Lolo National Forest planned significant improvements to Bighorn Campground in the upper Rock Creek area. Scheduled to commence this spring and summer, the $150,000 project aims to address drainage issues and add new campsites.
Funded by the Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund, established by the 2020 Great American Outdoors Act, the enhancements will include reconstructing the access road, adding five newly developed campsites, and refurbishing existing ones. The project also plans to install a vault toilet, new picnic tables, and fire rings.
Shaun O’Connor, deputy district ranger for the Missoula Ranger District of the Lolo National Forest, underscored the upgrades’ importance.
This campground has been challenged by poor drainage and aging infrastructure. The planned improvements will provide sustainable recreation amenities for Rock Creek visitors in a beautiful area of the Lolo,” O’Connor, as quoted by NBC Montana on May 13.
Construction will focus on the campground’s main loop, keeping the three creek-side campsites open to minimize visitor disruption. Schlegel Enterprises Inc. has been tasked with the work, which began on May 5 and is expected to last six weeks. A second phase, slated for later in the summer, will introduce a new surface material to the campground roads.
Concurrently, Rock Creek Road will undergo enhancements, including resurfacing and improved drainage features. Scheduled to start after July 1 to avoid the Rock Creek float fishing season, this project should wrap up by November. Although the road will remain open, intermittent delays of up to 30 minutes are anticipated.
The upgrades at Bighorn Campground underscore the role of enhancing amenities to elevate guest satisfaction. Strategic investments in facility improvements not only boost accessibility and comfort but also improve the overall visitor experience.
