Clark Memorial Campground

Welcome, fellow Montanans, to a hidden gem nestled within the stunning landscapes of our beautiful state: Clark Memorial Campground. If you're seeking an authentic outdoor experience, far from the hustle and bustle, this campground in Thompson Falls offers a serene and accessible retreat. Designed for those who appreciate natural beauty and simplicity, Clark Memorial Campground provides a fantastic opportunity to connect with Montana's wilderness without straying too far from essential amenities. It's a place where the grandeur of nature takes center stage, inviting you to relax, explore, and create lasting memories right here in your home state.

Many of us cherish the tranquility that only a true Montana outdoor escape can offer, and Clark Memorial Campground delivers just that. With its peaceful atmosphere and proximity to the Thompson River, it’s a perfect spot for locals looking to unwind, cast a line, or simply enjoy the sounds of nature. Whether you're a seasoned camper or looking for a spontaneous weekend getaway, this campground caters to a desire for straightforward, enjoyable outdoor adventures.

Clark Memorial Campground is conveniently situated in Thompson Falls, Montana, making it an accessible destination for many across the state. Located along the Thompson River, this campground offers a true riverside experience. While it feels secluded and immersed in nature, it's not so remote that it becomes difficult to reach. The campground is found right off a paved road, ensuring a smooth journey for all types of vehicles. You'll want to stay on the paved road until you arrive at the campsite to ensure the easiest access. For those traveling from Thompson Falls, the campground is approximately five miles north of Montana Highway 200 on the Thompson River Road.

Despite its feeling of seclusion, the campground's proximity to Thompson Falls means that essential services like gas and groceries are only about 10 miles away, offering a good balance of wilderness immersion and convenience. This accessibility makes it an ideal spot for a quick weekend trip or a longer, more relaxed stay, allowing you to easily restock supplies as needed without disrupting your outdoor experience too much. The scenic drive to the campground also sets the tone for your natural escape, winding through the rugged and beautiful Clark Fork Valley.

Clark Memorial Campground embraces a more rustic camping experience, focusing on providing essential services that enhance your connection with nature. It’s important to note that this is a first-come, first-served campground, meaning no reservations are taken. Arriving early, especially during peak seasons, is advisable to secure a spot.

• Toilets: The campground is equipped with vault toilets, which are regularly maintained and generally found to be clean, providing a basic but crucial amenity for campers.

• Picnic Tables: Each of the roughly four to five campsites includes a picnic table, offering a designated and convenient space for meal preparation and outdoor dining.

• Fire Rings: Established fire rings are available at each campsite, allowing for campfires in designated areas (please remember to check for any fire restrictions in place before lighting a fire).

• No Potable Water: It is crucial for visitors to bring their own drinking water, as potable water is not available on-site. This is a common characteristic of more primitive campgrounds, and being prepared ensures a comfortable stay.

• No Electricity or Sewage Hookups: For those with RVs or campers, be aware that there are no electric or sewage hookups. This campground is more suited for self-contained units or tent camping.

Clark Memorial Campground truly shines in its natural features and the authentic Montana experiences it offers.

• Riverside Location: Situated directly on the Thompson River, the campground offers immediate access to the water. This is a major draw for anglers and those who enjoy the calming presence of a flowing river.

• Exceptional Fishing Opportunities: The Thompson River is renowned for its fishing. Many visitors come specifically to cast a line and enjoy the abundant fishing opportunities right from their campsite or nearby riverbanks.

• Secluded and Shady Spots: Despite being located relatively close to the main road, the campground feels remarkably secluded. Many of the sites are very shady, offering a welcome respite from the Montana sun, especially during warmer months. There are beautiful old Oak trees and other mature trees providing ample shade.

• Natural Beauty: The area is surrounded by forest, and the campground itself is described as "beautiful," with many amazing trees along the river. This provides a picturesque backdrop for your outdoor activities.

• First-Come, First-Served Basis: This policy reinforces the rustic and uncommercialized feel of the campground, appealing to those who prefer spontaneity over structured reservations.

• Mushroom Hunting: As noted by a past visitor, the surrounding area can be excellent for mushroom hunting, adding another engaging outdoor activity for those with an interest in foraging.

For specific inquiries or to confirm current conditions, especially regarding the opening dates or any alerts (like water availability or fire restrictions), it's best to contact the managing district.

Address: Thompson Falls, MT 59873, USA

Phone: While there isn't a direct phone number for the campground itself, general inquiries for the Lolo National Forest area, which Clark Memorial Campground is part of, can often be directed to the Plains/Thompson Falls Ranger District. Their number is 406-826-3821.

For those of us living in Montana, Clark Memorial Campground in Thompson Falls represents an ideal opportunity to embrace the natural splendor that defines our state. Its primary appeal lies in its simplicity and accessibility, offering a no-frills, authentic camping experience without requiring extensive travel or complicated planning. The "first-come, first-served" nature means you can often make a spontaneous decision to head out, perfect for those last-minute weekend getaways when the call of the wild becomes irresistible.

The reviews from fellow Montanans highlight exactly what makes this spot special for us locals. The "beautiful campground" with "amazing Oak trees along the river" speaks to the natural beauty we cherish. The feeling of being "right off the road but feels secluded enough, very shady too" means we get the convenience of easy access combined with the peaceful escape we seek. For anglers, the excellent fishing on the Thompson River is a significant draw, providing ample opportunities to enjoy one of Montana's favorite pastimes. The chance to go "mushroom hunting" adds another layer of outdoor enjoyment that many local enthusiasts will appreciate.

Furthermore, the "very remote" yet "very well maintained" and "very clean toilet" aspects reflect a balance between ruggedness and basic comfort that many Montanans value in their outdoor adventures. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect, breathe in the fresh air, and immerse yourself in the natural environment without a lot of distractions. For those who appreciate a quiet spot, away from crowded RV parks, this campground provides that perfect tranquil setting. It’s a testament to the understated beauty of Montana’s public lands, offering a truly local experience where the focus is on nature itself. So, pack your gear, grab your fishing rod, and head to Clark Memorial Campground for your next authentic Montana outdoor escape. You'll be glad you did.

Clark Memorial Campground

Thompson Falls, MT 59873, USA