Recreation area

Fort Fizzle Historic Site Picnic Area

This relaxing picnic site along U.S. Highway 12 offers interpretive signs explaining the history of Fort Fizzle and invites you to be a part of a replica 19th century military entrenchment.

Listed under Picnic spots · Paved & step-free paths · Nature centers & history sites · Recreation areas

Image of Lolo Creek near Fort Fizzle on the Lolo National Forest.
Photo from fs.usda.gov

About this place

This relaxing picnic site along U.S. Highway 12 offers interpretive signs explaining the history of Fort Fizzle and invites you to be a part of a replica 19th century military entrenchment. Trailers are not recommended. The walkways to tables and restrooms are surfaced and accessible to wheelchairs. A path from the picnic area leads to nearby Lolo Creek.

Practical information

Address
24 Fort Missoula Road Missoula, MT 59804
Arrival
From Lolo, Montana drive 5 miles west on U.S. Highway 12.
Parking
Trailers are not recommended.
Fees
Day Use: No Fee (20 people or less) Groups of 20+ people call 406-329-3814 for reservations. *Sites may be reservable and reservation fees apply.*
Hours
May 25, 2026 - September 8, 2026. Gate open Memorial Day through Labor Day and potentially longer into the shoulder seasons provided maintenance staff is available. Site is open for walk-in use year-round. Please do not block gates. Open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Dogs
Must be physically restrained on a 6 foot leash.
Use rules
Horse/Pack animals are not allowed at this site.
Managed by
Federal agency
Phone
406-329-3814

Activities

  • Picnicking
  • Outdoor science and learning
  • Interpretive areas/exhibits
  • Interpretive exhibits

Amenities

  • Restroom

Accessibility

  • Step-free access

Sources

from fs.usda.gov/r01/lolo/recreation/fort-fizzle-historic-site-p… updated