Lolo National Forest encompasses over 2 million acres in western Montana with elevations ranging from 2,100 to 9,000 feet. The forest straddles the Montana-Idaho border along the Bitterroot Mountains, creating distinct climate zones that affect camping conditions. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F during the day with nights dropping to 45°F even in July.
What to do
Fishing access at Sloway Campground: Located directly on the Clark Fork River, the campground offers easy water access with a small boat launch. "Lots of camp sites right on the river. Spaced out very nicely. You can hear some highway traffic and the train does come right up next to the river," notes reviewer Mai-Lien T.
Mountain trails near Lee Creek: The campground serves as a gateway to multiple forest trails with varying difficulty levels. "Campground with 22 sites, vault toilets, bear proof garbage, and plenty of water spigots. Placed at the base of 'wagon mountain' there is a small day use parking area," shares Andrew L., highlighting the convenient trailhead access.
Visit nearby hot springs: Lee Creek Campground provides an ideal base for hot springs exploration. "Take a stroll on the Lewis and Clark trail and then relax at the hot springs before strolling back into camp this is a fee site but well worth it," recommends Christopher R.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Sloway Campground earns high marks for site separation. One camper noted, "Nice privacy between sites was good, right on river, beautiful scenery. We were there late September and it was pretty vacant." The natural vegetation provides good screening between most sites.
Yurt camping options: Big Arm State Unit on Flathead Lake offers comfortable yurt accommodations as an alternative to traditional camping in Lolo National Forest. "Yurt the most amazing way to stay here is in a yurt! These circular traditional structures are an experience not soon forgotten by kids or adults alike," explains Kent B.
Convenient location: Whitefish-Kalispell North KOA provides strategic access to multiple recreation areas. "Wonderful little campground located just south of Whitefish Montana on highway 93. This KOA has a lot to offer from cabins to RV parking and several tent camping locations. Just a few minutes drive north and you will enter the small ski town of Whitefish Montana," writes Brian N.
What you should know
Train and highway noise: Several campgrounds near Lolo National Forest are affected by transportation corridors. At Sloway, "The bigger noise maker is the train that runs on the other side of the Clark Fork River. There are two road crossings across from the campground, and the trains are required to blow their horns when approaching these crossings," explains Kenneth F.
Limited availability at smaller sites: Kreis Pond Campground has just seven sites that fill quickly during peak season. "Great secret camping spot. There's only about 5 spots and summer will be crowded when it's hot and awesome weather!" warns Kirsten R.
Seasonal amenities: Water systems at most Forest Service campgrounds operate only from late May through early September. "The water was turned off when I was there, but there is a pit toilet and lots of firewood," notes Will M. about Lee Creek Campground's shoulder season conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Missoula KOA Holiday offers extensive recreation options. "Playground, pool, mini golf, clean showers, restrooms and laundry! It was great!" reports Desiree D., making it ideal for families wanting structured activities between forest adventures.
Bear safety education: Pack bear-resistant containers for all food items when camping in Lolo National Forest. "Make sure to pack any food in bear proof containers or a hard sided vehicle," advises Andrew L., highlighting an important safety consideration for families with children.
Water recreation options: During summer months, lakes and rivers provide cooling relief. At Big Arm State Park, "Camped in one of the spots that is right on the lake and could get in the water easily. Water is really clear," shares Olivia J., noting the safe swimming opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Limited pull-through availability: Most forest campgrounds have back-in sites that can be challenging for larger rigs. "We picked the wrong weekend to visit as it was full! It was pretty noisy and very busy all evening. The loops were tight and the sites very close. Most sites will need work to level campers," warns Jennifer H. at Whitefish-Kalispell KOA.
Advance planning necessary: The Jack Saloon offers unique cabin camping when RV sites are unavailable. "We stayed at one of the cabins, small but with everything that you need (bed, coffee maker, bathroom with toiletries, mini fridge and microwave)," notes Daniella M., providing an alternative when traditional RV sites are full.
Site leveling challenges: Many Lolo National Forest campgrounds sit on sloped terrain requiring leveling equipment. One camper at Lee Creek described: "Our site was cut into a steep hill. Tent pad and table were level, but be careful heading the couple feet down to the car."
