Big Nelson Cg Complex

Open — Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. No reservations accepted. Winter accessibility is determined by snow conditions. No fees are currently being charged.

About

Big Nelson Campground is a semi-remote, developed campground located on the shoreline of Cooper's Lake near Ovando, Montana. The facility offers shaded rest areas and beautiful views of the lake and surrounding mountains. This tent-only campground features picnic tables and fire rings at each campsite, with vault toilet facilities available. The campground is situated in a forested setting that provides both shade and scenic beauty. The location serves as an excellent base for wilderness access, with the Bob Marshall and Scapegoat wilderness areas located 7 miles away by trail. Cooper's Lake offers fishing opportunities and a primitive boat launch for both motorized and non-motorized watercraft. The campground is managed on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. Pack-in, pack-out trash policies are in effect. Access requires travel on 12 miles of gravel road from Montana Highway 200. The campground is 19 miles from the nearest groceries and gas. Food storage orders are in place due to bear activity in the area, and proper food storage is required. Snow load determines winter accessibility. The facility is monitored by volunteer campground hosts with periodic law enforcement patrols.

Directions

From the junction of Montana highways 83 and 20 (Clearwater Junction) travel east on Montana Highway 200 for 19.5 miles. Turn north on North Fork Blackfoot Road #5550 and follow the signs 12 miles on a gravel road to the campground.

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