Cascade Campground
4.4317 reviewsCascade Campground
$15.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$20.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Overnight camping fees range from $15 per single site to $20 per group site per night. Additional vehicles cost $5 per night. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount to Single Campsites ONLY.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of a scenic canyon where the Clark Fork River carves its ancient path, Cascade Campground offers a perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness charm. Towering Douglas-firs, stately ponderosa pines, and golden western larches create a natural cathedral of shade, making this riverside retreat an ideal basecamp for both relaxation and adventure. The campground serves as the gateway to the historic Iron Mountain Trail #242, where echoes of pioneer wagons still whisper through the forest. Despite its convenient highway access, the rushing waters of the Clark Fork and the embracing forest canopy create a surprisingly peaceful atmosphere that invites anglers, hikers, and nature lovers alike.
Cascade Campground provides options for tent and RV camping, as well as a group campsite suitable for larger gatherings.
Historical SignificanceStep back in time at Cascade Campground, where the historic Iron Mountain Trail #242 begins its journey into the past. This significant wagon road once served as a vital lifeline for early settlers and traders navigating the rugged terrain of the American frontier. Today's campers can literally walk in the wheel ruts of history, following the same route that carried supplies, dreams, and determination into the wilderness. The trail's terminus at the campground creates a unique opportunity to connect with the pioneering spirit that shaped this region, making every camping trip a journey through both natural beauty and living history.
Weather and SeasonsFrom the wildflower blooms of May through the golden days of September, Cascade Campground welcomes visitors with ideal camping weather. Spring arrives with the excitement of snowmelt feeding the Clark Fork River, while summer brings warm days perfect for riverside relaxation and cool, star-filled nights. The surrounding forest acts as nature's climate control, offering refreshing shade during peak summer heat. Early fall transforms the campground into a photographer's paradise as western larches paint the canyon in brilliant gold, creating magical camping moments before the season winds down.
ElevationTucked into the protective embrace of the canyon floor, Cascade Campground offers a low-elevation camping experience that extends the camping season and provides easier access for visitors of all abilities. This canyon-bottom location creates a unique microclimate where river breezes meet mountain air, offering comfortable camping conditions throughout the season.
Natural Features and SceneryThe dramatic canyon walls rise on either side of Cascade Campground, creating an intimate natural amphitheater where the Clark Fork River takes center stage. Ancient Douglas-firs stretch skyward alongside vanilla-scented ponderosa pines, their massive trunks telling stories of centuries past. Come autumn, the western larches steal the show, transforming from summer green to brilliant gold in nature's most spectacular seasonal performance. The interplay of rushing water, whispering pines, and dappled sunlight creates an ever-changing canvas of natural beauty. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, from osprey fishing the river to deer browsing in the twilight hours, making every moment at Cascade a potential encounter with the wild.
Geological RegionCascade Campground occupies a remarkable geological setting where eons of water have sculpted a dramatic canyon through ancient bedrock. The Clark Fork River continues its patient work, carving deeper into the landscape while creating the perfect corridor for a diverse forest ecosystem. The canyon's steep walls showcase layers of geological history, while the river bottom provides rich soils that support the magnificent stands of Douglas-fir, ponderosa pine, and western larch. This unique convergence of water, stone, and forest creates a camping environment that feels both sheltered and connected to the greater wilderness beyond the canyon walls.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific information on accessibility features is available.
Sites SizeUser reviews mention that the sites are on the smaller side.
Sites PrivacyThe sites appear to lack privacy as some reviews highlight their proximity to the road and the visibility of vehicles and other sites within the campground.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
Null
Groups
The group site fee is $20 per night and is filled on a first-come, first-served basis. The site specifics such as capacity are not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonMay 23 - September 30, 2024
Reservation Platformsnull
Cancellation Policynull
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
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cascade Campground offers a range of activities including hiking, fishing, and boating. Hiking trails are a highlight, with trails leading to Cascade Falls and Cascade Creek. Boating opportunities are available across the highway at Clark Fork River, but the riverbank near the campground is noted as being cluttered with driftwood and spiders, making access less ideal. Fishing is available, and the area is also conducive to scenic drives.
Hiking
The hiking trails include routes to Cascade Falls and Cascade Creek. Some trails are described as moderate and forgiving, with potential for mountain biking on the trails. One hike to the waterfall is approximately 2-3 miles, with a longer route extending over 4 miles.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at the Clark Fork River, providing a recreational option for anglers.Biking
Trails are open to biking and are described as having a forgiving grade, suitable for mountain biking.Boating
Boating, both motorized and non-motorized, is supported at the Clark Fork River. However, access from the campground may be hindered by the riverbank conditions.Wildlife viewing
User reviews and official sources indicate the presence of wildlife, including bears. A visitor saw a bear with cubs during their stay.Water Sports
Boating activities are supported, but access to the river may be hindered due to driftwood and other conditions along the bank.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings are provided at each campsite.
Hazards
General hazardsBears have been sighted within the campground, as noted by user reviews. Adjacent to the highway, increasing vehicular noise.
Weather forecast
93
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 15%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.8 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
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
Call District to confirm opening date 406-826-3821.
Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingGarbage service is available, including bear-proof dumpsters for appropriate waste management.
Proximity to water featuresClark Fork River is across the highway. A primitive boat ramp is available.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention proximity to the road causing noise issues and limited access to the Clark Fork River, which is across the highway and can be difficult to approach.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom St. Regis, travel 18 miles east on state highway 135. Campground is located on the south side of the highway.
Highway 135 provides direct access. The site is adjacent to the highway, making it easy to locate.Nearby places
Plains, Montana - 13 miles
Nearby supplies
13 miles to groceries in Plains, Montana.
Camper Reviews
4.4
17 reviews
Cascade Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the campground as a basic, no-frills option with its proximity to the highway and moderate trails being both an advantage and a disadvantage. Cleanliness of the bathrooms and affordability are appreciated, while noise from the highway and train is a recurring complaint.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects mentioned include the clean facilities, affordable pricing at $10-$15 per night, and the availability of hiking trails. The scenic views from the top of the waterfall and bear-proof...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the proximity to the road and noise from passing vehicles and trains, limited water facilities requiring the use of a hand pump, and the difficult riverbank access described...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing earplugs due to highway and train noise, a mountain bike to explore nearby trails, and preparing for potential encounters with bears. Firewood availability is not...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open from May 23 to September 30. Reviews indicate that finding a spot during weekends in peak summer months like June and July is possible. Bears appear to be active during the...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Basic forest service campground. Concrete no flushing restroom. Hand operated water pump. Trailhead to top of small waterfall.' - Myke
2. 'The campground has some nice spots, but they are on the...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific site reviews are limited, but users mentioned all sites being close enough to see vehicles on the nearby highway. Site sizes are described as small.
Based on 17 reviewsAccessibility Features
No reviews specifically address accessibility features or challenges.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences involving pets.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025