Peck Gulch Campground

For Montanans, the grandeur of our state's landscapes is an everyday privilege. From soaring mountain peaks to crystal-clear lakes, we are spoiled for choice when it comes to outdoor recreation. But even among such abundance, some spots truly stand out. Peck Gulch Campground, located near Libby, MT, within the magnificent Kootenai National Forest, is one such gem. This isn't just a place to set up camp; it's a front-row seat to the epic beauty of Lake Koocanusa, offering an unparalleled lakeside experience that resonates deeply with the spirit of Big Sky Country.

Peck Gulch Campground is celebrated by locals and visitors alike for its stunning location directly on the shores of the 90-mile-long Lake Koocanusa. Imagine waking up to the gentle lapping of water, with panoramic views of the lake stretching out before you, framed by towering mountains. This picturesque setting makes it an ideal spot not just for overnight camping but also for day-use activities like picnicking. Many Montanans appreciate finding such a beautiful and accessible spot to simply enjoy a meal by the water, soaking in the serene atmosphere and breathtaking vistas that define our state.

Operated by the U.S. Forest Service, Peck Gulch Campground is designed to provide a comfortable yet authentic outdoor experience. While it doesn't offer full hookups for RVs, it provides essential amenities that ensure a pleasant stay. With approximately 22 campsites, including a host site, there's ample space for both tent campers and those with RVs up to 32 feet. The sites are generally open, allowing for expansive views of the lake, though this also means they can be exposed to wind. However, the open layout contributes to a feeling of spaciousness, ensuring that even when the campground is active, visitors can find their own slice of paradise by the water.

The true highlight of Peck Gulch Campground is its direct access to Lake Koocanusa. The campground features a fully developed boat launch and a dock, making it incredibly convenient for Montanans to get out on the water. Whether your passion is motorized boating, paddleboarding, kayaking, or fishing, the lake offers endless possibilities. Lake Koocanusa is renowned as a prime kokanee salmon fishery, providing fantastic opportunities for anglers. Beyond the water, the surrounding Kootenai National Forest offers numerous trails for hiking and exploration, allowing visitors to delve deeper into Montana's diverse ecosystems. This combination of stunning lakeside camping and abundant recreational opportunities makes Peck Gulch Campground a highly sought-after destination for locals across Montana.

Peck Gulch Campground is located in the beautiful Kootenai National Forest, near Libby, MT 59923, USA. More precisely, it is situated on the reservoir of Lake Koocanusa, approximately 21 miles southwest of Eureka, or 16 miles south of Rexford, off State Highway 37. This places it in the northwest corner of Montana, a region celebrated for its dramatic mountain ranges, dense forests, and pristine waterways.

For Montanans, accessing Peck Gulch Campground typically involves a scenic drive along State Highway 37. While the main highway is well-maintained, the access road leading down to the campground is described as a "narrow, fairly steep, paved access road." This descent requires caution, especially for those towing trailers or driving over-length units, with pilot vehicles sometimes recommended. However, once you navigate this final stretch, the campground itself is flat and wide open, providing easy maneuverability for RVs and ample space for tents.

The elevation of the campground is around 2,470 to 2,713 feet, offering a refreshing climate compared to lower elevations, particularly during Montana's summer months. Its direct adjacency to the 90-mile-long Lake Koocanusa means that visitors have immediate access to one of Montana's premier recreational lakes. While the campground offers a sense of being truly "away" in nature, the nearby towns of Rexford and Eureka provide essential services, groceries, and fuel, ensuring that campers have convenient access to necessities. This balance of remote beauty and practical accessibility makes Peck Gulch Campground a highly desirable and manageable destination for locals across Montana.

• 22 Campsites: Including one host site, suitable for both tents and RVs (up to 32 feet recommended).
• Vault Toilets: Clean and well-maintained vault toilets are available, some with handicapped accessibility.
• Potable Water: Drinking water is provided on-site, a crucial amenity for campers.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite typically includes a picnic table and a designated fire ring or grill for cooking and campfires (subject to fire restrictions).
• Developed Boat Launch and Dock: A significant highlight, offering convenient access to Lake Koocanusa for all types of boating activities.
• Paved Parking Area for Boat Trailers: Dedicated parking is available for those bringing watercraft.
• Camp Host: A camp host is on-site during the operational season (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day) to provide assistance and information.
• First-Come, First-Served: Sites are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are accepted.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash, in adherence to Kootenai National Forest regulations.
• Affordable Fee: A daily fee of approximately $16 per single site is charged, with a 50% discount for US Golden Age/Access or Interagency Senior/Access Passes, making it an economical option for Montanans.

• Beautiful Lakefront Location: Situated directly on the picturesque shores of Lake Koocanusa, offering stunning water views from almost every site.
• Epic Mountain Views: Surrounded by the majestic peaks of the Kootenai National Forest, providing a dramatic backdrop.
• Direct Water Access: Immediate access to Lake Koocanusa for swimming, fishing, and boating, with a paved boat launch and dock.
• Prime Kokanee Salmon Fishery: Lake Koocanusa is renowned for its excellent Kokanee salmon fishing, a major draw for anglers.
• Open and Spacious Sites: The campground's layout offers wide-open spaces, providing a sense of freedom and unobstructed views.
• Popular Day-Use Area: Ideal for picnics and short visits to enjoy the lake and scenery, even if not camping overnight.
• Proximity to Recreational Activities: Offers easy access to various activities including motorized and non-motorized boating, lake and pond fishing, scenic drives, and hiking the nearby Peck Gulch Nature Trail.
• Kootenai National Forest Setting: Nestled within a vast national forest, providing opportunities for wildlife viewing and exploration of diverse ecosystems.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its popularity, the campground often offers a tranquil environment, especially during off-peak times.
• Accessible by RVs: Accommodates RVs up to 32 feet, with a relatively flat layout once at the lake level.

Address: Libby, MT 59923, USA (located on Lake Koocanusa, approximately 21 miles SW of Eureka off Hwy 37)

Phone: (406) 293-6211

Mobile Phone: +1 406-293-6211

Peck Gulch Campground is managed by the Kootenai National Forest, a division of the U.S. Forest Service. For the most current and accurate information regarding fees, operating seasons (typically Memorial Day through Labor Day, though access may be available year-round depending on weather), current conditions, fire restrictions, or any other specific inquiries, Montanans should contact the Kootenai National Forest Supervisor's Office directly at the provided phone numbers. As sites are on a first-come, first-served basis, calling ahead for general information is advisable, especially during peak season, to plan your visit effectively.

For Montanans, Peck Gulch Campground on Lake Koocanusa is a perfectly suited outdoor destination, embodying the very essence of Big Sky Country's appeal. Its primary advantage is its stunning lakeside location, offering "beautiful campground on the lake and epic views" that are simply unparalleled. This direct access to the expansive and picturesque Lake Koocanusa makes it a dream come true for local water enthusiasts, whether they're into motorboating, kayaking, or casting a line for the famous Kokanee salmon.

The campground’s design, while rustic, provides essential comforts like clean vault toilets and potable water, catering to those who seek a genuine outdoor experience without unnecessary frills. Its generous number of sites can accommodate both tent campers and RVs (up to 32 feet), ensuring that a wide range of Montanans can enjoy its beauty. The first-come, first-served system, while requiring a bit of planning, often means that those who arrive early are rewarded with prime lakeside spots, fostering a sense of discovery and opportunity typical of Montana's outdoor culture.

Moreover, Peck Gulch's setting within the Kootenai National Forest opens up a world of additional recreational opportunities, from hiking scenic trails like the Peck Gulch Nature Trail to simply enjoying the abundant wildlife. The relative ease of access from towns like Libby, Rexford, and Eureka, combined with its affordable fee structure, makes it a highly practical and budget-friendly option for local families, anglers, and nature lovers. For any Montanan looking to immerse themselves in the state's iconic beauty, enjoy world-class lake activities, and find a peaceful retreat with breathtaking vistas, Peck Gulch Campground stands out as an exceptional choice, promising memorable moments on the shores of Lake Koocanusa.