Lolo National Forest spans over 2 million acres across western Montana with elevations ranging from 2,600 to 9,000 feet. The forest's diverse terrain includes steep mountain slopes, deep river valleys, and extensive meadows suitable for equestrian use. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during day and drop to 40-50°F at night, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August that equestrian campers should prepare for.
What to do
Trail riding from dispersed sites: The Clark Fork River area offers multiple access points where riders can set up camp and reach trails. At Lolo National Forest Recreation Area, riders appreciate the open terrain near water. As reviewer Scott C. notes, "Main dirt road is well maintained but narrow and curves up the mountain. Lots of spots if you keep on going, but some offshoots are steep and rocky."
Fishing on horseback: Many riverside sites allow easy access for both horses and fishing. Reviewer Olivia E. shares, "If you drive far enough you'll find pit toilets. We had good service on Verizon and T-Mobile to work. River is beautiful." This connectivity allows riders to check trail conditions while enjoying remote camping.
Day rides to mountain lakes: Multiple trail networks connect to alpine lakes. At Holland Lake Campground, campers access trails leading to Holland Falls. Reviewer Carmen H. advises, "The hike to Holland Falls is suitable for beginners and children, but be aware that it's rocky when you reach the falls, and dogs and children should be supervised in that area." Many of these trails also permit horses.
What campers like
Riverside horse watering: The Clark Fork River provides reliable water for horses throughout summer. Josh S. at Lolo National Forest Recreation Area reports, "We stayed mid week during August. Stayed in a medium sized site on the river. Small steep slope to the water." Most riverside sites have natural approaches that horses can navigate.
Privacy between sites: Sloway Campground offers good spacing for horse trailers. As Lisa K. describes, "It offers clean pit toilets, trash receptacles, large private sites, many of which are pull through, RV water filling stations, free firewood (5 pieces or night) provided by the very friendly Hosts." The pull-through design works well for vehicles with horse trailers.
Availability of water sources: Multiple campgrounds maintain drinking water access for both humans and animals. At Charles Waters Campground, MT Nesters 4 notes, "Paved roads, large sites, (sloped, not level) very friendly hosts, water spigots throughout, pit toilets, cement picnic tables." These water spigots provide convenient fill points for horse troughs.
What you should know
Noise considerations for horses: Train activity affects several campgrounds near the forest. At Sloway Campground, Kenneth F. warns, "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." These sudden sounds can spook horses, requiring appropriate containment.
Bear awareness: Both black and grizzly bears frequent the area. Carmen H. at Holland Lake Campground shares, "There are both black and grizzly bears that frequent this area daily, so be very careful with your food, and bear aware when hiking. My last stay was only 2 nights, and I ran into two bears, one that strolled right by my trailer." Horse-proof food storage is essential.
Seasonal bugs: Mosquitoes peak in early summer but diminish by August. At 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground, Lauren notes, "Didn't see any wildlife or evidence of any either," making it a good option for horses during peak bug season when other sites might cause discomfort for animals.
Tips for camping with families
Horse-friendly day activities: Several sites offer both horse facilities and family amenities. At Charles Waters Campground, Thomas C. advises, "Very nice place to go for a quick overnight camping trip. The bathrooms were clean, as well as the sites." The clean facilities make this location suitable for families with horses.
Swimming access for hot days: After riding, cooling off is important for both horses and riders. At Holland Lake Campground, Sara D. shares, "Our daughter braved a chilly swim and there were lots of dirt roads and little trails for the strider bikes. Bring bug spray, the mosquitos are out."
Sites with both river and forest access: Lake Elsina offers diverse terrain for families with horses. BriAnne M. describes it as "Absolutely gorgeous undeveloped area! If you can stand the hordes of mosquitos and constant trail of hikers coming through the area hiking to Lake Dinah." The undeveloped nature allows for flexible horse containment options.
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer parking considerations: Many dispersed sites accommodate large rigs during summer. At Lolo National Forest Recreation Area, Audrey L. reports, "I was alone while camping, parked my car at the first fire pit I saw open and it was perfect. Absolutely beautiful river, beautiful spot." The open areas allow for proper positioning of horse trailers away from hazards.
Seasonal road conditions: Access for horse trailers varies by season. At Charles Waters Campground, Richard H. notes, "Just a mile of Highway 93. I was able to get a campsite, I think one of the very last remaining, on Thursday at about 4:30 PM. Nice wooded area. Pave roadway and parking spot." The paved access makes this site reliable for horse trailers in variable weather.
Electric hookups for horse campers: Some sites offer power for electric fencing. At 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground, Darrin R. confirms, "RV outlets freely available, just hook up and flip the breaker. One breaker controls a large light." These outlets can power portable horse containment systems when natural barriers aren't available.
