Tent campsites near Anaconda-Deer Lodge County, Montana sit at elevations between 5,000 and 6,500 feet, contributing to dramatic temperature swings even in summer months. The region encompasses portions of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, with camping locations positioned along the Big Hole River watershed and Georgetown Lake. Many sites close after the first significant snowfall, which can occur as early as September.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area surrounding Pintler Campground provides access to remote wilderness habitat with minimal human disturbance. "Pintler Lake is 10 miles from the main road hwy 43. The mostly gravel road is far from smooth with uncomfortable washboard feeling much of the route," notes camper Lisa K., adding that "the lake is lovely but covered for the most part with lily pads on the backside."
Fishing access: Camping at Fishtrap Creek FAS positions anglers directly on the Big Hole River. According to reviewer Dexter I., "Easy fishing access along the length of the camping area, about ½ the campsites sit along the river." The site charges $12 per night with a valid fishing license or $18 without one.
Hiking and climbing: The Humbug Spires Wilderness Study Area provides primitive tent camping access to rock formations and trails. David M. reports, "We found an open meadow of sagebrush. Beautiful sunrise. One bar AT&T signal." This location functions primarily as a trailhead rather than a developed campground.
What campers like
Open spaces with river views: Campsites along the Big Hole River corridor feature gravel parking areas with expansive meadow views. At Fishtrap Creek, camper Dexter notes the campground "is in the open as no trees occupy this area, the closest you can get to trees is some willows on the west end of the campground."
Quiet lakeside locations: Stuart Mill Bay campground provides multiple tent sites with Georgetown Lake access. Camper Annie C. observes that "every site has the standard picnic table and fire pit. Sites 1-7 had more trees than sites 8-16, and sites 8-16 seemed larger and more suited to RVs."
Well-spaced sites: Pettengill Campground receives positive feedback for its layout despite its small size. Jordan V. notes, "There are only 3 paved spots at Pettengill, but they offer a large fire ring and picnic table. There is a large day use area and vault toilets as well, but NO trash service so pack it in, pack it out."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most camping areas near Anaconda-Deer Lodge County operate with minimal facilities. Reviewer Jordan V. notes at Pettengill Campground, "There is a large day use area and vault toilets as well, but NO trash service so pack it in, pack it out."
Access challenges: Some remote tent camping options require significant travel on rough roads. At Pintler Campground, Lisa K. advises, "The mostly gravel road is far from smooth with uncomfortable washboard feeling much of the route. Three spots are available, although people did make two ad how sites down by the river."
Temperature fluctuations: Mountain elevations cause significant day-to-night temperature changes. As David M. observed at Humbug Spires, camping in the "open meadow of sagebrush" provided a "beautiful sunrise" but minimal wind protection or shade.
Tips for camping with families
Look for protected swimming areas: East Bank Rec Site provides tent camping with river access. Camper Maggie K. reports, "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."
Choose sites with shade: When camping with children, prioritize locations with tree cover for midday breaks. At Stuart Mill Bay, Annie C. notes, "Sites 1-7 had more trees than sites 8-16," providing better shade options for families with tents.
Bring insect protection: Mosquitoes and flies can be prevalent, especially near water. Lisa K. warns that Pintler Lake is "buggy with only a slight breeze to keep flies away. Overall nice but remote with only one bathroom facility. Fairly clean but lots of flies."
Tips from RVers
Limited level parking: Many tent camping areas near Anaconda-Deer Lodge County offer minimal space for larger vehicles. At Jerry Creek Br Fish Access, camper kaitlyn L. notes, "If you were self contained and just looking to get off the 15 for the night then it would work for ya. Otherwise it's just a big boat parking lot for the river. Plus side it has an outhouse."
Consider tent-only areas: Several camping areas function better for tent setups than RVs. At Humbug Spires, Christine R. advised, "If you were getting ready to hike in from this trailhead the next morning it might be an okay place to sleep in your truck - or warily in your tent because there could be traffic."
Access paved sites early: When available, paved sites fill quickly. Dexter I. notes that at Pettengill Campground, "The campground road and parking pads are all paved. A large paved parking area is also available and is used for snowmobile parking in the winter."
