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Campgrounds surrounding Anaconda-Deer Lodge County range from full-hookup RV parks to primitive backcountry campsites in western Montana. The area features Fairmont RV Resort with full hookup sites, cabins and tent camping, as well as rustic options such as Dickie Bridge along the Big Hole River. Several public lands offer dispersed camping, including the remote Upper Seymour Lake and Flower Lake areas accessible only by hiking trails. Camping options range from developed RV parks with showers and electrical hookups to primitive backcountry sites near alpine lakes. Both tent and RV camping are accommodated throughout the region, with sites along waterways, near hot springs, and in forested settings.
Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, typically from May through September or October, with weather determining exact opening and closing dates. Access to dispersed sites in higher elevations can be limited by snowpack into early summer. Several campgrounds provide basic amenities like vault toilets and picnic tables, while RV parks offer full hookups, showers, and laundry facilities. Preparation is essential for dispersed camping areas, which lack services and require hikers to bring all supplies. Bear activity is common throughout the region, requiring proper food storage and awareness. One camper noted: "This is grizzly country and we saw a LOT of signs of them. Fresh droppings. Fresh prints in the snow after the blizzard. Bring bear spray. Hang your food."
The area's waterfront campsites consistently receive positive reviews, particularly those along the Big Hole River and at alpine lakes. Campgrounds near Fairmont Hot Springs provide convenient access to thermal pools and resort amenities, making them popular family destinations. Many visitors appreciate the quiet, natural settings found throughout the region, though some note that mosquitoes can be problematic, especially in riverside locations. Higher elevation dispersed sites deliver exceptional solitude and views. A visitor to Flower Lake described: "From the time we left Upper Seymour Lake to the time we got back, we didn't see or hear another soul. Five days of just us." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with many campers reporting sightings of various animals throughout their stays.
"Nice location for an overnight rest spot. We had a tent site, close to the road, but traffic wasn’t bad after dark. Site was grassy. No fires allowed for obvious reasons."
"Sites are close to each other. There were no picnic tables and wood fires are not allowed so no fire rings."
"The campground is tucked between two imposing rock walls that deliver wonderful sunset and sunrise scenery."
"Lost Creek State Park is located just outside of Anaconda, and is a perfect location for a quick day-hike or a multi-day trip. It is located in a canyon that is very secluded and has great views."
"No beach area nearby, only access to the water is the boat launch area by loop A. The water in the bay is a bit gross, but you can’t beat the views."
"Inside of the vault toilets were clean (granted we stayed at the start of the camping season) Close proximity to the lake 3 separate loops make it kid and bike friendly Firewood was for sale in Loop A"
from $17 - $30 / night
Check Availability"Dicky Bridge Campground is a small BLM campground located near the Big Hole River, just off of Montana Highway 43. This 10 site campground is well shaded by large pine trees."
"Great location along big hole river for fishing and hunting.Some rvs run generators all night long very rude, caused some tent campers to leave because of noise , I guess some people do not respect to"
"Water pump nearby. Full 5G. Basically glamping at this point. Georgetown Lake is right there. Mountain views everywhere you look. One of the prettiest campgrounds in Montana, full stop."
"Snagged a FCFS site at this wonderful Montana state park after reading reviews. So glad I did. Such a nice campground, nice neighbors. Lots of people out on the lake boating."
from $17 / night
Check Availability"Very beautiful area with not too many people around. River runs right next to it. Has a vault toilet and bear proof food storage. Was $15 a night."
"The lake is stunning, and sits nestled right up against some pretty dramatic mountains. Lots of trees and dispersed camping sites throughout. The hike in is about 7 miles, very gentle incline."
"Then I noticed the sprinklers watering a manicured lawn in the middle of southwest Montana and genuinely did a double take."
"The BLM's Divide Bridge Campground is a nice campground located on the Big Hole River just off of state highway 43. The campground is a short distance past the pleasant day use area and boat launch."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"While this campground sit along state highway 43, it is quiet at night as this is a lightly used highway with little to no truck traffic."
"Restrooms were clean and well maintained, which honestly felt like a miracle given the remote location. Stunning scenery in every direction."
TravelerClean and spacious campsites on the Big Hole River down the road from the boat launch. Picnic tables, fire rings, bear boxes, and some sites have awnings. About 5 of the sites are along the river itself. Potable water is available. No dump or garbage service. Great hosts.
TravelerThis site has designated gravel areas, with a park bench, fire pit (with cooking grill and plenty of wood around) and also a bear box to store food. The camp is near a wide river (Big Hole River) making it ideal for multiple night stays despite being free. Across the bridge is even a day use toilet (1 minute drive from camp)
Best free camp we’ve experienced in the US in the last 6 weeks of our travels
GuideLoved this place. We stayed for 2 nights in June and it was a fantastic and relaxing spot. Clean and well maintained and surroundings were beautiful. My boys loved feeding the fish in the pond and walking up and down the river. Staff were very friendly and kind. Would absolutely stay here again
TravelerAfter a few days of roughing it, pulling into Divide Bridge felt like checking into the Ritz. Then I noticed the sprinklers watering a manicured lawn in the middle of southwest Montana and genuinely did a double take.
Beautiful campground, stunning scenery in every direction, and free potable water that felt like a gift from the universe after Fishtrap. Sites are a bit close together, but I'm a country boy...
Payment options cover all generations — digital kiosk for the tech savvy and old school paper money for those of us who don't entirely trust the machines. Sarah Connor was right about a lot of things.
Do not forget mosquito spray. This is not a suggestion. Consider yourself warned. But seriously. Bathe in it.
The rock slide on the south side is apparently an easy hike to the top. I know this because my 17-year-old climbed it in his slides. Actual slides. On his feet. Teenagers are a different species.
Wade fishing is available right from camp, though the current here is considerably faster than the upper river. A couple of guys were wading after dinner and making it work, but honestly this section is better suited to floating. Good to know before you leave your drift boat at home.
Would return without hesitation.
Traveler⭐⭐⭐⭐ No shade. No water. No WiFi. No problem — if you knew what you were signing up for. If you didn't, Butte is about an hour away and they have everything you forgot, including sunscreen, which I apparently decided was optional. Spoiler: it is not.
Stock up before you arrive. Wise River has beer and ice. Everything else requires a field trip to Anaconda or Butte.
Nights are dead quiet and peaceful. Mornings are a different story — the Big Hole guide fleet arrives at dawn with boats, trailers, and zero concern for your sleep schedule. Bring earplugs or just embrace it.
Fishing was solid. Beware the whitefish. You'll know.
Restrooms were clean and well maintained, which honestly felt like a miracle given the remote location.
Stunning scenery in every direction. The Big Hole National Battlefield is nearby and absolutely worth a stop — just check the hours first. It's closed Mondays and Tuesdays. Not that anyone reads open/closed dates beforehand. Not that I would know anything about that. Gloriously far from everything else. Exactly as advertised.
TravelerReserved through Recreation.gov — easy process, well worth it. Easy to find, just know your loop — A or B matters. Sites are flat, paved, well spaced, and the outhouses were shockingly clean. Water pump nearby. Full 5G. Basically glamping at this point. Georgetown Lake is right there. Mountain views everywhere you look. One of the prettiest campgrounds in Montana, full stop. Fire rings are solid. Spacing is generous enough that I barely registered my neighbors — something about a toddler being enthusiastically towed around camp by Bo, a yellow lab operating completely outside the chain of command. Barely noticed. Bring sunscreen. The wind is relentless and you won't feel yourself turning into a strip of beef jerky until it's too late. Think twice before deploying your awning unless you've always wanted to track its flight path toward North Dakota. The campground hosts a thriving colony of what appear to be prairie dogs. They chirp. Constantly. You get used to it. Probably. Mosquitoes are rumored to exist here at sunset. The wind refused to let us confirm this. Bring repellant anyway — the wind takes days off occasionally. Exceptional spot. Would return without hesitation.
ScoutIf you stay at this RV park, be well aware that if you go over by 1 mph his speed limit or you’re trying to charge your Tesla or you do something on the grass that he doesn’t like he’s gonna boot you out like he did to us today. Good thing we had rented a room here at the RV park and this has happened many times so they let us stay here. Would never recommend to stay here. Worst guy to deal with I’ve ever dealt with in 50 years.
GuideThis area has many BLM roads with many dispensed camping areas. There weren't too many people overall, but wherever there was more, there were plenty of campsites. You can camp with a tent, vehicle, or RV. Roads are a little bumpy, especially near the campsite pull off ares. Up to 16 days of camping allowed. Carry out your own trash. There are lots of trails great for hiking and especially dirt biking. Overall, very quiet and peaceful, especially in the morning. Views of mountains all around. Good coverage for most sites.
TravelerFantastic campground. Free, plenty of spots, pit toilet. I wouldn't take a trailer. Easily accessible with my Class B, anything bigger might have issues.
Camping spots near Anaconda-Deer Lodge County, Montana range from 4,000 to 7,000 feet elevation, creating distinct camping seasons and temperature variations. Most camping areas remain snow-covered until late May, with higher elevations inaccessible until mid-June. Nighttime temperatures can drop below freezing even in summer months at sites near Georgetown Lake and the Continental Divide.
**Fishing access: **Dickie Bridge provides direct access to the Big Hole River, one of Montana's premier fly fishing destinations. The campground includes a dirt boat ramp and trailer parking area. "The site does have a dirt boat ramp and a larger parking area for vehicles and their boat trailers," notes reviewer Dexter I.
Hot springs relaxation: Fairmont RV Resort offers special access to nearby thermal pools. "Hot Springs next door and able to get a pass from front desk to get access (still need to pay)," mentions Kimberly E. The proximity makes it convenient for soaking after a day outdoors.
Winter recreation: While most campgrounds close seasonally, the areas surrounding Georgetown Lake provide winter camping opportunities. "We got a surprise snow on the 2nd night but stayed 8 days/nights," shares Jeremiah H. about Piney Campground, indicating the area's year-round appeal.
Lake access: Georgetown Lake provides excellent waterfront camping with boat launch facilities. "Such a nice campground, nice neighbors. Lots of people out on the lake boating. There is a boat launch in the campground," writes Kathy B. about her stay at Piney Campground.
Waterfall proximity: Lost Creek State Park features an accessible 50-foot waterfall just steps from camping sites. "Lost Creek is in a beautiful canyon spot...There is a beautiful waterfall and rushing creek that is a pleasure to listen to at night," explains Leland. Several campers mention hearing the falls from their sites.
Backcountry solitude: The hike-in sites at Flower Lake offer complete seclusion for those willing to make the trek. "Lots of great hiking here, as the CDT (Continental Divide Trail) goes through this area. I recommend the hike to the top of Rainbow Mountain for some truly stunning views," notes Quinn Z., highlighting the hiking opportunities beyond just camping.
Bear awareness: Active bear populations require proper preparation, especially in backcountry areas. "BRING BEAR SPRAY. HANG YOUR FOOD. This is grizzly country and we saw a LOT of signs of them. Fresh droppings. Fresh prints in the snow after the blizzard," warns Quinn Z. from their Flower Lake experience.
Weather variability: Summer snow remains possible at higher elevations. "Definitely check the weather before going in. We got slammed with a blizzard that lasted all of the second day and night," reports a camper at Flower Lake, emphasizing the importance of weather preparation.
Camping regulations: Policies vary significantly between campgrounds. "There is no fee for this site," notes a reviewer about East Bank Rec Site, while others require payment. Fire restrictions also differ, with some locations prohibiting fires entirely.
Accessible nature trails: Lost Creek State Park offers family-friendly hiking options. "You have to start by going to the waterfall, which is a very easy 100 yard, paved hike," mentions Sean H., making it ideal for families with young children or limited mobility.
Amenities nearby: Fairmont RV Resort provides family-friendly facilities beyond camping. "If you like waterslides or golfing this will be hard to beat. Nice and clean areas with a great little store," shares Jeff, who adds that "At check-in, I was offered a day pass to the golf course and water park at no cost for the day."
Mosquito preparation: Riverside campsites experience heavy mosquito activity. "Super buggy, bring the industrial strength mosquito repellent!" warns Annie C. about Dickie Bridge, a consideration particularly important when camping with children.
Site access: Most campgrounds provide limited large rig access. "Know that there is a Loop B which doesn't show on Recreation.gov, that is all FCFS…. Many sites that seem to go unused!" advises Bryan P. about Piney Campground, giving RVers additional options beyond reservation systems.
Hookup variations: Services vary widely between locations. "Each site has a picnic bench. The staff was friendly. We were planning on staying for just one night and ended up staying for two," notes Bernie Z. about 2 Bar Lazy H RV Campground, one of the few full-hookup options in the region.
Level sites: Finding level parking is crucial for larger rigs. "There are restrooms, showers and a laundry room. The restrooms could have been cleaner. However the camp sites are nearly level and the owners are friendly and helpful," explains Joe D., highlighting the practical aspects RVers prioritize.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at campgrounds in Anaconda, Montana?
Campgrounds around Anaconda offer varying levels of amenities. Deerlodge National Forest Lowland Campground provides basic facilities including vault toilets and 11 campsites in a quiet, secluded setting, though there's no cell service. For more amenities, Dickie Bridge offers well-shaded sites under large pine trees near the Big Hole River. Most public campgrounds in the area typically include fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. For those seeking additional facilities, some nearby private campgrounds provide showers, potable water, and electrical hookups. The proximity to rivers and lakes adds recreational value to many of these sites, with fishing access being a common feature throughout the region.
Are there RV parks available in Anaconda-Deer Lodge County?
Yes, several RV parks serve the Anaconda-Deer Lodge County area. Sportsman Lodge, Cabins & RV Park offers about 10 full-hookup RV spots on grassy areas with meticulously maintained grounds and beautiful mountain views. Located just one mile off Interstate 15, it provides convenient access for travelers. 2 Bar Lazy H RV Campground west of Butte offers easy access from I-90 with nearly level sites, restrooms, showers, and laundry facilities. Additionally, Fairmont RV Resort near Anaconda provides reservable sites with water, toilets, and is big-rig friendly for those traveling with larger RVs.
Where are the best campgrounds in Anaconda-Deer Lodge County?
Anaconda-Deer Lodge County offers several outstanding camping options. Lost Creek State Park Campground stands out with its impressive rock walls that create spectacular sunset views, level parking spots, tall trees for shade, and fire rings. Another excellent choice is Delmoe Lake in the nearby Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, which offers beautiful lakeside camping about 10 miles from the main road. The area attracts OHV enthusiasts but provides a serene camping experience with scenic mountain views. Both locations are well-maintained and provide the quintessential Montana camping experience with natural beauty and outdoor recreation opportunities.
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