Mill Falls Campground

For Montanans who truly appreciate the rugged beauty and quiet solitude of our wilderness, Mill Falls Campground near Choteau offers an unparalleled rustic camping experience. This isn't a sprawling RV park with all the modern amenities; instead, it's a "great little campground" that provides a genuine connection to nature, complete with stunning views and the soothing sound of a nearby stream. If your ideal getaway involves simplicity, scenic beauty, and a chance to truly unplug, Mill Falls Campground is a gem waiting to be discovered.

Many locals find Mill Falls Campground to be an "incredible spot," particularly as a peaceful stop before venturing into iconic areas like Glacier National Park or the Bob Marshall Wilderness. It's a place where you can find a "great spot at the end with a stream just yards away," and where the thick forest provides ample shade, creating a wonderfully cool and secluded atmosphere. While it's important to be aware of its limitations regarding camper size and amenities – this is a true dry camping experience – these very characteristics are what make it a beloved destination for those who seek an authentic Montana adventure without the crowds. It’s a testament to the diverse and accessible outdoor opportunities that make our state a haven for nature lovers.

Mill Falls Campground is situated near Choteau, MT 59422, USA, placing it within the vast and beautiful Lewis and Clark National Forest. More specifically, it's approximately 9 miles south of the South Fork Road (Forest Road 109), which can be accessed from County Road 144 (Teton Canyon Road) and US Highway 89. This location positions it as a fantastic base camp for exploring the eastern side of Montana's Rocky Mountain Front, a gateway to the spectacular Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex and not too far from the eastern entrances to Glacier National Park.

Accessing Mill Falls Campground requires a bit of navigation and a suitable vehicle. The interior road to the campground is described as "rutted and narrow," and turning around with a large trailer is noted as "nearly impossible," with even pop-ups struggling. This strongly suggests that Mill Falls is best suited for tent campers, small vans, truck campers, or very compact travel trailers (maximum length 20 feet is recommended). For Montanans planning a visit, it's crucial to be prepared for unpaved, potentially challenging forest roads. While the journey might require careful driving, the reward is a secluded and picturesque camping spot. Its location allows for convenient access to nearby Choteau for supplies, gas, and a taste of local Montana charm before you fully immerse yourself in the natural tranquility of the campground.

Mill Falls Campground offers a basic, no-frills camping experience, prioritizing natural immersion over extensive modern conveniences. Visitors should be prepared for a self-sufficient stay.

• Designated Campsites: The campground features 4 designated campsites, each equipped with a permanent concrete/cement picnic table and an established fire ring with a grate. These sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning no reservations are accepted. Additionally, there might be informal spots suitable for tent camping.

• Pit Toilets: The campground provides outhouse-style pit toilets for sanitation. Reviews consistently praise these facilities for being "well maintained" and clean, which is a significant plus for a rustic campground without running water.

• No Potable Water: There is no running water or potable drinking water available at the campground. Campers must bring all the water they will need for their entire stay, including water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning. The nearby shallow creek can be used to get water for filtering, but it must be treated before consumption.

• No Camping Fee: Mill Falls Campground operates on a "no charge to camp here" basis, making it a very appealing and budget-friendly option for Montanans.

• 14-Day Stay Limit: A camping limit of 14 days is enforced, allowing for extended stays and a deeper exploration of the surrounding area.

• Pack It In, Pack It Out: This is a "pack it in, pack it out" campsite. There are no trash disposal services, so campers are responsible for removing all their waste, ensuring the cleanliness and pristine nature of the campground.

• Stunning Views and Scenery: Visitors consistently rave about the "incredible" views both coming into and within the campground. The thick forest canopy of Englemann Spruce and Black Cottonwood creates a deeply shaded and picturesque environment.

• Proximity to Waterfall: A major highlight is the Mill Falls waterfall, located just a short, pleasant walk (approximately 0.1 miles) from the campground. The walk is described as unmarked but is typically found at the end of the road to the right, leading to a beautiful waterfall cascading into a small pool.

• Stream Access: Many spots offer a stream just "yards away," providing the soothing sound of running water and a convenient source for filtering water (not for direct consumption without treatment).

• Suitable for Tents and Small Campers: While not ideal for large RVs, the campground is perfect for tents, pop-ups, and small campers (under 20 feet). This keeps the campground intimate and quiet, appealing to those seeking a more traditional camping experience.

• Well-Maintained Pit Toilets: Despite the lack of running water, the pit toilets are noted as being "well maintained," a significant comfort for a rustic site.

• Free Camping: The absence of a camping fee makes Mill Falls an extremely attractive and accessible option for Montanans looking to enjoy the outdoors without financial burden.

• Shaded Sites: The dense forest provides excellent shade, keeping the campsites cool and comfortable, especially during warmer months.

• Access to Hiking and Fishing: The area offers opportunities for hiking, including the short trail to the falls, and fishing in the South Fork of the Teton River for brook, rainbow, and cutthroat (though populations may be low). It's also a gateway to the vast Bob Marshall Wilderness.

• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding Lewis and Clark National Forest is home to diverse wildlife, offering opportunities for spotting deer, elk, and various bird species.

Address: Choteau, MT 59422, USA (within the Lewis and Clark National Forest)

Please note that Mill Falls Campground, being a primitive and unstaffed U.S. Forest Service site, does not have a direct public phone number. For inquiries regarding road conditions, current fire restrictions, or information about the Lewis and Clark National Forest in which the campground is located, it is best to contact the Lewis and Clark National Forest Headquarters in Great Falls at (406) 791-7700, or the Choteau Ranger District at (406) 466-5341.

For Montanans, Mill Falls Campground offers an authentic and accessible slice of our state's incredible natural heritage. It's perfectly suited for locals who prioritize a genuine, rustic camping experience over amenities, and who understand the value of a "pack it in, pack it out" approach to preserving our wild spaces. The fact that it's a free campground makes it an incredibly appealing option for budget-conscious adventurers and those seeking frequent escapes into nature.

Its charm lies in its simplicity: the beautiful views, the tranquil sound of the nearby stream, the thick forest offering ample shade, and the refreshing accessibility of a pit toilet. For tent campers and those with smaller RVs, it provides an ideal, intimate setting that many large, crowded campgrounds simply cannot offer. It serves as an excellent jumping-off point for exploring the majestic Rocky Mountain Front, a prime spot for hiking to a serene waterfall, or a quiet overnight stay before venturing into the vastness of Glacier National Park.

Mill Falls Campground embodies the spirit of Montana's outdoors: untamed, beautiful, and welcoming to those who respect its raw character. It's a reminder that some of the best experiences are found when we shed the unnecessary and simply embrace the natural world around us. For any local seeking peace, natural beauty, and a true Montana camping adventure without the fuss, Mill Falls Campground is a top contender in our own incredible backyard.

Mill Falls Campground

Choteau, MT 59422, USA