Lee Creek Campground in the Lolo National Forest will undergo water system upgrades, requiring a temporary closure from July 18 to August 30. This project aims to ensure a reliable and safe water supply for visitors. Additionally, the day use area and restroom facilities will remain open during the closure.
Shaun O’Connor, deputy district ranger of the Missoula Ranger District in Lolo National Forest, emphasized that the restoration of a fully functional water system at Lee Creek will benefit visitors.
“Parts of the recreation site may be opened earlier as construction is completed,” O’Connor said, as reported by Clark Fork Valley Press & Mineral Independent on July 17.
Haskins Excavating has been awarded a $75,000 contract for this project. This investment is made possible through the National Parks and Public Land Legacy Restoration Fund, established by the Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA). The GAOA addresses the backlog of deferred maintenance across national forests and grasslands.
The Forest Service manages extensive infrastructure, including roads, bridges, trails, dams, and recreation sites across the United States and Puerto Rico.
Lee Creek Campground, nestled in a shady, forested area adjacent to Lolo Creek and Lee Creek, offers a retreat for outdoor enthusiasts. Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring, and the campground is RV accessible with 30-foot parking spurs available.
Another aspect of the campground is outdoor offerings. Visitors to Lee Creek Campground can explore the nearby interpretive site and take advantage of the proximity to the Lolo Pass Lewis and Clark/Nez Perce National Historic Trail.
Additionally, a commercial hot spring resort is just one mile away, and the Lolo Pass Visitor Center is six miles west, offering educational opportunities and amenities. For those needing supplies, groceries and gas are available 26 miles east of the campground.
According to the campground, fees for staying at Lee Creek Campground are $15 per night, with an additional $5 fee for each vehicle after the first two. These fees are charged from May through Labor Day.
Regular maintenance and repair of campgrounds like Lee Creek highlight the importance of enhancing facilities and ensuring a positive visitor experience. By investing in the upkeep of these sites, private park owners and campground operators can sustain their long-term use and enjoyment. Well-maintained campgrounds not only attract more visitors but also preserve the natural environment, contributing to the appeal of outdoor recreational areas.
