Therriault Lake Campground

For Montanans who cherish the peace and quiet of a true wilderness getaway, Therriault Lake Campground near Eureka offers an idyllic escape. Nestled within the vast Kootenai National Forest, this campground provides a serene setting where the sounds of nature prevail and the stresses of modern life fade away. If you're a local angler, a nature lover, or simply seeking a tranquil spot to reconnect with Montana's pristine outdoors, Therriault Lake Campground is a destination that promises relaxation and genuine natural beauty.

Montana, with its sprawling forests, majestic mountains, and countless lakes, is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The northwestern corner of our state, in particular, boasts some of the most unspoiled natural environments. Therriault Lake Campground perfectly embodies this, offering a comfortable yet rustic base from which to explore the region's diverse offerings. It's a testament to the idea that true tranquility can be found in simplicity, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the natural surroundings. Whether you're planning a fishing trip, a quiet weekend with family, or a solo venture to find solitude, this campground welcomes you to experience the calm and outdoor potential that define our incredible state.

Therriault Lake Campground is located at NF-319, Eureka, MT 59917, USA. This places it deep within the Kootenai National Forest in northwestern Montana, close to the Canadian border. The campground is notably situated near two distinct lakes, Big Therriault Lake and Little Therriault Lake, each offering unique camping experiences, though sources typically refer to "Big Therriault Lake Campground."

Access to Therriault Lake Campground requires a scenic drive into the forest. From Fortine, visitors follow Highway 93 northeast for approximately 3 miles (milepost 169.34), then turn right onto Grave Creek Road 114. Following Road 114 for about 14 miles leads to the junction with Therriault Lakes Road 319. Continuing north on Road 319 for another 14 miles brings you to a Y-intersection. For Big Therriault Lake Campground, turn right onto Big Therriault Lake Road 7116 and proceed for a short 0.03 miles. For Little Therriault Lake Campground (a separate but nearby site), you would continue on Road 319 past the junction and find the campground a bit further. The roads are generally gravel and can be winding, but are typically navigable for most vehicles, including RVs, though some sources recommend a maximum RV length of 32 feet for Big Therriault and 12 feet for Little Therriault, implying varying site sizes and road conditions. This remote but accessible location ensures a genuine wilderness feel, making the journey part of the adventure for Montanans seeking a peaceful escape.

Therriault Lake Campground, as a U.S. Forest Service site, provides a primitive camping experience, focusing on essential amenities that support an authentic outdoor adventure. It caters to campers who appreciate basic comforts while embracing a largely self-sufficient approach to their stay. Based on available public data, the services typically offered include:

• Campsites: Big Therriault Lake Campground has 10 campsites, including one host site, while Little Therriault Lake Campground has 6 sites. Each site typically includes a picnic table and a fire ring, providing a designated area for camping and outdoor cooking. Sites are generally suitable for tents and RVs (with recommended length limits).
• Vault Toilets: Both campgrounds provide vault toilets, offering basic restroom facilities.
• Potable Water: Potable water is available via a "hand pump" at Big Therriault Lake Campground and also at Little Therriault Lake Campground, a crucial amenity for drinking and basic needs.
• Food Storage Boxes: Given that the area is known for bear activity, "food storage boxes" are provided at campsites, or campers are advised on proper bear-resistant food storage methods.
• Boat Ramps/Access: Big Therriault Lake Campground features a "boat ramp developed for small boats." Little Therriault has an "undeveloped boat access (pack boats)," indicating it's suitable for non-motorized watercraft that can be carried to the lake.
• First-Come, First-Served: All campsites operate on a "first come, first served basis," meaning reservations are not accepted. It is advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.
• Trash Removal: While some primitive campgrounds are pack-in/pack-out, information suggests trash removal may be available at Big Therriault, but always plan to pack out what you pack in to be safe.
• Camp Host: A host "may be on site" during the managed season (typically June 29th through September 8th), offering assistance and local information.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome, but must be leashed.

Therriault Lake Campground, encompassing both Big and Little Therriault Lakes, offers a wealth of natural features and recreational highlights that make it a compelling destination for Montanans seeking outdoor adventure and tranquility.

• Pristine Lake Environment: Both lakes are known for their clarity and beauty. Big Therriault Lake is 56 acres with an average depth of 40 feet, while Little Therriault offers a secluded forest environment by the lake.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Fishing is a major draw. Big Therriault Lake is known for "Westslope cutthroat trout," and other species are present. Visitors can enjoy lake and pond fishing, with a boat ramp for small boats.
• Proximity to Ten Lakes Scenic Area: The campground is located approximately one mile from the "Ten Lakes Scenic Area," which is a significant highlight. This area offers "numerous marked hiking trails for the adventuresome traveler," including an accessible trail around Little Therriault Lake (0.9 miles, compacted gravel).
• Quiet and Secluded Atmosphere: Being a forest service campground accessed via some remote roads, both Therriault Lake campgrounds offer a peaceful and often secluded camping experience, ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and enjoy nature's serenity.
• Boating and Water Activities: The lakes provide opportunities for "boating - motorized" (likely restricted to smaller motors/sizes) and "boating - non-motorized." The "undeveloped boat access" at Little Therriault is perfect for "pack boats" like kayaks and canoes. Swimming is also a possibility in the clear lake waters.
• Wildlife Viewing: The Kootenai National Forest is rich in wildlife. Campers have opportunities to observe various bird species, deer, and other forest animals. Being in bear country, proper food storage is emphasized.
• Accessible Features (Little Therriault): Little Therriault Lake Campground specifically highlights accessibility, with "accessible trail that encircles the lake" and accessible campsites (Campsite #2 and #3) with wheelchair seating and accessible BBQ grills, making it more inclusive.
• Forested Setting: The campground is surrounded by natural forest, providing shade and a classic Montana wilderness ambiance.

For the most current information regarding Therriault Lake Campground (both Big and Little Therriault), including operational dates, current conditions, fire restrictions, or any specific concerns, it is best to contact the Kootenai National Forest office that manages this area, specifically the Fortine Ranger District.

Address: NF-319, Eureka, MT 59917, USA (This is the general location of the campgrounds)

While a direct phone number for a campground host may not always be available, you can typically reach the managing Forest Service district office:

• Fortine Ranger District: (406) 882-4451
• Kootenai National Forest Supervisor's Office (general inquiries): (406) 293-6211

It is always highly recommended to call ahead, especially for a forest service campground that operates seasonally (typically June through early September, weather dependent), to confirm opening dates, road conditions, and any specific regulations, particularly regarding campfires or food storage due to wildlife.

For Montana locals, Therriault Lake Campground offers a quintessential "Last Best Place" experience, perfect for those seeking a true wilderness escape without venturing too far off the grid. The appeal lies in its pristine environment and quiet solitude, a rare commodity in today's busy world. The opportunity to catch "Westslope cutthroat trout" in Big Therriault Lake is a significant draw for our state's passionate angling community, while the clear waters of both lakes provide ample opportunities for peaceful boating and swimming.

The campground's proximity to the "Ten Lakes Scenic Area" is a major highlight, offering "numerous marked hiking trails" right at our doorstep, allowing for endless exploration. For Montanans who appreciate self-sufficiency, the provision of potable water via a "hand pump" and the requirement for proper food storage (due to abundant wildlife) align perfectly with our outdoor ethos. This isn't a resort with all the bells and whistles; it's a genuine forest service campground designed for those who want to truly connect with nature. For a serene, fishing-rich, and authentically Montanan camping trip that feels both remote and welcoming, Therriault Lake Campground is an excellent choice for locals looking to unwind and embrace the beauty of our wild state.

Therriault Lake Campground

NF-319, Eureka, MT 59917, USA