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Black Bear Campground

4 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Rustic and free, Black Bear Campground sits along Skalkaho Creek in the Bitterroot National Forest, drawing campers who want a no-frills overnight without a reservation or a fee. The roughly 20 sites are first-come, first-served, and each comes with a picnic table and fire pit. Ana A. describes it as "secluded, rustic, and free campsite by Skalkaho Creek," and that framing holds up across multiple visits.

Sites feel well-spaced. Even with neighboring groups present, reviewers consistently report hearing little from adjacent campers. Most sites have a trail at the back leading down to the creek. Road noise is minimal given low traffic on the route in. There is no cell service, no potable water, and no trash service, so packing out is required. The one vault toilet serves the entire campground, which means sites farther from it require a longer walk.

Bugs can be significant during warmer months, so insect repellent is worth packing. RVs can access the campground without issue, though no hookups of any kind are available. The campground stays open year-round, and those exploring campgrounds near Hamilton will find this one among the more low-key options in the corridor. Nearby, Skalkaho Rye Road provides another dispersed-style alternative less than a mile to the east. Arriving by early evening on a summer Friday still leaves a reasonable chance of finding an open site.

Reservation Info

Camping limited to 16 consecutive days. Quiet hours: 10:00pm to 6:00am. Pets must be leashed. No garbage service so pack it in/pack it out.

Campfires allowed depending on Fire Danger level and other possible restrictions.

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Map & DirectionsBlack Bear Campground is located in Montana near Hamilton

Detail location of campground
Public Campground

Directions

From Hamilton travel 2 miles south on Highway 93. Turn east (left) on Skalkaho Highway 38. Follow Skalkaho Highway 38 12.9 miles, turn south (right) at Black Bear Campground.

Coordinates

46.166033 N
113.92453 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Toilets

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

FREE established camping

Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.

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General Info

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Reviews4 Camper Reviews - Black Bear Campground

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5.0

out of 5

4 Reviews

Many visitors appreciated the secluded, rustic setting with private sites and minimal noise. Basic facilities include fire pits and tables, though limited restrooms and no hookups require preparation.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Oct. 29, 2023

Awesome

Gret place to get away, fish, hike, or just enjoy mother nature.

Reviewed Jun. 12, 2023

Secluded rustic site close to Hamilton

Secluded, rustic, and free campsite by Skalkaho Creek. Each site has a picnic table and fire pit. This campsite is first-come, first-served. We arrived here around 6:00 on a Friday night in June and plenty of spots were still available. The sites feel very private. There were groups staying at the sites on either side of us, but we barely heard them. My one complaint is that there’s only one vault toilet, so a lot of sites are far from the restroom.

Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Black Bear Campground by Ana A., June 12, 2023
  • Review photo of Black Bear Campground by Ana A., June 12, 2023
Reviewed Apr. 3, 2023

Quiet, small campground

Although right off the road, there isn't much road noise due to not much traffic. You have access to the creek with most sites(look for the trail in the back of your site). Bugs can be an issue in season, so keep that in mind. 

It looks like you could get an RV in here with no issue... but there are no hookups of any kind, no potable water, and no trash service so pack it out.

I prefer secluded/private places. I would definitely come back.

Month of VisitAugust
Showing results 1-4 of 4 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What does Black Bear Campground in Montana look like?

Black Bear Campground is a secluded, rustic camping area nestled alongside Skalkaho Creek in Montana. The campground features individual sites that feel private and spacious, set among natural vegetation that provides good separation between campers. Each site is positioned to take advantage of the scenic surroundings, with many offering access to the creek via trails from the back of the sites. The natural setting creates a peaceful atmosphere despite being relatively close to a road. The campground has about 20 spots in total, making it a relatively small and intimate camping destination.

What amenities and facilities are available at Black Bear Campground?

Black Bear Campground offers basic amenities typical of a rustic forest campground. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire pit for cooking and enjoying evenings outdoors. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system. There's convenient access to Skalkaho Creek for water activities, fishing, and cooling off. While the campground can accommodate RVs, it's primarily set up for a more primitive camping experience. No information is available about drinking water or toilet facilities, so campers should come prepared with sufficient water and sanitation supplies.

Where is Black Bear Campground located in Montana?

Black Bear Campground is situated along Skalkaho Creek in Montana. The campground is positioned just off a road, but experiences minimal traffic noise due to its relatively remote location. This free camping area provides a convenient overnight spot while exploring the Skalkaho area. While specific driving directions aren't available, the campground's proximity to the creek makes it an ideal base for fishing and hiking activities in the surrounding forest. For precise directions, contacting the local Forest Service office is recommended before your trip.

What are visitors saying about Black Bear Campground?

Campers consistently praise Black Bear Campground for its secluded and quiet atmosphere, perfect for those seeking to disconnect and enjoy nature. The privacy between sites is frequently highlighted as a major positive. Visitors appreciate the easy access to Skalkaho Creek and the opportunities for fishing, hiking, and simply enjoying the natural surroundings. The campground earns high marks for its rustic charm and peaceful setting. Some mention that bugs can be an issue during certain seasons, so coming prepared with insect repellent is advisable.

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