Camping spots near Noxon, Montana border the rugged Cabinet Mountains, where the tree line extends to about 7,500 feet elevation and summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F. The area's primitive camping options center around three primary watersheds: the Clark Fork River, Bull River, and Bull Lake. During fire season (typically July-September), some campsites may close or have fire restrictions.
What to do
Mountain hiking trails: Several trailheads start near Bad Medicine Campground, where visitors can trek into the Cabinet Mountains. "You are in bear and Grizzly country here though so keeping food locked up is a must," notes Tom K., adding that "the hiking is just a short drive to an Ancient Giant Cedar Grove."
Fishing access points: Multiple streams and lakes offer fishing opportunities, particularly around Bull River Guard Station. As Corinne G. points out, it's "Right by the Bull River with great fishing and fly fishing areas and swimming in the Bull River."
Water recreation: Several campsites provide direct lake access with boat launches. At Bull Lake, one camper reports: "Nice spacious sites with good shade. Will definitely camp there again!" Melissa P. adds about Bad Medicine Campground, "The lakeside campsites were perfect! We spent the week there, enjoying the water and nearby hiking."
What campers like
Seclusion from crowds: Some campsites offer more privacy than others. "This campground is off the hidden path but not hard to access. Is a little over grown but spots are spread out. It's a great little camp spot for locals," reports Bonnie E. about Marten Creek Campground.
Waterfront sites: Direct lake access ranks high with campers. A visitor to Engle Lake writes, "It is a gorgeous spot and is close to the Engle Peak summit with 360-degree views of the Cabinet Mountains." This dispersed camping area requires a 3.5-mile hike to reach the lakeside sites.
Water quality: Numerous campers mention the exceptional drinking water available at forest service spigots. According to one review of Kootenai National Forest Bull River Campground, this location has the "Best tasting fresh water." The reviewer adds, "The fresh water spigot was still on and no one else camped there."
What you should know
Road conditions: Several campgrounds have challenging access roads. For Big Eddy Campground, one camper warns, "The road in is awful. Would be real hard on any low RV." Another visitor was more blunt: "The road is nothing but HUGE potholes!"
Wildlife encounters: The Cabinet Mountains host numerous wildlife species including moose, elk, and bears. A visitor to Engle Lake shares, "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."
Transportation noise: Several campsites sit close to Highway 200 and railroad tracks. A camper at Bull River notes they "could hear the truck traffic on 200 and also the trains on the Montana Rail Line train tracks nearby," suggesting Bad Medicine on Bull Lake as a quieter alternative.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner backpacking: For families ready to try backpacking, Engle Lake offers an introductory experience. "This was my first ever backpacking experience and was a great introduction for me. We did the 3.5-mile trail. It was challenging and encouraging. My dog loved it too," reports Arielle W.
Swimming spots: Several campgrounds feature swimming access for children. Gloria R. from Marten Creek Campground notes, "This was our first time to Marten Creek and it was so beautiful. It was 4th of July weekend so it was loud and busy. There are only 6 camp sites so it fills up fast."
Historic learning opportunities: Lake Creek Campground and surrounding areas offer educational opportunities. "I really like this part of Montana. I stayed in the dispersed area for 4 nights and really enjoyed the seclusion here," writes Darrin L. He adds, "This is a great central location if you are interested in checking out some of the hiking trails in the area."
Tips from RVers
Pull-through sites: RVers appreciate the spacious sites at Trout Creek RV Park. According to Eric D., it has "Long, pull through RV sites that are over 80 feet long. Tenting sites. The prices are well below the competition."
Campground layout considerations: Some campgrounds have tight access roads. As one reviewer noted about Trout Creek Motel & RV Park, "When we arrived at 9 pm, the office area and road to get to rv park were way to tight for our 40 ft fight wheel."
Seasonal considerations: Most forest service campgrounds close facilities after Labor Day. Judy T. mentions that Big Eddy has "bear proof garbage and aluminum can recycling," but availability varies by season.
