Best Campgrounds near Arlee, MT
The Jocko Valley surrounding Arlee, Montana features a mix of established campgrounds and dispersed camping options within the Flathead Indian Reservation and nearby national forest lands. Jocko Hollow Campground, located directly in Arlee, accommodates tents, RVs, and cabins with full hookups and basic amenities. Within a 30-minute drive, campers can access additional options like Gray Wolf Peak Casino's free RV parking area or the more developed facilities at Jim & Mary's RV Park and Missoula KOA Holiday to the south. The region sits at the northern edge of the Missoula Valley, with camping areas nestled between the Mission Mountains to the east and the Rattlesnake Mountains to the west.
Camping permits and regulations vary significantly across the area due to the mix of tribal lands, national forest, and private campgrounds. The Flathead Indian Reservation requires recreation permits for non-tribal members, available online or at local retailers. According to camper reviews, "The train noise is not as bad as previous posts and actually looks pretty cool chugging along the mountain side," notes one visitor to a nearby RV park. Most campgrounds in the region operate seasonally from May through October, with limited winter camping options. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-90°F, while spring and fall bring cooler conditions and occasional precipitation. Fire restrictions are common during late summer months.
Fishing access sites near Arlee receive positive reviews for their proximity to quality trout streams. Several campers mention the spacious sites and mountain views as highlights of their stays. Wildlife sightings, including deer, moose, and various bird species, are frequently reported in campground reviews. Visitors note that sites farther from Highway 93 provide better noise insulation from passing traffic. Amenities vary widely, from primitive vault toilets at fishing access sites to full-service RV parks with showers, laundry facilities, and camp stores. Campers seeking solitude often prefer the smaller, less developed sites along forest roads, while families and those needing hookups gravitate toward the established campgrounds with more amenities and activities.
