Camping at McGillivray Campground Montana Campground
Location and Access
McGillivray Campground is a public campground located within the Kootenai National Forest in Montana. It is situated near the town of Libby, offering visitors a natural retreat surrounded by lush forests and scenic beauty. Access to the campground is typically via Highway 37, then onto Forest Development Road 228 which may be a dirt or gravel road, depending on the maintenance and weather conditions. The roads are usually accessible by most vehicles, but always check current road conditions before planning your trip.
Campsite Details
The campground provides a number of sites that can accommodate tents and smaller RVs or trailers. Each site usually has a picnic table, fire ring, and access to vault toilets. It's important to note that hookups for electricity, water, or sewer are not provided, so campers should come prepared for a more rustic camping experience.
Facilities and Services
McGillivray Campground offers basic facilities to ensure the comfort of its visitors. This includes vault toilets and hand-pumped water during the summer season. Garbage services may be available, but it is always good practice to follow Leave No Trace principles and pack out what you pack in. There is typically no on-site campground host, and services like showers, laundry, or a camp store are not available.
Recreational Activities
The campground is an ideal base for various recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy:
- Hiking: There are many trails of varying difficulty in the surrounding Kootenai National Forest.
- Fishing: Nearby lakes and streams are popular spots for fishing enthusiasts.
- Wildlife Watching: The area is home to a variety of wildlife, offering chances to observe animals in their natural habitat.
- Boating and Water Sports: Access to water bodies may allow for boating, kayaking, or canoeing.
- Biking: Mountain biking can be enjoyed on designated trails or forest roads.
Reservations and Season of Operation
The campground is typically open from late spring to early fall, but these dates can change due to weather conditions and snowpack. Some sites might be available on a first-come, first-served basis, while others can be reserved in advance through a campground reservation system like Recreation.gov.
Fees and Passes
There are nightly fees for camping at McGillivray Campground, which are subject to change, so it's advisable to check current rates before your visit. In addition, if you plan to enter Kootenai National Forest for activities that require a pass or permit, such fees should be considered.
Important Considerations
- Bears and Wildlife: Proper food storage is critical in bear country. Follow all guidelines to prevent bear encounters.
- Weather: Be prepared for varying weather conditions, especially since temperatures can drop significantly at night.
- Communication: Cellular service may be unreliable or unavailable. Plan to be without service while at the campground.
- Firewood: To prevent the spread of pests, obtain firewood locally.
- Pets: Pet policies may vary, but generally, pets must be leashed and under control at all times.
Contact Information
For the latest information on McGillivray Campground, including current conditions, reservations, and any alerts or closures, contact the Kootenai National Forest's local ranger district. The latest updates can also be found online through the USDA Forest Service website or by visiting specialized recreation information platforms.
