Dispersed camping near Trego, Montana provides direct access to the Kootenai and Flathead National Forests at elevations ranging from 3,200 to 5,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during the day, with significantly colder conditions from October through May. The area receives moderate rainfall, creating lush forest conditions and occasional access challenges on dirt roads.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Upper Stillwater Lake, campers can find excellent fishing conditions. "This lake is never a disappointment! Easy access roads, nice boat launch, and solid camping sites. 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.
Kayaking and paddling: Red Meadow Lake offers clear, calm waters ideal for paddling. "Red Meadow Lake is a small lake with only few camping spots, very remote and peaceful. Fishing on the lake is good, summer swimming and kayaking," reports a camper. The lake's smaller size makes it manageable for beginners and families.
Hiking access: Several trails can be accessed directly from camping areas, ranging from easy lakeside walks to more challenging mountain trails. "Maybe 20 minutes from whitefish, this area offers only a handful of rustic sites as well boat launch parking. First come first serve. Lovely trails nearby with lake access," shares a visitor to Upper Stillwater Lake.
What campers like
Secluded spots: Stillwater River offers quieter camping away from crowds. "Quiet and Forested. Arrived in the dark so it was a little tricky to pick out the campsites, but we found a great site with plenty of space to setup 5 tents," explains one camper. These more secluded spots typically have fewer amenities but provide more privacy.
Wildlife viewing: Many sites offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "There is a lot of wildlife (eagles, moose mountain lion, beaver, chipmunk)," notes a camper at Upper Stillwater Lake. Morning and evening hours typically provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Stargazing: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional night sky viewing. "The stars are so bright and the Milky Way seems so close you could touch it," reports a visitor to North Fork Flathead River. Clear nights away from campfires provide the best viewing conditions.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites require high clearance vehicles. "Just about a mile from the highway, this site is right on the river with some nice deep pools. There are three separate fire rings with a vault toilet and picnic table. It's a short drive in but more suitable for truck camping, van, tent camping or very small trailer like 13' max due to narrow track and limited maneuvering area. High clearance required!" warns a Stillwater River camper.
Site availability: Most dispersed camping areas fill quickly during peak season (June-August). "We only stayed two days because the air quality became hazardous due to the west coast fires, cutting our glacier trip short," notes a visitor to Middle Fork Flathead River. Arriving mid-week improves chances of finding available sites.
Weather preparedness: Weather conditions can change rapidly in the mountainous terrain. "It felt surprisingly humid in this area and it took a bit to dry the tents off in the morning from all the dew," explains a camper at Stillwater River. Layered clothing and rain gear are essential even during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Best sites for children: Several areas offer safer swimming options for families. "This little campground was super easy to get to. The sites easy to access and the toilet is very close and clean. There is a train track in the background but the trains are very short," notes a camper at Upper Stillwater Lake who found the area suitable for families.
Safety considerations: Wildlife precautions are essential when camping with children. All food should be properly stored and children supervised near water. "The water is absolutely gorgeous and clear," reports a visitor to Red Meadow Lake, though parents should note that most water areas lack lifeguards.
Activities for kids: Bull Lake provides family-friendly fishing opportunities. "Less than five miles from the highway, this is a nice sized lake stocked with fish. There were a pair of white swans on the lake when I was there but no one else around," reports a visitor, noting the gentle terrain and accessible shoreline.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger vehicles: Some dispersed sites can accommodate larger RVs, but require careful navigation. "We have a 42' trailer and thought we would give this spot a shot. There's a slightly rough dirt road to get to the camp spots. There were about 3-4 sites that could fit our RV," shares a visitor to Ryan Road Dispersed Camping.
Access challenges: Many roads leading to prime camping spots have seasonal issues. "Road has huge and I mean huge puddles. Very tight fit for truck and trailer for sure in a lot of the spots. The best spots for rvs were taken up by tents," warns a visitor to Middle Fork Flathead River.
Leveling and parking: Finding level spots can be challenging in some areas. "Our site was quiet, loaded with trees and flowers and had a fire pit. We could have easily got a 2nd trailer back there as well," notes a Ryan Road camper, highlighting the importance of bringing leveling blocks and parking aids.
