Powell Ranger District — Jerry Johnson Campground

Jerry Johnson sits along US-12 on the Lochsa River, making it a prime base camp for overlanders staging a Lolo Motorway run from the western end. The campground is tucked under big ponderosa and cedar along the riverbank — cool, shaded, and loud with river noise. It’s a developed site with vault toilets and fire rings, and it fills up fast on summer weekends thanks to the nearby Jerry Johnson hot springs — budget to be there Thursday night if you want a spot. No hookups, no showers, no reservations: first come, first served.

Access is straightforward off US-12 at Warm Springs Creek Road, then a short spur. Passenger cars can handle it. Season runs roughly May through October depending on snowpack. Cell service is minimal in the Lochsa canyon. Pack in your own water or treat from the river — the potable water situation can vary by season.

Lochsa River base camp for the Lolo Motorway