Rainy Lake Campground
4.008 reviewsQuick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
6 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
6 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsRainy Lake Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
No fees. Pack it in/Pack it out.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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$0.00
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USFS
ProviderWhat Campers Say
4.00
Satisfactory
Based on 8 reviews
26 Google reviews
Most mentioned
waterlakesites
Some mention
noise
"Rainy Lake Campground is highly regarded by some for its natural beauty, tranquility, and access to outdoor activities like fishing and canoeing. However, several users noted drawbacks, including the lack of amenities, poor privacy when the campground is crowded, and disruptive behavior by other campers."
Fees & Passes at Rainy Lake Campground
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: Not specified
Cancellation: No reservations are taken, so there is no cancellation process.
Prices verified August 10, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Lolo National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Rainy Lake Campground
Experience the campground's dramatic seasonal transformations throughout the year. Summer brings warm, golden days perfect for swimming and lazy afternoons by the water, while autumn paints the surrounding forest in brilliant hues. Winter transforms this lakeside retreat into a snow-dusted wonderland, though accessing your slice of paradise may require extra determination when snowfall blankets the access roads. Spring arrives with wildflowers and the return of migrating birds, making every season a unique adventure at Rainy Lake.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Operating Season: Campground is open year-round, with snow levels determining access.
- Current Alerts: None mentioned.
About Rainy Lake Campground
Tucked away on the pristine shores of Rainy Lake, this intimate six-site campground offers a true escape into Montana's wilderness. Part of the enchanting Clearwater Chain of Lakes, Rainy Lake Campground welcomes adventurers seeking solitude and natural beauty on a first-come, first-served basis. Whether you're pulling up to the RV-accessible Site 1 or shouldering your pack for a short walk to one of five secluded tent sites, you'll find yourself immersed in a landscape where morning mist dances across the water and the only sounds are lapping waves and rustling pines. This is the perfect basecamp for paddlers eager to explore the interconnected waterways or anglers hoping to land their next memorable catch.
Rainy Lake Campground offers primitive camping options in a small, tranquil setting, catering mostly to tent campers and one accessible RV site.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the campground's dramatic seasonal transformations throughout the year. Summer brings warm, golden days perfect for swimming and lazy afternoons by the water, while autumn paints the surrounding forest in brilliant hues. Winter transforms this lakeside retreat into a snow-dusted wonderland, though accessing your slice of paradise may require extra determination when snowfall blankets the access roads. Spring arrives with wildflowers and the return of migrating birds, making every season a unique adventure at Rainy Lake.
ElevationNestled within the mountainous terrain of northwest Montana, the campground sits at an elevation where alpine and valley ecosystems meet, creating diverse habitats and spectacular vistas that change with every turn of the trail.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the sight of mist rising from Rainy Lake's glassy surface, surrounded by towering evergreens that shelter your campsite in a natural cathedral. This pristine mountain lake environment serves as a living gallery where nature's drama unfolds daily—from eagles soaring overhead to deer stepping delicately to the water's edge for an evening drink. The dense forest canopy provides both shade and sanctuary, while the lake itself beckons with its clear waters and hidden coves waiting to be explored. Keep your camera ready and your food secured, as this wild landscape is home to its original inhabitants, including the majestic grizzly bear.
Geological RegionSet within the spectacular Clearwater Chain of Lakes in Lolo National Forest, Rainy Lake Campground occupies a geological wonderland shaped by ancient glaciers and volcanic activity. This mountain lake ecosystem represents millions of years of natural sculpting, where crystalline waters fill basins carved from bedrock, creating a chain of aquatic gems connected by streams and surrounded by dense coniferous forests. The result is a breathtaking tapestry of water and woodland that defines the character of western Montana's wilderness.
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Campsite details
AccessibilitySite 1 is an accessible RV site, making it amenable for campers with mobility issues. There is no information about other accessibility features.
Sites SizeSites are relatively small, designed either for walk-in tent setups or a single RV at site 1.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at the campsites appears limited due to the campground's small size. This is exemplified by a user review stating how activities in one site could affect others, such as a large group gathering at Site 4 impacting the experience of the camper at Site 5.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 1 is the only RV-accessible site, while Sites 2-6 are walk-in, better suited for tent camping.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Not specified
Guests Allowed Per Site
Not specified
Groups
There is no specific group camping provision. User reviews mention that this campground is not ideal for large groups, with one reviewer suggesting group sites elsewhere.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground comprises six sites, with Site 1 designated for RVs and Sites 2-6 for walk-in tent use.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is open year-round, with snow levels determining access.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable as the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll six sites are first come, first served, with no reservation system.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations are taken, so there is no cancellation process.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Rainy Lake Campground offers a mix of water and land-based recreational opportunities. Canoeing, kayaking, and fishing on Rainy Lake are popular water activities. Hiking trails are also available nearby, providing options for exploration. Wildlife viewing is implicitly suggested as this is bear country.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available nearby, though specific details about the length, difficulty, and terrain of these trails are not provided.Fishing
Rainy Lake, part of the Clearwater Chain of Lakes, is suitable for fishing. However, one user described fishing as 'poor,' which might reflect individual experiences or lake conditions.Boating
The campground supports non-motorized boating activities such as canoeing and kayaking. Reviewers appreciated the proximity to the lake for launching watercraft.Wildlife viewing
The area is bear country, which implies the presence of diverse wildlife. A user reported seeing a grizzly bear during their stay.Winter Activities
Winter camping is possible, as the campground is open year-round. However, snow levels determine accessibility.Water Sports
The lake's suitability for kayaking and canoeing makes it a good spot for these water sports.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire policies are not specified, though the pack-it-in, pack-it-out requirement implies the need for care with waste and fire.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazards"THIS IS BEAR COUNTRY," one reviewer emphasized. Grizzly bears have been sighted, underscoring the importance of proper food storage. The lack of potable water and restrooms also requires preparedness.
Active alertsNone mentioned.
Weather at Rainy Lake Campground
38
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 76%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 8 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
Weather History
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Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency services are not explicitly mentioned, but Seeley Lake, the nearest town (12.2 miles away), likely provides medical and police services.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingRainy Lake Campground follows a pack-it-in, pack-it-out policy. There are no trash or recycling facilities available.
Proximity to water featuresRainy Lake, part of the Clearwater Chain of Lakes, is directly accessible from the campground, offering opportunities for canoeing, kayaking, and fishing.
Common complaintsThe lack of amenities such as potable water and restrooms is a frequent concern. Noise and large groups disturbing the tranquility of the campground have also been noted.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom the town of Seeley Lake, Montana head North on MT-83 N toward Thelma for 12.2 miles. Turn left onto Rainy Lake Campground, Road FS RD #4357.
The campground is accessible via paved roads up to the turnoff, after which it involves a short drive on Forest Service Road #4357 to the site. Seasonal conditions such as snow may impact accessibility.Nearby places
Seeley Lake - 12.2 miles
Nearby supplies
The nearest town, Seeley Lake (12.2 miles away), is the most likely location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.0
8 reviews
Rainy Lake Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Rainy Lake Campground is highly regarded by some for its natural beauty, tranquility, and access to outdoor activities like fishing and canoeing. However, several users noted drawbacks, including the lack of amenities, poor privacy when the campground is crowded, and disruptive behavior by other campers.
Review Summaries
Based on 8 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the campground for its scenic beauty, ease of access to the lake, and first-come, first-served no-fee policy. One user stated, 'Great little 5 spot no fee, no reservation campground...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints included limited amenities (no water or restrooms), poor fishing conditions, and disruptive groups. A user remarked, 'no camping long walk to lake no water out house not maintained fishing...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations include bringing your own water and firewood, adhering to bear safety protocols, and being prepared for primitive camping conditions. A reviewer advised, 'Pack your food and drinks in...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open year-round, but snow levels affect accessibility in winter. Summer reviews are generally positive due to warmer weather and outdoor activities, though occasional disruptions...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Nice, but more for tents.' 2. 'This place was a dream...Everything about this trip was amazing.' 3. 'Beautiful spot. I had site 5 with views of the lake.' 4. 'I've camped there for a lot of...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1 is noted for RV accessibility. Site 5 received praise for views of the lake, but proximity to other sites can lead to disturbances, as experienced by one user when a large group occupied Site...
Based on 8 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The campground's accessibility features are limited to Site 1 being an RV-accessible site. No additional accessibility provisions were mentioned.
Based on 8 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, with no specific pet-related amenities or restrictions highlighted in user feedback.
Based on 8 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated August 10, 2025
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