Dispersed camping near Saltese, Montana offers primitive accommodations in the mountainous terrain of Lolo National Forest. Most rustic campsites sit at elevations between 3,000-4,500 feet, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 45-85°F. Winter camping remains possible but challenging due to snow accumulation that can exceed 70 inches annually in higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking from Stevens Lakes Backcountry: Access scenic alpine terrain through a moderate hike. The trailhead leads to both lower and upper lakes with established camping areas. "By far one of my favorite Mt lake hikes! With great camping at both the lower and upper lakes, I recommend using the trails app to help navigate through the switch backs, and have lots of water!" according to Stevens Lakes Backcountry visitor Joshua.
Fishing the St. Joe River: The riverside sites along St. Joe River Road provide excellent fishing access. "Found this great little riverside spot while checking out the paid campgrounds along St Joe River. This one has a small boat launch and several fire pits. Camping is prohibited from spring to mid July," reports Frederick R. from Dispersed Site on St. Joe River Rd.
Swimming spots: Several dispersed sites offer water access for cooling off during hot summer days. "We slept in a tent and loved the river sounds. There were some mosquitoes but with bugspray it was fine," notes a camper at one riverside location. The North Fork Coeur D'Alene River sites provide multiple water access points, though campers report "you're not camping right on it as there are some bushes and an incline."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many dispersed sites in Lolo National Forest offer significant separation from neighboring campers. "Spots are very private and spacious overlooking river. Minimal road noise. Only a couple spots taken," according to Brian K. at Dispersed Site - Lolo National Forest Recreation Area.
Multiple vehicle accessibility: Some areas accommodate larger camping setups with ample space. "We stayed in site 1 first campsite on your right-hand side, big rig friendly plenty of room for our set up 70+ ft RV and trailer short walk to the river," writes Robert K. about Muchwater Dispersed Campground and Recreation Area.
Wildlife sightings: Campers regularly report animal encounters at these rustic camping spots near Saltese. "There was a young lonely moose crossing the river and sleeping in the camp at night during my stay," notes a camper at Muchwater. Other campers mention seeing sheep across the river at some sites.
What you should know
Train noise impacts sleep: Multiple riverside campsites sit across from active rail lines. "Huge ol' freight rail runs RIGHT along the other side of the river. I can sleep through a midwestern thunderstorm, but the night trains shook me awake even with earplugs in," warns Rachel C. at Muchwater Dispersed Campground.
Limited water sources: Potable water remains scarce throughout the area. "It has been pretty difficult to find potable water in the area. The 'free spring' just south of Paradise has been turned off as of August 2022 and locals say it is unlikely to be turned back on," reports a camper from Clark Fork River.
Seasonal camping restrictions: Some sites prohibit camping during certain periods. "Camping is prohibited from spring to mid July," notes a camper about St. Joe River Road sites. This typically coincides with spring runoff and wildlife management concerns.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategy: Look for locations with gradual river access for safer water play. "The water is honestly my favorite part about this spot! Every spot has a tiny little 1 minute walk down to the water which is awesome," reports Maddie F. about the North Fork Coeur D'Alene River sites.
Bug preparation: Bring appropriate insect protection, particularly for riverside sites. "There were some mosquitoes but with bugspray it was fine," notes a camper about riverside camping. Another visitor at Lolo National Forest Recreation Area mentioned "Didn't have any issues with bugs or mosquitos despite being by the river in August."
Plant hazards: Watch for poison ivy when camping with children. "POISON IVY (found it... found all of it)," warns Josh S. at Lolo National Forest Recreation Area, suggesting careful site inspection before setting up tents or play areas.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions vary dramatically: Some access roads present challenges for larger rigs. "The road was crazy rough to my spot but looked like it was easier on the right side," reports Haley G. about North Fork Coeur D'Alene River camping areas.
Site capacity reference: Several reviewers note specific spots that accommodate larger setups. "Cross the bridge at the exit and there is a wide turn around. I'd pull my teardrop down here, but unsure about longer trailers," shares Ben C. about the 2 Mile Turn Off Dispersed Camp.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require significant leveling for RVs. "Sites very unlevel," notes a Muchwater campground review. Look for flat pullouts at sites like the fishing access near I-90 exit 30, which one reviewer described as having "loads of flat space."
