Upper Lake Campground - Red Rock Lakes NWR

For those who call Montana home, the appeal of a rugged, untamed landscape is a core part of the state's identity. Upper Lake Campground, located within the expansive Red Rock Lakes National Wildlife Refuge, offers a camping experience that is quintessentially Montanan. It is not a place for those seeking manicured lawns or modern conveniences, but rather a destination for adventurers and nature lovers who appreciate a primitive, off-the-grid experience. Situated at an elevation of 6,600 feet, the campground is a high-altitude retreat that serves as a gateway to the stunning scenery of the Centennial Valley, with the dramatic Centennial Mountains as a backdrop.

Upper Lake Campground is part of a federally protected area, managed by the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service, established to preserve a critical habitat for native waterfowl, including the majestic Trumpeter Swan. This focus on conservation means the environment is pristine, and the wildlife viewing opportunities are endless. It's a place where you can wake up to the sounds of nature, with Trumpeter Swans feeding just off the shore, and end your day watching a sunset over the water, followed by a sky so dark and filled with stars it will leave you speechless. This campground is a true "stunner in the wilderness," offering a raw and unforgettable encounter with the wild.

Getting to Upper Lake Campground is an adventure in itself, a journey that sets the tone for your entire stay. The campground is located near the town of Lima, Montana, but requires a drive on what are often described as remote, unpaved gravel roads. Visitors should be prepared for a bumpy ride, especially after rain or snowmelt, and should note that a high-clearance vehicle is recommended, and a 4-wheel drive may be necessary depending on the season. The remoteness means you'll find a peaceful and uncrowded environment, far removed from the noise of highways or city life. The solitude and lack of light pollution are well worth the journey.

The address, listed as simply Lima, MT 59739, is a testament to its secluded nature. It's a place you navigate to with a sense of purpose, knowing that the reward is a genuine wilderness experience. The remoteness also means that you should come fully prepared. There are no gas stations, grocery stores, or other commercial services within the refuge. It is crucial to have enough food, water, and fuel to last your entire trip, as the nearest services can be over 45 miles away. The journey to Upper Lake Campground is part of the experience, a way of shedding the modern world and embracing the authentic spirit of Montana's outdoors.

• Tent Sites: Upper Lake Campground offers a number of primitive tent sites. These sites are situated among small trees, providing a bit of a windbreak and a natural feel that is often lacking in more commercial campgrounds. Each site comes with basic amenities for a comfortable, self-sufficient stay.

• RV Camping: The campground can accommodate smaller RVs, with about 12 sites in total. It is important to note that due to the rough roads and limited turning space, large motorhomes and trailers are not recommended. While there are no electric or sewer hookups, there is an RV water hookup available, a welcome feature for those rolling in with their rig.

• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for preparing and enjoying meals outdoors, and a fire ring for campfires. These simple but essential amenities provide a central gathering point for each site, perfect for evening meals or sharing stories under the stars.

• Public Restrooms: The campground provides vault toilets, which are simple, but have been noted by visitors as being clean and well-maintained. This is a crucial amenity for a primitive campground and ensures a more comfortable stay for all guests.

• Running Water: A unique feature of the Upper Lake Campground is the presence of potable water. A fresh spring provides running water out of a pipe on the hillside, a valuable resource for campers that saves you from having to pack in all of your water for drinking and cooking.

• Bear-Proof Lockers: Given the remote location within an active wildlife refuge, bear-proof food storage is mandatory. The campground is equipped with bear-proof lockers, a vital safety feature for storing food and other attractants to prevent wildlife encounters.

• Unmatched Scenery and Views: The main draw of Upper Lake Campground is its breathtaking natural beauty. The campground offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and the upper lake. The scenery is a landscape photographer's dream, with diverse habitats from wetlands to mountains, providing a dramatic backdrop for your entire trip.

• Abundant Wildlife: As part of a National Wildlife Refuge, the area is teeming with a variety of animals. Visitors can expect to see Trumpeter Swans, moose, elk, deer, pronghorn, and a wide array of waterfowl and songbirds. The opportunity to observe wildlife in its natural habitat is a defining feature of this location, and a primary reason many return.

• Secluded and Peaceful Atmosphere: Due to its remote location, the campground is rarely crowded. This lack of other people is a major upside for those seeking solitude and a quiet escape. It’s a place to truly disconnect and enjoy the tranquility of nature, with minimal light and noise pollution.

• Stargazing: The lack of any nearby light pollution makes the night sky over Upper Lake Campground absolutely incredible. On a clear night, the view of the Milky Way and constellations is a spectacular sight, providing a celestial show that is hard to find in more populated areas.

• First-Come, First-Served: The campground does not accept reservations, operating on a first-come, first-served basis. This adds to the adventurous feel of the trip and ensures that the campground remains accessible to spontaneous travelers. Fees are modest at $7 per night per vehicle, or $5 with a Federal Interagency Pass.

For general inquiries about the refuge and its conditions, you can reach out to the headquarters. While they do not take reservations, they can provide updated information on road conditions and what to expect during your visit.

Address: Lima, MT 59739, USA

Phone: (406) 276-3536

For any local or visitor in Montana seeking an authentic camping experience, Upper Lake Campground offers a compelling and unique proposition. It’s a destination that stands apart from the typical campground with its raw, primitive beauty and focus on unspoiled nature. This isn't just a place to stay; it's a place to be a part of the wild, and that is its greatest value.

The most significant reason to choose Upper Lake Campground is the unparalleled sense of peace and solitude. In a world where it's hard to find a quiet place, this campground delivers. The lack of cell service and the minimal human traffic force you to disconnect from the digital world and truly connect with your surroundings. It's a rare opportunity to find yourself alone with nature, to hear the wind instead of traffic, and to see stars instead of streetlights. This level of seclusion is what makes the long drive in, and the primitive amenities, not just tolerable, but a cherished part of the experience.

Furthermore, the value of the scenery and wildlife cannot be overstated. The location within a National Wildlife Refuge means that every moment is a potential wildlife viewing opportunity. From the iconic Trumpeter Swans to the more elusive moose and bears, the area is a living classroom of Montana's native species. The views are expansive, and the landscape is dynamic, changing with every turn of the light. For photographers, bird watchers, and anyone who finds joy in observing the natural world, this campground is a dream come true.

Finally, the no-reservations, first-come, first-served policy, while a potential challenge for some, adds to the authentic, spontaneous nature of the trip. It ensures that the campground remains accessible to all and maintains a low-key, uncommercialized feel. The low nightly fee also makes it an affordable option for those looking to experience a federally protected area without the high costs often associated with tourist hot spots. Upper Lake Campground is for the camper who values a real connection to the land over convenience—a true Montana experience, from the rugged road to the endless sky. It is a place that reminds you why you fell in love with the great outdoors in the first place.

Upper Lake Campground - Red Rock Lakes NWR

Lima, MT 59739, USA