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Lid Creek Campground lies on the Hungry Horse Reservoir, in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, west of the Continental Divide and just south of the Canadian border. It is nestled in a mixed forest of conifers at an elevation of 3,600 feet.

Plentiful huckleberry bushes. Wildlife viewing (lynx, grizzly bear, bull trout). Food storage order in effect

This is a Flathead National Forest campground—one of the Forest Service camps that define Montana camping for travelers who want a fire ring, a picnic table, and quiet timber rather than full-hookup convenience. Amenities are modest by design. Confirm water, trash, and fire restrictions with the local ranger district before you drive in.

Nearest town: Hungry Horse. Elevation about 3600 feet.

Campground snapshot

  • Agency / unit: USFS — Flathead National Forest
  • Sites: 22
  • Type: Tent/RV
  • Fee range: $18
  • Season: Jun-Sep
  • Reservations: Recreation.gov, FCFS
  • Access road: Paved
  • Best for: Hungry Horse Reservoir

Amenities

Vault toilets, No potable water, Fire rings, picnic tables

How to book

Reservations and site details typically run through Recreation.gov, FCFS. Many Forest Service camps keep first-come, first-served loops; remote camps may be entirely FCFS. Confirm current fees, water status, and fire restrictions before arrival. Official listing: www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234474.

Bear country & campcraft

This stop sits in classic Montana bear country. Store all attractants—food, trash, toiletries, cookware, and pet food—in a hard-sided vehicle, an IGBC-approved container, a provided bear box, or a proper hang. Never bring food or cooking clothes into the tent.

Campfires belong only in provided metal rings when restrictions allow. Drown, stir, and feel the ashes with the back of your hand before leaving or sleeping. In Stage II restrictions, open fires are banned even in developed sites—use a shut-off stove only.

Follow Leave No Trace: camp on durable surfaces, pack out everything you pack in, and leave the site cleaner than you found it.

Plan the rest of the trip

Visitor Access

  • Nearest town: Hungry Horse
  • Focus: National Forest
  • Coordinates: 48.2236, -113.8633
  • Road note: Paved
  • Access note: Confirm road conditions, water availability, and fire restrictions before arrival. Mountain weather can drop below freezing even in midsummer.
  • Legal reminder: Follow agency food-storage orders, stay within designated sites in developed camps, and respect private land and tribal boundaries.
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