Camping at South Dickey Lake Campground

Overview of South Dickey Lake Campground

South Dickey Lake Campground is situated in the Kootenai National Forest, which is located in the northwest corner of Montana, extending into the northeastern tip of Idaho and a small part of eastern Washington. The campground provides access to an array of recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing.

Amenities and Facilities

At South Dickey Lake Campground, campers can expect basic amenities that typically include:

• Campsites: The campground offers multiple campsites that can accommodate tents and RVs, though the size limit for RVs may vary.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite typically has a picnic table.
• Fire Rings: There are fire rings for campfires, provided there are no fire restrictions in place due to high fire danger.
• Restrooms: Vault toilets or pit toilets are usually available, but there may not be flush toilets.
• Drinking Water: Potable water may be available, but it is always wise to bring your own just in case, or have a method to purify water from the lake.

Recreation Opportunities

• Hiking: There are trails around the lake and within the Kootenai National Forest that offer scenic views and wildlife observation opportunities.
• Fishing: Anglers can fish in Dickey Lake for various species, depending on the time of year and local fishing regulations.
• Boating: The lake allows for boating activities, but there might be restrictions on the type of boats and motors allowed.
• Swimming: The lake provides opportunities for swimming, but swimmers should be cautious as there might not be lifeguards on duty.
• Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for various wildlife, including birds, deer, and perhaps even bears.

Accessibility

The campground is generally accessible by road, but visitors should check local road conditions and access restrictions before planning their trip, especially since conditions can change seasonally.

Reservations

Campsite availability can either be on a first-come, first-served basis or through a reservation system. The reservation system, if in place, can usually be accessed through the USDA Forest Service website or through Recreation.gov.

Fees

There is typically a nightly fee for camping at South Dickey Lake Campground. The fee structure can be found at the campground entrance or online. Additionally, there may be extra fees for additional vehicles.

Environmental Concerns and Regulations

• Wildlife: Store food and scented items securely to avoid attracting bears and other wildlife.
• Leave No Trace: Pack out all trash and follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the natural beauty.
• Campfires: Follow all campfire regulations and restrictions. Extinguish fires completely when unattended.
• Pets: Keep pets on a leash and clean up after them.
• Fishing and Boating Regulations: Follow all state and local regulations regarding fishing licenses and boating requirements.

Contact Information

For the most current information, it's best to contact the Kootenai National Forest directly:

• Kootenai National Forest Supervisor's Office 31374 US Highway 2 Libby, MT 59923
• Telephone: Typically, there will be a contact number for both the supervisor's office and the local ranger district.

Always verify critical details, such as access, fire restrictions, water quality, and bear sightings before your trip. Due to changing conditions and occasional closures, it's important to have the latest information for a safe and enjoyable camping experience.