West Fork Fishtrap Creek Campground

Closed — Closed for the season. Opens May 5, 2026. Water shuts off September 22 and restrooms close October 21. First-come, first-served with no reservations.

About

West Fork Fishtrap Creek Campground is a small, primitive campground located in the Plains/Thompson Falls area of Lolo National Forest in northwestern Montana. The campground features 4 first-come, first-served campsites positioned along the West Fork of Fishtrap Creek, a broad and meandering mountain stream. Unlike many forested sites in the area, this campground offers an open, sunny environment with scenic views of the surrounding landscape. The campground caters to visitors seeking a quiet, low-use camping experience with excellent streamside fishing opportunities. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. A hand pump provides drinking water during the main season, and vault toilets are available. The campground operates seasonally, typically opening in early May and closing after mid-October, with water and restroom facilities shutting down progressively through fall. Access requires navigating approximately 30 miles of paved and gravel forest roads from Thompson Falls, making this a destination for those seeking solitude away from heavily trafficked areas. The maximum recommended trailer length is 20 feet due to the nature of the access roads and campground layout. No fees are charged for camping. Bear safety precautions and proper food storage are required in this area.

Directions

From Thompson Falls, travel 5 miles east on Highway 200. Turn left (north) onto paved Thompson River Road. Travel 15 miles north, then turn left (west) on Fishtrap Creek Road #516 for 10 miles. Turn left (south) on West Fork Fishtrap Creek Road. Campground is on the right after 0.1 mile.

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