Dispersed camping sites near Troy, Montana provide opportunities for secluded outdoor experiences along forest roads and mountain waterways. Located in the Kootenai National Forest with elevations ranging from 1,900 to 7,700 feet, the area features several free primitive sites that require campers to be self-sufficient. Most access roads remain open from late May through mid-October, with seasonal closures due to snow and spring runoff.
What to do
Hiking to alpine lakes: Roman Nose area offers trails to multiple scenic lakes with varying difficulty levels. According to one visitor, "We stayed the night in the campground near the trailhead and did a day-hike to the 3 lakes the next morning... The first lake is a short, easy walk. The 2nd (Lower) and 3rd (Upper) lakes are a moderate hike and have a couple sites you can overnight at from the trailhead parking lot."
Fishing opportunities: While some areas have limited fishing success, many waterways near Troy offer fishing spots. At Pack River Dispersed Site, campers can find "several dispersed sites up here along Pack River. Good for horses, camping and solitude."
Swimming spots: Green Bay Campground provides clear water swimming areas during summer months. As one reviewer notes, "We brought our kayaks into the water in the sunny part of the day, other camping spots available by boat if you can get there!"
Wildlife viewing: The area around Scotchmans Peak offers chances to see mountain wildlife. "Be sure to read trail reports and weather reports before heading out. North Idaho weather can be pretty finicky, especially at high elevations. Make sure to be aware of wildlife as well! Scotchman's is known for mountain goat sightings."
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many tent campers appreciate sites along the Yaak River and other waterways. A visitor to Whitetail Campground shared: "Very quiet and beautiful spot. Our site had a nice open meadow and was right next to access to the river. We spent the afternoon with our chairs on the riverbank and dangling our feet in the water."
Cleanliness: Maintained campgrounds near Troy often receive praise for their upkeep. One Whitetail Campground review mentioned, "Clean bathrooms and water close by. The tent pads are level and usually rock free. The park keeps the campgrounds clean and accessible."
Stargazing: Remote tent camping sites provide excellent night sky views. At Yarnell Island, "At night, there are a few lights along the bank, but they don't impede the view of the stars. The view of the stars was amazing. The Milky Way was bright and also I was able to see the comet that was passing by at the time."
Lake access: The best tent camping near Troy, Montana often includes water proximity. Green Bay Campground features "campsites marked and have picnic tables and fire pits. They are all right on the water and offer the most incredibly serene views of Pend Orielle."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access routes require high-clearance vehicles. A camper at Roman Nose notes: "The road is long and VERY washboarded, but you have lots of great options if you plan on doing some hiking in the area. If you're not looking to hike, I'm not sure beating up your vehicle for a solid hour on a washboarded dirt road is worth it just for camping here."
Cell service: Most tent camping areas near Troy lack phone connectivity. At Pack River Dispersed Site, expect no service, and at Green Bay Campground, "I have Verizon and there was no phone service once you get a short ways down slagle rd."
Weekday vs. weekend occupancy: Campgrounds fill quickly on weekends. One Green Bay camper shared: "We arrived on a Wednesday and had the place nearly to our selves. This was a perfect place to camp with a family or with friends. Make sure to arrive early in the week if you want a camp site. Spots filled quickly in the days following."
Wildlife precautions: Food storage requirements exist in many areas. A visitor to Solomon Lake Campsite reported: "No Verizon cell service, very remote, with lots of Grizzly warnings, so proper food storage is required!"
Tips for camping with families
Choose managed campgrounds: For families, established sites provide more conveniences. At Bull River Pavilion, "The camp area is pretty full even in the off season, because it is absolutely beautiful. Located not far from Thompson Falls, and lot of water ways."
Pack insect repellent: Yellow jackets and other insects can be problematic. At Green Bay, one camper reported: "Our only complaint was that there were a lot of yellow jackets- A LOT. But they weren't too aggressive. Despite being frequently swarmed by them, neither of us got stung while we were there."
Consider rock-skipping beaches: Some sites offer perfect shorelines for this family activity. As one Green Bay visitor noted: "I love staying here with friends. Has a beautiful view of the lake and has tons of activities available for fun things to do on your camping trip. If you want an easy camping spot for a fun little getaway, Green Bay Campground is your place!"
Tips for RVers
Limited options: Most tent camping near Troy offers few developed RV sites. At Green Bay Campground, "There are two parking areas, and you have to hike down a short hike (moderately steep hill) to get to the campsites... Much of the road to the campground is unpacked and bumpy. Would not recommend for a low profile car."
Roadway challenges: Forest roads often present difficulties for larger vehicles. At Pack River, expect "Lots of washboard/rutted sections on the road and some steep areas getting to certain campsites."
Select campgrounds with adequate space: Tent-focused areas have limited parking. Roman Nose has "about 5 camping spots and is normally not to busy," making it difficult for larger RVs to maneuver.
