Blackfoot River Corridor
00 review3201 Spurgin Road, Missoula, Montana, 59801, United States
Blackfoot River Corridor
$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
Camping at designated float-in campsites requires a reservation and permit year-round. However, specific fee amounts are not provided.
About this campground
Discover a paddler's paradise along the Blackfoot River Corridor, where eight secluded float-in campsites await those seeking adventure on one of Montana's most beloved snow-fed rivers. These water-access-only sites put you at the heart of an outdoor playground perfect for whitewater rafting, kayaking, and tubing enthusiasts. Whether you're casting a line for native trout, navigating rapids in your canoe, or simply drifting downstream on a lazy summer afternoon, the Blackfoot offers an authentic Montana river experience that combines thrilling water sports with pristine wilderness camping.
The Blackfoot River Corridor is exclusively for primitive float-in camping, accessible only by watercraft.
Historical SignificanceThe Blackfoot River holds a legendary place in Montana's outdoor heritage, immortalized in literature and cherished by generations of adventurers. This iconic waterway forms the backbone of the specially designated Blackfoot River Recreation Corridor, a protected area that balances public access with conservation through thoughtfully crafted regulations. Here, visitors become part of a continuing story that celebrates Montana's wild rivers and the communities that have long depended on their life-giving waters.
Weather and SeasonsTime your adventure perfectly with the Blackfoot's dynamic seasonal personality. Spring awakens the river with powerful snowmelt flows from mid-May through July, creating heart-pumping whitewater conditions that experienced paddlers crave. As summer progresses and flows drop below 1,000cfs at the Bonner gauge, the river reveals its technical side, demanding precise navigation through rocky channels. Montana's characteristic winters blanket the corridor in snow and freezing temperatures, while summer rewards visitors with crystal-clear skies and comfortable temperatures ideal for multi-day river journeys.
ElevationWhile specific elevation data isn't available for the corridor, paddlers will experience the gentle descent characteristic of Montana's river valleys as they journey downstream through this diverse landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryPrepare for a visual feast as the Blackfoot River guides you through Montana's most photogenic landscapes. Your journey begins among golden open farmlands before the river carves its way between towering cliffs that rise dramatically from the water's edge. Dense forests of pine and fir cascade down steep slopes, creating a green corridor that shelters an impressive array of wildlife. Keep your camera ready for encounters with majestic elk grazing riverside meadows, glimpses of grizzly bears foraging in the distance, playful river otters diving beneath your boat, and bald eagles soaring overhead against Montana's big sky.
Geological RegionNestled in Northwestern Montana's diverse terrain, the Blackfoot River Corridor showcases the region's geological tapestry as it winds through landscapes shaped by both ancient forces and modern waters. Fed by mountain snow and natural springs, the river has carved its course through a dramatic sequence of environments—from broad agricultural valleys reminiscent of the region's ranching heritage to narrow canyons where vertical cliffs bear witness to millions of years of geological history, all crowned by the dense coniferous forests that define the Northern Rockies ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThere is no information regarding accessibility features at these primitive campsites.
Sites SizeAll campsites are designed for small groups, with a maximum capacity of 10 people per site.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites are dispersed along the river, providing a high level of privacy. Each site is float-in and likely well-separated from others.
Total Campsites8 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites based on accessibility during different river flow levels. Lower flows may make some camps difficult to reach.
Best CampsitesSpecific site preferences are not mentioned, but the float-in sites include River Junction, Bear Creek Flats, Clearwater, Ninemile Prairie, Corrick's River Bend, Ponderosa Flats, Goose Rock, and Clark's Cliff.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Reservations are non-transferable and cannot be sold, bartered, or traded. Specifics on maximum consecutive nights are not provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum group size per campsite is 10 people.
Groups
- No group-specific sites are available
- each campsite accommodates up to 10 people maximum.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground contains eight dispersed float-in campsites accessible by watercraft along the Blackfoot River.
Open and Closed SeasonReservations can be made year-round. High river flows typically occur mid-May, with lower flows starting towards the end of July.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are mandatory for float-in campsites, but specific platforms or methods (e.g., a website or phone number) are not detailed.
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping is not permitted outside designated float-in campsites, which require reservations year-round.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are non-transferable and cannot be sold, bartered, or traded. Only the primary occupant and their party are authorized to camp during the reservation period.
Activities you can enjoy
The Blackfoot River Corridor offers a range of activities centered around the river's natural beauty and recreation opportunities.
Fishing
The Blackfoot River is renowned for its excellent fishing opportunities. As one reviewer noted: 'The Blackfoot River sets in beautiful country and offers excellent fishing.'Swimming
The river's clear waters are suitable for swimming, though no designated swimming areas are mentioned.Boating
The Blackfoot River allows for whitewater rafting, kayaking, tubing, canoeing, and other watercraft activities. However, there are class II-III rapids, and some campsites may be difficult to access during low flows.Wildlife viewing
The area is rich in wildlife. Campers may spot 'elk, grizzly bears, river otters, bald eagles, and other wildlife.'Winter Activities
No information about winter activities is available.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, and tubing are popular activities on the Blackfoot River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire pans must be carried and used; campfires are permitted with regulations.
Hazards
General hazardsThe river includes Class II-III rapids, which may present technical rowing challenges during lower flows. Grizzly bears are present in the area, requiring caution.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 12%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.7 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Emergency services near the campground likely include facilities in Missoula—specific details on hospitals, police stations, or ranger stations are not provided.
Good to know
Peak season datesHigh river flows generally occur mid-May, while lower flows begin around late July.
Trash and recyclingCampers are required to carry in and carry out all trash and recycling. No facilities are provided for waste disposal on-site.
Proximity to water featuresThe campsites are located along the Blackfoot River, one of Montana's most popular rivers.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention limited camping options and increasing popularity of the area.
Campground Map
3201 Spurgin Road, Missoula, Montana, 59801, United States
Driving directionsLaunch Locations: Cedar Meadow FAS, River Junction FAS, Harry Morgan FAS, Scotty Brown Bridge FAS, Russell Gates Memorial FAS, Six Stall FAS, Three Stall FAS, Roundup FAS, Corrick's River Bend FAS.
The sites along the Blackfoot River Corridor require floating a watercraft into them. Accessibility may vary based on river flow levels—lower flows below 1,000cfs at the Bonner stream gauge may make campsites difficult to reach due to exposed rocks and technical rowing challenges. Visitors must check river flows and plan accordingly.Nearby places
Missoula is the closest city, but distances to other nearby towns like Lincoln and Ovando are not provided.
Nearby supplies
Camping supplies, groceries, and fuel may be available in Missoula, Montana. There is a mention of the town of Ovando in user reviews, which could offer some additional amenities.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Blackfoot River Corridor has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the natural beauty and popularity of the Blackfoot River Corridor. Some users mention concerns about overcrowding and the reduction of camping opportunities over time.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive reviews emphasize the area's stunning natural beauty, abundant fishing opportunities, and tranquil setting. As one reviewer stated, 'The Blackfoot River sets in beautiful country and offers...
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Common Concerns
Some users note overcrowding and express dissatisfaction with the decreasing availability of camping areas.
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should prepare for primitive conditions, including bringing fire pans and portable toilet systems. Be aware that the region is grizzly bear territory.
Seasonal Insights
High water flows are typically mid-May, while lower flows start toward the end of July. This variability can impact campsite accessibility and water activities.
Camper Quotes
- 'Beautiful but too popular and less camping as time goes on.' - K. Johnson
- 'The Blackfoot River sets in beautiful country and offers excellent fishing.' - Karla Mazel
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific reviews about individual sites were found.
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at the campsites, and no user reviews specifically mention pet-related experiences.
Last updated August 10, 2025