MISSOULA — If you're headed out to a US Forest Service campground or rental cabin in Western Montana this summer, you'll have to dig a little deeper to cover those recreation fees.
Both the Lolo and Bitterroot National forests have announced an increase in fees, effective this summer. The agencies say the increases come after two years of review and public outreach.
In some cases, fees will double to $10-to-$15 per night but more popular locations may cost more. For example, Seeley Lake and Big Larch will cost $20 per night. Lake Como will cost $25, which includes the R.V. hookup fee. Group sites will also be more expensive.
While cabin rental fees will see a considerable increase, additional sites are being added, including the Savenac East Cottage and Big Hole Lookout on Lolo National Forest, and the historic Lost Horse Guard Station on the Bitterroot.
The USFS notes that 95% of the fee revenue stays with the agency to be spent on local operations and improvements.
Click here to view the fee rates for the Lolo National Forest. Click here to view the new rate schedule for the Bitterroot National Forest.
