Bull River Pavilion
4.4123 reviewsCabinet Ranger District 2693 MT Hwy. 200, TROUT CREEK, MT 59874-9503, USA
Bull River Pavilion
$75.00 - $150.00 / night
Campsite Fees
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$150.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Group Shelter Electric rates vary seasonally. Peak season (May 12–September 30) rates are $75 for 1–50 people and $150 for 51–max people.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of northwestern Montana's pristine woodlands, Bull River Pavilion beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of group gathering spaces and intimate camping spots. Whether you're planning a family reunion beneath the soaring pavilion that accommodates up to 200 guests, or seeking a peaceful retreat among the dozen-plus tent and RV sites, this scenic destination offers the ideal backdrop for creating lasting memories in Montana's natural splendor.
Bull River Pavilion offers various camping options including group shelter accommodations and adjacent tent and RV camping.
Historical SignificanceJust 10 miles southeast of the pavilion stands the impressive Noxon Rapids Dam, a testament to human engineering that has harnessed the power of these mighty waters for more than five decades. This hydroelectric marvel offers fascinating tours where visitors can witness firsthand how this earthen dam has shaped both the landscape and the region's history, providing clean energy while creating the recreational wonderland that surrounds Bull River today.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Bull River Pavilion into a vibrant outdoor paradise, where warm days invite endless adventures and cool mountain evenings call for campfire gatherings. While the campground shines brightest during the traditional camping season, each visit promises comfortable conditions for exploring the surrounding wilderness and enjoying all the recreational opportunities this corner of Montana has to offer.
ElevationPerched at a comfortable 2,200 feet above sea level, Bull River Pavilion offers the perfect elevation for outdoor adventures without the challenges of high-altitude camping. This sweet spot near Cabinet Gorge Reservoir provides refreshingly crisp air, spectacular mountain vistas, and easy access to both water-based activities and forest exploration, all while maintaining a climate that's welcoming to campers of all experience levels.
Natural Features and SceneryWhere the rushing waters of Bull River meet the mighty Clark Fork River, a natural amphitheater of towering cedars and majestic Douglas firs creates an enchanting setting for your outdoor escape. The nearby Cabinet Gorge Reservoir stretches across the landscape, its pristine waters reflecting the surrounding peaks and offering endless opportunities for recreation. This convergence of rivers and forest creates a diverse ecosystem where wildlife thrives and visitors can immerse themselves in the raw beauty of Montana's wilderness.
Geological RegionBull River Pavilion sits at a remarkable geological crossroads in northwestern Montana, where ancient river valleys have carved their paths through dense forests to create today's stunning landscape. The confluence of Bull River and Clark Fork River marks a dramatic meeting point that eventually flows into the expansive 3,200-acre Cabinet Gorge Reservoir. This unique positioning amid towering conifers and flowing waters showcases the powerful forces that have shaped this region over millennia, creating a natural playground that captivates visitors with its rugged beauty and diverse terrain.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible pavilion and campsites with features like vault toilets and gravel surfaces.
Sites SizeSites accommodate both tent and RV camping, with group areas available for up to 200 people.
Sites PrivacyMost sites offer good shade, but proximity to the highway may affect privacy for some.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites are shaded, with some sun exposure for solar use, as per reviews. Lower level offers river access for kayaks and canoes.
Best CampsitesSpecific individual campsites are not rated for quality.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Group site accommodates 1–200 people.
Groups
Group sites can accommodate up to 200 people and 20 vehicles, making them suitable for large gatherings.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe pavilion accommodates up to 200 people and 20 vehicles. Adjacent campground features over a dozen tent/RV sites. Parking surfaces are gravel.
Open and Closed SeasonPeak season runs from May 12 to September 30. No bookings are available in the off-season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not described in the authoritative data, null.
Cancellation PolicyCancelling a reservation incurs a $10 fee, forfeits reservation fees, and may also subtract the first night's recreation fee for late cancellations. For group sites, late cancellations start 14 days before arrival.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Bull River Pavilion provides opportunities for fishing, boating, swimming, wildlife viewing, and group gatherings. User reviews emphasize the scenic beauty of the area, proximity to water-based activities, and occasional challenges like noise from the highway.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with opportunities to catch large and smallmouth bass, perch, rainbow and brown trout, and squawfish. User feedback highlights the clear, cool waters as ideal for fishing.Swimming
Swimming is available in the Bull River, as noted by user reviews, and is particularly enjoyable during hot weather.Boating
Boating, sailing, and water skiing are popular activities on the nearby reservoir. User reviews mention a boat ramp and river access for kayaks and canoes, with some caution about shallow areas and old bridge structures.Wildlife viewing
The campground provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities, including bald eagles seen diving for fish, according to user reviews.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative sources or user reviews.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking, canoeing, and water skiing are available and popular among visitors.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in rings and grills provided at the pavilion.
- Quiet hours are Late-night noise complaints are mentioned, but explicit quiet hour policies are not stated.
Hazards
General hazardsBear-proof food and trash containers are provided, reflecting wildlife-related risks. Some reviews mention noise from highways and trains.
Active alertsActive alerts are not provided in authoritative sources.
Weather forecast
96
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 12%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services details are not explicitly mentioned, null.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 12–September 30 (2025 and 2026 peak seasons).
Trash and recyclingBear-proof trash and recycling containers are available and conveniently located around the campground, as noted in user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is adjacent to Bull River and Clark Fork River, with access to Cabinet Gorge Reservoir. Fishing dock and boat ramp available.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight complaints about camp host diligence, bathroom cleanliness, and noise. Positive feedback includes cleanliness at certain times and welcoming hosts during some seasons.
HostCamp host quality varies according to user reviews. Some hosts are praised for hard work and friendliness, while others are criticized for poor management.
Campground Map
Cabinet Ranger District 2693 MT Hwy. 200, TROUT CREEK, MT 59874-9503, USA
Driving directionsFrom Noxon, travel 6 miles northwest on Highway 200. Bull River Pavilion is located at the back of Bull River Campground.
The campground is located off Highway 200, with gravel parking surfaces. Seasonal accessibility is implied but specific closures or terrain challenges are not mentioned.Nearby places
Noxon—6 miles, Trout Creek—null, other nearby towns—null
Nearby supplies
Details about the nearest locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are not provided, null.
Camper Reviews
4.4
23 reviews
Bull River Pavilion is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews are mixed. Positive themes include the campground's scenic location, clean facilities, and wildlife sightings. Common complaints focus on poor restroom maintenance and issues with camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praise the scenic beauty, shaded sites, wildlife like bald eagles, and convenient water access for activities such as kayaking and fishing.
Based on 23 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include poor restroom maintenance, unpleasant odors near vault toilets, lack of firewood availability, noise from the highway and trains, and unhelpful camp hosts.
Based on 23 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations from users include finding a campsite with enough sun for solar panels, being cautious about shallow waters if boating, and bringing your own firewood as it may not be available.
Based on 23 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews highlight busy seasons, shaded campsites, and active water sports. Noise from highways and trains is mentioned as more noticeable during peak seasons. Fall and off-peak seasons are...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Absolutely loved that there was no phone service; it was time to disconnect and get back to nature.' - Stephanie Weyant
2. 'The campground itself is beautiful, but the bathrooms are gross and...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1 in the Bull River Pavilion area is frequently reviewed for its group accommodations. Positive remarks focus on the pavilion's amenities, while criticisms center on restroom odors and firewood...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The campground is praised for its accessible pavilion and campsites, but complaints about restroom maintenance may impact the experience for disabled visitors.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Mixed reviews for pet owners: while the area is generally pet-friendly, one user reported an unpleasant experience when their dog found trash (a used condom) near the site.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025