The Clark Fork River carves through the Thompson Falls area at an elevation of 2,419 feet, creating a diverse landscape of evergreen forests and mountain valleys. Camping near Thompson Falls provides access to over 20 miles of riverside camping with numerous options for tent sites, RVs, and cabins. Summer temperatures average 75-85°F during the day with cooler evenings, making it ideal for outdoor recreation.
What to do
Fishing at the Clark Fork: Thompson Falls State Park Campground offers immediate river access. "The Clark Fork through this area is beautiful and our camp site was right next to a semi protected bay that was perfect for our young kids to wade in," reports Sara D. The clear water creates excellent fishing conditions throughout summer months.
Hiking forest trails: Venture beyond the campgrounds on mountain trails accessible from most camping areas. At Cabin City Campground, a "nature walk/hike at the entrance to the campground" provides a convenient option for families, according to Joshua D. The self-guided interpretive trail covers local mining and logging history.
Bowling and dining: When weather turns unfavorable, the Rimrock Lodge offers indoor activities within walking distance of their RV sites. "There's a bowling alley and restaurant on site," notes Justin, making it a practical option for those seeking a balance of outdoor and indoor activities during variable weather conditions.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many Thompson Falls campgrounds offer well-spaced sites for a more secluded experience. At Camp Squatch, Deborah W. found a "clean, cozy, quiet" setting "literally 5 minutes to town & 1/4 mile to boat launch." The three cabin sites with electricity and water hookups provide a wooded setting away from more crowded areas.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate the no-cost sites near Thompson Falls. Copper King offers "five sites with generous spacing. Each site has a picnic table and a fire ring," according to Matthew S. The campground includes a privy and bear box in the center of the site circle.
River swimming spots: The Clark Fork River provides natural swimming areas throughout the camping region. "We swam and fished from this lovely spot during the day and star gazed at night," writes Natalie D. about her experience at Thompson Falls State Park, where a "short trail from our campsite led down to the river with a little sandy beach."
What you should know
Train noise affects some sites: Railroad tracks run near several campgrounds in the area, creating occasional noise disturbance. "Train tracks run along the campground although you couldn't see them from our spot. Only a few trains went by during our stay so it didn't bother us much but the noise might be annoying to some," notes Natalie D. about Thompson Falls State Park.
Free electricity at certain locations: 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground offers unusual amenities for free camping. "Several spaces available behind the restaurant/bar and casino - tucked into the woods but road close," reports Renee Z. The campground provides "free RV space with electric" hookups, an uncommon feature for no-cost camping.
Wildlife awareness: Campers should properly store food and maintain awareness of local wildlife. "We did have to eat inside because the yellow jackets were super aggressive when food came out," notes Sara D. Bear boxes are available at select campgrounds, with Copper King providing central storage for campers.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water play areas: For families with young children, look for protected swimming spots. "Our camp site was right next to a semi protected bay that was perfect for our young kids to wade in," shares Sara D. about Thompson Falls State Park Campground, making it ideal for safer water play.
Indoor backup activities: Weather in the Thompson Falls area can change quickly, so having indoor options matters for family trips. Nugget RV Resort offers numerous amenities for rainy days. "What DON'T they have? Volleyball, a pool, restaurant/bar with stage, foosball and ping pong," notes Bjorn S., providing multiple activities when outdoor plans need changing.
Educational trail opportunities: Several campgrounds feature educational nature trails suitable for children. Joshua D. recommends the "nature walk/hike at the entrance to the campground" at Cabin City, which includes informational signs about local history and ecology, making learning part of the camping experience.
Tips from RVers
Length limitations for specific campgrounds: RV campers should verify site lengths before arrival. At Trout Creek Motel & RV Park, Eric D. found "long, pull through RV sites that are over 80 feet long," making it suitable for larger rigs. However, other campgrounds like Copper King "doesn't really accommodate large RVs," according to Matthew S.
Free dump stations: While not all campgrounds offer sanitation dumps, RVers can find services in Thompson Falls approximately 10 minutes from most camping areas. "Is a little close to highway and there are trains all night, but the whole valley is like that," notes Kris M. about the Trout Creek area, suggesting ambient noise is common throughout the region regardless of campground selection.
Winter access considerations: Some campgrounds remain open year-round but with limited services. Andi F. describes how the 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground proved valuable during unexpected weather: "A winter storm rolled in and made the pass impassable. This is a FREE RV park with electric hookups...having electricity was a lifesaver."
