Anaconda-Deer Lodge County sits in the Deer Lodge Valley at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 6,000 feet, with surrounding mountains rising above 10,000 feet. Winter temperatures often drop to single digits while summer days average 75-85°F with cool evenings. The area experiences sudden weather changes with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Fishing access: The Dickie Bridge campground provides direct access to the Big Hole River. "Great location along big hole river for fishing and hunting," notes John T. The site includes a dirt boat ramp and parking for vehicles with trailers.
Hot springs relaxation: Fairmont RV Resort campers can walk to Fairmont Hot Springs Resort. "About 2 blocks from hot spring resort with indoor/outdoor pools, dining & bar," according to Doug P. Another camper adds, "They have a general store that's cute and homey and the park itself is very spacious."
Lake activities: Stuart Mill Bay offers two boat launches—one for motorized and one for non-motorized vessels. "If you like to fish, and/or boat the Stuart Mill Bay is just for you. This state fishing access site campground has you right on the lake shore or very close to lake for easy fishing and boating access," reports Dexter I.
What campers like
Secluded backcountry camping: The Flower Lake Dispersed Camping area requires significant hiking effort but rewards with solitude. Quinn Z. describes the experience: "Once we got to Flower Lake, it was serene. 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."
Waterfall proximity: At Lost Creek State Park Campground, campers enjoy easy waterfall access. "Lost Creek Falls... after a very long 125 yard hike you will be treated with the 50 foot Lost Creek Falls," explains Dexter I. Another visitor notes, "A nice hundred yard path that is paved to the waterfall for anyone with mobility issues."
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain high cleanliness standards. One camper at Fairmont RV Resort observed, "The shower and toilets are immaculate and secure with secure code door locks." At Piney Campground, visitors note the well-maintained sites overlooking Georgetown Lake.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: Mountain conditions change rapidly. One Flower Lake camper reported, "We got slammed with a blizzard that lasted all of the second day and night. We were expecting snow that day, but this was more than we were imagining. It was COLD."
Site availability: First-come-first-served sites fill quickly during peak season. At Stuart Mill Bay, "The campground was sold out when I came by... This campground will likely be full often."
Bear safety requirements: For pet-friendly camping near Anaconda-Deer Lodge County, Montana, wilderness areas require bear precautions. Quinn Z. advises at Flower Lake, "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."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly rules: Piney Campground And Boat Launch offers spacious sites with lake access. A visitor reported, "Not a lot of shade due to beetle infestation. But wasn't an issue in June. All boats, including inflatable kayaks need to be inspected at a Montana inspection station before launching in the water."
Speed limits: Campgrounds with children enforce strict driving rules. At Fairmont RV Resort, "Just be sure to NEVER drive over 5mph as its the number one rule that is the quickest way to get booted out of there. It's for the children's safety and they take it very seriously."
Winter activities: For winter pet camping near Anaconda-Deer Lodge County, Georgetown Lake offers ice fishing. Dexter I. noted at Stuart Mill Bay, "Lake was frozen on my visit so I was out of luck for any fishing."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For pet-friendly RV camping in Anaconda-Deer Lodge County, look beyond the obvious. At Lost Creek State Park, "Hold out for the loop at the end of the road for nicer sites." Another camper advises, "The first 7 sites are along the entrance road and are exposed."
Full hookup options: Big Sky RV Park offers extended-stay options. One visitor noted, "This is an older park, and the amenities are lacking. Bathroom, with shower, has no lock on the door... There is one washer and dryer set on site, and it is reasonable."
Limited shade: Many RV parks have minimal tree cover. A visitor to 2 Bar Lazy H RV Campground observed, "Trees are almost none existent," while another mentioned, "It is located on a hill with well maintained gravel roads and pull throughs 30/50 Amp and full hookups."
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