Dispersed camping near Thompson Falls, Montana offers primitive sites mainly within the Lolo National Forest at elevations between 2,400 and 3,500 feet. The region sits along the northern edge of the Bitterroot Mountains and features significant elevation changes that impact temperature fluctuations between day and night. Many campsites have established fire rings but limited to no facilities, requiring self-sufficiency.
What to do
Fishing access points: Multiple fishing spots along the rivers provide opportunities for anglers seeking native trout species. At Clark Fork River, one camper noted, "The further you drive on the road the closer you can get to the river! There are some pit toilets too! Absolutely beautiful!"
Alpine lake hiking: For those willing to hike, backcountry camping at alpine lakes offers cooler temperatures and swimming opportunities. A visitor to Stevens Lakes Backcountry shared, "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 be help navigate through the switch backs, and have lots of water!"
OHV exploration: Several dispersed camping areas serve as bases for off-highway vehicle exploration. A reviewer at Lolo National Forest Recreation Area mentioned, "Pulled off, quickly found decent dispersed site. A bit buggy, no mosquitoes though. Great night sleep until OHVers came screaming through early."
What campers like
River proximity: Many free sites are situated directly along waterways. At Much Water Campground, a camper observed, "Most sites have river access. This is bear country so plan accordingly. No water available. Pack in, pack out. The road is somewhat close and train tracks across the river. Not really secluded but nice for a night or two."
Cell service availability: Despite remote locations, several dispersed sites maintain usable connectivity. One camper at Clark Fork River reported, "Beautiful secluded site with view of the river. Easily can fit multiple rigs. I have xfinity mobile and had 3-4 bars the whole time."
Site spacing: Campers appreciate the distance between sites at many dispersed locations. A visitor to Lolo National Forest Recreation Area noted, "Spots are very private and spacious overlooking river. Minimal road noise. Only a couple spots taken."
What you should know
Train noise: Many riverside camping areas have railroad tracks nearby that can disrupt sleep. A camper at Muchwater Recreation Area explained, "The train didn't really bother me. Kinda cool seeing it across the river bend."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed camping requires complete self-sufficiency. A reviewer at Thompson River Dispersed Camping and Shooting warned, "Off the side of the road, with no amenities near some pretty cool stuff. The sight is ugly, but free. Close to some good trout fishing via river. There is a pretty lame fire pit already established, and people fire their guns out here."
Water access challenges: River access from some campsites requires navigating steep terrain. A Much Water Campground visitor cautioned, "You have to 'walk down' a steep drop to access the river. When it's high don't try or say goodbye."
Tips for camping with families
Highway-adjacent options: For easier access with children, consider spots near main roads. A reviewer at 2 Mile Turn Off shared, "Just as described by other reviews, it's right off the highway and right by the creek. About 50 yards away is an outhouse next to a few RVs. We didn't check them out, but it was all quiet on a Sunday night."
Swimming safety: Be cautious with water activities, especially with children. A camper at Dispersed Site on St. Joe River Rd advised, "Not the best spot for swimming due to the current in this section of the river but good enough to wade in and cool off anyway."
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about local wildlife safety protocols. One camper at Much Water Campground mentioned, "There was a young lonely moose crossing the river and sleeping in the camp at night during my stay."
Tips for RVers
Big rig accessibility: Several dispersed areas near Thompson Falls can accommodate larger RVs. At Muchwater Recreation Area, a camper noted, "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."
Road conditions: Access roads to free camping areas vary significantly in quality. A visitor to Lolo National Forest Recreation Area warned, "Main dirt road is well maintained but narrow and curves up the mountain. Lots of spots if you keep on going, but some offshoots are steep and rocky."
Overnight convenience spots: For quick overnight stays while traveling, consider fishing access points. A camper at 2 Mile Turn Off explained, "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. Close to the interstate so a little noisy, but close to good fishing access."
