Kootenai National Forest spans over 2.2 million acres across northwestern Montana and northern Idaho, with elevations ranging from 1,800 to 7,700 feet. The forest contains over 700 miles of rivers and streams that flow through dense coniferous forests. RV camping options include both year-round and seasonal facilities, with most parks limiting stays to 14 consecutive days during peak season.
What to do
Explore Kootenai Falls: Located near Libby, these dramatic falls are accessible via a short walking trail. "Make sure to visit Kootenai Falls. Amazing!!" notes a camper at Two Bit Outfit RV Park. The falls feature a suspension bridge offering panoramic views of the rushing water below.
Visit Ross Cedars: This grove of ancient western red cedars includes trees up to 175 feet tall and over 400 years old. "If you have the time, I would see highly recommend Ross Cedars. The giant cedars are really neat," reports a visitor staying at Two Bit Outfit RV Park. The accessible interpretive trail is 0.9 miles and suitable for most mobility levels.
Golf at Indian Springs: The 18-hole championship golf course adjacent to The RV Resort at Indian Springs Montana offers play from April through October. "The park is adjacent to a wonderful 18 hole championship golf course," mentions one reviewer. Green fees range from $45-75 depending on season and time of day.
Guided fishing tours: Several outfitters operate in the region offering guided fishing experiences. "Guided fishing tours available as well as great food," notes a visitor to The Hemlocks RV and Lodging, which can arrange fishing excursions on local rivers.
What campers like
Clean, private showers: Many campgrounds feature well-maintained bathroom facilities. "The private showers are wonderful! There are four, each with a toilet, sink, vanity and huge shower. They're kept clean," reports a camper at LaSalle RV Park. These facilities typically require access codes provided at check-in.
Creek access: Some campgrounds offer water features for summer cooling. "Some are on the little creek that you can wade and swim in," explains a visitor to Woodland RV Park, while another mentions "a great stream running next it kids were able to play in it could float down it also."
Dog-friendly amenities: Dedicated pet areas allow for off-leash exercise. "Little fenced in dog area was a nice place to let the pooch run around without a leash," notes a camper at LaSalle RV Park. The RV Resort at Indian Springs Montana offers "a super large dog park" according to one reviewer.
Mountain views: The region provides scenic vistas from many campsites. "From the top of the hill are beautiful views of the Rockies," writes a visitor to Blue Mountain RV Park. Another camper at Mountain View RV Park appreciates the "Big grassy area in the middle of the RV park with picnic tables, great for walking dogs or just relaxing in the grass."
What you should know
Limited cell service in valleys: Reception varies considerably with terrain. A Blue Mountain RV Park visitor reports: "There is no wifi and cell service isn't available at the sites down the hill. At the top of the hill usually around 3-4 bars." AT&T service is described as "just ok" in Columbia Falls.
Seasonal operation: Most RV campgrounds Kootenai National Forest area operate on limited schedules. Blue Mountain RV Park is open "May-Sept," while Two Bit Outfit operates "April 1 to November 1." Winter camping options are limited primarily to locations near larger towns.
Highway noise: Several campgrounds experience road noise due to proximity to major routes. At LaSalle RV Park, a camper notes it was "very noise with road noise since its on the highway. Not unlike most RV parks." Similarly, at Woodland RV Park, visitors mention "some highway noise along the road."
Level site variations: Site conditions differ between parks and even within the same facility. One Woodland RV Park guest reported: "Our spot #40 had an incline we had to lower the front end of out trailer to its lowest point to get it level."
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options: Several parks offer family-friendly amenities. "There is also a small basketball court," notes a Mountain View RV Park visitor, while The RV Resort at Indian Springs Montana "features a playground, volleyball, community fire pit and trails close by."
Nearby attractions: The area offers numerous family activities beyond camping. A visitor to Mountain View RV Park suggests: "Lots of things for kids and teens close by. Amazing Fun Center, Glacier Highline, Putt Putt in West Glacier and many others."
Creek play areas: Natural water features provide entertainment for children. A Woodland RV Park camper appreciates that "it had a great stream running next it kids were able to play in it could float down it also. Host was awesome!"
Town amenities: Many campgrounds offer convenient access to local services. "Right off the highway just a couple miles from town," notes a Woodland RV Park reviewer, while Whitefish RV Park is described as "tucked away in the outskirts of the city" with easy access to shopping and restaurants.
Tips from RVers
Laundry facilities: Availability varies between parks. LaSalle RV Park provides secure access: "They give you a code at check in and so you can use the laundry or shower whenever its convenient." Mountain View RV Park charges "$2 wash/$2 dryer so a little high, but the laundry services were clean."
Site leveling challenges: Some RV campgrounds near Kootenai National Forest require equipment adjustments. "Sites are close together but shaded," notes a Whitefish RV Park visitor, while at Woodland RV Park, a reviewer found "generous sites" despite some road noise.
Utility connections: Most parks offer full hookups with varying amperage options. "The spaces are large," reports a visitor to The RV Resort at Indian Springs Montana. At Two Bit Outfit, sites are described as "level. Full hookups."
Park layout considerations: The arrangement of RV sites affects privacy and convenience. "The tent area was strange (it was on a weird tiny hill)," notes a visitor at Whitefish RV Park, while another campground was praised for having "great pull through sites."
