Powell Campground

Are you a Montanan seeking an unforgettable outdoor adventure that combines stunning natural beauty with convenient amenities and rich historical significance? Look no further than Powell Campground, nestled in the heart of the Lolo National Forest near Lolo, MT. This highly-regarded campground offers more than just a place to set up camp; it provides a gateway to exploring the wild and scenic landscapes that make Montana truly special, all while offering surprising comforts in a remote setting.

Powell Campground is a favorite among those who appreciate the best of both worlds: a genuine connection with nature and the accessibility of nearby services. As one delighted camper enthusiastically shared, "We loved this camping excursion. The staff at lodge, food, camp sites, little store, etc. everything was splendid! Planning another trip!" This sentiment perfectly captures the essence of what makes Powell Campground so appealing to locals and visitors alike – a harmonious blend of wilderness serenity and thoughtful conveniences.

Situated adjacent to the breathtaking Lochsa Wild and Scenic River, the campground offers immediate access to fishing, rafting, and simply relaxing by the water. It serves as an excellent base for exploring the vast Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, right across the river, or delving into the historic routes of the Lewis and Clark Trail, which famously passed through this very area. Imagine camping where history meets unparalleled natural grandeur!

While some sites might be "pretty small" or "on a grade" for tent setup, as one reviewer noted, the overall impression is overwhelmingly positive, with the desire to "camp here again." This speaks to the enduring appeal of Powell Campground's location, its well-maintained facilities, and the unique combination of features it offers. For Montana locals eager to embrace our state's iconic outdoor lifestyle, Powell Campground presents an exceptional opportunity for adventure, relaxation, and memorable experiences.

Powell Campground is strategically located near Lolo, MT 59847, USA, positioning it in a truly unique and appealing spot within the vast natural landscapes of the region. While it carries a Montana address, it's important for locals to understand its precise geographical context. The campground is situated in north-central Idaho, officially within the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests, at an elevation of approximately 3,400 feet. It is adjacent to the Wild and Scenic Lochsa River, with the immense Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness just across the river.

For Montanans, particularly those in the western part of the state, Powell Campground is conveniently accessible. It's located approximately 60 miles southwest of Missoula, MT, along US Highway 12, often referred to as the Lewis and Clark Highway. This scenic highway winds along the narrow river canyon, offering breathtaking views of evergreen trees and large rock outcroppings, making the drive an integral part of the outdoor experience.

The campground itself has "three paved loops" and is easily accessible from Highway 12 via Road #102, which is also paved. This makes it highly accessible for both tent campers and those with RVs, including larger rigs up to 40 feet. While the setting is remote, the proximity to a "small general store, fuel, lodging and a restaurant" at Lochsa Lodge, which is within walking distance, is a significant convenience given that there are "aren’t any services for many miles" along this stretch of Highway 12. This unique combination of remote wilderness and accessible amenities makes Powell Campground a practical and attractive destination for Montana residents seeking a balance of adventure and comfort.

Powell Campground provides a well-rounded set of services and amenities that enhance the camping experience, blending rustic charm with modern conveniences:

• Campsites: The campground offers single-family sites suitable for both tent and RV camping. There are a total of 35 campsites, divided into Loop A and Loop B. Sites in Loop A offer electrical hookups (15, 30, and 50 amp), a significant feature for RV campers, especially in a remote area. Loop B offers standard non-electric sites, catering to those who prefer a more traditional experience.
• Hookups: As mentioned, Loop A sites provide "electrical hookups (15 amp, 30 amp, and 50 amp)," which is a rare and highly appreciated amenity in the Clearwater National Forest.
• Water: Drinking water is available through spigots located in various sites throughout the campground. While these are not intended for direct hook-ups to RVs, they provide potable water for general use. The campground also has its own pressurized water system.
• Restrooms: The campground features both accessible flush toilets (adjacent to the day-use area) and vault toilets (outhouses) at the far ends of Loops A and B. Reviewers generally find bathrooms "relatively clean."
• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a campfire ring with a grill, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires.
• Campground Host: A campground host is usually on duty during the open season, providing assistance and information to campers.
• Nearby Services at Lochsa Lodge: A significant convenience is the proximity to Lochsa Lodge, which is within walking distance. This lodge offers a restaurant, a small general store (with a pay phone, crucial where cell service is limited), rental cabins, and fuel. This proximity means campers don't have to travel far for essential supplies or a prepared meal.
• Garbage Services: Bear-wise dumpsters are available for trash disposal, emphasizing responsible waste management in a wildlife-rich area.
• Reservations: Many sites (19) are reservable up to 6 months in advance via Recreation.gov, while some sites in Loop A (8) and most in Loop B (9) are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Accessibility: The campground is noted as being handicap accessible, with paved parking surfaces throughout.

Powell Campground stands out with an array of unique features and highlights that make it a premier destination for Montanans:

• Adjacent to Wild and Scenic Lochsa River: This is a major highlight. The campground provides direct access to the "Wild and Scenic Lochsa River," a world-famous waterway known for its "exciting whitewater rafting opportunities" and excellent fishing (cutthroat and rainbow trout, Chinook salmon, and steelhead). Visitors can relax by the river, fish, or simply enjoy the sounds of the "rough water."
• Proximity to Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness: Located directly across the river from the 1.5-million-acre Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, the campground serves as an ideal base for hiking, backpacking, and exploring one of the largest federally designated wilderness areas in the U.S.
• Historical Significance (Lewis & Clark Trail): The area is rich in history, as famed explorers Lewis and Clark passed through here in September 1805. Highway 12 itself is known as the Lewis and Clark Highway, and nearby historic sites like Colt Killed Campsite and the Lolo Pass Visitor Center offer interpretive insights into their journey.
• Convenient Lodge Access: The immediate walking distance to Lochsa Lodge with its restaurant, general store, and fuel station is an exceptional convenience for a remote campground. This allows campers to enjoy the wilderness without completely roughing it, providing options for dining out or grabbing last-minute supplies.
• Electric Hookups: Being one of the few campgrounds in this remote forest area to offer electrical hookups (up to 50 amp) is a significant advantage for RV campers, making a comfortable stay possible even deep in the wilderness.
• Shaded Campsites: The campground is set in a "mature stand of mixed-conifers and shrubs," providing "nice shade for all the campsites," a welcome feature during warmer months.
• Wildlife Viewing: The "steep canyon country" is home to abundant wildlife, including elk, deer, moose, bear, cougar, and mountain goats, offering fantastic opportunities for wildlife observation.
• Scenic Drive: The journey to the campground along US Highway 12 is a scenic experience in itself, with beautiful vistas and rock outcroppings.

To plan your adventure at Powell Campground, you can utilize the following contact information. Given its location within a National Forest, the U.S. Forest Service is the primary managing authority, and online reservation systems are also key for securing a spot.

Address: Lolo, MT 59847, USA

Phone: (208) 935-2513 (General Information for Powell Ranger District/Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests)

Mobile Phone: +1 208-935-2513 (General Information for Powell Ranger District/Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests)

For reservations, particularly during peak season (mid-May to end of October), it is highly recommended to use the national reservation system:

Recreation.gov: Many sites are reservable up to 6 months in advance. You can visit www.recreation.gov and search for "Powell Campground" to check availability and book your site. The reservation line for Recreation.gov is 1 (877) 444-6777.

Always check the Recreation.gov website or contact the Nez Perce-Clearwater National Forests directly for the most current information regarding seasonal opening and closing dates, fees, specific site details, and any fire restrictions or alerts that may be in effect.

For Montanans, Powell Campground offers an exceptionally suitable and appealing camping destination that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of our state's outdoor lifestyle. While technically just across the border in Idaho, its proximity to Lolo, MT (only 60 miles southwest of Missoula), and its location along US Highway 12 make it a readily accessible and highly desirable escape for residents of Western Montana.

Locals who cherish the rugged beauty of the Rocky Mountains and the vastness of our national forests will find themselves right at home here. The campground's direct access to the Wild and Scenic Lochsa River provides unmatched opportunities for fishing, whitewater rafting, or simply enjoying the tranquil sounds of nature – activities deeply ingrained in the Montana way of life. Furthermore, its position as a gateway to the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness appeals to the adventurous spirit of many Montanans, offering endless possibilities for hiking, backpacking, and wildlife viewing.

The unique combination of being deep within a national forest yet having convenient amenities like electric hookups for RVs and walking distance access to Lochsa Lodge for food and fuel strikes a perfect balance. This means Montanans can enjoy a genuine wilderness experience without having to sacrifice all modern comforts, making it ideal for families, seasoned campers, and those new to exploring our region's backcountry. The rich Lewis and Clark history interwoven with the natural setting adds another layer of appreciation for our state's heritage. Powell Campground truly offers Montanans a comprehensive and memorable outdoor experience, inviting us to explore, relax, and reconnect with the wild heart of our region.