Dispersed camping near Rexford, Montana offers primitive sites throughout the Kootenai National Forest at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 5,500 feet. The camping season typically runs from late May through mid-October, with July and August providing the most reliable weather conditions. Nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F even in summer months at higher elevation sites.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Bull Lake provides excellent fishing with stocked fish and minimal competition. According to one camper, it's "a nice sized lake stocked with fish" where you might see wildlife like "a pair of white swans" while having the lake to yourself.
Paddling and boating: Stillwater Lake offers multiple connected waterways. "If your looking for a nice days paddle or a weekend away Stillwater Lake, Stillwater River and the surrounding smaller lakes, Hole in the Wall and Finger Lake; have you covered," notes one visitor who particularly enjoys "the cliff jumping at Finger Lake" which is "just a short hike away."
Horseback riding: Theriault Lakes Horse Camp provides dedicated equestrian facilities and trail access. A camper mentions it has "tie outs, feeding area and mounting ramp" with "beautiful subalpine terrain and miles of trails" for riding.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Many dispersed sites offer privacy even during peak season. At Stillwater River, one camper notes they "didn't hear much noise from the road which doesn't seem to get too much traffic" and found "a great site with plenty of space to setup 5 tents."
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife viewing opportunities. A visitor to Stillwater Lake mentioned seeing "eagles, moose mountain lion, beaver, chipmunk" during their stay, making it excellent for nature observation.
Star gazing: The remote location means minimal light pollution. At Cedar Creek Trailhead, overnight parking is permitted after 5PM, with one visitor noting it has "plenty of space for five or six tents or car campers" making it a convenient spot for night sky observation.
What you should know
Water sources: Some sites offer natural water access that requires treatment. Cedar Creek Trailhead features "a spring runs next to the lot and if you have a filter, its makes for a great place to resupply on water."
Weather preparedness: Morning condensation can be significant. A camper at Stillwater River noted it "felt surprisingly humid in this area and it took a bit to dry the tents off in the morning from all the dew."
Access challenges: Road conditions vary significantly between sites. For North Fork Flathead River Camp, a visitor warns "the road is rough but next to the river. Nothing fancy at all but quiet and relaxing."
Bear safety: Proper food storage is essential throughout the region. At Theriault Lakes Horse Camp, "secure food storage is a must" as it's located in bear country.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming spots: Several lakes offer kid-friendly swimming areas. Red Meadow Lake provides "beautiful and clear" water that's "absolutely gorgeous and clear" for summer swimming according to visitors.
Easy access sites: Some locations require minimal hiking from parking areas. Sheldon Mountain Trailhead Camp features "picnic tables, metal fire rings with grills, vault toilets" with "big pretty pine trees" making it comfortable for families.
Bug preparation: Insect activity varies by season and location. At Theriault Lakes Horse Camp, campers should "expect mosquitoes and deer flies" due to its creek-side location.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs only. For Bull Lake, a visitor notes "there are two access roads, the first is more appropriate for van, truck or hike in to tent site. Not a lot of turn around room, wouldn't bring a trailer in. Second turn off goes to a much larger area, multiple sites and boat launch access."
Levelness considerations: Parking areas may require leveling equipment. At Schnaus Cabin Dispersed, the camping area is described as "a large open spot, known to the locals, down by the river" that worked well for motorcycle camping but has variable terrain.
Signal availability: Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region. At Sheldon Mountain, a camper reports "I get one bar of Verizon service but it's not very useful" - typical for most free camping near Rexford.
