Despite storms, most national forest campgrounds ready for summer

Crews across the Kootenai National Forest have been prepping campgrounds and recreation sites, making them safe and accessible in time for the quickly approaching summer season. 

While there are still roads and trails affected by the winter weather events, the majority of the Kootenai’s developed campgrounds will be fully operational this summer.

According to forest officials, most campgrounds and boat launches were ready for use by Memorial Day, with water and garbage services available and camp hosts in place at select sites. Some of the higher elevation sites, including the Therriault Campgrounds near Eureka, are still inaccessible due to snow levels. 

Other campgrounds are accessible, but due to road washouts, alternate routes may need to be utilized. Specifically, the Howard Lake Campground and the Libby Creek Gold Panning area on the Libby Ranger District need to be accessed utilizing NFS Roads 385 and 4724 (Miller Creek). To view alternate routes, inaccessible forest areas, and cleared status of roads and trails, please utilize the Forest Inaccessible Roads & Trail Viewers.

Several recreation sites, including cabins, lookouts, and group sites are available for reservation. Reservation sites are very popular, so book yours today by searching “Kootenai National Forest” at recreation.gov. Reminder that the Timberlane Campground on the Libby Ranger District is closed for the entirety of the summer due to construction and is currently unavailable for reservations.

Areas are still heavily impacted from winter wind and flood events, so be aware of washouts, road slumping, downed trees and debris on roads and trails. Please be patient and use caution while recreating across the forest. Crews are working hard to gain access to all areas, but due to the extent of the blowdown and size of the forest, this will take time. Always be sure to check the Forest’s Alerts & Closures page for any closure orders that may be in effect for areas you plan to visit.

Reminder that due to unsafe roads conditions, a closure order is in effect for all motorized vehicles for NFS Road 398 to the Ross Creek Cedars but access to the Cedars remains open to non-motorized vehicles, including hiking and biking.

A few other reminders to keep in mind when visiting the Kootenai National Forest:

- Always be prepared to pack it in, pack it out, in the event garbage services are not available.

- Regardless of where you decide to camp, don’t forget to Be Bear Aware! Click to learn about bear safety and the Forest's mandatory food storage order.

- Camping stay limits are in effect for National Forests in Montana. Per the regional camping occupancy and use order, you are not allowed to stay for a period longer than 16 consecutive days and no more than 32 cumulative days within a calendar year.

Visit the Kootenai National Forest’s Camping and Cabins page for more information on campgrounds across the Forest or please call the respective Ranger District for more information on your favorite spot.