Harry's Flat Campground

For those of us who call Montana home, there's a special kind of magic in finding a campground that truly feels like it's part of the landscape, deeply connected to the natural rhythms of our state. Harry's Flat Campground, nestled within the Lolo National Forest near Clinton, is precisely that kind of place. It’s not about flashy amenities or bustling crowds; instead, it offers a peaceful, authentic outdoor experience, especially for those who cherish the quiet pursuit of fishing or simply unwinding in a truly wild setting. This campground embodies the rustic charm and abundant natural beauty that Montanans know and love.

Harry's Flat Campground is renowned among local anglers and nature enthusiasts for its exceptional proximity to Rock Creek, a legendary blue-ribbon trout stream. Imagine casting your line into pristine waters, with the sounds of the creek as your constant companion and the majestic ponderosa pines towering overhead. As one satisfied camper enthusiastically shared, "Good fishing everywhere. The campground is in close proximity to several good pools. First trip to Rock Creek. Will be back to the creek and Harry's Flat." This sentiment perfectly captures the draw of this special place.

Beyond the fantastic fishing, Harry's Flat offers a serene environment that truly allows you to disconnect. It's a place where you'll likely encounter local wildlife, with one reviewer noting, "Very nice lots of trees and deer." The commitment to maintaining clean facilities, including "clean bathrooms," ensures a comfortable stay despite the primitive nature of the campground. For Montanans seeking a genuine outdoor escape – whether for a dedicated fishing trip, a quiet family outing, or a solo retreat into nature – Harry's Flat Campground provides an ideal setting to reconnect with the wild beauty of our state.

Harry's Flat Campground is located at Forest Rd 7501, Clinton, MT 59825, USA, placing it within the Lolo National Forest. Its specific location is adjacent to the renowned Rock Creek drainage, a significant draw for anglers.

Access to Harry's Flat Campground involves driving a scenic, but potentially challenging, route. From Clinton, travelers need to head southeast on I-90 to the Rock Creek Exit (#126). From there, it's approximately 18 miles south on Rock Creek Road #102. It's crucial for local users to be aware that while the initial portion of Rock Creek Road is paved, the "last 5 miles are rough and single lane in some sections," and can be "rough gravel" for a significant stretch. One review specifically advises, "Trailers, motorhomes and tow vehicles not recommended due to the narrow and rough road," and another notes that "large RVs or travel trailers are not recommended." This suggests that smaller RVs (maximum recommended trailer length is 32 feet, though smaller is better) and tents are best suited for this location, and caution should be exercised when driving. The drive itself is part of the experience, winding through beautiful, rugged canyon environment.

Despite the slightly rugged access, the campground's proximity to Rock Creek, known for its "blue ribbon trout stream," makes the journey worthwhile for fishing enthusiasts. Harry's Flat is situated at an elevation of 4,100 feet, within 7 acres of ponderosa and fir trees. Its relative remoteness ensures a peaceful atmosphere, though some campsites closer to the road might experience a bit of noise. Overall, while the access road requires attention, the campground's natural beauty and prime fishing location make it a rewarding destination for those familiar with Montana's less-traveled paths.

Services Offered:

• 15 Campsites: Provides designated sites for camping, accommodating both tents and smaller RVs/trailers.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for convenience.
• Metal Fire Rings: Available at each site for campfires and cooking (check for current fire restrictions).
• Vault Toilets: Clean, handicap-accessible vault toilets are provided.
• Potable Water: Available via a hand pump, ensuring access to drinking water.
• Bear Lockers/Food Storage: Some sites may have bear lockers or designated areas for safe food storage (a food/attractant storage order is in effect for Lolo National Forest).
• River Access Ramp: A hardened river access ramp and day-use parking area for vehicles and boat trailers have been recently upgraded, facilitating access to Rock Creek.
• Fishing Opportunities: Direct access to Rock Creek, a blue-ribbon trout stream, for fishing.
• First-Come, First-Served Basis: Campsites are generally available on a first-come, first-served basis, with fees collected from April through September.

Features / Highlights:

• Prime Fishing Location: Adjacent to Rock Creek, a renowned "blue ribbon trout stream" (rainbow, brown, brook trout, and whitefish), with good fishing pools in close proximity.
• Picturesque Setting: Located on 7 acres of ponderosa and fir trees, offering a "picturesque" and "beautiful" landscape.
• Abundant Wildlife: Known for sightings of deer and other wildlife, including potential for bear and moose (requiring vigilance).
• Clean Bathrooms: Reviews specifically highlight the cleanliness of the provided vault toilets.
• Secluded and Peaceful: Offers a tranquil environment away from major crowds, ideal for relaxation.
• Rugged Canyon Environment: Situated within a beautiful and rugged canyon, providing scenic views and a true sense of wilderness.
• Sounds of Nature: Campers can enjoy the soothing sounds of the running creek and birds.
• Upgraded Facilities: Recent improvements include river access, day-use parking, and new campsites, fire rings, and picnic tables.
• Suitable for Tent Camping: Many sites are better suited for tents, enhancing the traditional camping experience.
• Open Seasons: Typically open from early May to September 30, with fees charged during this peak season.

Contact Information:

Address: Forest Rd 7501, Clinton, MT 59825, USA

As Harry's Flat Campground is managed by the Lolo National Forest (part of the U.S. Forest Service), direct phone numbers for the campground itself are typically not available. For general inquiries, current conditions, or information on forest-managed campgrounds in the area, it is best to contact the relevant Ranger District or the Lolo National Forest Supervisor's Office.

Lolo National Forest Supervisor's Office:

Address: 24 Fort Missoula Road, Missoula, MT 59804

Phone: (406) 329-3750

TTY: 1-800-877-8339

For fee information (e.g., $15/night peak season, $6/night previous rates) and current operating status, checking the official USDA Forest Service website for Lolo National Forest (fs.usda.gov/lolo) or sites like Recreation.gov (though Harry's Flat is typically first-come, first-served) is recommended.

For us Montanans, Harry's Flat Campground is a true gem that perfectly encapsulates the simple yet profound beauty of our state's outdoors. We understand that a little bit of a "rough road" is often the price of admission for finding genuinely uncrowded and pristine locations, and Harry's Flat delivers on that promise. Its location on the legendary Rock Creek alone makes it an irresistible draw for anyone who loves to cast a line, from seasoned fly fishers to those just enjoying the serenity of the water.

The consistent positive feedback from fellow locals, highlighting the "nice lots of trees and deer" and "clean bathrooms," speaks directly to what we value in a campground: natural immersion combined with essential comfort. It's a place where you can truly feel connected to the Montana landscape, listening to the soothing sounds of the creek and watching for wildlife right from your campsite. The feeling of being "back to the creek and Harry's Flat" expressed by one camper resonates deeply with anyone who cherishes repeat visits to their favorite Montana haunts.

Whether it's the peaceful ponderosa pine forest, the blue-ribbon fishing, or simply the opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle for a quiet night under the vast Montana sky, Harry's Flat offers an authentic and rewarding experience. It's a testament to the fact that some of the best outdoor adventures in our state are found in these understated, yet incredibly rich, Forest Service campgrounds. It’s truly a spot where locals can unwind, reconnect with nature, and enjoy the unparalleled beauty that only Montana can offer.

Harry's Flat Campground

Forest Rd 7501, Clinton, MT 59825, USA