Camping options around Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest include a mix of established facilities at elevations between 5,000 and 8,000 feet. Weather patterns can shift rapidly during summer months with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Many campgrounds require advance bookings for stays between June and September with cancellation policies typically requiring 48-72 hours notice.
What to do
Fishing access: Several campgrounds offer direct river access for anglers. At Ruby Valley Campground and RV Park, you'll find sites "adjacent to the water" with proximity to local fly fishing spots. According to Richard P., "My wife and I were looking for an affordable spot to spend the night in our teardrop and the Ruby Valley Campground fit the bill! With no need for hookups, we paid a mere $28 for a roomy site adjacent to the water."
Visit historic sites: Many rv parks near Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest provide convenient access to mining-era towns. From Cardwell General Store and Campground, guests can explore nearby historic attractions. As one camper noted, "We camped here only because the Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park (where we have often camped on trips out west) was full on fourth of July weekend. The host told us about the Cardwell Campground further west."
Hot springs recreation: Some Beaverhead-Deerlodge rv facilities connect to thermal attractions. Fairmont RV Resort offers direct access to hot spring facilities. One visitor explained, "Check in desk was super nice! We needed to check in by 6pm or call if going to be as late as 8pm. My understanding is that after 8pm they don't like to let people check in. They have bathrooms, showers, laundry (bring quarters or maybe ask desk), fun playground, horseshoe area."
What campers like
Maintained grounds: Travelers appreciate well-kept rv parks around Beaverhead-Deerlodge. At Sportsman Lodge, Cabins & RV Park, guests enjoy "beautifully maintained property." According to Ben H., "This is a great spot in a tiny town south of Butte Montana. They have a couple cabins, several motel rooms and about 10 full hookup, all grass, RV spots. Also a large area for car/tent camping. The grounds are meticulously maintained by the owner."
Quiet locations: Many campers value peaceful settings. Southside RV Park in Dillon provides a calm environment with creek access. Jesse E. states, "Really wonderful RV camp. Lots of space between spots. Most are pull through. All gravel except the grass but very level and really well surfaced. Every spot has grass and a table in great shape."
Convenient overnight stops: RV travelers appreciate easy-access locations for single-night stays. Per Jennifer H. at Countryside RV Park, "Easy on/off, full hookups, beautiful location located just off I-15. Amenities in town just opposite the exit for the rv park. Beautiful location with mountains all around. Great place to stopover driving thru. Potentially windy."
What you should know
Limited winter options: Most rv parks near Beaverhead-Deerlodge close seasonally. Southside RV Park operates March through December, while Fairmont RV Resort runs April through October. Countryside RV Park remains one of few year-round facilities, though winter amenities may be limited.
Reservation requirements: During peak season (June-September), advance bookings are essential. One Southside RV Park visitor recommends, "Get reservations to assure a site. Pull throughs or backins."
Weather variability: Campgrounds in higher elevations experience rapid temperature fluctuations. 2 Bar Lazy H RV Campground sits in a location with minimal tree cover. As Debbie P. notes, "So it very basic, trees are almost none existent. Due to Covid the bathrooms are locked so if you don't bring your own bathroom not sure what you do cause you definitely can't pee behind a tree."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several facilities offer play equipment for children. Fairmont RV Resort includes "fun playground, horseshoe area" according to Kimberly E., who adds, "Check in desk was super nice! We needed to check in by 6pm or call if going to be as late as 8pm."
Fishing for kids: Multiple campgrounds offer family-friendly fishing spots. A Ruby Valley visitor shared, "My wife appreciated that the restrooms and shower are a short walk and I love the serenity and space. The owner, Jim, was welcoming and he has free coffee at 8 am."
Bug prevention: Summer months bring insects, especially near water. One camper at Sportsman Lodge warns, "We were here in July and there were some mosquitos. If you plan to be outside probably bring a citronella candle or bug spray."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking rv parks at Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, request specific site types. At Beaverhead River RV Park, Kenyon advises, "The water and electric only sites in the back (spots 28 to 36) of the park are long and spread out. I recommend if you can go without having sewer connection, the ones in back (spots 28 to 36) are the best to stay in. Don't get the ones in front."
Utility limitations: Some parks offer partial hookups. One visitor mentioned, "The site was totally unacceptable. Even if I un-hooked there was not enough room to park the pick-up truck."
Internet connectivity: WiFi quality varies significantly between facilities. At Beaverhead River RV Park, one camper reported, "Wifi was 17 mbs but slowed down in the evening. We use AT&T and got two bars of 5G."
