McGillivray Campground

Montana, often called "Big Sky Country," offers an abundance of natural wonders, from majestic mountains to pristine lakes and dense forests. For those seeking to immerse themselves in this breathtaking landscape, finding the right base camp is essential. Nestled within the expansive Kootenai National Forest, McGillivray Campground stands out as a premier destination for both seasoned outdoor enthusiasts and families looking for a tranquil escape. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of McGillivray Campground, highlighting its key features, services, and why it's a perfect spot for locals to connect with the incredible Montana wilderness.

McGillivray Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it's an experience designed to bring you closer to nature. Situated on the western shore of Lake Koocanusa, this campground offers a unique blend of accessibility and seclusion. The area is heavily forested, providing ample shade and a sense of being truly "away from it all," as noted by many visitors. Despite its serene, treed setting, it's surprisingly well-appointed, offering a balance between rustic charm and convenient facilities.

The campground is known for its cleanliness and well-maintained sites, a testament to the dedicated staff and camp hosts who ensure a pleasant stay for all visitors. Whether you're planning a quiet weekend getaway, a family reunion, or an adventurous outing with friends, McGillivray Campground provides the ideal backdrop. Its proximity to the vast 46,500-acre Lake Koocanusa, formed by the impressive Libby Dam, means endless opportunities for water-based recreation, while the surrounding Kootenai National Forest invites exploration on land.

Many local users appreciate McGillivray for its ability to offer a genuine unplugged experience. The lack of cell service, frequently mentioned in reviews, is seen as a welcome feature, allowing campers to truly disconnect from daily distractions and reconnect with nature and their companions. This intentional detachment fosters a sense of peace and relaxation that is increasingly hard to find in our fast-paced world.

McGillivray Campground is conveniently located at Libby, MT 59923, USA, within the beautiful Kootenai National Forest. Its specific location on the western shore of Lake Koocanusa places it at an elevation of approximately 2,520 feet, offering stunning views and a refreshing atmosphere. For those traveling from nearby areas, the campground is approximately 23 miles from the town of Libby. To reach McGillivray Campground from Libby, you generally take State Highway 37 northeast for about 13-15 miles. Before crossing the Fisher River Bridge, turn left onto Forest Development Road (FDR) 228 and continue along the west side of the Kootenai River, past the impressive Libby Dam, for another 10 miles. The campground turnout will be clearly signed on your right.

While the campground provides a secluded feel, its accessibility ensures that you won't spend all day navigating remote backroads. The roads within and leading to the campground are generally well-maintained, with paved surfaces in many areas, making it suitable for a range of vehicles, including RVs up to 32-40 feet in length. Its position near Lake Koocanusa also offers the unique advantage of both drive-in and boat-in access to certain sites, adding another layer of adventure for those with watercraft.

• Campsites: McGillivray Campground offers 33 total campsites, catering to various camping preferences including tent-only sites, RV-friendly sites, and pull-through sites. Many sites are spacious and well-spaced, ensuring privacy.

• Group Facilities: The campground boasts excellent group camping options. There's a large, accessible group shelter (Site 1) capable of accommodating up to 200 people, perfect for reunions or events. It comes equipped with a rock fireplace, multiple tables, two large cooking grills, horseshoe pits, and a large paved parking lot. Two smaller group sites (Sites 7 and 23) can each accommodate up to 25 people and provide three tent pads, three picnic tables, a fire ring, and a large cooking grill.

• Restrooms: Visitors will find very clean restrooms, including flush toilets with sinks, as well as accessible vault toilets throughout the campground. This is often highlighted by visitors as a significant plus for a national forest campground.

• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available at various points within the campground, often via hand pumps. It's recommended to bring enough water for your stay, especially for drinking.

• Boat Launch and Swim Beach: A swim beach and a developed boat ramp (with both high and low water access) are conveniently located about a quarter-mile from the main camping area, accessible via a paved pathway. Fish cleaning stations are also available near the boat launch.

• Campground Host: A friendly and attentive campground host is on-site during the summer season, providing assistance, information, and ensuring the grounds are well-maintained.

• Picnic Facilities: Beyond individual site picnic tables, reservable picnic facilities and open grassy areas are available, particularly near the sandy beach day-use area.

• Firewood: While firewood is provided for the large group shelter, campers at individual and smaller group sites should plan to obtain firewood locally to prevent the spread of pests.

• No Hook-ups (Individual Sites): It's important to note that most individual campsites do not have electrical, water, or sewer hook-ups, offering a more traditional camping experience. The large group shelter does have electrical outlets, but users need to provide their own generator.

• Lake Koocanusa Access: Direct access to the vast and beautiful Lake Koocanusa is a major draw. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and swimming, with its clear waters and ample shoreline.

• Secluded and Treed Sites: The campground is praised for its secluded, heavily forested sites that offer a sense of privacy and immersion in nature. The dense vegetation provides excellent shade, especially during warmer months.

• Wildlife Viewing: The Kootenai National Forest and Lake Koocanusa area are home to a variety of wildlife. Visitors often report seeing osprey fishing near Libby Dam, bald eagles hunting, and other native animals, offering fantastic opportunities for wildlife observation.

• Proximity to Libby Dam and Kootenai River: Just 7 miles above Libby Dam, the campground offers easy access to this impressive structure. Guided tours of the dam and powerhouse are available during the summer, providing an educational and fascinating experience. The Kootenai River below the dam is also a renowned blue-ribbon fishery.

• Scenic Drives and Trails: Visitors can enjoy driving the scenic 100-mile loop around Lake Koocanusa, offering breathtaking views and access to various trails, including some leading to picturesque waterfalls. The paved pathways within the campground also make it excellent for cycling.

• Fishing Derbies: Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate that derbies are held multiple times each year on Lake Koocanusa, targeting species like kokanee salmon, whitefish, and various trout.

• "Unplugged" Experience: As highlighted by reviews, the limited to no cell service at McGillivray Campground is a significant highlight for those seeking a true digital detox and a focus on natural surroundings and interpersonal connection.

Address: Libby, MT 59923, USA

Phone: (406) 293-7773

Mobile Phone: +1 406-293-7773

For residents of Montana, McGillivray Campground offers an exceptional opportunity to experience the natural beauty of their home state without venturing too far. It embodies the essence of a true Montana outdoor adventure, providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The seclusion and lack of cell service allow for a genuine disconnect, fostering quality time with family and friends amidst stunning wilderness.

Locals will appreciate the well-maintained facilities and the dedicated camp hosts, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Whether you're an avid angler drawn to the rich waters of Lake Koocanusa and the Kootenai River, a family seeking a safe and clean swimming beach, or simply someone who desires to relax in a secluded, treed environment, McGillivray Campground caters to all. Its spacious sites and the availability of large group areas also make it ideal for local gatherings, reunions, or community events.

The proximity to Libby Dam and the Kootenai Falls offers enriching day-trip opportunities that complement the camping experience. McGillivray Campground serves as a perfect base camp for exploring the vast Kootenai National Forest, from scenic drives to hiking trails that showcase Montana's diverse ecosystems. It's a place where memories are made, stars shine brighter, and the spirit of Montana’s wilderness is truly felt. For anyone in Montana seeking a quintessential camping experience that combines natural beauty with practical amenities and a welcoming atmosphere, McGillivray Campground is an outstanding choice.