Big Nelson Cg Complex
Open year-round on a first-come, first-served basis. Snow load determines road accessibility during winter months. No potable water available; campers must bring their own water and pack out all trash.
Flood Watch issued July 1 at 10:15AM MDT until July 2 at 12:00AM MDT by NWS Missoula MT
* WHAT...Flash flooding caused by excessive rainfall is possible. * WHERE...A portion of west central Montana, including the following areas, Bitterroot/Sapphire Mountains, Butte/Blackfoot Region and Missoula/Bitterroot Valleys. This includes the following Specific Areas... Missoula, Butte, Frontage Road from Bearmouth to Drummond, West Valley near Anaconda, Philipsburg, Eds Gulch in Drummond, New Chicago area just east of Drummond, Johnson Fire Burn Area, Daly Fire Burn Area and Sharrott Fire Burn Area. * WHEN...Through this evening. * IMPACTS...Excessive runoff may result in flooding of rivers, creeks, streams, and other low-lying and flood-prone locations. Flooding may occur in poor drainage and urban areas. * ADDITIONAL DETAILS... - Slow moving thunderstorm producing heavy rain. - https://www.weather.gov/mso/hydrology
Northern Region Camping & Target Restrictions, Pallet Prohibition
This order defines the maximum length of occupation at a single location or cumulatively at any number of locations within a calendar year, within the states of Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Idaho
Weed Free Forage & Mulch Products Order for the Northern Region
It is illegal to possess, store or transport straw, hay, grain, seed or other forage or mulch products on Forest Service lands without documentation that the product is certified as “weed free” by a state certification process that meets or exceeds the North American Weed Free Forage standards.
About
Big Nelson Campground Complex occupies a picturesque position on the shoreline of Coopers Lake in Lolo National Forest, approximately 30 miles from Ovando, Montana. This semi-remote, developed campground offers shaded campsites with views of the lake and adjacent mountains. Each site includes a picnic table and fire ring. Vault toilets are available, but campers must bring their own drinking water and pack out all trash. The campground is strictly tent camping only; no trailers or RVs are permitted, and camping in the parking lot is prohibited. A primitive boat launch provides access to Coopers Lake for fishing. The Bob Marshall and Scapegoat Wildernesses lie just 7 miles away by trail, making this an excellent basecamp for backcountry exploration. A food storage order is in effect due to bear activity in the area. Pets are allowed but must be kept on a 6-foot leash at all times. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no advance reservations.
Directions
From the junction of Montana Highways 83 and 200 (Clearwater Junction), travel east on Highway 200 for 19.5 miles. Turn north on North Fork Blackfoot Road (Forest Road 5550) and follow signs for 12 miles on gravel road to the campground.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $10 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (406) 677-2233 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| Lolo NF Big Nelson Campground |
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