Bitterroot National Forest, MT RV Rentals and Motorhome Rentals

The Bitterroot National Forest is located in far western Montana. The small town of Stevensville is located near it. The nearest larger town is Missoula, located around 30 miles to the north, while the state's capital, Helena, is almost 150 miles to the east.

Bitterroot National Forest is located in a wild and beautiful part of the country, surrounded by rugged mountain chains. Creeks, ponds, and other waterways snake through the forest, and you will likely find more wildlife here than people. There are historical sites, such as ghost towns and old mines that can be discovered, as well as expansive vistas to be enjoyed.

Getting Outdoors

Renting an RV in the Bitterroot National Forest will allow easy access to all sorts of recreational opportunities. Pattee Canyon and several other recreation areas are also found near the forest. Outdoor activities can be enjoyed here as well, including scenic drives. Trails and roads allow visitors up-close views of the nearby forestland. There are some picnic facilities available, so feel free to extend your stay and bring lunch.

Bitterroot National Forest itself provides for all sorts of recreational adventures throughout the year. Hiking, camping, swimming, and fishing are all available in the summer, while winter sports such as snowmobiling or snowshoeing are enjoyed during the lengthy winter season. There are also opportunities to view the region's varied wildlife, which can be quite large and include critters such as moose and bear. Visitors should be aware that winter conditions in this part of the country can last into May. In the more mountainous areas, winter weather can be encountered at any time.

Hiking is one of the prime activities people enjoy participating in the national forest. The Kootenai Creek Trail is one prominent trek. This option actually includes several different trails that travel to various sites, such as a swinging bridge and a waterfall. The creek flow can be anywhere from a mere trickle to a violent torrent, depending on current rainy conditions or snowmelt. Hikers should be "bear aware," as grizzly bears are found in the local area.

Camping in Bitterroot National Forest

You won't have any trouble camping with an RV in Bitterroot National Forest. Numerous campgrounds are found nearby that offer a varying array of amenities.

National forest campgrounds are found throughout Bitterroot National Forest. These are usually rustic in nature, offering only basic amenities such as potable water and vault toilets. The campgrounds are usually located in more rugged, rural areas as well, so expect that many will be closed during the winter season. Local ranger stations can give up-to-date information on the condition and availability of each campground.

When you're looking for an RV park with more amenities, and that is open all year, check out Missoula KOA. This KOA provides access to a pool when the weather is warm, also offers a hot tub, cable, WiFi, and welcomes pets. Missoula KOA is conveniently located just off the main route through town, so finding it should be no trouble. A camp store is also found on-site. As there are so many fun and interesting attractions found locally, many people enjoy RV camping in the Bitterroot National Forest, so there should be plenty of services available.

Exploring the Area

When you book an RV in Ravalli County, you will find all sorts of things to do. The St. Mary's Mission is also in Stevensville. This is a replica built to resemble the mission that the first missionaries who settled the town would have constructed. It features the history of the local area since it was founded in the 1840s. National forest RV camping will allow you the chance to explore all sorts of unique attractions around the nearby region.

An unusual historical site that is commonly found in this part of the country is ghost towns. Garnet Ghost Town State Park is located nearby. This location has been very well preserved, so that visitors can actually walk the streets of the town, seeing it from the eyes of the people who once lived there. Bring your camera and tour this old town!

Montana is considered wildfire country, so be prepared. The Aerial Fire Depot and Smokejumper Center is found at the Missoula International Airport. There is a Visitor's Center that offers information on the firefighters who risk their personal safety for the benefit of others. The equipment and firefighting techniques that are used are highlighted as well.

When you've been looking for a scenic place to relax in the mountains, where a wide variety of activities are available, consider camping in the Bitterroot National Forest. Go for a hike through the forest, take a scenic drive, or visit an old ghost town. Camp in an RV near Stevensville and enjoy exploring western Montana.