Camping in Lolo National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Lolo National Forest adventure.

91% (11 reviews)

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Stories from the community

Amber

5 days ago

Tent

3 nights at God's Country Camping

Super convenient for getting to and from Missoula!

2 nights at Creekside getaway

Lovely spot! Quiet, comfortable and close to Sweathouse Falls. Great stay

Silvia

2 weeks ago

2 nights at Mission Falls Ranch

My husband and I were warmly welcomed by Geof when we arrived. We camped by the river, which lulled us to sleep every night. The bed was comfy and large. I get cold easily and was concerned that the A frame would be too cold in the middle of the night. My husband and I slept like a baby and I was not cold at all. The outhouse was near by. I learned that pouring bark in the toilet will keep the odor down. There was a converted a small trailer into the cutest shower and dressing area. Only had an issue with controlling the hot and cold water but all else was great. Their dogs are well behaved, love to play catch. One pup in particular was clearly playing hide and seek. He would bring the ball or stick and then run to hide behind a near by bench and would peer through the slats until I threw the ball or stick. He would appear and go after it and do the same. None of the dogs jumped on us or were pushy about playing. It was devastating to hear that a guest ran over and killed one of these precious members of the family. Please be careful when you drive onto the property. Pets are part of a family and are loved just as well. Please be cautious.

1 night at Primrose Meadows

What a perfect place to camp! Spread out enough for privacy, but we made friends with one of the other campers. The views were perfect. Highly recommend!

1 night at Primrose Meadows

We decided to stay around Missoula last minute so we booked pretty much right before we showed up. The space was just beautiful and we got a site with an amazing view of the sunset. The sites were so well spaced that even though we had next door neighbors it still felt very private. Erin was tooling around the property on her bicycle with trailer making sure everyone had what they needed. Overall couldn’t ask for a better experience.

4 nights at Missoula Rest And Relaxation

Robin’s little patch of pasture was perfect for us. Easy access to town and the mountains and quite affordable.

6 nights at Hawk And Fox Ranch

Larry's land is open and quiet. One is alone without being lonely and with the charm of a railroad horn far in the distance. Nicer folks cannot be found with lots to do nearby.

Weekend Trip to Rainbow Gulch Farm

The stay was great! Easy access and a good spot for a tent. Also super close to the highway to limit detour time while traveling.

Weekend Trip to Mission Mountain DOZ Ranch

We had a great time up here! The hosts were very nice and there was plenty of space. Definitely recommend this spot if you are in the area!

3 nights at Missoula Rest And Relaxation

Convenient area for our visit. Easy access to river to swim the dogs

Weekend Trip to Primrose Meadows

What a lovely campground! Sites are nicely spaced and all have great views. I liked the train, also!!

Weekend Trip to Primrose Meadows

Campsite was nice and as expected. We were in a truck camper but really didn’t hear the train at all.

Nolan

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Sanctuary Farm Yurt Glamping

One of the most incredible places I’ve ever stayed. The Sanctuary and yurt is a beautiful, peaceful location with wonderful hosts!

Weekend Trip to Primrose Meadows

Was a bit raining on the day I stayed there but it was still a great experience. Everything was ready to go and communication was good.

Weekend Trip to Primrose Meadows

Camping at Erin’s ranch was great! I needed somewhere to stay and booked fairly last minute but the instructions Erin sent were very helpful and easy to follow. I also arrived pretty late at night but it was still easy to find a spot and settle in (just camped in my car). As a solo female camper, it felt super safe. I also appreciated how secluded it felt while still being close to the road when I had to get back on in the morning. The morning views of the mountains made it the perfect way to wake up. The bathroom is your basic vault toilet but nice and clean! I just wish I’d been able to stay long enough to explore more and make use of the fire pit and picnic bench included at the site! Overall a 10/10 stay I’d recommend.

Weekend Trip to Primrose Meadows

Erin was gracious and responsive in communication, as we had to adjust to late arrival (and then not coming at all!). Unfortunately (due to threatening thunderstorm combined with a friend's last-minute invite for us to crash at their place) we did not end up tenting at this property (though we had originally been looking forward to a campfire and testing ourselves out with the rustic/basic setting).

1 night at Mission Mtn Horse Ranch Retreat

Wow! This site far exceeded our expectations and made us wish we had more time to stay additional days. Don’t hesitate booking this site, it’ll be one of the best places you’ve ever stayed. Thanks Megan for sharing this paradise with us.

1 night at Creekside getaway

Beautiful ❤️❤️❤️❤️. Although I cut short due to weather, I had a wonderful time enjoying the view and peacefulness of the site. Can’t wait to come back.

1 night at Primrose Meadows

Beautiful spot and the right location for our road trip

Interior Yurt, complete with comfy king size bed (and bedding), couch, table and chairs, bookcase and wood stove,

Mark

3 weeks ago

1 night at Sanctuary Farm Yurt Glamping

Sanctuary Farm is a really cool property and the Yurt is next level awesome!

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Lolo National Forest

100%

(6)

Seeley Lake Campground

29 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

100%

(1)

Dalles Campground

10 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

100%

(1)

Copper King Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

100%

(1)

Harry's Flat Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

100%

(1)

Trout Creek Campground

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

As seen from campsite: river, low clouds, and passing train.

Slowey Campground

27 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

Lakeside Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

Clark Memorial Campground

5 sites In Lolo National Forest

Fishtrap Lake Campground

17 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

Gold Rush Campground

7 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

West Fork Fishtrap Creek Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

Bitterroot Flat Campground

15 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

Norton Campground

13 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

Siria Campground

4 sites In Lolo National Forest

Big Nelson Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

Lake Inez Point Campground

5 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

Monture Creek Campground

6 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

River Point Campground

26 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

Cabin City Campground

24 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

Quartz Flat Campground

84 sites · RVs, Tents In Lolo National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Lolo National Forest

95%

(1448)

Primrose Meadows

23 sites · Tents28 acres · Missoula, MT

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 200 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 it’s 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.

99%

(184)

Creekside getaway

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents81 acres · Victor, MT

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!

81%

(68)

Rainbow Gulch Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Clinton, MT

A small family farm working toward sustainability. Easy to access from I-90, drive in camping for a stop overnight or a home base while you explore the many attractions nearby. Learn more about this land: We are 20 miles east of Missoula, MT near the Kettlehouse Ampitheater in Bonner. Our location is halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Park. There are mountain bike paths, river access points for paddling, rafting or fishing within minutes of our land. We can even help you know where to go. Our land is surrounded by Nature Conservancy land with a public recreation easement, so you can hike and take your horse for a ride very easily, just let us know and we will point you in the right direction. Our child had a significant medical emergency that required a lot of travel to Seattle Children's and 4 brain surgeries recently, so we are just getting the garden back up and running and the sheep are happy. Unfortunately no chickens this year. In a vehicle, you can pull into one of our pastures for your stay. Where you are depends on which field the sheep are eating! Tents also work in the field. We do not have any hookups, but there is potable water in the blue hydrant by the yellow tube. The fields are that - pasture fields. There are quiet neighbors across the fence who now have goats on one side. We are happy to offer advice about local attractions via messaging. This is pack it in, pack it out.

97%

(103)

Grey Wolf Campground

16 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Evaro, MT

2 acres of field and trees. Right across the highway from the largest casino in Montana!

Booked 6 times

Bear Camp

11 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Florence, MT

If you enjoy Nomadic Camping, there are 8 sites available to enjoy the beautiful Bitterroot Valley. The sites are best for self contained campers. There are no toilets, showers, or potable water at these sites and no internet provided. Cell service is good and there are unobstructed views of the southern sky for satellite internet. Bring in/take out. No camp fires. You will have to drive on gravel road for a half mile to get to your Hipcamp site. Bear Camp will provide you the opportunity to be close to the famous Bitterroot River and fly fishing. There are also numerous hiking trails in the Bitterroot Selway Range to enjoy. The sites will provide an open, unobstructed view of the night sky for star gazing. Please be mindful that you will be camping where there is wildlife that might come through the property so keep your camp site food free and wildlife proof. It is not unusual to see elk, deer, fox, and coyote roaming through. If you have small animals, make sure they are leashed up and within your sight when outside. It's for their safety. Bear Camp is close to Stevensville and Florence, two quaint small mountain towns that provide, gas, groceries, eateries, and Breweries. Bear Camp is a simple and sweet little spot off the beaten path to enjoy Montana's nature and beautiful scenic mountain views.

88%

(24)

Missoula Rest And Relaxation

4 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Missoula, MT

Hello, we have three acres with ClarkFork River frontage. 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. There is no poop fairy on this property.

93%

(74)

Triple Bridges Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Alberton, MT

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.

90%

(68)

God's Country Camping

1 site · RV, Tent12 acres · Lolo, MT

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 comes around. 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. So as the summer goes on the pond levels go way down, please be aware of that.

100%

(22)

The Holmestead Cabin

2 sites · Lodging5 acres · Frenchtown, MT

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.

100%

(12)

Mission Mtn Horse Ranch Retreat

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents212 acres · Saint Ignatius, MT

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!

93%

(37)

Highway Retreat

5 sites · Tents10 acres · Bonner, MT

Learn more about this land: Come stay a night on the edge of our little homestead. We are right across from Steele Toe Distillery. We have plenty of room for you to hike, but if you decide it’s not enough, there is hundreds of acres of BLM land behind us for you to enjoy. A half a mile from us is amazing swimming, boat access and awesome fishing! The one and only downfall is some highway noise. We offer space for your tens, camper trailers and more.

100%

(7)

Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

1 site · RV1 acre · Missoula, MT

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!

Camping in Lolo National Forest guide

Overview

About

You are going to be filled to the brim with glee when you discover Lolo National Forest. Seriously; this is the kind of place you can stand with your feet in a crystal clear stream, bighorn sheep filling the meadow, with the sun setting behind snowcapped mountain peaks in the distance. And that’s just a roadside pull off! With over two million acres to explore, hikers, bikers and backcountry seekers will be stoked on the supa-lush forest, and trails like Cougar Peak Lookout and the Lolo Peak trail (which we assure you is not low-low). Boat for a day in Seeley Lake, or cast a line into pristine mountain streams for a try at the trout. Dinner is going to taste great over the campfire! Through the meadows or up the peaks, it’s easy enough to get your share of adventure at Lolo.

91%

11 ratings · 8 reviews

Recommends

· May 2025

Big trees and cozy sites

Copper King Campground

This site sits right in the river. There are 3 sites in total, and a day use site at the entrance. There are bbq fire pits, picnic tables, and vault toilets. Lots of big, beautiful trees. The Thompson River is amazing for taking a dip or fishing. Definitely a must visit! First come first serve, seasonal. Opening date is usually Memorial Day!

Ashley F.

10 reviews

August 2023

Quartz Flat Campground

This just made a list of "hidden gem" campgrounds in Montana. Its a National Forest Campground ON the highway at a rest area "forested." And so, no one appears to know it is there... It is almost always very lightly populated. In fact on one side they closed a loop but there are still like 77 sites. A tunnel goes under the highway to connect the loops. One is on the river side and gets most of the campers. Great fishing area at exits. The other side has a dump station, potable water and flush toilets by the campground host site. For the money, this is a hard to beat National Forest campground. Down the road 15 minutes is a great steakhouse and you are only 35 minutes from Missoula and the main shopping area. Things to do see above...

Redfour5

1 year on Hipcamp

July 2023

Slowey Campground

Loved this campground! We camped right above the river and the views were amazing. Warning, there is a train track across the river and a train passed by both nights we were there. The train seems much closer than it is - tremendous noise and the ground shook! Then it was gone. Just a bit of added excitement.

Sandra W.

2 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· April 2021

Dalles Campground

Excellent camping spot. Cheap too! I even made a video about the Dallas campground https://youtu.be/8jyJYYT8DPA

Dan N.

4 years on Hipcamp

July 2020

Big Larch Campground

Hello, I have always loved camping at Big Larch. We camped up there on the June 25th, 26th & 27th. They gave us the handy cap because all the spots were saved for people coming up on Friday. Normally we wouldn't have but we had drove around for 4 hours in & out of campgrounds. I didn't think they could be saved without paying & you just put chair in spot. Not fare to people looking to camp that day. The out houses were very bad, no one cleaned them the whole time we were there. This has been one of my favorite camp grounds until this summer. Its to bad after all the work that has been done to make the camp ground a beautiful place to camp.

Joni C.

5 years on Hipcamp

April 2019

Savenac West Cottage Campground

We have stayed here three times in the past and will be back in June 2019 for three nights. Obviously, we like it. We travel the US in a rented motorhome and like to break our 7/8 week trips with a little more luxury and a solid floor occasionally, not too mention a decent sized bathroom. This place is absolutely beautiful. Amazing surroundings and pretty buildings. The accommodation is rustic yes, but spacious and comfortable. Managers and volunteers friendly and charming. On most of our stays it has been extremely quite and we have had the whole site more or less to ourselves. A bonus is the short walk to the Casino, restaurant, store complex. It's nice to have somewhere to eat without having to cook. Definitely recommended.

Eileen T.

6 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· December 2017

Seeley Lake Campground

Canoeing this gorgeous lake is in your interest. Beautiful water lily patches dot the edges.

Angela Y.

7 years on Hipcamp

August 2016

Cabin City Campground

Wonderful little campground, just off the highway but totally quiet - very convenient if you're just passing through. Self-serve check-in, very clean latrines.

Kate S.

9 years on Hipcamp