravel road to get in."
Site availability: Bull River Pavilion tends to stay busy year-round, with one camper noting, "The camp area is pretty full even in the off season, because it is absolutely beautiful."
Seasonal timing: For the best chance at securing sites, visit mid-week early in the season. At Green Bay Campground, William N. observed, "We arrived on a Wednesday and had the place nearly to ourselves. Make sure to arrive early in the week if you want a camp site. Spots filled quickly in the days following."
