Missoula Parents

Recreation area · Campground

Lolo National Forest

In the Rocky Mountains of western Montana lies the 2.3-million-acre Lolo National Forest. With abundant lakes, rugged Wilderness areas, wild rivers, trails, campgrounds, ski areas, and year-round beauty, the Forest is in the heart of one of America’s most recognized and visited western landscapes.

Listed under Picnic spots · Hiking trails · Bike trails · Horseback riding trails · Swimming spots · River access & fishing · Boating & floating · Campgrounds · Wildlife & bird watching · Nature centers & history sites · Scenic viewpoints · Recreation areas

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Photo of the Welcome Creek foot bridge in the Rock Creek area, Montana.
Photo from fs.usda.gov

About this place

The Forest has a deep connection with communities that creates a sense of ownership and commitment to this natural place. Landscapes rich in history with abundant wildlife and accessible wildlands provide a backdrop for diverse trail-based day-use recreation that is an everyday way of life for many people.

Practical information

Address
24 Fort Missoula Road Missoula , MT 59804
Arrival
GPS Coordinates: 46.90483500000000, -114.24191300000000
Parking
Vehicles may be parked along open routes within 1 vehicle length where safe to do so and not obstructing traffic or damaging resources. Do not block gates – they may be used for emergency vehicle access.
Fees
Many uses and opportunities on national forests are free of charge. However, some areas or activities require permits to help maintain, manage and improve the forest amenities or services that you enjoy.
Dogs
In developed sites, pets must be on leash or otherwise confined at all times. Pack and saddle stock are only allowed in designated areas.
Use rules
What’s closed: Dry Creek Road, NFSR #352 Where: Dry Creek (Henderson-Thompson) Road, NFSR 352, from milepost 25.15 at its junction with Trail 578 to milepost 26.37 at its junction with Woodside Road. When: This Order shall be in effect from 0700 to 1700, Mondays – Fridays starting October 1, 2026, through October 9, 2026, unless rescinded.
Managed by
Federal agency
Phone
406-329-3750
Email
SM.FS.r1_lolo_www@usda.gov

Activities

  • Biking
  • Fishing
  • Hiking
  • Horse Riding and Camping
  • Hunting & Shooting
  • Off-Highway Vehicles (OHV)
  • Outdoor Science and Learning
  • Picnicking
  • Scenic Drives
  • Water Activities
  • Winter Sports
  • Auto Touring
  • Boating
  • Camping
  • Fire Lookouts/Cabins Overnight
  • Horse Camping
  • Horseback Riding
  • Hunting
  • Interpretive Programs
  • Off Highway Vehicle
  • Recreational Vehicles
  • Swimming
  • Visitor Center
  • Wildlife Viewing
  • Cabin and lookout rentals
  • Outdoor recreation
  • Special forest products gathering
  • Backpacking
  • Day hikes