Dispersed camping near Trout Creek, Montana provides free overnight options within Kootenai and Lolo National Forests. Sites range from river-accessible locations with basic fire rings to remote backcountry areas that require substantial hiking. The region sits at approximately 2,400 feet elevation with surrounding mountain peaks reaching over 7,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms.
What to do
Fishing nearby waters: The North Fork Coeur D'Alene River area supports excellent trout fishing opportunities. A visitor noted, "The fish were jumping like CRAZY the night I stayed! You're not camping right on it as there are some bushes and an incline, but every spot has a tiny little 1 minute walk down to the water which is awesome."
Gold panning: Libby Creek Gold Panning Area offers recreational gold panning with primitive camping options. "This is an open claim area for primitive gold panners. Several sites with fire rings a short distance to the creek," reports one camper. The area has a single vault toilet and numerous camping spots on both sides of the access road.
Hiking to alpine lakes: Stevens Lakes Backcountry camping requires a challenging but rewarding hike with significant elevation gain. According to one hiker, "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!"
What campers like
River sounds: Lolo National Forest Recreation Area campsites feature natural sound barriers. One camper shared, "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."
Site privacy: Many dispersed areas offer considerable distance between campsites. A visitor to Lolo National Forest Recreation Area mentioned, "Spots are very private and spacious overlooking river. Minimal road noise. Only a couple spots taken."
Cell service: Despite remote locations, some areas maintain decent connectivity. A camper reported about Lolo Forest, "We had good service on Verizon and T-Mobile to work. River is beautiful. Would definitely come back." Another noted "3 bars Tmobile" at their site.
What you should know
Access challenges: Some sites require navigating rough forest roads. A camper at Hanks Meadow noted, "Have to ford Creek to access. Just one party there on memorial weekend. All the campsites on the way up here were very crowded."
Environmental hazards: Watch for poisonous plants and contamination in some areas. At Libby Creek, one visitor warned, "Be aware that there is mercury contamination due to mining activity in the area in years gone by so dogs should be kept out of the water."
Road conditions: Forest roads vary significantly in quality. A Lolo camper advised, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Check accessibility: Some sites require substantial hiking that may challenge young children. For beginners, Stevens Lakes offers both hammock and tent camping options. "Me and my friends stayed at the lower lake, both hammock and tent camping," notes one visitor.
Water safety: Rivers in the region can have strong currents. At Lolo Recreation Area, sites often include "small steep slope to the water," according to campers, requiring supervision for younger children.
Wildlife awareness: The Trout Creek region is active bear country. While enjoying the wilderness, proper food storage is essential. Josh at Lolo Forest mentions, "Signs to be aware of bear country but took precautions."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller rigs better than large ones. At North Fork Coeur D'Alene River, a camper commented, "The road was crazy rough to my spot but looked like it was easier on the right side."
Leveling challenges: Finding level ground can be difficult on forest roads. A Lolo Forest camper noted, "We car camp in a Wagoneer," finding success with a smaller vehicle that needed less space to level.
Limited turnaround space: Forest roads often lack proper turnaround areas. One Lolo camper cautioned, "The west is the only safe way to enter onto the road to the campsites. On the map, it looks like you can enter/exit either way from 135… but the east side of the road to get back onto 135 is impossible."
