- Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest/
- Camping
The best camping in Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, MT
73% (11)
Top-rated campgrounds in Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest
Crystal Lake Campground
1. Crystal Lake Campground
100%
(4)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Aspen Campground
2. Aspen Campground
100%
(1)
Cave Mountain Campground
3. Cave Mountain Campground
100%
(1)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mill Falls Campground
4. Mill Falls Campground
100%
(1)
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wood Lake Campground
5. Wood Lake Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Russian Flat Campground
6. Russian Flat Campground
Logging Creek Campground
7. Logging Creek Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Moose Creek Campground
8. Moose Creek Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Spring Creek Campground
9. Spring Creek Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
South Fork Campground
10. South Fork Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Benchmark Campground
11. Benchmark Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Double Falls Campground
12. Double Falls Campground
Elko Campground
13. Elko Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Green Gulch Dispersed Campground
14. Green Gulch Dispersed Campground
Home Gulch Campground
15. Home Gulch Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Mortimer Gulch Campground
16. Mortimer Gulch Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Summit Campground
17. Summit Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Sun Canyon L&C Campground
18. Sun Canyon L&C Campground
Van Deriet Campground
19. Van Deriet Campground
West Fork Teton Campground
20. West Fork Teton Campground
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Top-rated campsites near Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest
Triple Bridges Campground
1. Triple Bridges Campground
92%
(91)
10mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Primitive camping with no water or trash service, pack in / pack out. There is a portable toilet.
Located in the Alberton Gorge on the Clark Fork River, this is a premier location for the whitewater enthusiast. Take advantage of the class II, III rapids in your kayak or raft, or even surf. Alternatively, enjoy the relaxing Sandy Beach just a few minutes walk from the campground to swim and gaze at the beautiful argilite cliffs. The campground is near both the Interstate and a railroad so there is some ambient noise.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$26
/ night
Sanctuary Farm Yurt Glamping
2. Sanctuary Farm Yurt Glamping
99%
(78)
13mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 15 sites
A sanctuary away from everyday life, where you can relax and reconnect with nature. Yurt has electricity, a wood stove for heat in winter, a beautiful outdoor kitchen and bathhouse, and a year round creek nearby. Only 45 minutes from Missoula Montana. Games and books in the yurt. Cedar outhouse. Lots of extras to make for a truly remarkable glamping experience. We offer breakfast and french press organic coffee for an additional fee.
Mostly secluded, situated above our garden and raspberry patch, so we are on that side of the garden early on summer mornings.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$81
/ night
Primrose Meadows
3. Primrose Meadows
95%
(1549)
26mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 23 sites
We can’t wait to share our land with you!
Get away from it all and get under the Big Sky. Close to the freeway for easy access but adjacent to over 300 acres of beautiful farmland, you’ll experience Montana’s wildlife and have beautiful Mountain views when you stay at Primrose Meadows. There are few trees in the property, it’s mostly rolling hills with some trails to walk and plenty of space between sites! This property has a railroad track that runs next to the property that sometimes toots its horn, if you’re a light sleeper this is something you should consider!
We are close to Council Grove and Frenchtown Pond which
are both great swimming holes! You can also coordinate with us for cross-country skiing or head to Snowbowl for local downhill skiing! We are close to Missoula should you need any services in town.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$37
/ night
The Holmestead Cabin
4. The Holmestead Cabin
100%
(30)
26mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 2 sites
Quiet getaway in the pines! Welcome to the Holmestead, our own little slice of Montana that we are really excited to bring back to life and share with YOU! We are small town Kansas natives who fell in love with Montana over 15 years ago. This property is equal parts privacy and concience, you can enjoy the peace and quite of nature while also having the ability to hop over a few miles to our little town for groceries, a local beer, or to gas up your car!
The Holmestead is a rustic dry cabin on 5 acres nestled between Mill Creek and a seasonal run off stream with easy access to the highway and only a 10 min drive to Missoula. A queen bed, futon and air mattress are available for sleeping!
Family and pet friendly property with plenty of space to pitch a tent next to the cabin if you have more guests in your party (tents will be an additional fee, $10 per person in addition to the 4 person cabin max). Excellent cell service if you have Verizon or carriers that pull from those towers.
Attractions: Walking distance to forestry service roads. 15 minutes to the Missoula Airport and an additional 10 minutes to the heart of Missoula and all it has to offer. If you are looking for more adventure there is always an endless amount of recreation near, whether you want to drive 5 minutes to mountain bike or 3 hours to Glacier National Park, there is something for everyone! If you have questions about fun things to do please reach out to us!
Parking: Reserved parking for guests in the main driveway or in the clearing near the cabin.
Water: Portable toilet onsite, sealson warm shower and sink also available, we recently upgraded to a JOOLCA hot water system so guests can have running water and a warm outdoor shower. We provide 5 gal of potable water in the colder months and have running water nearby for easy refill of water containers if needed in the warmer months.
We look forward to sharing our piece of Montana with you!
Pets allowed. We do have 2 very frienly dogs that roam the property freely, if you pet is reactive please let us know so we can monitor our dogs when letting them outside to do their business. Please be sure to pick up after your animals.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$141
/ night
God's Country Camping
5. God's Country Camping
90%
(77)
31mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
I am one mile from Hwy 93 so you can hear traffic noise sometimes. Planes do fly over once in awhile as well. This is a dry camp and rustic camping, sites are fairly far apart.
This property is so beautiful and peaceful out here at night. Seasonal Spring fed pond, Ponderosa pine trees, fallen white birch, rustic and gorgeous. Some of my camp spots are on rough terrain. I always suggest you get out and walk around to see what you can manage with your vehicle.
The idea of my place is more wilderness camping, there is wildlife that come through.
RV camp spots on the east and west end of the pond. Camp spot out by the wooden round pen on the west side.
Completely private, borders 2000 acres of a bird sanctuary. Two blocks from Bitterroot river canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swim, trails, hiking, scenery, wildlife.
My pond is spring fed, which means that is goes up and down with the seasons and run off from the snow in the mountains and collects cotton from the trees when they shed. As the summer goes by the pond levels go way down, please be aware of that.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from
$35
/ night
Willow Point
6. Willow Point
97%
(69)
31mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 1 site
Learn more about this land:
Come join us at our favorite riverfront getaway camping spot. Your visit will take you to the end of the road, 6 miles outside of Missoula to the shore of the Bitterroot River. Take your pick of activities: swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking, or lounging and reading in sunny or shaded areas. Lots of room out here for social distancing, fresh mountain air, and the sounds nature.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from
$40
/ night
Missoula Rest And Relaxation
7. Missoula Rest And Relaxation
91%
(58)
32mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Hello, we have three acres with ClarkFork River access . Easy access to everything in Missoula. Very close to bike trails. Just a block west of Reserve Street. 10 minute drive to university. We are excited to share our wonderful property and excellent location with you. We welcome tents, RVs and campers. Non-vicious dogs are allowed. You must pick up after your dog. We are located in a part of town that is near Eco compost so on occasion if they turn a pile or if the wind shifts it is noticeably. If you use google maps it will direct you to our neighbors property. Please look for orange construction cone next to blue house to turn into the property.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from
$27
/ night
Ridgeline Retreat
8. Ridgeline Retreat
96%
(71)
33mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
My wife, Nicole, and I were so very fortunate to have found this place. The homestead consists of 70 acres of mountainous forest in the wild lands of Montana. The cabin is totally off the grid but provides every creature comfort one could hope for.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$60
/ night
Grey Wolf Camping
9. Grey Wolf Camping
97%
(103)
33mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
2 acres of field and trees. Right across the highway from the largest casino in Montana!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from
$25
/ night
Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek
10. Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek
100%
(18)
35mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 1 site
Welcome to our no-frills, convenient stopover spot on the edge of Missoula! Situated just a mile from town, our property offers a quiet and scenic retreat for travelers passing through or exploring the area.
While parked on our driveway pad, you'll enjoy peace and tranquility, with the soothing sounds of Rattlesnake Creek nearby. Although the creek isn't visible from your parking spot, you're welcome to take a short walk around the house to fully experience its beauty.
For those looking to stretch their legs and explore, the Rattlesnake Valley offers excellent walking opportunities just moments away. Take in the picturesque surroundings and unwind in nature's embrace.
Our property spans half an acre, providing ample space for you to relax and recharge during your journey. Whether you're passing through Missoula or planning to stay awhile, our convenient location and serene setting make it the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate.
Thank you for considering our property for your stay. We look forward to welcoming you and ensuring your visit is comfortable and enjoyable!
Pets
from
$30
/ night
TK Ranch
11. TK Ranch
99%
(67)
36mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 3 sites
This property has a self-sustained garden, wood shop and seasonal creek. Always something happening at the ranch.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$79
/ night
Creekside getaway
12. Creekside getaway
99%
(238)
40mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Stunning creekside campsites, glamping
on a working ranch with views of the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains, and stunning star gazing. Historic homeland of the Salish (Flathead) tribe. Eighty acres featuring an old apple orchard, boulders, two creeks, and open areas for hiking, birding, stargazing, and wildlife watching.
Bathroom provided next to RV site. Potable water at nearby well head and table provided. Numerous hiking and farm experiences are nearby.
Some of the property could have cows grazing, depending on the time of the year. We also have wildlife come through including deer, elk and eagles. This mostly applies to the RV spot we have.
Pets are welcome, so bering them along!
You are also allowed to have campfires so snuggle up with your favorites by the warm glow at night!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$30
/ night
Bitterroot Cat Ranch
13. Bitterroot Cat Ranch
100%
(15)
41mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 1 site
We live on ten acres tucked in the pines at the foot of the Sapphire mountains with views west of the broad Bitterroot Valley and the stunning Bitterroot Mountains. Only a mile behind our house is a state wildlife management area and beyond that National Forest and then the Welcome Creek Wilderness. We have a greenhouse and garden on site but our major vegetable growing operation is down in the valley. Lots of wildlife travel through our lot, including a number of owls. In our first five years here we have seen five different owl species, which gives the cabin its name! We have two resident cats and a blue heeler, along with chickens who free roam and you will likely meet.
Toilets
Campfires
Potable water
from
$96
/ night
Off The Beaten Path Glampground
14. Off The Beaten Path Glampground
100%
(15)
41mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located in Beautiful Western Montana on the hill above the town of Plains, with Spectacular views of the mountains and Clark Fork River. We have 3 off grid Glamping domes for rent, for those who prefer a unique experience. They are fully outfitted and have nice comfortable beds. Our extra large camping sites have no size restrictions. We have on site porta potty, hand washing stations. All camp sites are off grid. Pets are welcome at your campsite. There is a fee for pets in the domes. We currently offer 6 camp sites on 21 acres. Our Location is midway between Kalispell and Missoula off of highway 200 and Hwy 28. 45 minutes to Flathead Lake, 90 minutes to Kalispell and Missoula. Less than 2 hours to Coeur d' Alene. Only 18 minutes to Quinn's Hot Springs. Come stay where the stars are your nightlights.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$30
/ night
Bitterroot Panorama
15. Bitterroot Panorama
98%
(81)
42mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 1 site
**Have friends or family that want to tag along? I have added an extra to allow for extra campers at the same site. See the extras section for details.**
Resting in the foothills of the sapphire mountains, just outside the town of Stevensville Montana, this beautiful 20 acre property is conveniently located halfway between Hamilton and Missoula; it is also a good midway point between Yellowstone and Glacier national parks. The outdoor activities are endless. Biking, hiking, fishing, swimming, hunting, trail riding, snow skiing and more are all within reach. Deer, turkey, osprey, killdeer, nighthawks, and eagles frequent the property as well as the occasional elk herd; and the Lee Metcalf wildlife refuge is about 15 minutes away.
The property sits about 400’ above the valley floor; giving spectacular panoramic views of the bitterroot valley and mountains, as well as incredible sunsets.
The paved road ends about 1 mile before the property, the remaining mile is a gravel road. There is also a one lane bridge right before you get to the property. Firewood is available for use at no charge. Sewer hookup has not been run to the site yet but if you have a portable tank, or want to pull the camper over to the house, it can be dumped as needed beside the garage; just ask and I can show you where the pipe is. There is a nema 14-50 hookup providing 50 amp power at the site; if needed I do have a 50 to 30 amp adapter you can borrow during your stay. Water hookup is also available at the site, but may be limited in freezing weather. If temperatures are to cold we can turn on the water to fill your tank as needed and then blow the line back out. If you need to borrow a potable water hose let me know as i keep those in the garage unless needed. There is a non-potable water hose that is available at the site, with a spray nozzle, incase you need to rinse or wash off gear, vehicles, etc. SpaceX Starlink high speed internet is available via WiFi. You can also charge your electric vehicle, if needed, with the power at the campsite or I have another nema 14-50 plug available at the garage of the main house. Be sure to let me know if you will need the plug at the garage so I can make sure it is accessible. If you have other questions feel free to contact me and I will do my best to answer them.
****The first 10 photos were posted by me and are taken from the actual hipcamp spot. Photos posted by guests may be from the spot or surrounding areas****
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$55
/ night
Mission Falls Ranch
16. Mission Falls Ranch
97%
(18)
42mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, Lodging
A 154 acre working ranch that has been operating over 100 years, situated in a wildlife corridor joining the Mission Mountain wilderness with the Flathead River and Bison Range. The camping site is located along 300 feet of the Mission Creek with scattered 100 year old pine trees. A nature walk to 3 walking bridges, with spectacular mountain views, an old cedar grove and a bald eagle nest is available. Access to the creek is possible from the camp site, although some areas of the ranch are off-limits due to ranch operation and private dwellings.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
Mission Mtn Horse Ranch Retreat
17. Mission Mtn Horse Ranch Retreat
97%
(17)
43mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are an operating Farm/Ranch and Horse Facility. We offer not only camping but a real ranch feel and experience and incredible hospitality. We have not only a view of the mission mountains but the BEST view with both waterfalls in view. Our property sits off the road next to our peaceful hay field with wildlife, horses, donkeys, mules, milk cows and chickens galore! We cannot wait to meet you!
Toilets
Showers
Water hookup
from
$35
/ night
B4mc River Ranch
18. B4mc River Ranch
100%
(13)
47mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 3 sites
The B4mc River Ranch is a beautiful 80 acres, located in Clinton, MT. Our ranch borders over 1 mile of the Clark Fork river. It's just a short drive down the road to get to endless miles of forest service roads and less than a mile to the Cinton Market (local grocery store).
Our 3 campsites are tucked away in the back part of the property and give you a secluded feeling, as if you were out camping in the mountains. Each campsite is only a few steps away from access to river, with a beautiful view of the mountains in the background.
This peaceful little retreat provides endless amounts of fun outdoor activities. Enjoy fishing, hiking, floating the river with easy access to take out at your campsite, exploring the area of Clinton, or enjoy downtown Missoula (only a 19 minute drive from the property) and SO much more!
We hope you enjoy this piece of paradise as much as we do!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$119
/ night
The Hohnstead
19. The Hohnstead
100%
(10)
48mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 6 sites
We are modern-day homesteaders who have worked from bare land to build simple necessities into suitable amenities, into small luxuries. For us, having a roof over our head, a campfire to share stories with our guests, an outdoor shower, electricity, water, a peaceful forest that surrounds us - they are all luxuries that we love, and sharing them with our guests makes hosting the best job ever!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$200
/ night
Hawk And Fox Ranch
20. Hawk And Fox Ranch
100%
(26)
48mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Just a little piece of paradise just minutes from the Clark Fork and Rock Creek. 17 miles from downtown Missoula . We back up to 33,000 acres of state and federal land with endless possibilities. We have two ponds and hiking trails from fire roads to back country bushwhacking.. we have access to drift boats or rental cars. Anything to make your trip great
Pets
Campfires
Full hookups
from
$95
/ night
73% (11)
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
C
Cassius
1 week ago
Tent
I had the best time of my life here. Trina and her family are awesome. Stayed here for a night with the best view from my tent and left with many memories and conversations that I’m going to keep with me for a lifetime. :D
See more
T
Texas
November 2025
25 ft Class C
With pets
Great views and easy to get to. Nice level gravel pad with hookups. Lots of wildlife around.
See more
S
Santos
November 2025
Tent
Very beautiful piece of land and very nice host. I would definitely recommend visiting.
See more
Chris
October 2025
38 ft travel trailer
With pets
Space is level and quiet. Plenty of space to set up solar panels and do dog training. Space is far enough away from structures that quiet generators can't be heard at all by neighbors. Also managed neighborhood dog walks without issue. Drivers were slow and courteous to pedestrians.
Was quickly greeted by two curious cats and enjoyed watching a couple young deer play in the grass just 20 feet from my trailer.
Would stay again.
See more
B
Buck
October 2025
55 ft travel trailer
With pets
The hosts are always great! I'm the evening and morning we could hear elk calling in the hillside next to where we stayed. Also there are deer that come into the camp spot. It's a very quiet place that my wife and I love and will come back to many more times!
See moreM
Max
October 2025
16 ft car
Super nice yard with plenty of open space and fresh air, had a nice and peaceful night here
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B
Brianna
October 2025
With pets
The dome glamping experience was wonderful! The interior of the bison decor was very cute and the perfect set up for my two gal friends and I. Beautiful view of the plains and river, both from inside the dome and the wooden porch it sits on. The propane heater was much appreciated, and took the chill off inside the dome. Trina was a terrific host, greeting us when we first arrived and showed us to our dome. She made sure we had what we needed, and has done a great job setting up her property. Fantastic getaway for us gals!!
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D
David
October 2025
16 ft car
Everything was great, nice spot by the river. Hosts were responsive and communicative. Thanks!
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Mark
October 2025
25 ft Class C
With pets
Very quiet, beautiful spot. Great hike to Sweathouse falls.
See more
R
Richard
October 2025
29 ft travel trailer
With kids
Great spot with a lovely view over the valley. James’ father John met us, helped to empty the RV and then helped us get set.
James's homegrown ham, sausages and eggs made it even better.
See moreR
Reagan
October 2025
16 ft car
With pets
Fun spot right next to the river and some cows! Great place to camp out, very quiet
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Jaclyn
October 2025
1 night at The Holmestead Cabin
I ended up at Cody’s at kind of the last second and he and his wife were very welcoming and easy to communicate with. The space is really clean and well kept. Me and my dogs slept great. I would have booked another night but had plans for the next evening already. I highly recommend this spot - a steal for the price.
See moreS
Sara
October 2025
Tent
The views are excellent! I got in pretty late so it was maybe a little more difficult to navigate after dark, but I still managed to find a spot and the toilets pretty easily. Erin was very helpful and quick to respond.
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Rachel
October 2025
39 ft pop-up camper
With pets
We had a lovely stay at Nancy’s, the neighbor is very walkable and the spot is a close distance to go explore the town.
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Anthony
October 2025
22 ft travel trailer
With pets
Larry’s property was a great space for us. He was very responsive, friendly, and helpful. Our dogs were able to run around and the area was very safe. We will definitely come again next year once springtime arrives!
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S
Sophia
October 2025
Tent
Smith Creek Ranch has to the most beautiful property we have ever stay on! The star-gazing was top tier and the wild life was so fun to hear (elk was bugling and chirping) and watch (there was tons of white-tail deer playing around). The site was super easy to find as well as the bathrooms on the property. Don really has done a great job with the place!
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Toni
October 2025
20 ft campervan
If you're looking for a safe space to enjoy the beauty of Montana this hip camp site is for you. Easy to find. Clean clear directions with camp host on sight should you have a question. We have a converted Van, having a clean bathroom option on sight is always a welcome bonus.
See moreJ
Justin
October 2025
Tent
Arrived late and left early. Easy to find and got some good sleep in a safe place. Exactly what we needed. Thanks.
See moreL
Lawrence
October 2025
19 ft pop-up camper
Absolutely perfect spot. Nancy provided very straightforward directions to her property and the site was level and very quiet.
See moreP
Phil
October 2025
Tent
my second time here and id recommend it to anyone looking for a chill place to camp!
See moreThe best camping in Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, MT guide
Overview
About
It is only right that the land named after some of America’s raddest explorers would be totally epic! Covering a whopping seven mountain ranges, Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest is your front door to adventure in Montana. If winter is your happy place, then come make turns at Silver Crest Ski Area, or snowshoe trails through peaceful forests. In the summer, day trippers can roam among prairielands and flowering cacti on the Sulphur Springs Trail, while offroaders and bikers and zip down the OHV trails. Stay in an epic lookout tower on top of the Castle Mountains, or enjoy a remote campsite all to yourself. However you choose to spend your time at Lewis and Clark, you’ll find yourself thanking these two OG adventurers for discovering such an incredible place!
73%
11 ratings · 1 review
August 2016
Grew up about thirty minutes from this campground, so I may be reviewing through a pretty thick haze of nostalgia. It's great for families though, with hikes for every age and ability. Lots of snail shells to be found on the lake shore, deer will walk through camp (and take your snacks if you're not careful), and the views from the top of the ridge are fun. Bring bug repellent - mosquitoes are hit and miss here but the black flies are a near constant. My favorite hike is Grandview and back before breakfast but the ice caves are also a popular option, and that trail is a nice moderate loop you can take all day on.
Tl;dr - a beautiful little local lake with hiking options to fill your weekend.
Larissa D.
9 years on Hipcamp