A Forest Service timber removal project reshaped Jumping Creek Campground several years ago, and the results are visible the moment you pull in. A fungus outbreak prompted clear-cutting across the loop, leaving most sites exposed under open sky rather than a forest canopy. Low shrubs, wildflowers, and blueberry patches have filled in where the trees once stood, and a creek runs along one side of the loop, providing the only reliable shade on the property.
The campground sits within Lewis & Clark National Forest and runs roughly 10 to 15 sites arranged on the outside of a loop, with enough space to fit small trailers. Sites include solid tables and fire rings, and two vault toilets serve the area. Water comes from a well with a hand pump. The road in has a reputation for being rough, so low-clearance vehicles should approach with care. No cell service is available on Verizon, and likely on other carriers as well.
As Tree V. puts it, "Nothing here to get very excited about." That assessment holds for campers expecting a classic forested National Forest experience. What the campground does provide is a functional, low-cost overnight stop with reliable water, clean facilities on most visits, and a stream worth exploring. Fees have been reported between $10 and $15 per night on a self-pay, no-reservation basis. No pets are allowed. Nearby alternatives include Lamb Creek Campground and Kings Hill Campground for those who want more tree cover. Jumping Creek works best as a no-frills stopover for campers passing through the area.
Description
Jumping Creek Campground sits at an elevation of 5800 feet along US Highway 89 in the Little Belt Mountains 22 miles north of White Sulphur Springs. The 10 campsites are along Sheep Creek, which offers opportunity for fishing for brook and rainbow trout. The campground has multiple slots which can accommodate long trailers, up to a maximum length of 45 feet. Jumping Creek Campground is usually open late May through October. Nearby historic logging roads provide motorized access to the Smoky Mountain area. To the east on US Highway 89 is the trailhead to a scenic ATV trail which climbs Mizpah Peak. Please see Little Belt Mountains Motor Vehicle Use Map for location and closure dates.All campgrounds on the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest are first-come, first-served. Reservations are not available. Camping is limited to 16 consecutive days in one location. A campground fee is required. Please pay at the self-serve campground fee station. Campsites cannot be reserved by simply paying for the site; camper must be present. A food storage order is in effect from March 1st to December 1st to prevent human-bear conflicts on the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. Store all unattended food and attractants properly. Please see Food Storage Order for specifics. Open and close dates can vary depending on snowfall conditions. Please call the local district office or check our website. Leashed dogs are welcome. Horses are not allowed in campgrounds. Motorized OHVs must stay on the campground road. The campgrounds include access to potable water during the warmer months, and all have at least one handicap accessible vault toilet. Each campsite has a fire ring and/or grill, and a picnic table. Even if water is unavailable, campground fees are still required.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsJumping Creek Campground is located in Montana near Neihart
Directions
From Neihart, go about 17 miles south on US 89.
Coordinates
46.76388889 N
110.7847222 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Boat-InSites accessible by watercraft.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Tent Cabin
Features
For Campers
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Alcohol
Drive Time
- 1 hr 21 min from Great Falls, MT
- 1 hr 33 min from Helena, MT
- 1 hr 36 min from Bozeman, MT
- 2 hrs 25 min from Billings, MT
