Established Camping
Rexford Bench Campground
Rexford Bench Campground, near Eureka, Montana, is a solid choice for those seeking a peaceful outdoor experience in the Kootenai National Forest. With spacious sites that provide a sense of privacy, it’s a great spot for both tent camping and RVs, though keep in mind that most sites are best suited for units 30 feet or less.
Visitors rave about the cleanliness of the facilities, especially the bathrooms, which are well-maintained. Many campers have enjoyed the close proximity to Lake Koocanusa, perfect for swimming and boating, although the campground itself isn’t right on the water. As one happy camper noted, “The sites are very generously spaced. It made us feel like we were wild camping.”
The campground is open from Memorial Day to Labor Day, making it a prime spot for summer adventures. If you’re looking to explore, Eureka is just a short drive away, offering some charming dining options and a grocery store with great produce. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a longer stay, Rexford Bench Campground provides a relaxing escape into nature.
Description
USDA Forest Service
Kootenai National Forest
Overview
Rexford Bench Recreation Area is the most highly developed camp area within the Kootenai National Forest. Rexford Bench Campground has 54 sites, 30 are first come-first serve and 24 can be reserved. Kamloops Terrace has 20 sites and additional overflow parking. A high and low water boat ramp is available. A day use area with swimming beach completes this popular area. It is a popular destination for boating, fishing and swimming on Lake Koocanusa, and hiking in the surrounding forest. Beautiful sandstone formations can be viewed not far from the campground, and osprey and eagles can often be seen fishing in the reservoir.
Recreation
Fishing, boating and swimming are popular activities. Fishing derbies are held several times each year and anglers can expect a catch of kokanee salmon, whitefish and a variety of trout, among others. A variety of hiking trails begins in the campground, including a relatively short interpretive trail that loops around the campground, and the Hoodoo Trail, that leads to impressive sandstone formations that jut out from an inlet along the lake. The Hoodoos can also be seen via boat. Several paths lead from the campground to the adjacent beach, boat ramp and overflow parking area.
Natural Features
The campground is located on an arm of Lake Koocanusa in northwest Montana near the Canadian border. The 46,500-acre reservoir has over 127 miles of shoreline and is formed by 422' Libby Dam on the Kootenai River, which stretches about 90 miles and into Canada. It is a large campground, situated in a ponderosa pine forest at an elevation of 2,470 feet. Osprey often fish around Libby Dam at sunset, making for enjoyable viewing opportunities. Bald eagles can be seen hunting kokanee in the river and lake during the fall. A variety of wildlife also makes its home in the area.
Nearby Attractions
The Kootenai River, below Libby Dam, is a blue ribbon fishery. Guided tours of the dam and powerhouse are offered at the visitor center throughout the summer. Visitors also enjoy driving the 100-mile loop around the reservoir. Several trails, including some that lead to scenic waterfalls, are located along the route.
Location
Rexford Bench Campground is located in Montana
Directions
From Eureka, travel west on Highway 93 for about a mile, then continue 6 miles south on Highway 37.
Address
949 US HIGHWAY 93 N
Eureka, MT 59917-0116
Coordinates
48.8995139 N
115.1576306 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiGood
- VerizonGood
- AT&TFair
- T-MobileUnknown
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Reservable
- WiFi
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
Drive Time
- 3 hrs 10 min from Coeur d'Alene
- 3 hrs 14 min from Missoula
- 3 hrs 40 min from Spokane
- 5 hrs 5 min from Lewiston
