Primitive camping near Libby, Montana offers rustic overnight options in the Kootenai National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,000 to 7,000 feet. The area receives approximately 35 inches of precipitation annually, creating lush forest conditions with mixed conifer stands. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-85°F during daytime hours with cooler 45-55°F nights, even during peak season.
What to do
Gold panning opportunities: The Libby Creek Gold Panning Area provides accessible sites for amateur prospectors. As one visitor noted, "This is an open claim area for primitive gold panners. Several sites with fire rings a short distance to the creek."
Paddle pristine lakes: The waters around remote camping areas offer excellent kayaking and canoeing. A camper at Stillwater Lake shared, "Gorgeous views, very non-tourist feeling and a great lake to kayak in."
Backpacking excursions: The Cabinet Mountains Wilderness provides numerous hiking opportunities beyond vehicle access points. "It is a gorgeous spot and is close to the Engle Peak summit with 360-degree views of the Cabinet Mountains," reported one backpacker who ventured to these higher elevations.
Wildlife observation: Forest service roads near dispersed sites offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. The Stillwater Lake area has documented "eagles, moose, mountain lion, beaver, chipmunk" according to a recent visitor, making it ideal for nature photography.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Multiple dispersed sites allow direct water access. At Pack River Dispersed Site, a camper mentioned it's "On the river and very peaceful. Remember to leave no trace and pack out your trash!"
Limited crowding: Even during peak season, most dispersed areas maintain low visitation. A visitor to Stillwater River reported, "Camped on a Sunday night and didn't hear much noise from the road which doesn't seem to get too much traffic."
Forested privacy: The dense tree cover provides natural site separation. One camper at Stillwater River noted, "We found a great site with plenty of space to setup 5 tents," while another described the area as "quiet and forested."
Boat access: Several primitive sites include basic boat launch facilities. A reviewer at Clark Fork Drift Yard observed, "There is a pit toilet and a boat ramp here," making it convenient for anglers and water recreationists.
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest service roads require appropriate vehicles. A Cedar Creek Trailhead visitor advised, "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."
Water availability: Natural water sources require treatment. At Cedar Creek, "A spring runs next to the lot and if you have a filter, its makes for a great place to resupply on water," according to a recent camper.
Environmental concerns: Some areas have contamination issues. At Libby Creek Gold Panning Area, a visitor cautioned, "Be aware that there is mercury contamination due to mining activity in the area in years gone by so dogs should be kept out of the water."
Train noise: Some camping areas experience periodic train disturbance. Regarding Stillwater Lake, one camper mentioned, "There is a train track in the background but the trains are very short. They don't bother me because I love trains."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming alternatives: When main lakes are crowded, seek secondary options. A camper at Stillwater Lake mentioned, "Stillwater Lake, Stillwater River and the surrounding smaller lakes, Hole in the Wall and Finger Lake; have you covered. The cliff jumping at Finger Lake is our favorite and just a short hike away."
Animal tracks as educational tools: Wildlife signs provide learning opportunities without direct encounters. At Engle Lake Dispersed Camping, "When we were here, there were a lot of Elk and Moose foot-traffic. They probably won't bother you. Just be aware of them and store your food properly."
Morning condensation: Plan for wet gear in some locations. One camper at Stillwater River noted, "It felt surprisingly humid in this area and it took a bit to dry the tents off in the morning from all the dew."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Many dispersed camping areas restrict larger vehicles. A visitor to Stillwater River cautioned the site is "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!"
Terrain challenges: Road quality affects accessibility for recreational vehicles. At Sheldon Mountain Trailhead Camp, a visitor noted it's a "Convenient dirt spot with a few places" and another mentioned it's "Right off I-2 with great signal," making it one of the more accessible dispersed options for those with larger vehicles.
Limited turnaround space: Some forest roads lack adequate turning areas. Pack River Dispersed Site has "Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites," which can be particularly challenging for anything larger than a pickup truck.
