Gold Rush Campground
05 reviewsGold Rush Campground, Lolo National Forest
Gold Rush Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fees are charged for camping at this site, making it entirely free for visitors.
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About this campground
Tucked away in a secluded canyon where towering evergreens create a natural cathedral overhead, Gold Rush Campground offers an intimate escape into Montana's wilderness. This hidden gem provides the perfect blend of rustic charm and natural beauty, where campers can fall asleep to the gentle murmur of the nearby stream and wake to birdsong echoing through the forest canopy.
Gold Rush Campground offers primitive camping with sites that are small and limited in number. There are no designated RV or group camping facilities.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Gold Rush Campground with its own distinct palette. Summer brings warm, golden days perfect for streamside relaxation and cool nights ideal for campfire stories. As autumn arrives, the canyon transforms into a tapestry of colors. Winter blankets the area in pristine snow, creating a wonderland for the adventurous, though access may be limited during heavy snowfall. Spring awakens the forest with wildflowers and rushing snowmelt, making every visit a unique experience.
ElevationNestled in the depths of a mountain canyon, the campground sits at an elevation that provides a perfect microclimate, sheltered from harsh winds while maintaining the crisp, clean air that makes mountain camping so refreshing.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's setting is nothing short of magical, where dense stands of pine, fir, and spruce create natural privacy screens between sites. The babbling stream that carved this narrow canyon provides both a soothing soundtrack and opportunities for quiet reflection. Well-maintained hiking trails wind from the campground into the surrounding Lolo National Forest, inviting exploration of hidden waterfalls, wildlife viewing spots, and scenic overlooks that reveal the true grandeur of this mountain landscape.
Geological RegionCarved by centuries of flowing water, this narrow canyon in the heart of Lolo National Forest showcases the raw power of nature's sculptural abilities. The campground rests on the canyon floor where ancient geological forces and persistent stream erosion have created a perfect pocket of wilderness, surrounded by the vast expanse of one of Montana's most pristine national forests.
Campsite details
Sites SizeSites are described as very small with limited space for tent pads.
Sites PrivacyMixed reviews on privacy. Some reviews mention privacy due to bushes and trees, while others highlight the proximity of sites to each other.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors who prefer privacy may opt for sites near the creek, though these may have higher mosquito levels.
Best CampsitesUser reviews suggest that sites near the creek offer additional privacy but also higher mosquito density.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours/day
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of six small sites located along a creek in a forested canyon bottom.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, snow dependent. Restrooms open in April.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, with no reservations available.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Gold Rush Campground are centered around day hiking. A hiking trail is available nearby. There is no mention of other recreational opportunities such as fishing or swimming.
Hiking
A day-hike trail is available nearby the campground, although there are no further details on trail length or difficulty.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, with fire rings provided at each campsite.
Hazards
General hazardsUser reviews and official details highlight mosquito density and other insects (flies, deer flies) due to the nearby creek. Snow conditions in winter may pose a hazard for access.
Active alertsRestrooms remain closed until April; seasonal snow conditions may limit accessibility.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 13%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
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Daily & Hourly Insights
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Temperature Trends
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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
Thompson Falls offers the nearest emergency services, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingNo information provided on trash and recycling facilities.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated along a small creek running behind some sites. The creek is not suitable for wading, according to user reviews.
Common complaintsUser reviews commonly mention small sites and mosquito density due to proximity to the creek. SH described the area as 'mosquito heaven' and 'very small sites.'
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Campground Map
Gold Rush Campground, Lolo National Forest
Driving directionsFrom Thompson Falls, travel west on the Prospect Creek Road for 2 miles. Turn left (east) on the Cherry Creek Road. Turn right (south) on the Dry Creek Road #352 for 6 miles. Campground is on the right (west) side close to the 6-mile marker.
The campground is accessible by gravel roads, and requires a 12-mile drive from Thompson Falls. Seasonal snow conditions may affect access during the winter.Nearby places
Thompson Falls (12 miles, approximately 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Thompson Falls provides the nearest locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
5 reviews
Gold Rush Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Gold Rush Campground has mixed reviews from visitors. Some appreciate the seclusion and the presence of a creek, while others criticize the small site sizes, abundant mosquitos, and lack of amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 5 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained campground, lots of trees and bushes providing privacy, small creek nearby for ambiance.
Based on 5 reviewsCommon Concerns
Very small sites with limited tent pad space, mosquito and fly presence due to the creek, sites close together, and a 12-mile drive primarily on gravel.
Based on 5 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Come prepared for mosquitos and flies. Arrive early due to limited sites (6 total) and lack of reservations. Note that there is no potable water available on-site.
Based on 5 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Mosquitos and flies are mentioned frequently during warmer months. Winter or early spring may offer a more comfortable experience but with limited amenities (e.g., restrooms closed until April).
Based on 5 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Very very small sites, and limited tent pads." - SH
"This campground only has 6 sites, but lots of trees and bushes for privacy." - Jilla L
"One of my favorite campgrounds near the Idaho border....
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Mixed reviews on site size and layout. Jilla L mentions that the campground has only 6 sites and highlights privacy provided by trees and bushes. SH criticizes the sites for being very small and...
Based on 5 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025