The Clark Fork River flows through the Lolo area at an elevation of approximately 3,200 feet, creating a transition zone between mountain forests and valley terrain. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-90°F with cooler nights in the mountains. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below freezing, especially at higher elevations west of Lolo.
What to do
River activities: Access the Clark Fork River at several campgrounds for fishing, tubing, or swimming. At Bearmouth RV Park, they "provided a shuttle up and down the river so we could tube!" while another camper noted "beautiful views here along the Clark Fork River with lots of things to do."
Ghost town exploration: Visit nearby Garnet Ghost Town, a preserved mining town about 40 miles from Lolo. A camper at Bearmouth RV Park mentioned "lots of things to do in the nearby area including visiting the Garnet Ghost town, Philipsburg, Deer Lodge, Anaconda, Butte and Missoula."
Hot springs relaxation: Enjoy mineral pools at Lolo Hot Springs, located directly across from Lolo Hot Springs Campground. One visitor described their experience: "We took a hot soak in the 106 degree enclosed mineral bath/pool area and rotated to the 86 degree pool outside. Kids and families all seemed to stay in the pool area while adults in the mineral bath area."
What campers like
Creek access: Sites alongside creeks provide water features and ambient sounds. At Lolo Hot Springs RV Park & Campground, one camper appreciated "site 7 which sits right on the bend of the creek where there is a brush clearing. This was perfect for our golden retriever as we could tie her on a long lead and she could swim her heart out."
Well-maintained bathrooms: Clean facilities remain a top priority for campers. A visitor at Yellowrock Campground noted "the bathhouse is immaculate and the showers are like you wish you had at home" while another mentioned "bathrooms were kept clean."
Recreational options: On-site activities keep families entertained during downtime. One camper at Yellowrock Campground reported "there are games available for free (horseshoes, cornhole, frisbee golf, and more)" while Lolo Hot Springs RV Park offers "fireworks show was spectacular" during July 4th celebrations.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most RV parks near Lolo operate from May through October with limited winter options. Granite Peak RV Resort is open "May 1 - Oct 15" and offers a heated pool though one visitor noted it was "cold" during their summer visit.
Noise factors: Highway and train noise affect some campgrounds in the area. A Bearmouth RV Park camper mentioned "Interstate noise and the occasional train whistle would keep me from using the facility for nothing more than an overnight stop."
Varying site conditions: Expect different levels of privacy and terrain. At Boulder Creek Lodge, a visitor appreciated that "the sites are large, private, shaded, and well maintained" while at Granite Peak RV Resort, a camper found "sites small, internet horrible, pool cold."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for campgrounds with specific family activities. Boulder Creek Lodge offers multiple options as one family reported: "After we ate, we went down stairs to the game room and played pool, table soccer and checkers for about 4 hours."
Swimming options: Natural water features provide cooling recreation during summer months. At Lolo Hot Springs RV Park, one visitor mentioned that their site "sits right on the bend of the creek where there is a brush clearing" which was "perfect for our golden retriever" but works equally well for children.
Accessibility to attractions: Choose locations with easy access to family activities. A camper at Jim & Mary's RV Park suggested "heading out to gem mountain for some Montana sapphire hunting. Fun day trip, and was great for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Be prepared for uneven sites at some rv parks in Lolo, Montana. At Jim & Mary's RV Park, campers appreciate that "sites are gravel, mostly level and most sites have shade" though "the pull through sites on the outer edge do not but others inside do."
Utility connections: Plan ahead for hookup locations and limitations. At Lolo Hot Springs Campground, they offer "30 amp electric with water" while one visitor noted a "$25 fee to have them come dump your tanks" at Yellowrock Campground since they don't allow portable waste containers.
Sprinkler systems: Protect outdoor items from automatic watering systems. A visitor at Jim & Mary's RV Park warned "they have a sprinkler system to keep everything pretty so you can't leave anything out overnight that you don't want to get wet."
