Campgrounds near Lolo, Montana sit between 3,000 and 4,500 feet elevation in the Bitterroot Mountains. The area experiences four distinct seasons with heavy snowfall in winter and mild summers. Most campgrounds are accessible May through October, though primitive camping conditions exist year-round at select locations.
What to do
Creek access for cooling off: Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground offers creek access along Rock Creek. "There is a basketball court, sand volleyball court, horse shoes and a playground. There's also a beautiful creek running along the campground with beautiful Mountain views," shares a camper from Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground.
Hot springs thermal pools: Natural hot springs provide year-round soaking options. "Great little campground across the road from the hot spring pools. The lady who answered the phone and ran the check in desk was really nice and helpful!" notes a visitor at Lolo Hot Springs RV Park & Campground.
Hikes on Lewis and Clark Trail: Multiple trails connect to historic routes. "Take a stroll on the Lewis and Clark trail and then relax at the hot springs before strolling back into camp," recommends a visitor to Lee Creek Campground.
Fishing access points: Streams and ponds around Lolo provide fishing opportunities. "The tent site was spacious and had outdoor lighting. Definitely had a lot more amenities than we are generally used to!" reports a camper at Missoula KOA Holiday.
What campers like
Secluded mountain campsites: Many sites offer privacy despite proximity to main roads. "Great location, they have several different camping locations to pick from. You can rent a cabin, ground tent sight or normal back in parking. Half of the camping spots are covered with pine trees," explains a visitor to Whitefish-Kalispell North KOA.
Riverside tent areas: Waterfront sites allow for direct water access. "We stayed in site 1 over a small bridge. It was a bit close to the highway. There was minimal night traffic, but it's a popular motorcycle road so the morning had more noise," notes a camper at Lee Creek Campground.
Forest campgrounds for shade: Dense forest provides cooling relief during summer months. "This campground is often busy but it is large enough to enjoy some silence and solitude. Trails meander town to the nearby creek, and the facilities are well maintained," explains a visitor to Lee Creek Campground.
Glamping cabins with amenities: Luxury cabins provide comfort while maintaining outdoor access. "We stayed at one of the cabins, small but with everything that you need (bed, coffee maker, bathroom with toiletries, mini fridge and microwave). There are several cute hiking trails with gorgeous scenery," mentions a guest at The Jack Saloon.
What you should know
Variable weather conditions: Montana weather changes quickly, even in summer. "We had the best thunderstorm with hail that night as well…best night ever!!" reports a camper at Ekstrom's Stage Station.
Bear safety requirements: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "Be careful camping next to the rivers as in early spring, waters rise in the evenings and will flood out the lower Plains. It was really exciting to see what the avalanche had done to the forest over the winter," warns a visitor to Jocko Hollow Campground.
Seasonal closure dates: Many campgrounds close during winter months. "Honestly I never made it to this campsite because my GPS couldn't figure out how to get me there without going on private property," shares a visitor attempting to reach Kreis Pond Campground.
Road conditions: Unpaved access roads require appropriate vehicles. "Be prepared for several miles of dusty, gravel, washboard road," notes a camper at Kreis Pond Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Many campgrounds offer built-in entertainment. "Playground, pool, mini golf, clean showers, restrooms and laundry! It was great!" exclaims a visitor to Missoula KOA Holiday.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Observation areas provide chances to see local animals. "My daughter wanted me to add that they have three very large bunnies that roll around the campground. She loves them," mentions a family staying at Missoula KOA Holiday.
Swimming spots: Natural water features provide cooling options. "We ended up booking here on the 4th and 5th of July and had a great time camping along the river, going to the hot springs across the street and walking the area," reports a family at Lolo Hot Springs RV Park & Campground.
Glamping alternatives: For families new to camping, glamping offers comfort while maintaining outdoor access. "The tipis were a lot of fun to sleep in! The river trail was beautiful to walk," shares a family at Beavertail Hill State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Campsite width considerations: Check site dimensions before arrival. "Sites are a litttle close together, but to be expected at a resort style place. There was an access spot to the creek/river and firewood was sold by the armload ($12)," advises an RVer at Lolo Hot Springs RV Park & Campground.
Hookup availability: Electric and water hookups vary by site. "$14/day to camp and I think $20 if you need an RV hookup. This campsite also has a dumpster which is helpful as the sites we were using for the prior week did not," notes a visitor to Powell Campground.
Site leveling requirements: Prepare for uneven terrain at some campgrounds. "Great spots that aren't to close to each other. $14.00 without electricity. $20 with power," mentions an RVer at Powell Campground.
Dump station locations: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "The dump station was 35 miles away. No cellular service. Lodge does have wifi," shares an RVer staying at Powell Campground.
