Rexford Bench

Star4.54
56 reviews
949 US HIGHWAY 93 N
Rexford Bench
$24.00 - $48.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The campground charges $24.00 to $48.00 per night during both peak and first-come, first-served seasons.
Standard Site Fee$24.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$24.00

Share this campground
Recreation.gov
Provider
406-296-2536

About this campground

Nestled along the pristine shores of Lake Koocanusa, Rexford Bench Recreation Area beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of wilderness and comfort. This beautifully developed campground offers 54 thoughtfully arranged sites beneath towering ponderosa pines, where 19 can be reserved in advance for peace of mind, while 35 remain available for spontaneous adventurers seeking first-come, first-served spots. Smooth paved roads wind through the property, leading to modern flush toilet facilities that ensure comfort without sacrificing the authentic camping experience. While RV travelers won't find utility hookups here, the natural beauty and well-maintained amenities more than compensate for this back-to-basics approach.
Rexford Bench Campground caters to a variety of camping preferences, with options for tent and RV camping. The campsite layout is praised for its spaciousness and accessibility.
Historical SignificanceJust downstream from the campground, the legendary Kootenai River flows beneath Libby Dam, carrying with it a reputation that makes anglers' hearts race. This stretch of water has earned its prestigious blue-ribbon fishery designation through decades of providing world-class fishing experiences, where trophy trout lurk in the cool, oxygen-rich currents created by the dam's releases.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Rexford Bench in dramatically different hues, creating a year-round destination for those who appreciate nature's changing moods. Summer transforms the campground into a sun-drenched paradise where warm days invite endless hours of boating on Lake Koocanusa's crystal waters and hiking through fragrant pine forests. As autumn arrives, the landscape shifts to golden tones before winter blankets the region in pristine snow, bringing crisp mountain air and temperatures that remind visitors of the raw beauty of Montana's northern wilderness.
ElevationPerched at 2,470 feet above sea level, Rexford Bench occupies a sweet spot in Montana's varied topography. This moderate elevation creates an ideal microclimate during summer months, where morning mists rise from the lake to meet warm afternoon sunshine, and evening temperatures drop just enough to make campfires a welcome gathering point under star-filled skies.
Natural Features and SceneryStanding sentinel over the sapphire expanse of Lake Koocanusa, ancient ponderosa pines create a natural cathedral around Rexford Bench. This remarkable 46,500-acre reservoir stretches across the landscape with 127 miles of intricate shoreline that weaves between forested coves and rocky outcroppings. Above, magnificent osprey circle on thermal currents while bald eagles perch regally in lakeside snags, their piercing calls echoing across the water as they hunt for fish in the depths below.
Geological RegionIn the far reaches of northwest Montana, where the Continental Divide gives way to rolling forests just miles from the Canadian border, Rexford Bench claims its place within the vast Kootenai National Forest. Here, the engineering marvel of Libby Dam has transformed the ancient Kootenai River valley into the stunning Lake Koocanusa—a 46,500-acre aquatic playground whose 127 miles of shoreline create countless hidden bays and secret fishing spots. The surrounding landscape tells a story written in ponderosa pine and carved by glacial forces, where the northern Rockies gradually soften into the distinctive terrain of Montana's northwestern frontier.

Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible single-family sites, as well as paved roads and spurs. The facilities, including flush toilets, are designed for accessibility.
Sites SizeCampsites are spacious and well-laid out, accommodating both tent and RV camping. One reviewer noted, "The parking was definitely more than enough for our SUV and 22ft camping trailer."
Sites PrivacyThe sites are described as well-separated and spacious. One camper mentioned, "Our campsite was well separated from the others nearby so it was nice to not feel crowded."
Total Campsites54 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites in Loop B for access to clean bathrooms and proximity to Lake Koocanusa. Tent camping is prohibited in RV-only sites.
Best CampsitesHighly-rated sites include campsite 45 and others in Loop B that offer spacious layouts.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in is at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 2:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Visitors may stay up to 16 consecutive nights per visit or 48 nights total within a year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specifically stated.
Groups
There is no specific information about designated group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground features paved roads and campsite spurs, with some sites offering spacious layouts.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 23 and closes September 1 annually for reservations. First-come, first-served availability extends from September 2 through September 22.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in Availability35 sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the check-in day incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations incur forfeiture of the first night's use fee and additional penalties may apply.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Flush toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Rexford Bench Campground offers diverse recreational opportunities, including hiking, fishing, boating, and swimming. The proximity to Lake Koocanusa enhances the experience with options for water-based activities. Visitors can also explore nearby sandstone formations and enjoy wildlife viewing.
Hiking
The campground features multiple hiking trails, including an interpretive trail looping around the campground and the Hoodoo Trail leading to sandstone formations. One user stated, "The trailhead to get there is right next to this campsite."
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with anglers targeting kokanee salmon, whitefish, and various trout species. Fishing derbies are held several times a year.
Swimming
The campground includes a day-use area with a swimming beach. However, one review noted that the beach is not sandy.
Biking
Biking trails are available, with one camper mentioning, "Like the bike and walking trails."
Boating
A high and low water boat ramp allows for boating on Lake Koocanusa. One review described the facilities as "good boat launch and boat trailer parking."
Wildlife viewing
Osprey and eagles are frequently seen fishing in the reservoir, especially around Libby Dam at sunset. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant.
Beach activities
Beach-related activities are possible, but the beach is noted for not being sandy, which may affect certain activities.
Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are mentioned, though the campground is open seasonally.
Water Sports
The lake offers opportunities for water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and paddleboarding.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings.
  • Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.

Hazards

General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife such as bears, as well as seasonal challenges like snow and cold temperatures.

Weather forecast

58
°F
Oct 11
Saturday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Strong wind, exercise caution

Humidity: 45%

Comfortable humidity levels

Wind: 11.9 mph

Strong wind, exercise caution

Overcast
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Temperature Trends

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Precipitation Trends

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Weather Summaries

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Emergency Services

Nearest hospital and emergency services are likely in Eureka, approximately 7 miles away.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 23 - September 1
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities has been provided, but the campground is frequently praised for its cleanliness.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Lake Koocanusa, with easy access to beaches and boat ramps.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include unhelpful staff and occasional delays in accessing reserved sites.
HostHosts are generally helpful and maintain cleanliness, but some reviews cite unprofessional behavior during certain stays.

Campground Map

949 US HIGHWAY 93 N
Driving directionsFrom Eureka, travel west on Highway 93 for about a mile, then continue 6 miles south on Highway 37.
Campground roads and campsite spurs are paved, making access straightforward. Seasonal considerations like snowfall may influence accessibility.
Nearby places
Eureka (7 miles, approximately 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Eureka, 7 miles away. User reviews mention the nearby Frontier Bar provides various camper services.

Camper Reviews

4.5
56 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Rexford Bench is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Rexford Bench Campground receives high praise for its cleanliness, spacious sites, and well-maintained facilities. However, some reviewers noted issues with campground hosts, lack of showers, and occasional maintenance problems.
Review Summaries
Based on 56 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers frequently highlight the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and well-maintained restrooms. One user noted, "Probably the nicest campground bathrooms I have ever seen." Another...
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Based on 56 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the lack of shower facilities, maintenance issues such as unclean restrooms during certain stays, and unhelpful campground hosts.
Based on 56 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend arriving early to secure first-come, first-served sites, bringing extra soap for restrooms, and preparing for a lack of utility hookups. One reviewer noted, "The Frontier Bar nearby...
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Based on 56 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is particularly popular in the summer months, with users praising the proximity to Lake Koocanusa for water activities. However, late summer may bring issues such as yellow jackets.
Based on 56 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Bathrooms remained very clean for the duration of our stay. Flushing toilets with a sink and lights was a first for us at a campsite!" "The camp host and hostess were amazing, friendly people, and...
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Based on 56 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 45 received mixed reviews due to reservation posting issues but was otherwise praised for spaciousness. Site 48 was noted for being close to clean bathrooms. Site 41 was highlighted for its...
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Based on 56 reviews

Accessibility Features

The campground's paved roads and accessible restrooms were praised by users, though no specific reviews from individuals with disabilities were noted.
Based on 56 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific information about pet-related policies or reviews has been provided.
Based on 56 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

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