Clearwater Crossing Campground

Montana, the "Treasure State," is renowned for its vast open spaces, pristine rivers, and majestic mountains, offering endless opportunities for those who seek solace and adventure in the great outdoors. For us Montanans, finding those secluded spots that embody the true spirit of the wilderness is paramount. Clearwater Crossing Campground, nestled in the Bonner area, is one such place. It’s not about flashy amenities or bustling crowds; it’s about connecting with nature, enjoying the peace and quiet, and experiencing Montana as it’s meant to be. This article is designed to give our local outdoor enthusiasts a detailed look at what makes Clearwater Crossing Campground a noteworthy destination for your next escape into our stunning backyard.

Clearwater Crossing Campground is a small, tranquil, and somewhat rustic campground located within the expansive Lolo National Forest, near the banks of Fish Creek. It embodies the essence of a traditional Montana camping experience, catering to those who appreciate simplicity and genuine immersion in nature. Unlike heavily developed sites, Clearwater Crossing offers a peaceful environment where the sounds of the forest and river dominate, making it an excellent spot for quiet reflection and a good night's sleep in your tent.

While some recent changes to the landscape around the campsites have been noted by long-time visitors, the fundamental appeal of Clearwater Crossing remains. It's particularly popular among equestrians, serving as a primary trailhead for horseback riding and hiking into the magnificent Great Burn area. Anglers also find a haven here, with opportunities to catch pike and, early in the season, some truly impressive cutthroat trout in Fish Creek. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis and is fee-free, making it an accessible option for spontaneous adventurers. Its light usage ensures a sense of solitude, allowing visitors to truly unwind and appreciate the natural beauty of the Lolo National Forest.

Clearwater Crossing Campground is located in Bonner, MT 59823, USA, strategically placed within the Lolo National Forest. Its exact coordinates are approximately Latitude: 46.908878, Longitude: -114.803471, and it sits at an elevation of about 3800 feet. This location makes it accessible from Missoula, approximately 37 miles to the west on Interstate 90. To reach the campground, take Fish Creek Exit #66 from I-90. From there, follow Fish Creek Road #343 south to West Fork Fish Creek Road #7750, and continue on Road #7750 until you reach the end, following signs toward the campground and possibly past the Rod & Connie French Conservation Camp, which is about 1 mile prior.

The drive takes you into heavily forested terrain, characterized by varying temperatures throughout the year, with summer highs around 85°F and winter lows around 15°F. While the campground is technically open year-round, road access can be significantly impacted by snow during the winter months, making late spring through late fall the most reliable seasons for a visit. Visitors should be prepared for forest service roads, which may be unpaved or gravel. Despite its somewhat "off the beaten path" nature, the directions are straightforward, leading you to a serene natural setting that feels wonderfully removed from the hustle and bustle. The convenience of being located adjacent to Fish Creek further enhances its appeal for water-based activities and scenic enjoyment.

• Campsites: Clearwater Crossing Campground offers a small number of designated campsites, typically around 3 to 6 sites. Each site generally includes a picnic table and a fire ring, providing basic necessities for outdoor living.
• Restroom Facilities: Vault toilets are available on-site, offering essential sanitation for campers. These are standard in many rustic forest campgrounds and are maintained to facilitate a comfortable stay.
• Water: While previous information indicated potable water might be available seasonally, current information from the Lolo National Forest website states, "No drinking water is available." Campers should plan to bring their own drinking water or be prepared to treat water from natural sources like Fish Creek.
• Stock Facilities: A significant amenity for equestrian enthusiasts, the campground features public corrals and stock facilities. This allows for convenient and safe housing of horses and pack animals, making it an excellent base for horseback riding into the wilderness. Horse/Pack animals are allowed at this site, but typically "No stock allowed in the campground" itself, rather in designated areas nearby.
• No Fees: Camping at Clearwater Crossing Campground is currently fee-free, providing an economical option for outdoor recreation.
• First-Come, First-Served: All campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are taken. This encourages spontaneity but also means arriving early, especially during peak seasons, is advisable.
• Waste Management: Clearwater Crossing operates under a "Pack It In, Pack It Out" policy. There are no garbage services available at the campground, so visitors are responsible for removing all their waste.

• Prime Fishing Opportunities: Fish Creek, adjacent to the campground, is renowned for its fishing. Anglers can try their luck catching cutthroat trout, and early season visitors might even encounter "monster" pike, making it a popular spot for those with a rod and reel.
• Equestrian Access to Great Burn Wilderness: A major draw for horse riders, Clearwater Crossing serves as a popular trailhead for accessing the vast and rugged Great Burn Wilderness area. Several trails extend from here, offering extensive opportunities for horseback riding and hiking.
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Visitors consistently praise the campground for its tranquility, describing it as a "peaceful campground" where one can "sleep well in our tent." This quietude is a significant highlight for those seeking an escape from noise and crowds.
• Rustic and Natural Setting: The campground offers a true wilderness experience, surrounded by dense forest. While there have been some changes to the physical sites (e.g., "huge rocks and ditches"), the natural beauty of the area remains, providing an authentic outdoor adventure.
• Campfire Allowed: Each site typically includes a fire ring, and campfires are generally permitted, allowing for traditional camping experiences like cooking over an open flame and enjoying cozy evenings (always check for current fire restrictions).
• Accessibility for Tents and Smaller RVs: While it lacks full RV hookups, the sites are suitable for tent camping and smaller RV units (max RV length typically around 25-30 ft).
• Open Year-Round (with seasonal road limitations): The campground is technically open year-round, offering opportunities for winter recreation, though visitors must be aware of potential road closures due to snow.

For the most up-to-date information regarding Clearwater Crossing Campground, including current conditions, fire restrictions, or road accessibility, it is best to contact the relevant Ranger District of the Lolo National Forest.

Address: Bonner, MT 59823, USA (Physical location)

While a direct phone number for the campground itself is not provided, the Lolo National Forest's Ninemile Ranger District often manages this area and can provide details.

Ninemile Ranger District

Address: 20325 Remount Road Huson, MT 59846

Phone: (406) 626-5201 (This is likely the most relevant contact number for up-to-date information)

General Lolo National Forest information line: (406) 542-5500 / +1 406-542-5500 (as provided).

It is highly recommended to contact them before your visit, especially if traveling during shoulder seasons or planning to bring horses.

For us Montanans, Clearwater Crossing Campground truly represents an accessible slice of the wilderness we so deeply cherish. What makes it particularly suitable for locals is its authentic, no-frills approach to camping. We appreciate places where the focus is on nature itself, not on elaborate amenities, and Clearwater Crossing delivers just that. The "very nice" and quiet atmosphere offers a genuine escape, allowing us to sleep soundly under our Big Sky, far from the urban hustle.

The draw for fishing enthusiasts is undeniable. The opportunity to cast a line for pike or "monster" cutthroat trout in Fish Creek is a classic Montana experience that many locals seek out. Furthermore, for our robust equestrian community, the dedicated stock facilities and direct access to trails leading into the vast Great Burn Wilderness make this campground an invaluable resource for extended horse packing trips. The fact that it’s first-come, first-served and operates without a fee speaks to the independent spirit often found in Montana, offering a refreshing alternative to more commercialized sites. While it requires campers to "Pack It In, Pack It Out," this responsibility aligns perfectly with our collective ethos of preserving Montana’s pristine natural beauty. Clearwater Crossing Campground is not just a place to stay; it's a gateway to genuine Montana adventures, a quiet sanctuary, and a perfect spot for locals to reconnect with the wild heart of our state.

Clearwater Crossing Campground

Bonner, MT 59823, USA