Kootenai National Forest, MT is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Kootenai National Forest campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Kootenai National Forest, MT. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
McGillivray Campground has 33 total campsites and provides reservation opportunities for two group sites within the campground loops and a large group shelter located within the facility . The two smaller group sites in the campground will accommodate up to 25 people each. The group shelter will accommodate up to 200 people making it great for reunions and receptions. A high and low water boat ramp, swim beach and picnic area are also available at McGillivray Campground
__Fishing derbies are held multiple times each year and anglers can expect kokanee salmon, whitefish and a variety of trout.
The McGillivary is located on the western shore of Lake Koocanusa in northwest Montana, at an elevation of about 2,520 feet. It is nestled in a heavily forested area with dense vegetation on the forest floor. The adjacent 46,500-acre reservoir has over 127 miles of shoreline and is formed by the 422' tall Libby Dam on the Kootenai River, which stretches about 90 miles and into Canada. Osprey often fish around Libby Dam at sunset, making for enjoyable viewing opportunities. Bald eagles can be seen hunting kokanee in the river and lake during the fall. A variety of wildlife also makes its home in the area.
The Kootenai River, below Libby Dam, is a blue ribbon fishery. Guided tours of the dam and powerhouse are offered at the visitor center throughout the summer season. Visitors enjoy driving the 100-mile loop around the reservoir. Several trails, including some that lead to scenic waterfalls, are located along the route.
$100 - $200 / night
Rexford Bench Recreation Area is the most highly developed camp area within the Kootenai National Forest. Rexford Bench Campground has 54 sites, 30 are first come-first serve and 24 can be reserved. Kamloops Terrace has 20 sites and additional overflow parking. A high and low water boat ramp is available. A day use area with swimming beach completes this popular area. It is a popular destination for boating, fishing and swimming on Lake Koocanusa, and hiking in the surrounding forest. Beautiful sandstone formations can be viewed not far from the campground, and osprey and eagles can often be seen fishing in the reservoir.
Fishing, boating and swimming are popular activities. Fishing derbies are held several times each year and anglers can expect a catch of kokanee salmon, whitefish and a variety of trout, among others. A variety of hiking trails begins in the campground, including a relatively short interpretive trail that loops around the campground, and the Hoodoo Trail, that leads to impressive sandstone formations that jut out from an inlet along the lake. The Hoodoos can also be seen via boat. Several paths lead from the campground to the adjacent beach, boat ramp and overflow parking area.
The campground is located on an arm of Lake Koocanusa in northwest Montana near the Canadian border. The 46,500-acre reservoir has over 127 miles of shoreline and is formed by 422' Libby Dam on the Kootenai River, which stretches about 90 miles and into Canada. It is a large campground, situated in a ponderosa pine forest at an elevation of 2,470 feet. Osprey often fish around Libby Dam at sunset, making for enjoyable viewing opportunities. Bald eagles can be seen hunting kokanee in the river and lake during the fall. A variety of wildlife also makes its home in the area.
The Kootenai River, below Libby Dam, is a blue ribbon fishery. Guided tours of the dam and powerhouse are offered at the visitor center throughout the summer. Visitors also enjoy driving the 100-mile loop around the reservoir. Several trails, including some that lead to scenic waterfalls, are located along the route.
$24 / night
Yaak River Campground is located approximately 8 miles west of Troy, Montana and 6.5 miles east of the Idaho border on Highway 2 . This campground is located at the confluence of the Kootenai and Yaak Rivers. There are campsites on both sides of the Yaak River.
The Yaak and Kootenai Rivers provide ample opportunity for visitors to enjoy fishing, rafting and canoeing, among other activities. Boats can be launched at a primitive boat ramp near the campground. Anglers can expect a catch of mostly whitefish and a variety of trout.Hiking and mountain biking opportunities are available on a variety of trails within the Cabinet Mountains. Kootenai Falls, the largest un-dammed waterfall in the state and an attraction of historical significance for the Kootenai Tribe, is located about 15 miles east of Yaak River Campground. It offers spectacular views, as the river drops 300 feet in just a few hundred yards. A swinging bridge is available and provides a different point of view to see the falls.
The group day use area is located on the east side (Loop A) of Yaak River Campground. Both facilities are in a heavily wooded part of the forest, with the Yaak and Kootenai Rivers running nearby. Tall grasses, shrubs and young pines cover the ground and mature evergreens offer shade overhead. The facility is situated at an elevation of about 1,900 feet, close to the Montana-Idaho border in northwestern Montana. A variety of wildlife makes its home in the area.
Yaak River Campground is located along the David Thompson Historic Route, which is listed as one of the Top 10 Scenic Drives in the Northern Rocky Mountains.Ross Creek Giant Cedars, a 100-acre grove of majestic cedar trees, is about 23 miles south of the campground.
$16 / night
Come stay with us on the beautiful Kootenai River in northwest Montana. RV site, tent sites and cabins are available in a scenic wooded location along the Kootenai River just two miles west of Troy, Montana on US Hwy 2. Improvements are made each year, including the addition of WiFi and a newly remodeled restroom/shower house in 2015. Some of the upgrades from previous seasons include a new well for greater water pressure, a solar water pre-heater to ensure hot showers, new fire rings and bbq grills, new picnic tables and new towels and linens in the cabins. We will be selling beer, wine, and cigarettes by 4th of July weekend Located in scenic western Montana, the campground is surrounded by the Kootenai National Forest and bounded by the Kootenai River. A wide variety of outdoor recreational activities are available in the Kootenai including fishing, hiking, backpacking, and hunting. The Kootenai is one of Montana's treasures, with extensive beauty and recreation without the crowds found near the national parks. Book your next vacation or come visit friends and family today! We look forward to your visit.
The Barron Creek Boating Site is approximately 25 miles northeast of Libby on FDR road 228. This camping area has seven sites. The 3 sites in the open area have fire rings and vault toilet nearby and are able to accomodate up to a 40' rv. The 4 sites in the boat dock parking area have a vault toilet nearby. Campground road and boat ramp are paved, parking spurs and loops are of native material. Amenities include vault toilets, and a fully developed boat ramp with dock.
Located 23 miles north of Libby, Montana U.S.A and 57 miles south of the Canadian Border at Port Roosevelt outside of Eureka, Montana. Come see this beautiful resort set in the Kootenai National Forest. Surrounded by National Forest property this resort offers lake side cabins, RV sites, marina, laundry facilities, fully stocked store, gift shop, bar and restaurant. Nothing is built on the water. Cabins and RV Sites are back from the water, and we site above the water. Lake Koocanusa has a water span of 95 miles. Reaching from Libby dam to north of Cranbrook British Columbia, Canada. There are 50 miles of water in Canada and 45 miles in Montana. You will find this beautiful resort 5 miles north of Libby Dam sitting right on the waters edge. Come enjoy fishing for Kamloops, Rainbow Trout, White Fish, Ling cod, and Kokanee Salmon. Here the sun in the summer does not set until 10 pm and the sunrises at 5am, this will have you out on the lake and fishing before the first cup of coffee. Please note due to Bear Laws, we no longer have trash cans around the park and cabin areas. We have put in a central trash building where you are to bring your trash and we will dispose of it. There is to be no trash left outside at any campers or tent sites or cabins unattended at anytime. Please understand we are not the enforcement of this law,the KNFS law enforcement is. Fines or warnings are your responsibility and have nothing to do with us.This is Forest Service Property.
McGillivray Campground has 33 total campsites and provides reservation opportunities for two group sites within the campground loops and a large group shelter located within the facility . The two smaller group sites in the campground will accommodate up to 25 people each. The group shelter will accommodate up to 200 people making it great for reunions and receptions. A high and low water boat ramp, swim beach and picnic area are also available at McGillivray Campground
__Fishing derbies are held multiple times each year and anglers can expect kokanee salmon, whitefish and a variety of trout.
The McGillivary is located on the western shore of Lake Koocanusa in northwest Montana, at an elevation of about 2,520 feet. It is nestled in a heavily forested area with dense vegetation on the forest floor. The adjacent 46,500-acre reservoir has over 127 miles of shoreline and is formed by the 422' tall Libby Dam on the Kootenai River, which stretches about 90 miles and into Canada. Osprey often fish around Libby Dam at sunset, making for enjoyable viewing opportunities. Bald eagles can be seen hunting kokanee in the river and lake during the fall. A variety of wildlife also makes its home in the area.
The Kootenai River, below Libby Dam, is a blue ribbon fishery. Guided tours of the dam and powerhouse are offered at the visitor center throughout the summer season. Visitors enjoy driving the 100-mile loop around the reservoir. Several trails, including some that lead to scenic waterfalls, are located along the route.
$100 - $200 / night
Rexford Bench Recreation Area is the most highly developed camp area within the Kootenai National Forest. Rexford Bench Campground has 54 sites, 30 are first come-first serve and 24 can be reserved. Kamloops Terrace has 20 sites and additional overflow parking. A high and low water boat ramp is available. A day use area with swimming beach completes this popular area. It is a popular destination for boating, fishing and swimming on Lake Koocanusa, and hiking in the surrounding forest. Beautiful sandstone formations can be viewed not far from the campground, and osprey and eagles can often be seen fishing in the reservoir.
Fishing, boating and swimming are popular activities. Fishing derbies are held several times each year and anglers can expect a catch of kokanee salmon, whitefish and a variety of trout, among others. A variety of hiking trails begins in the campground, including a relatively short interpretive trail that loops around the campground, and the Hoodoo Trail, that leads to impressive sandstone formations that jut out from an inlet along the lake. The Hoodoos can also be seen via boat. Several paths lead from the campground to the adjacent beach, boat ramp and overflow parking area.
The campground is located on an arm of Lake Koocanusa in northwest Montana near the Canadian border. The 46,500-acre reservoir has over 127 miles of shoreline and is formed by 422' Libby Dam on the Kootenai River, which stretches about 90 miles and into Canada. It is a large campground, situated in a ponderosa pine forest at an elevation of 2,470 feet. Osprey often fish around Libby Dam at sunset, making for enjoyable viewing opportunities. Bald eagles can be seen hunting kokanee in the river and lake during the fall. A variety of wildlife also makes its home in the area.
The Kootenai River, below Libby Dam, is a blue ribbon fishery. Guided tours of the dam and powerhouse are offered at the visitor center throughout the summer. Visitors also enjoy driving the 100-mile loop around the reservoir. Several trails, including some that lead to scenic waterfalls, are located along the route.
$24 / night
Yaak River Campground is located approximately 8 miles west of Troy, Montana and 6.5 miles east of the Idaho border on Highway 2 . This campground is located at the confluence of the Kootenai and Yaak Rivers. There are campsites on both sides of the Yaak River.
The Yaak and Kootenai Rivers provide ample opportunity for visitors to enjoy fishing, rafting and canoeing, among other activities. Boats can be launched at a primitive boat ramp near the campground. Anglers can expect a catch of mostly whitefish and a variety of trout.Hiking and mountain biking opportunities are available on a variety of trails within the Cabinet Mountains. Kootenai Falls, the largest un-dammed waterfall in the state and an attraction of historical significance for the Kootenai Tribe, is located about 15 miles east of Yaak River Campground. It offers spectacular views, as the river drops 300 feet in just a few hundred yards. A swinging bridge is available and provides a different point of view to see the falls.
The group day use area is located on the east side (Loop A) of Yaak River Campground. Both facilities are in a heavily wooded part of the forest, with the Yaak and Kootenai Rivers running nearby. Tall grasses, shrubs and young pines cover the ground and mature evergreens offer shade overhead. The facility is situated at an elevation of about 1,900 feet, close to the Montana-Idaho border in northwestern Montana. A variety of wildlife makes its home in the area.
Yaak River Campground is located along the David Thompson Historic Route, which is listed as one of the Top 10 Scenic Drives in the Northern Rocky Mountains.Ross Creek Giant Cedars, a 100-acre grove of majestic cedar trees, is about 23 miles south of the campground.
$16 / night
Come stay with us on the beautiful Kootenai River in northwest Montana. RV site, tent sites and cabins are available in a scenic wooded location along the Kootenai River just two miles west of Troy, Montana on US Hwy 2. Improvements are made each year, including the addition of WiFi and a newly remodeled restroom/shower house in 2015. Some of the upgrades from previous seasons include a new well for greater water pressure, a solar water pre-heater to ensure hot showers, new fire rings and bbq grills, new picnic tables and new towels and linens in the cabins. We will be selling beer, wine, and cigarettes by 4th of July weekend Located in scenic western Montana, the campground is surrounded by the Kootenai National Forest and bounded by the Kootenai River. A wide variety of outdoor recreational activities are available in the Kootenai including fishing, hiking, backpacking, and hunting. The Kootenai is one of Montana's treasures, with extensive beauty and recreation without the crowds found near the national parks. Book your next vacation or come visit friends and family today! We look forward to your visit.
Scout
The town of Eureka closed this park to overnight camping as they had trouble with people over staying there welcome.
Ranger
We did not stay overnight, but it's a beautiful spot, with 360 degree views. It's quiet and peaceful. The road up to the lookout is pretty rough and wouldn't recommend it in a car. There's a lovely hiking trail from the parking area as well which leads to even more spectacular views. Recommended for a day trip or overnight!
Scout
Camping is free after September 25, but no water or wifi. Very quiet and peaceful.
Guide
Stayed early October and only 1 other camper. Glad it was open, as information is limited and most areas close Sept 15th or Oct 1 and close gates for access. Basic sites, vault toilet. Underused, but great for horses with fence, etc. Only one other car camper. Beautiful stars at night!
Guide
A real gem of a find! Although the campsites are not lakefront, it's only a short walk to the day use area with a fishing dock, boat launch and dock, and a nice public area. Although the lake isn't particularly large, the people we saw fishing were catching. There appears to be 8 sites, one of which is outside of the gate which may be locked after the end of September. At least half of the sites have a nice sized tent area. Most people were tenting when we were there. We arrived at 2pm on a Wednesday and had 4 sites to choose from
Guide
Less than five miles from the highway, this is a nice sized lake stocked with fish. There were a pair of white swans on the lake when I was there but no one else around. A large parking area, could accommodate a travel trailer or two in addition to a couple tent sites with fire rings. One picnic table with a fire pit and rock fire rings at the tent sites. There are two access roads, the first is more appropriate for van, truck or hike in to tent site. Not a lot of turn around room, wouldn't bring a trailer in. Second turn off goes to a much larger area, multiple sites and boat launch access to the lake.
Guide
Just about a mile from the highway, this site is right on the river with some nice deep pools. There are three separate fire rings with a vault toilet and picnic table. It's a short drive in but more suitable for truck camping, van, tent camping or very small trailer like 13' max due to narrow track and limited maneuvering area. High clearance required!
Traveler
Modern and beautiful campground. Close to all the wonders of Idaho's panhandle. They have several back in and pull through sites with more on the way. Choice of full hookups, or water and electric. Their showers are emaculant and luxurious. Wife refused to use ours. They have luxury cabins and covered wagon glamping. Very family and senior friendly. Reasonably priced, can't loose booking here.
ScoutThere are a handful of tent sites here. Several are on a hill next to each other beside the parking lot. 4 sites sit right along the lake. Great spot if camping near lake is your interest, however, lacks privacy as sites are directly beside each other. Awkward sites.
Scout
Very nice campground. Rod, caretaker, is the best. We had a wonderful 3 days camping.
Guide
Stayed 7-7-24
Nice stop along the GDMBR. Campsite was next to the creek that flows from the lake. Words lack how beautiful the place is, but the picture help give you an idea.
Me and my friends cycle in, but I also saw several cars, bring water or filter.
Guide
I stayed at Whispering Pines for three nights in a July heatwave. It was a work trip, and I tried to book a hotel but was offended at the high prices in the Flathead, so I opted to take my teardrop and camp.
This place was great. It is a really nice place with plenty of space, a very clean porta-potty and an outdoor shower. No electric hookups, but there is great cell reception and it’s only 10 minutes from downtown Kalispell.
The price was reasonable, compared to nightly hotel room rates, but for camping, anything over $35 a night really should have power. But, all things considered, this place does what it does really well, and that’s fine. Bottom line: if you are looking for a clean, quiet place to camp in Kalispell, give this place a try. Proximity to Whitefish, Glacier NP is excellent.
TravelerI couldn’t book through Dyrt in app on the date. I called and booked with Munro on busy 4th weekend and got it done. A very nice stay on very loud 4th weekend of fireworks at Bonners Ferry(to be expected). Campsite with fire ring, wooded, picnic table was awesome. Bathhouse and facilities were very clean. Wood, icecream, laundry detergent, and more for sale at office/bathhouse. Definitely, stay again.
Scout
It was my first time camping! Went camping with my fiance.
Pros
Cons
Recommendations
Scout
You can choose ambiance in the first loop or river front in the second loop. Just be aware that the river is noisy. It’s pack it in and pack it out so, no garbage collection. Cell reception for T Mobile is a strong 1-2 bars. No trouble streaming. One of the best forest service campgrounds. $15 a night. $7.50 with senior discount. The only major problem is that dogs are not on leashes and no one is around to enforce the leash law.
Guide
Dispersed spot in the flathead national forest. Did some group camping here. Nice and open, however it was absolutely littered with trash. Some a moose!
Scout
Johnie and his staff are over the top to accommodate. We stayed in the cabin and it was clean, warm, comfortable. Located central to sights in Idaho as well as Montana. We will be back next year. Guided fishing tours available as well as great food.
Legend
Jake from the Dyrt here! Elysium Woods was recognized by Business Insider as the best glamping in Idaho for 2020! Check them out and leave a review about your stay on the Dyrt!
Guide
Super nice owner and her son. Place is clean and well kept. Right off the center of town. Great pull through sites.
ScoutThank you for a great stay. The shower can’t be beat!
Ranger
There are only about 6-7 spots, first come first serve, and it's on a real rough road to get there. It's a perfect location for easy water access, but also seems like it could be a popular spot for teenagers and parties so there is no real quiet hour enforcement. Pit toilet in the center of the campground.
Scout
We came here just after the Labor Day weekend and found it to be not very busy as we arrived early on Friday. It filled up for Saturday and Sunday nights, bit was peaceful and relaxing. We were not able to camp near the water at this time due to much of the campground being closed off for the season.
Guide
One of my favorite spots to camp! Been here a few times while bikepacking in the area. There are a few primitive campsites near the lake. Sites include two bear boxes and a vault toilet. Bring your own water and/or water filter. There can be a lot of mosquitos in the summer so be prepared!
Legend
Our friend's family has a campout here every year on Labor Day. The sites are large, and loop B has the most sites on the water. There is a boat launch and a dock, perfect for fishing. The bathrooms are SUPER clean and heated when it's chilly out. $18 for a Montana resident and $26 for out of staters. No cell service!!
Guide
There is a vault toilet, but it is not the best kept one. There are enough space for a few campers. A long gravel road to get to the camping. Lots of wildlife. We were all alone and had a large animal outside our car at night
Traveler
Great campground wooded easy walking to boat launch and swimming. Quiet. We would go back. The lake was low for swimming in the swimming area.
Traveler
Nice place in the middle of the road. Good for those looking for peace. Those in charge are kind and willing to help. Walking distance from the river, where you can enjoy a dip in it. Feeling a little wild by the woods. Some of the parking sites have nice grassy areas. The wifi is weak and unstable.
Camping near Kootenai National Forest, Montana, offers a fantastic escape into nature with beautiful landscapes and plenty of outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.
Camping near Kootenai National Forest, Montana, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but be ready for a few quirks that come with the territory!
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping is available near Kootenai National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, Kootenai National Forest offers a wide range of camping options, with 157 campgrounds and RV parks near Kootenai National Forest and 17 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Kootenai National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Kootenai National Forest is Dunn Creek Flats Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 6 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Kootenai National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 17 free dispersed camping spots near Kootenai National Forest.
What parks are near Kootenai National Forest?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Kootenai National Forest that allow camping, notably Lake Pend Oreille and Kaniksu National Forest.
