Tent camping near Rexford, Montana centers around Lake Koocanusa, a 90-mile long reservoir created by Libby Dam on the Kootenai River. The area sits at approximately 2,400 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during days and dropping to 45-55°F at night. Winter camping is limited as most facilities close after the first significant snowfall, typically in late October.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Yaak River near Whitetail Campground offers excellent trout fishing in a peaceful setting. One camper mentioned, "We spent the afternoon with our chairs on the riverbank and dangling our feet in the water."
Hiking trails: Several hiking options exist within 30 minutes of Rexford, particularly in the Kootenai National Forest. According to a visitor at Grave Creek Campground, "There is the old warden camp and down on the creek. No services, semi remote, very quiet, dusty, views of the mountains."
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife including deer, elk, and various bird species. Campers should be prepared for encounters, as one camper at Grave Creek noted, "You are in grizzly country. Lot's of deer walking around, very safe, locals are very friendly."
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: Many campgrounds in the Rexford area provide a peaceful experience away from crowds. A visitor to Whitetail Campground shared it was a "Very quiet and beautiful spot. Our site had a nice open meadow and was right next to access to the river."
Clean facilities: Despite being primitive, many area campgrounds maintain clean facilities. As one camper at Whitetail Campground observed, it had "One of the cleanest vault toilets I have been in!"
Access to water: Most popular camping areas provide direct water access. A camper at Bowman Lake Campground in nearby Glacier National Park mentioned, "Nice NPS campground within walking distance to Bowman Lake and several trailheads. This is a good spot to camp if you plan on hiking or boating near/on the lake."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads to the best tent camping near Rexford are unpaved and can be challenging. A visitor to Bowman Lake advised, "Be prepared for a dusty, bumpy, narrow, pot-holed drive in on the road. If the road is wet, it is treacherous!"
Bear safety: Proper food storage is mandatory throughout the region. A camper at Martin Lake recommended, "Advisable to store food by hanging from high tree branch to discourage bear investigations."
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds operate from late April through October. The Riverside Park situation has changed recently, with one visitor noting, "The town of Eureka closed this park to overnight camping as they had trouble with people over staying there welcome."
Limited amenities: Most campgrounds offer minimal facilities. A camper at Grave Creek described it as having "No services, semi remote, very quiet, dusty, views of the mountains."
Tips for camping with families
Bug protection: Insect repellent is essential, especially in early summer. A visitor to Bowman Lake warned, "I experienced more mosquito bites here than at any other spot in Montana. Bring your repellant!"
Weather preparation: Pack for temperature fluctuations, even in summer. One camper at Bowman Lake Campground advised, "You'll be at high elevation so be ready for cooler nights. I used my 0-degree sleeping bag, and that worked great."
Alternative swimming spots: When Lake Koocanusa gets crowded, consider smaller lakes or river access points. A visitor to Whitetail Campground shared, "Clean bathrooms and water close by. The tent pads are level and usually rock free. We spend a lot of our summer here."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds near Rexford have limitations for large vehicles. For Bowman Lake, a camper noted, "The road leading to the campground is pretty rough, but it is manageable if you go slow. The road is pretty narrow, so just be careful of oncoming cars."
Limited hookups: Most campgrounds near Rexford don't offer electrical or water hookups. Bring sufficient supplies and be prepared for dry camping. According to one visitor at Whitetail Campground, "11 camp spots, pit toilets and 1 yurt. The yurt was $25/night with reservation and the tent spots were $7."
Multiple options: The Yaak River Road offers several camping alternatives within a short distance. A camper pointed out, "There are four campground along this road: Yaak falls, red top (only 3 spots), white tail, and Pete's creek."
