North Dickey Lake Campground

For Montanans, the allure of clear mountain lakes and dense forests is irresistible, offering endless opportunities for recreation and relaxation. Nestled within the breathtaking Kootenai National Forest in the northwestern part of the state, North Dickey Lake Campground presents an idyllic escape for locals seeking a perfect blend of outdoor adventure and peaceful lakeside living. This U.S. Forest Service campground is a true gem, renowned for its stunning setting by the 800-acre Dickey Lake and its welcoming, family-friendly atmosphere.

North Dickey Lake Campground is more than just a place to park your RV or pitch a tent; it’s a vibrant hub for water activities, hiking, and simply unwinding in nature. Many visitors rave about securing a "lakeside campsite," which offers immediate access to the water and picturesque views. The campground has garnered high praise for its friendly and helpful camp host, often described as offering "plenty of recommendations about what to do in the surrounding area," enhancing the overall visitor experience. This personal touch makes a significant difference, fostering a warm and inviting environment that encourages repeat visits.

Whether you're an avid angler hoping to reel in kokanee salmon, Kamloop, or rainbow trout, or a family eager to spend days swimming, boating, and enjoying the sun, North Dickey Lake Campground caters to a variety of interests. The accessible trails, including the half-mile Dickey Lake Overlook Trail, provide opportunities for gentle strolls with panoramic views. With the sound of loons often heard in spring and early summer, and the natural beauty of larch and fir trees surrounding the sites, it’s no wonder so many locals "can't wait to visit this campground again!"

North Dickey Lake Campground is conveniently located on a hillside next to the scenic Dickey Lake in northwestern Montana. The address provided is Trego, MT 59923, USA. More precisely, it is situated approximately 13 miles south of Eureka on U.S. Highway 93, then just over a mile further south on Highway 93 to the campground entrance. This location makes it easily accessible via a major highway, offering a secluded outdoor experience without being overly difficult to reach.

The campground is set at an elevation of about 3,100 feet and is nestled within a beautiful forest of larch and fir trees. Its proximity to U.S. Highway 93 makes it a convenient stop for travelers exploring the Flathead Valley region or those heading north towards the Canadian border (about 20 miles away) or east towards Glacier National Park (approximately 65 miles away).

The parking surfaces within the campground are gravel, and the sites are designed to accommodate both tent and RV camping. While some sites offer prime lakeside access, the overall accessibility is good for various vehicle types, including smaller to medium-sized RVs. The area also features an accessible, half-mile Dickey Lake Overlook Trail, which provides an easy walk to a viewing platform with excellent lake vistas, further enhancing the accessibility for all visitors. This combination of straightforward highway access and a beautiful, natural setting makes North Dickey Lake Campground a desirable and convenient destination for Montanans.

• Tent and RV Campsites: The campground offers 24 sites suitable for both tent and RV camping.
• Picnic Tables: Each site is equipped with a picnic table for outdoor dining.
• Campfire Rings with Grills: Fire rings with grills are available at each site, perfect for campfires and cooking (check for fire restrictions).
• Potable Water: Drinking water is provided at the campground.
• Vault Toilets: Accessible vault toilets are available for visitor convenience.
• Boat Launch: A fully developed boat launch with a dock is provided for easy access to Dickey Lake.
• Dump Station (Nearby): A dump station is available just north of Eureka on Highway 93, behind a gas station.
• Camp Host: A friendly and helpful camp host is typically on-site to assist visitors and offer local recommendations.
• Some Reservable Sites: While most sites are first-come, first-served, some can be reserved through Recreation.gov.
• No Utility Hookups: The campground does not offer electric, water, or sewer hookups at individual sites.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome but must be leashed. (Note: Pets are generally not allowed on the sandy beach area at South Dickey Day Use Area).
• Daily Fee: A daily fee applies per single site ($16.00 as of recent data), with discounts for US Golden Age/Access or Interagency Senior/Access Passes.

• Beautiful Lakeside Setting: The campground is nestled directly next to the scenic 800-acre Dickey Lake, offering picturesque views and easy water access.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Anglers can expect to catch kokanee salmon, Kamloop, and rainbow trout in Dickey Lake, making it a popular spot for fishing enthusiasts.
• Diverse Water Activities: The adjacent lake provides ample opportunity for boating, swimming (including a grassy beach at the South Dickey Day Use area), and water skiing.
• Friendly and Informative Camp Host: Reviews consistently praise the helpful and welcoming camp host, who often provides valuable local recommendations.
• Variety of Hiking and Biking Trails: Several trails begin in the area, including the accessible, half-mile Dickey Lake Overlook Trail (also open to mountain biking) with a viewing platform, and a trail heading to Mt. Marston.
• Secluded Location: Despite being conveniently located off the main highway, the campground offers a secluded and peaceful environment for outdoor enjoyment.
• Proximity to Glacier National Park: Approximately 65 miles from the entrance to Glacier National Park, making it a viable base camp for exploring this iconic national park.
• Educational Programs: Educational programs are sometimes offered throughout the summer, enriching the camping experience.
• Natural Surroundings: Enveloped by a forest of larch and fir trees, providing ample shade and a classic Montana forest feel. The sound of loons can often be heard in spring and early summer.
• Nearby Amenities: A general store with fuel and groceries is located about 3 miles to the north, and a small restaurant and coffee shop are about 2 miles to the west, providing convenience.

Address: Trego, MT 59923, USA (located within the Kootenai National Forest)

For reservations for specific sites, visitors can check Recreation.gov. For general inquiries, current conditions, fire restrictions, and more detailed information about North Dickey Lake Campground, it is best to contact the Kootenai National Forest directly.

Kootenai National Forest (Eureka Ranger Station): (406) 296-2536

Kootenai National Forest Supervisor's Office (Libby): (406) 293-6211

It is always recommended to call ahead, especially for updates on road conditions, water availability, and fire regulations, as these can change seasonally.

For Montanans, North Dickey Lake Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it’s a cherished local destination that embodies the very essence of Big Sky Country living. Its prime location on the shores of Dickey Lake, nestled within the Kootenai National Forest, offers an accessible yet deeply immersive outdoor experience that caters to a wide range of interests, making it highly suitable for local residents.

The abundance of lakeside campsites allows locals to enjoy direct access to the water, perfect for a spontaneous swim, a morning fishing trip, or simply enjoying the peaceful views. The lake's healthy populations of kokanee salmon, Kamloop, and rainbow trout make it a prime spot for anglers, a beloved pastime for many Montanans. Beyond fishing, the opportunities for boating, swimming, and even water skiing ensure that families and friends will find plenty to keep them engaged throughout their stay.

The strong community feel, often fostered by the presence of a friendly and helpful camp host, adds a layer of comfort and local knowledge that enhances the overall experience. This personal touch, coupled with the affordability of a U.S. Forest Service campground, makes it a practical and appealing choice for regular visits. Furthermore, the easily accessible hiking and biking trails, like the Dickey Lake Overlook Trail, offer gentle ways to explore the surrounding beauty, suitable for all ages and activity levels.

North Dickey Lake Campground offers a perfect balance: it's conveniently located near a major highway with essential amenities nearby, yet it provides a secluded atmosphere that allows Montanans to truly disconnect and appreciate their state's magnificent wilderness. For anyone seeking a quintessential Montana lake camping experience, filled with natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and a welcoming ambiance, North Dickey Lake Campground is an ideal and easily reachable destination.

North Dickey Lake Campground

Trego, MT 59923, USA