[1][2] The forest was first known as "Clearwater Timber Reserve".

In 1906, it was founded as part of Lolo National Forest.

During this time through the 1950s, this forest was mostly used for logging which was a major part of the local economy.

In 1957, it was founded as Clearwater State Forrest to be managed and ran by Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC).

This Montana protected area article is a stub.