Clark Canyon Reservoir offers multiple free camping areas within 60 miles of Leadore, Idaho. The reservoir campgrounds provide basic amenities like vault toilets, water access, and picnic shelters at no cost for stays up to 14 days. Several campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 5,000-6,500 feet, creating variable weather conditions throughout the camping season.
What to do
Explore ghost towns: Bannack State Park combines camping with historical exploration of an 1860s mining settlement. "The ghost town allows you a look at how settlers and miners leaved in the early day of Montana. See the 1st Territorial Governors Manson (ok, small cabin). Almost all of building you can enter," explains one camper.
Creek fishing: Near Vigilante Campground, visitors can try their luck at fishing. "Caught a few fish on the fly too. Mosquitos were bad, no surprise there with the creek close by," reports a camper who enjoyed the accessible water at this location.
Water recreation: Clark Canyon Recreation Area offers boating, swimming and water activities. "Beautiful lake! Perfect for boating and kayaking. There is a designated camping area that looked to have electric hook ups, further into the canyon are more dispersed sites," notes one visitor.
What campers like
Privacy at remote sites: Hap Hawkins Campground provides more seclusion than other nearby options. "This campground is one of several that are for free along this reservoir. This one definitely was the least packed during the week. There are 5 spots & they each have picnic tables & metal fire rings," shares a camper.
Covered picnic areas: Clark Canyon campsites feature unique sheltered eating areas. "Everyone gets there own picnic table under a shelter and a firepit. The sites are far apart and flat," mentions a reviewer, highlighting the practical setup for all-weather camping.
Proximity to supplies: For those seeking glamping in Leadore, Idaho area with nearby services, some options keep you connected. "Beautiful setting, walking distance to supplies, easy on/off highway," notes a visitor to Mountain View Motel and RV Park, making it convenient for restocking during longer stays.
What you should know
Cell service varies: Connectivity differs significantly between locations. "I had 1-2 bars of LTE via AT&T while outside my camper," reports a camper at Hap Hawkins, while another notes "No att coverage, super quiet" at Bannack State Park.
Weather considerations: The high desert environment creates specific conditions. "Prepare for wind," warns one camper about Clark Canyon Recreation Area, while another mentions "Most sites are open and can get very hot."
Road access challenges: Some campgrounds require traveling unpaved roads. "This spot is harder to get to compared to the others since you have to travel 4 miles down a dirt road," explains a camper about accessing more remote sites.
Tips for camping with families
Junior Ranger programs: Beaverhead National Forest East Creek Campground provides educational opportunities. "Kids visiting the park can work on a Jr. Ranger program. Great time to visit is when they have volunteers dressed in period clothing," advises a frequent visitor.
Swimming options: Some locations offer cooling off spots during hot summer days. "Small sandy beach for swimming, and beautiful water/lake view, plus handicap accessible," describes one camper about Clark Canyon facilities.
Child-friendly activities: Historical reenactments provide entertainment beyond standard camping. "The best times to visit is when reenactments are happening at the park," recommends a camper, noting these special events enhance luxury glamping near Leadore, Idaho for families with children.
Tips from RVers
Utility limitations: Most campgrounds near Leadore have minimal hookups. "Just empty your tanks and fill up on water, food and supplies in Dillon. Heavily shaded. Bring a generator to charge you bank, though I felt bad about running them because of the disruption in the serenity," advises an RV camper at Bannack.
Site spacing: Clark Canyon Recreation Area offers ample room between campsites. "The sites are far apart and flat. The mountains are right here!" notes a reviewer, indicating good positioning options for larger vehicles.
Seasonal considerations: Water levels affect boat access at certain times. "There is also a boat ramp but lake is low right now," mentions a camper, suggesting checking reservoir conditions before planning water-based activities while glamping in the Leadore region.
