Yaak River Campground (Mt)
4.6927 reviews12858 US HWY. 2
Yaak River Campground (Mt)
$16.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Recreation fees include $16 for standard non-electric campsites and $60 for group sites (non-electric). Discounts are available for Golden Age cardholders (50% off). Additional charges may apply for extra vehicles ($5 per vehicle).
About this campground
Where the pristine Yaak River meets the mighty Kootenai near Troy, Montana, discover a riverside sanctuary that beckons outdoor enthusiasts year-round. Yaak River Campground's 45 thoughtfully placed sites nestle among towering evergreens and meadows of waving grass across two distinct loops. Whether you're casting a line into crystal-clear waters, setting off on forest trails, or launching a raft for downstream adventures, this confluence campground serves as your gateway to Montana's untamed northwest corner.
Yaak River Campground supports several types of camping, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. A group site accommodates up to 75 people and features tables, grills, and a large campfire circle.
Historical SignificanceStep into a landscape where ancient traditions meet frontier history. Just downstream, the sacred Kootenai Falls thunders through a gorge that has held spiritual significance for the Kootenai Tribe for countless generations. Your journey here follows the legendary David Thompson Historic Route, where the great explorer once paddled these very waters while mapping the Northern Rocky Mountains. This scenic byway winds through valleys and peaks that tell the story of indigenous heritage, early exploration, and the enduring spirit of the American West.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May's wildflower bloom through September's golden days, Yaak River Campground welcomes visitors with nature's finest weather. Experience sun-drenched mornings perfect for riverside coffee, comfortable afternoons ideal for exploration, and crisp evenings made for campfire stories. With predominantly clear skies and gentle precipitation patterns, the peak season offers reliable conditions for everything from multi-day backpacking trips to leisurely weekend getaways.
ElevationPerched at 1,900 feet above sea level, the campground offers the perfect balance of mountain freshness and accessibility. This moderate elevation creates a natural air conditioning system where cool mountain breezes filter through the forest canopy, providing refreshing relief on summer days while maintaining comfortable conditions for evening gatherings around the fire pit.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a living cathedral of ancient evergreens where shafts of sunlight pierce the canopy to illuminate carpets of ferns and wildflowers. The campground's diverse ecosystem showcases nature's layers - from towering mature conifers to vibrant understory shrubs, meadows of native grasses, and groves of young pines regenerating the forest. Wildlife thrives in this river corridor sanctuary, where deer browse at dawn, eagles soar overhead, and the melodic rush of converging waters provides nature's constant soundtrack. At 1,900 feet, this forested haven offers intimate riverside spots and expansive mountain vistas.
Geological RegionTucked into northwestern Montana's rugged landscape near the Idaho border, Yaak River Campground occupies a dramatic geological crossroads where two river valleys converge. This heavily forested pocket of the Northern Rockies showcases the region's characteristic tapestry - dense stands of mature evergreens interspersed with meadow openings, young pine groves, and riparian corridors lined with native shrubs. The confluence setting has shaped this landscape for millennia, creating the diverse habitats and scenic beauty that define this corner of Big Sky Country.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has paved roads that are suitable for biking and presumably accessible for wheelchairs. However, no specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeMost campsites offer an average length of 32 feet, which accommodates RVs and other camping setups.
Sites PrivacyReviews offer mixed impressions of campsite privacy. One states, 'Sites are spread out perfectly. Plenty of privacy,' while another mentions some noise from the nearby highway and train tracks.
Total Campsites45 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor privacy and spreading out, the smaller loop is recommended. Sites along the river offer scenic views and easy water access.
Best CampsitesSome user reviews praise sites near the river for their size and proximity to water. The smaller loop is recommended for privacy.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
10:00 AM
Check-out
10:00 PM
Stay Limit
- 16 days per visit
- 48 days total per year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Exact guest information per site is not clearly mentioned but group sites accommodate up to 75 people.
Groups
The reservable group site is designed for up to 75 people and includes multiple tables, grills, and a large campfire circle.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of 45 sites divided into two loops. Loop A includes the group day-use site, and Loop B features a boat ramp for river access.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 20, 2025 - September 30, 2025. Closures occur outside of this period.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov, contact center, or mobile app.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll individual campsites are first-come, first-served. Saving sites is prohibited.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations are allowed for $10. Cancellations incur a $10 fee and may forfeit the first night's fees if canceled late (after midnight 1 day before check-in). Refunds depend on timing and facility management discretion.
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
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Yaak River Campground provides diverse recreational activities. Visitors can engage in fishing, hiking, swimming, and boating, among other pursuits. The nearby Cabinet Mountains offer trails for hiking and mountain biking, while local rivers provide opportunities for fishing and rafting. User reviews highlight the scenic beauty and relaxing atmosphere of the campground. For example, one reviewer states, 'Beautiful, quiet, and serene... enjoy the sounds of the beautiful Yaak and Kootenai Rivers.'
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available within the nearby Cabinet Mountains. The trails vary in difficulty and length, although specific measurements are not provided.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with anglers catching mostly whitefish and a variety of trout. One review notes, 'Excellent River fishing on the Kootenai,' although another mentions, 'No fish in the river!?'Swimming
Swimming areas are available, but specific facilities or safety measures are not described. A user review mentions swimming among the activities visitors can enjoy.Biking
Mountain biking is possible along the trails in the nearby Cabinet Mountains. Paved roads within the campground are also suitable for casual biking, according to one reviewer: 'Nicely paved road through the campground so bring your bikes, the kids will love it.'Boating
A primitive boat ramp located in Loop B allows access to the Kootenai River. Canoeing and rafting are also popular activities in the area.Wildlife viewing
The campground's heavily wooded surroundings provide opportunities for wildlife viewing. Specific species are not mentioned, but one review highlights the campground's secluded nature and proximity to the river as ideal for outdoor exploration.Cultural and Educational Programs
The campground is located near Kootenai Falls, a site of historical significance for the Kootenai Tribe. Visitors can explore the falls and the swinging bridge as part of their cultural or educational experience.Winter Activities
No winter activities are described in the source materials.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as rafting and canoeing are popular activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly stated but noise like generators and highway/train sounds are mentioned by users as limited at certain times.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential wildlife encounters. Highway noise and train sounds could be noticeable near certain areas of the campground.
Active alertsNo current active alerts are mentioned in the source.
Weather forecast
96
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 10%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.1 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Closest hospital, police station, and ranger station locations are in Troy, Montana (approximately 8 miles west from the campground). Specific emergency contact numbers are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 20 - September 30 annually.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available via a large dumpster located at the entrance, according to user reviews. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated at the confluence of the Yaak and Kootenai Rivers. A boat ramp is available in Loop B for river access.
Common complaintsSome reviewers note occasional generator use and highway/train noise. One user mentioned lack of fishing success in the river.
HostHosts Steve and Cindy receive high praise for their friendliness and cleanliness. They manage the campground and assist campers with issues.
Campground Map
12858 US HWY. 2
Driving directionsFrom Troy, travel west on Highway 2 for approximately 7 miles. The fee station and campground hosts are located on the east side of the road, prior to crossing the Yaak River.
The campground is accessible via paved roads. It is located directly off Highway 2, making it easy to reach. The roads are in good condition and suitable for all vehicle types.Nearby places
Troy: 8 miles west (approximately 10 minutes). Idaho border: 6.5 miles east (approximately 8 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and other essentials can be obtained in Troy, Montana, located about 8 miles west from the campground. No specific store names are mentioned.
Camper Reviews
4.7
27 reviews
Yaak River Campground (Mt) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users frequently praise the scenic beauty, cleanliness, and well-maintained facilities of Yaak River Campground, with numerous mentions of friendly and helpful hosts. Most reviews rate the campground very highly, with an average sentiment of 4.7 out of 5.
Review Summaries
Based on 27 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, proximity to rivers, and friendly hosts. One user notes, 'The campground is managed by the hosts Steve and Cindy,' while another...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints are minimal but include occasional noise from nearby train tracks and highways. One review states, 'Highway and train noise could be too much at times,' but adds, 'We were fine and happy...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Several users recommend visiting nearby attractions such as Kootenai Falls and the swinging bridge. Others suggest choosing sites closer to the river for added privacy and scenic views.
Based on 27 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews are consistently positive across seasons, although one mentions the campground remains clean even during busy weekends like Labor Day.
Based on 27 reviewsCamper Quotes
Direct quotes from users include: 'Beautiful, quiet, and serene,' 'What a great place! We liked it so much that we visited an extra unplanned two days,' and 'You can walk 50 feet and be at water's...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Users recommend sites closer to the river for a better experience but don't provide specific site numbers. One notes, 'Try going to the smaller loop; it's a little bit spread out and offers more...
Based on 27 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 27 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, but no user reviews specifically address pet-related experiences or features.
Based on 27 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025