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- Campgrounds & RV Parks in 17 Mile Road
- Loon Lake Campground
Loon Lake Campground Introduce
Hello, fellow Montana wilderness enthusiasts! Are you dreaming of an escape deep into the woods, far from the crowds, where the stars blaze brighter than you’ve ever imagined and the only sounds are those of nature? Look no further than Loon Lake Campground, a truly remote and secluded gem nestled in the vast expanse of the Kootenai National Forest, near Troy, Montana. This is not your average bustling campground; it’s a haven for those who truly appreciate solitude, the raw beauty of the Montana backcountry, and perhaps even a touch of mystery.
Loon Lake Campground embodies the spirit of authentic wilderness camping. It’s a place where you can disconnect from the digital world and reconnect with the natural one. Imagine nights so dark the Milky Way spills across the sky, mornings so quiet you can hear the rustle of wildlife, and days spent exploring pristine trails. For the adventurous local, this campground offers an unparalleled opportunity to immerse yourself in Montana’s wild heart, providing a base for exploration, relaxation, and genuine outdoor experiences. Its remote nature means fewer distractions and more opportunities to truly unwind and appreciate the vastness of our incredible state. Whether you're a seasoned backcountry camper or simply seeking a profound sense of peace, Loon Lake Campground promises an unforgettable journey into Montana's wild side.
Loon Lake Campground is situated at 17 Mile Rd, Troy, MT 59935, USA. This address places it deep within the Kootenai National Forest, in the northwestern corner of Montana. The name "17 Mile Rd" itself gives a hint of its remote nature, implying a significant drive off main thoroughfares. Reaching Loon Lake Campground requires a willingness to venture off the beaten path, but the journey is well worth the destination for those seeking true solitude.
While Troy serves as the nearest small town, access to the campground will involve driving on forest service roads, which may vary in condition depending on the season and recent weather. It's always advisable to check current road conditions with the Kootenai National Forest Service before heading out, especially if you have a low-clearance vehicle. The reviews consistently emphasize its "extremely remote" location, highlighting that it’s "worth the drive out of town for the solitude." This remoteness is precisely what contributes to its appeal, offering a genuine escape. Despite its distance, the path to Loon Lake opens up to some of Montana's most untouched and beautiful landscapes, making the journey an integral part of the adventure. Be prepared for limited cell service as you get closer, and ensure you have offline maps or good old-fashioned paper maps for navigation.
Loon Lake Campground provides a very basic, primitive camping experience, focusing on connecting campers directly with nature rather than offering extensive amenities.
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Pit Toilet: For essential sanitation, the campground is equipped with at least one pit toilet. This provides a necessary convenience while maintaining the rustic feel of the site.
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Fire Rings with Grates: Each campsite is outfitted with a fire ring that includes a grate, perfect for cooking over an open flame or simply enjoying a campfire under the stars.
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Good Size Tables: Campers will find good-sized picnic tables at each site, offering a convenient surface for meal preparation, dining, or setting up camp.
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Boat Launch for the Lake: A significant service offered is a boat launch providing direct access to Loon Lake. This is ideal for those who enjoy fishing, kayaking, canoeing, or simply paddling around the quiet waters.
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Downed Wood for Burning: A fantastic perk mentioned by a reviewer is the abundance of "downed wood to burn." This means campers can often gather their own firewood, reducing the need to pack it in and enhancing the authentic camping experience (always check for local fire restrictions and burn bans before lighting a fire).
It's important to note what is NOT offered: there are no bear boxes or designated tree limbs for proper food storage, as one reviewer pointed out. Campers should come prepared with their own bear-resistant food storage solutions to protect both their provisions and local wildlife. There is no potable water, so campers must pack in all their drinking water.
Loon Lake Campground boasts several unique features and highlights that make it a truly special destination for those seeking a rugged Montana adventure.
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Deep Woods and Extreme Remoteness: The most prominent highlight is its setting in "deep woods" and its "extremely remote" nature. This ensures an unparalleled level of solitude and quiet, making it perfect for an escape from daily life. One reviewer even noted "not a single person there all weekend in July!" underscoring its private atmosphere.
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Exceptional Stargazing: With minimal light pollution, the campground offers some of "the best" stargazing opportunities. The "star-filled nights" are a major draw, allowing campers to witness the full glory of the Milky Way and countless constellations.
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Only 4 Campsites: The very limited number of campsites (just four) guarantees an intimate and uncrowded experience, fostering a stronger connection with nature and fellow campers (if any are present).
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Nearby Trails: The presence of "great trails nearby" offers ample opportunities for hiking, exploring the forest, and discovering the local flora and fauna around Loon Lake.
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Wildlife and Local Lore: Reviews humorously mention "Bigfoot" and "UFOs," playfully hinting at the wild, untamed nature of the area and its potential for unexpected encounters, adding to the mystique and adventure.
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Quiet Nights: The "very quiet night" experience is a testament to the campground's isolation, ensuring peaceful sleep undisturbed by artificial noises.
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Cold Nights Even in Summer: While some might see this as a challenge, the mention of "Gets very cold here at night even mid summer" is a highlight for experienced campers who appreciate crisp, cool nights perfect for campfires and cozy sleeping bags, even when other areas might be sweltering.
These features collectively define Loon Lake Campground as an ideal spot for adventurers who prioritize raw nature, peace, and an authentic, unvarnished wilderness experience.
For inquiries and general information about Loon Lake Campground, you can use the following contact details:
Address: 17 Mile Rd, Troy, MT 59935, USA
Phone: (406) 293-6211
Mobile Phone: +1 406-293-6211
It's important to note that as a primitive campground managed by the Kootenai National Forest, direct contact might primarily be with the forest service for conditions, regulations, and any specific concerns. While the phone number is provided, it typically connects to the Kootenai National Forest supervisor's office or a ranger district office. It is always recommended to call this number to check on current conditions, fire restrictions, road accessibility, and any alerts relevant to Loon Lake before planning your trip. Being prepared with up-to-date information is crucial for a safe and enjoyable remote camping experience.
Loon Lake Campground is an absolute treasure for Montana locals, particularly for those who deeply value the state's wild, untamed essence. Its "extremely remote" nature and guarantee of "not a single person there all weekend in July" offer a level of solitude that is increasingly rare to find in popular recreational areas. For Idahoans who live surrounded by vast wilderness, this provides an unparalleled opportunity to truly disconnect and experience genuine peace and quiet, a true luxury away from everyday life. The "deep woods" setting and minimal amenities speak directly to the independent spirit of many Montana residents who appreciate self-sufficiency and an authentic, rugged camping experience.
Furthermore, the promise of "the best" stargazing and "very quiet nights" provides an awe-inspiring natural spectacle that can be enjoyed right in our own backyard, without the need for extensive travel or expense. The opportunity to gather "downed wood to burn" and the presence of a "boat launch for the lake" add practical benefits that cater to typical local outdoor activities. For the Montanan who seeks solace in nature, who isn't afraid of a few "bugs" and embraces the cool "mid-summer" nights, Loon Lake Campground isn't just a place to camp—it's an extension of the Montana way of life, offering a truly immersive and profound connection to the landscape we call home. It's a testament to the fact that some of the greatest adventures are found in the most secluded corners of our incredible state.
Location
MontanaLincoln CountyTroy17 Mile Road
Customer Reviews
Its got it all! deep woods, bigfoot, ufos, not a single person there all weekend in july!!!! Just be weary of da bugs! super cool campground extremely remote. Great trails nearby only 4 campsites 1 pit toliet and a boat launch for the lake. Gets very cold here at night even mid summer. The stars are some of the best! Theres lots of downed wood to burn too!
Very quiet night. Decent areas for pitching tents, fire rings with grates, and good size tables. Worth the drive out of town for the solitude. No bear boxes or tree limbs for proper food storage was the only reason I drop it to four stars.
Lots of frogs and looks like some good big fish in there.
Very beautiful, very remote. Completely overgrown in some areas. Not for everyone, but if you like off the beaten path this is your place.
Rustic, no amenities. 4 campsites. Lake is partly filled in with mud, grasses, and lily pads. Usually quiet and peaceful.
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