Map showing campground location near Ovando, Montana

Camper submitted image from Russell Gates Memorial

Russell Gates Memorial

Russell Gates Memorial is located near Bonner, MT, surrounded by forested terrain and the Blackfoot River. The area experiences temperatures ranging from 20°F in winter to 85°F in summer. Campers can explore the nearby Lolo National Forest and enjoy fishing or hiking opportunities along the river.

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Location

Public Campground

Russell Gates Memorial is located in Montana

Coordinates

47.02300049 N
113.30800067 W

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Connectivity

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Verified by 6 users
Last on 3/13/26
AT&T
No Coverage

Connectivity

T-Mobile
No Coverage
Verizon
No Coverage
Verified by 6 users
Last on 3/13/26
AT&T
No Coverage

Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Boat-In
Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

Tent Sites
RV Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Dispersed
Group

Features

For Campers

ADA Access
Trash
Picnic Table
Drinking Water
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

For Vehicles

30 Amp Hookups

Contact

General Info

Drive Time

39 min from Missoula, MT
1 hr 18 min from Helena, MT
1 hr 49 min from Great Falls, MT
2 hrs 42 min from Bozeman, MT

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5 Stars

4 Stars

3 Stars

2 Stars

1 Star

4.5

out of 5

4 Reviews

Visitors often highlighted the beautiful Blackfoot River location with direct water access from campsites. Some feedback indicated highway noise and crowding issues, though many appreciated the scenic setting.

Jay M.

Guide

Reviewed Jul. 18, 2025

Beautiful camping on the river

This is a great place for a few days. There are no hookups, but there is a water hand pump. You can walk right into the river from your campsite.

Site9

Month of VisitJuly

Leland

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 14, 2021

Beautiful spot very close to the highway

Russell Gates is located on Hwy 200 and the Blackfoot River just on the Missoula side of the Missoula/Powell County line. The campground follows the south shore of the River in one of it’s most picturesque spots. Unfortunately, it is also very close to MT Hwy 200. This means it’s almost always full, and noisy. Considering the options near by, it’s really not the best choice in the area.

Site12

Month of VisitSeptember

Bjorn S.

Legend

Reviewed Jun. 30, 2020

Small and Wonderfully Unmighty

Everything is about the beautiful river here. A cozy, unique campground with tons of water access, vivid greenery and hills and a peaceful night life. Easy for a solo trip or romantic interlude.

(14) View All

Brooke M.

Scout

Reviewed Jun. 22, 2016

Serene River Camping

Golden leaves on popping trees, glints and shimmers of silver and gold bouncing off of the Blackfoot River. Camping a la riverfront. Tent pitched. Fire stoked. Flies tied on the pole. This charming campsite East of the small and charming town of Ovando, Montana, is more than a boat launch, it's a camping way of life.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Russell Gates Memorial Campground?

Russell Gates Memorial Campground offers primitive camping with minimal amenities. The campground features a water hand pump for drinking water, but no hookups for RVs. Campsites are situated along the beautiful Blackfoot River, providing excellent water access. While facilities are basic, the riverfront location makes it a perfect spot for fishing, with many campers enjoying fly fishing in the scenic waters. Fire rings are available for campfires, allowing visitors to enjoy evenings by the fire after a day on the river.

Are there photos available of Russell Gates Memorial Campground?

Yes, photos of Russell Gates Memorial Campground are available through various camping websites and forums. These images typically showcase the campground's stunning riverfront setting on the Blackfoot River, the surrounding hills and vibrant greenery, and the golden-leaved trees that are particularly beautiful in fall. Photos highlight the natural beauty that makes this campground special - river views, campsite layouts, and the picturesque Montana landscape. Check official forest service websites or camping platforms for the most current visual representation of this charming riverside campground.

How do I get to Russell Gates Memorial Campground on the Blackfoot River?

Russell Gates Memorial Campground is located directly on Highway 200 along the Blackfoot River, near the Missoula/Powell County line in Montana. It's situated east of the small town of Ovando. The campground follows the south shore of the Blackfoot River at one of its most picturesque spots. Due to its location right off the highway, it's easily accessible by car with no difficult roads to navigate, making it a convenient stop for travelers along this route.

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