Best Campgrounds near Trout Creek, MT

Trout Creek, Montana sits along Highway 200 in a forested region offering multiple camping options ranging from established sites to dispersed locations. Developed campgrounds in the area include Trout Creek Motel & RV Park, which accommodates tents, RVs, cabins, and glamping setups, and Birdland Bay RV Resort, located near Thompson Falls with full hookup options. Engle Lake provides free dispersed camping opportunities for those seeking a more primitive experience. The Kootenai National Forest surrounds much of the area, providing additional camping locations with varying levels of development and amenities. Finley Flats offers riverside camping with basic facilities maintained by a camp host.

Camping availability in the Trout Creek region spans from Memorial Day through late September at most established sites, with some year-round options. Campsites along rivers and lakes tend to fill quickly during summer weekends. Roads to dispersed sites can present challenges for larger vehicles, particularly after rain or early in the season. The area experiences significant seasonal variation, with many campgrounds closing during winter months. Visitors should check road conditions before attempting to access remote locations. Water access is a highlight of many sites, though river levels fluctuate throughout the year. Cell service is limited in more remote areas. "Pack in pack out. Camp host at the campground. Fishing, boating hiking. Beautiful area. There is a small store top of the hill. Nearest town is 10 miles away," noted one visitor about Finley Flats.

Waterfront camping receives consistently high ratings from visitors to the Trout Creek area. The Clark Fork River and nearby lakes provide opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and swimming during warmer months. Sites near water tend to be the most sought-after, especially those with boat access. Train noise affects some campgrounds, as the Montana Rail Line runs through the region. Several campgrounds offer fire rings and picnic tables, though amenities vary significantly between established and dispersed sites. A camper mentioned that Bull River Campground provides "the best tasting fresh water" as it enters the Cabinet Gorge Reservoir. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant throughout the area, with visitors commonly reporting moose, deer, and bird sightings. The surrounding mountains create scenic backdrops for camping experiences while providing recreational hiking opportunities.

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Best Camping Sites Near Trout Creek, Montana (176)

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Recent Reviews near Trout Creek, MT

472 Reviews of 176 Trout Creek Campgrounds


  • andrew The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 28, 2025

    Crystal Gold Mine

    Ok, let’s try it

    We booked this campground as a stop on our way through and to the northwest. You can’t beat access from I-90. It’s so close you will listen to traffic your whole stay. That does not bother us at night, but kind of spoils the peaceful day. The spaces are big and open. There seem to be a lot of long timers but that’s fine. No laundry or bathhouse. Would probably pass next time and keep going to Cour d’alane to find a something a little nicer as a vacation spot. But if you need a place to stay for a night or two this will work ok. Very accessible. Young man at check-in very friendly. If you need to stop for the night and want FHU instead of a state park or rec area this place works.

  • Michał M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Fishing access near i90 exit 30

    Leveled gravel free space with some noise

    Loads of flat space, some noise from I90, few other cars camping nearby. Beautiful river nearby.

  • David S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Mcgregor Lake Campground

    Fun adventure

    Pull through for 52$ and it’s a fun place nice trail that goes all around the campground and fun bar right across the street with live music, food and pool table. Pinball and casino as well. Lake view on patio.

  • Matt S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Sam Owen Camnpground

    Decent Stop

    Stayed at site 80 in Scented Leafs section. Decent campground with mix of full sun/semi shaded sites. Campground was prob 50% full but many reserves signs starting Friday. Lake was excellent, warmer than expected. If you’re a cyclist, the ride up Trestle Creek then down Lightning Creek is excellent, top 1/3 of the climb still had lots of wildflowers and high alpine feel/views.

  • Luke L.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 18, 2025

    Dispersed Site - Lolo National Forest Recreation Area

    Amazing By the River

    Arrived very late in the dark on Friday night coming back from Canada, and found an amazing site next to the river which drowned out all surrounding noise. Beautiful and forested with privacy and plenty of space to setup 5 tents. Didn’t have any issues with bugs or mosquitos despite being by the river in August.

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 12, 2025

    Bumblebee Campground

    Not much to praise

    Coeur d’Alene River Road has SO many places to boondocks and camp, I wouldn’t waste our money on this campground again. The pit toilets were clean and the fire rings and picnic tables were in good shape, hence the two stars. Lots of wasps. No water. Nothing to do within walking distance. Find a boondock spot and save the $28.00

  • Roy S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 10, 2025

    Fireman Memorial Park & Campground

    Hidden in plain sight

    Nice little park in the middle of town, between a large city park and a large grocery store and hardware store. Onsite host. RV dump, $2, located in the entry driveway, about 150’ into the park. Non-potable and potable water available. Use the large parking lot from which you enter, behind the Chamber building, to pre-stage your sewer and freshwater hoses. The sewer drain is in the middle of the driveway, so an expedited dump and flush may be in order to avoid blocking others access. I dumped and rinsed, then repositioned to get out of the driveway, to fill my freshwater tank.


Guide to Trout Creek

Camping near Trout Creek, Montana, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to relax by the water or explore the woods, there’s something for everyone.

What to do

  • Fishing: The area is known for great fishing spots. One camper mentioned, “The lakeside campsites were perfect! We spent the week there, enjoying the water and nearby hiking,” highlighting the fishing opportunities.
  • Hiking: There are plenty of trails to explore. A visitor noted, “We were happy to find this campground on our way to Yellowstone. It was easy to access off of I-90. Quiet, clean and roomy sites,” which suggests good hiking options nearby.
  • Swimming: Many campgrounds have access to water for swimming. One review stated, “Beautiful campsite next to the Coeur d'Alene river! We could hear the river at night while laying in our tent,” indicating a great spot for a refreshing dip.

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Logan State Park Campground said, “The bathrooms are SUPER clean and heated when it's chilly out.”
  • Friendly staff: Many visitors mention the helpfulness of campground hosts. One camper at Trout Creek Motel & RV Park shared, “The staff is extremely friendly and easy going.”
  • Scenic views: Campers love the beautiful landscapes. A review for Thompson Falls State Park Campground noted, “The campground is outside of town nestled in tall pines, next to a crystal clear mountain river.”

What you should know

  • Noise levels: Some campgrounds are near busy roads or train tracks. A visitor at Trout Creek Motel & RV Park mentioned, “At first we were a little taken aback by all the train noises... but they didn’t run too late into the night.”
  • Crowded during peak season: Popular spots can get busy, especially on weekends. One camper at Bumblebee Campground said, “We tried to stay here on a Saturday in July- and it was way too crowded.”
  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds may not have full facilities. A review for Bad Medicine Campground stated, “Facilities were also not as good. Average vault toilet, water available, but had to walk up to the entrance for garbage.”

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose quieter spots: Look for campgrounds that are a bit off the beaten path. A family-friendly camper at Cabin City Campground said, “We were pleasantly surprised at how nice this campground was. It was quiet and peaceful.”
  • Plan for activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. One camper at Lake Elsie Campground mentioned, “Great for kids, families and photography.”
  • Pack snacks: Having food on hand can make things easier. A visitor at 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground noted, “Great stop for a night along I-90. Friendly staff indoors. Yummy milkshakes.”

Tips from RVers

  • Check road conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A review for Lake Elsie Campground warned, “The road up to the lake is really rough and narrow but manageable with a proper vehicle.”
  • Look for electric hookups: Many RVers appreciate having power. A camper at Wallace RV Park mentioned, “Full hookups $45, bit expensive however this includes showers and toilets free.”
  • Be prepared for noise: Some campgrounds are near highways or train tracks. A visitor at Thompson Falls State Park Campground said, “There is noise from occasional trains (very close) and highway (across the river), but I didn’t find it disturbing.”

Camping near Trout Creek, Montana, offers a variety of experiences, from peaceful riverside spots to family-friendly campgrounds. Whether you're in an RV or pitching a tent, there's a perfect spot waiting for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the campgrounds near Trout Creek, Montana?

Trout Creek, Montana offers several camping options in the surrounding area. Finley Flats is a free, first-come-first-served Vista-owned campground with no amenities but beautiful surroundings about 10 miles from the nearest town. For those seeking an RV experience, Birdland Bay RV Resort is located just outside Thompson Falls with generously spaced sites among the pines and quick access to the Clark Fork River. Other nearby options include Lake Creek Campground, Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park, McGillivray in the Kootenai Forest, Bull River Campground, and various dispersed camping areas throughout the region. The area offers a mix of developed campgrounds, RV parks, and primitive camping experiences within a short drive of Trout Creek.

What amenities are available at Trout Creek Campground in Montana?

Camping options near Trout Creek offer varying levels of amenities. Trout Creek Motel & RV Park provides convenient facilities near the Idaho-Montana border with laundry services nearby and access to essential supplies at local shops. Mcgregor Lakes RV offers picnic tables, fire pits, firewood for sale, showers, restrooms, and daily-cleaned laundry facilities with on-site hosts. Most public campgrounds in the area have more basic amenities like vault toilets, with some offering potable water. For those seeking a more primitive experience, several dispersed camping areas require visitors to pack in and pack out all supplies with no on-site facilities. Cell service is limited or non-existent at many of the more remote locations.

What are the best seasons for camping in Trout Creek, Montana?

The prime camping season near Trout Creek, Montana typically runs from late spring through early fall. Sylvia Lake Campground in the Flathead Forest is best visited during summer months when the winding, sometimes rutted access roads are most passable. Kootenai National Forest Bull River Campground remains accessible with water services through mid-September, making late summer an excellent time to visit with fewer crowds. Summer offers warm days for water activities at the numerous lakes and rivers, while early fall provides cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. Spring can be wet with varying road conditions, and winter camping is limited due to snow and facility closures. Most campgrounds in the area are seasonal, typically opening in May and closing in September or October.