Thompson Falls State Park

Clark Fork River Campground — 17 Riverside Sites, Accessible Fishing Pond, ADA Pier & Community Trail Network Near Thompson Falls

Thompson Falls State Park is a 36-acre riverside campground along the Clark Fork River, approximately 2 miles northwest of Thompson Falls, Montana. The park offers 17 campsites, a small boat launch, a beach area, and an accessible family fishing pond with an ADA-compliant fishing pier — a thoughtful combination that makes it one of western Montana’s most welcoming small campgrounds.

The Clark Fork River — Montana’s longest river at 310 miles — flows past the park on its journey from the Continental Divide to Lake Pend Oreille in Idaho. Thompson Falls State Park’s shaded, mature-canopy campsites sit directly above the river, and the park connects to the Thompson Falls Community Trails network, providing walking and cycling access into town. For travelers along Highway 200 (the “Montana Mainstreet” scenic corridor), the park offers a quiet, well-maintained overnight stop in the heart of Montana’s Clark Fork Valley.

Things to Do

Fishing

• Family fishing pond: An improved, stocked pond with an ADA-accessible fishing pier — ideal for children and mobility-impaired anglers
• Clark Fork River: Pike, bass, and trout fishing from shore or via the boat launch
• Montana fishing license required

Boating

• Small boat launch: Access to the Clark Fork River for kayaks, canoes, and small motorboats
• Float trips: The Clark Fork offers scenic float opportunities through forested valley terrain

Swimming

A beach area along the Clark Fork River provides a refreshing summer swimming spot. No lifeguards — swim at your own risk.

Hiking & Trails

• Thompson Falls Trail: A non-motorized trail along the Clark Fork River connecting the park to Highway 200 and the broader Thompson Falls Community Trails network
• Town access: Walk or bike into Thompson Falls for restaurants, supplies, and the Thompson Falls Dam viewpoint

Picnicking

• Group picnic shelter available for day-use gatherings
• Shaded picnic areas throughout the park

Camping

Reservations: Via Montana State Parks / ReserveAmerica. Seasonal camp host on-site.

Best Time to Visit

Visitor Tips

• Fishing pond: The ADA-accessible fishing pond and pier are a standout feature — perfect for introducing children to fishing in a safe, managed setting separate from the river.
• Bear country: Bear-resistant storage lockers are provided — use them for all food and scented items. Both black bears and occasional grizzlies occur in the Clark Fork Valley.
• RV limit: Maximum trailer/RV length is 30 feet. Larger rigs should look for alternatives.
• Highway 200 corridor: Thompson Falls SP is perfectly positioned on the Montana Highway 200 scenic corridor — an ideal overnight stop when traveling between Missoula and Sandpoint, Idaho.
• Thompson Falls Dam: Walk or bike into town via the trail to see the Thompson Falls Dam viewpoint — a dramatic cascade on the Clark Fork River that gives the town its name.
• Year-round access: The park is open year-round, though water is only available May through September. Winter camping is possible for self-sufficient campers.

Frequently Asked Questions

Last updated: April 2026