Dispersed camping options near Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest range from developed sites with amenities to basic riverside spots. The area sits at elevations between 5,600-8,000 feet with cottonwood forests along river valleys and pine forests at higher elevations. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during day and drop to 45-55°F at night, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several campgrounds provide direct river access for anglers. At Brownes Bridge Fishing Access Site, campers enjoy "right on the river with big trees and a view of the Browne Bridge." The site features five campsites under large cottonwood trees with dirt parking pads and fire rings.
Hiking trails: The Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway offers multiple hiking opportunities near campgrounds. Fourth of July Campground provides access to nearby trails and a "short paved bike trail that circles the campground, going behind sites and through the day use area." According to one visitor, the campground is "located pretty close to the Crystal Park entrance."
Water activities: Beyond fishing, several locations offer swimming and water play. At Divide Bridge Campground, "boat ramps in the campground and also one at the main entrance" are "fun for dogs," making it ideal for water-loving pets. The campground has "two loops" with the "lower loop sites along the river" providing the most shade.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Despite being free or low-cost, many sites have excellent upkeep. One camper at Glen Campground noted it's "well-maintained, clean, possesses established, separate tent sites with a parking block for each separate vehicle, an area for RVs, and a maintained outhouse central to the tent sites."
Privacy between sites: Campers appreciate the thoughtful spacing at many locations. At Boulder Creek, visitors enjoy "great tree cover" with the "river between you and the byway" meaning "all you hear is the water." The natural buffer creates a sense of seclusion even when the campground has multiple occupants.
Level camping areas: Many campgrounds feature graded surfaces that accommodate various camping setups. According to one visitor to Sportsman Lodge, Cabins & RV Park, "the RV sites are on grass that is pretty level. Lot of space in front and on the sides." Another noted it's a "beautifully maintained property with lots of green grass for the pups to walk through."
What you should know
Bear safety protocols: Several campgrounds require proper food storage due to bear activity. At Brownes Bridge Fishing Access Site, visitors should follow standard bear safety practices as it's located in bear country with cottonwood forests that provide habitat.
Limited facilities at some locations: Many dispersed sites have minimal services. Glen Campground requires visitors to "pack in/pack out all of your belongings & trash" as there are "no garbage bins or water spigots." Similarly, at Fourth of July Campground, "there is no trash service so be prepared to pack out your trash."
Variable road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigating unpaved roads. Boulder Creek has what one visitor described as "terrifying" roads with "steep drop offs, sharp rocks, narrow lanes." Seasonal conditions can worsen road quality, particularly after rain or snowmelt.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water areas: Finding safe water access points helps keep children entertained. At Fourth of July Campground, families enjoy "access to the well-shaded creek that is great for playing and fishing" with a short trail that "circles the campground" making it easy for kids to navigate.
Insect preparation: Several campgrounds report significant mosquito activity. At Glen Campground, one visitor reported "big mosquitoes were swarming me! But a little deet resolved the issue." Boulder Creek similarly has "tons of bugs" according to visitors, so families should pack appropriate repellents.
Educational opportunities: The region offers natural learning experiences for children. Near Divide Bridge Campground, families can access the Sawmill Gulch Trail Head, providing hiking opportunities suitable for various ages. The area's mining history and geology also present educational topics for families to explore.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Many forest campgrounds have restrictions on RV length. Brownes Bridge Fishing Access Site can accommodate larger rigs but has dirt parking pads that may present challenges during wet conditions.
Level site selection: RVers should choose sites carefully for level parking. At Divide Bridge Campground, "the upper loop sites are more in the open" with "level gravel parking pads" that work well for RVs, while the lower sites along the river provide more shade but may be less level.
Hookup availability: Most dispersed sites lack utility connections. For those requiring hookups, Sportsman Lodge RV Park offers "quality hookups at each site" with "each site having its own trash can." As one visitor noted, "We pulled into our assigned site and hooked up the 50 amp shore cord."
