Kootenai National Forest encompasses 2.2 million acres in northwest Montana, with elevations ranging from 2,200 to 7,700 feet. The forest contains over 50 equestrian-friendly campsites that provide access to more than 700 miles of trails. Horse camping facilities in this region typically remain open from mid-June through September, though access may be limited by snow conditions at higher elevations.
What to do
Trail riding in backcountry areas: Tuchuck Campground connects riders to multiple backcountry trails. "Nice camp for a tent camp or camper. Creek close. Beautiful mountains getting there from Eureka," reports one visitor. The campground includes specialized equestrian amenities as noted by another camper: "It is set up as a horse camp. Ramps for loading horses and trough for feeding."
Explore historic forest service sites: The Bull River Guard Station provides access to miles of trails while offering a glimpse into forest service history. "This old Guard Station is in the perfect location. Easy to drive to and close to miles and miles of trails in the Kootenai National Forest. History galore in the building and surrounding areas," writes one camper. The cabin dates back to 1908 and accommodates families with "four beds upstairs and one downstairs."
Fishing the Bull River: Access prime fishing spots directly from forest campgrounds. "Right by the Bull River with great fishing and fly fishing areas and swimming in the Bull River," notes a visitor to Bull River Guard Station. Many forest service sites provide direct water access for anglers targeting native trout species.
What campers like
Remote locations with limited connectivity: Campers appreciate the opportunity to disconnect at Grave Creek Campground. "No services, semi remote, very quiet, dusty, views of the mountains. You are in grizzly country. Lot's of deer walking around, very safe, locals are very friendly," writes one visitor. This campground provides a true wilderness experience without developed amenities.
Convenient access off highways: Some horse campgrounds offer easy highway access. "Convenient dirt spot with a few places," notes a visitor to Sheldon Mountain Trailhead Camp, which provides "right off I-2" accessibility with "great signal" for those who need to stay connected during their equestrian adventure.
Winter accessibility: Many forest service sites remain accessible year-round for winter recreationists. Grave Creek Campground's season is listed as "All year," making it one of the few horse-friendly destinations in the region available for winter camping and riding when snow conditions permit.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Accessing some horse camps requires appropriate vehicles. For Fairview Ranger Station, the restored cabin offers unique amenities but accessing the area demands planning. "The cabin itself is a nicely restored 2 story with kitchen (including gas refrigerator and range) and sleeping space for 6," reports one visitor who recommends bringing "your own water and bedding."
Wildlife awareness essential: The forest hosts abundant wildlife including grizzly bears. "You are in grizzly country," reminds a Grave Creek Campground visitor. Some cabins provide added security features like the "nicely fenced in yard" at Fairview Ranger Station which "gives an extra feeling of security when you hear the bears or wolves at night."
Seasonal closures affect access: Most horse campgrounds close by late September. Tuchuck Campground's season runs "June 15 to September 30," and many forest service roads become impassable after early snowfall. Check current conditions before traveling during shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin options for mixed-age groups: Mountain View RV Park provides amenities that appeal to families with children. "Big grassy area in the middle of the RV park with picnic tables, great for walking dogs or just relaxing in the grass. There is also a small basketball court," notes one visitor. Its location offers access to "lots of things for kids and teens close by. Amazing Fun Center, Glacier Highline, Putt Putt in West Glacier and many others."
Plan for limited services: Most forest service horse camps lack potable water and electrical hookups. "Bring your own water and bedding," advises a visitor to Fairview Ranger Station. Families should pack accordingly with sufficient supplies for the duration of their stay.
Consider weather variability: Mountain weather changes rapidly even in summer months. Pleasant Valley Campground visitors note the primitive nature of sites while praising the "beautiful stars at night" when conditions are clear. Pack appropriate clothing for temperature fluctuations that commonly exceed 30 degrees between day and night.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for horse trailers: Heritage Cabin Property can accommodate "an RV or Travel Trailer up to 24'" according to site information. For those traveling with horses, the property offers "a fenced yard off the back porch and a large lawn area that sweeps down to a seasonal irrigation creek."
Road access considerations: Horse trailers require careful route planning in the forest. "Rough road going west from Polebridge not suitable for RVs. Much better road eastbound from Eureka side," advises a Tuchuck Campground visitor, highlighting the importance of approaching equestrian sites from the most accessible direction when hauling livestock trailers.
Full-service alternatives near forest access: For RVers seeking more amenities between trail riding days, Mountain View RV Park provides "big-rig friendly" access with "electric-hookups, fifty-amp-hookups... sanitary-dump, sewer-hookups, showers, toilets, trash, water-hookups" while remaining "close to everything" including forest trailheads.
