RV parks around Arlee, Montana sit at elevations averaging 3,000 feet in the scenic Jocko Valley with surrounding mountain ranges rising to 8,000 feet. Camping options in this region operate within varying seasonal windows, with winter temperatures frequently dropping below freezing. Most private campgrounds near Arlee close from late October through April due to harsh winter conditions.
What to do
Hot springs soaking: 12 miles south at Lolo Hot Springs Campground offers natural mineral waters. "The Hot Springs are $15 and worth the relaxation. This is old Montana so don't expect fancy, but unique," notes camper Wendy S. Bathrooms include "running water and a portable heater in the colder months."
Frisbee golf courses: Nugget RV Resort features an on-site course in a scenic open field. "Nice hiking trails and scenic open field with frisbee golf," reports T Dawson W. The resort also offers "plenty to do and see," according to John, with multiple recreational activities beyond disc golf.
Creek swimming access: Several sites at Lolo Hot Springs have direct creek access for summer cooling. "Site seven also seemed really large compared to other as there was a large tree between the next site where we tied up a hammock," says Joshua C. "This was perfect for our golden retriever as we could tie her on a long lead and she could swim her heart out."
What campers like
Spacious sites with greenery: Jim & Mary's RV Park features grassy sites with flower beds. "Sites are grassy with flowers And sprinklers. Sites are all level with gravel. There are picnic tables," according to Susan V. The campground maintains "beautiful grounds with shade trees and lots of flowerbeds."
Clean bathroom facilities: Most RV parks maintain well-kept facilities. "The bathhouse was very nice and clean. $2.00 per load to wash," notes Brenda L. at Jim & Mary's RV Park. "Wonderful bathhouse, clean, well maintained. Nice laundry room."
Mountain views from sites: Diamond S RV Park offers "great views of mountains to east" according to Mark M., who notes "level sites" and a "nice pet walk area." The property maintains "solid, clean, well kept place to stay" with full hookups.
What you should know
Train noise affects some parks: Railroad tracks run near several campgrounds in the region. At Jim & Mary's RV Park, "the only downside (if I had to find one) was the train close by that was very squeaky as it went by. But I never heard it during the night," reports Brenda L. Other campers note train noise echoing through canyons at night.
Sprinkler systems operate overnight: "There is flowers everywhere and they have a sprinkler system to keep everything pretty so you can't leave anything out overnight that you don't want to get wet," warns Brenda L. about Jim & Mary's RV Park. Staff "mow each Thursday" with consistent groundskeeping.
Limited site leveling: Some campgrounds require equipment for leveling. Granite Peak RV Resort has variable site quality with some users reporting challenges. "Roads in the park are awful," notes Kristi B., while another camper mentions "sites are fairly close together" throughout the resort.
Tips for camping with families
Look for pool access: Granite Peak RV Resort provides a swimming pool, though some report "pool is not heated." The resort offers "good amenities (mini golf, horse shoes, pool, dog park), close enough to town," according to A.T., making it suitable for families with varied interests.
Kid-friendly activities onsite: Several RV parks offer dedicated recreation areas. "They had a mini golf course that I wanted to play at, but had no time," mentions Brandon H. about Granite Peak. At Nugget RV Resort, families can enjoy "pool, hiking trails, pickle ball court, frisbee golf" according to Mark S.
Holiday planning considerations: Holiday weekends bring additional activities and noise. "The fireworks show was spectacular and from site 7 which sits right on the bend of the creek," says Joshua C. about July 4th at Lolo Hot Springs, noting "music starts around 4pm where they have a DJ playing music till about 10pm" and fireworks continuing until 1am.
Tips from RVers
Sewer hookup positioning: RVers sometimes need extra hose length at certain sites. "Need about 20 foot of sewer hose to reach the sewer drain," notes Kristi B. about Granite Peak RV Resort. Site layout varies significantly between parks.
Covered parking available: Some premium sites offer covered spots. "Sites are not all the same. The pull through sites on the outer edge do not [have shade] but others inside do," reports Brenda L. about Jim & Mary's RV Park.
Overflow options when parks fill: During peak season, some parks offer limited overflow. "The hosts are friendly and helpful, and even though the park was full they got us settled in their overflow parking and ran an extension cord to our camper for power (no water in overflow)," shares Angelina H. about her experience at Diamond S RV Park.
