Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest spans over 3.3 million acres across southwestern Montana, featuring elevations from 5,000 to 10,000 feet. Winter temperatures often drop below 0°F while summer brings warm 75-85°F days with cool nights even in July. Most campgrounds in the region open from late May through September, with higher elevation sites typically accessible only after mid-June due to snow conditions.
What to do
Fishing at Big Hole River: Access premier fly fishing at Glen Campground where the river provides excellent opportunities for anglers. "Glen Campground is a great place to stop when passing through Montana on the 15. It's not far from town or the freeway, but remote enough to enjoy a few nights of camping," notes Richard M.
Hiking near Pioneer Mountains: The scenic byway provides access to trails with varying difficulty levels through lodgepole pine forests. At Fourth of July Campground, visitors can use the short paved trail that circles the grounds. "There is a short paved bike trail that circles the campground, going behind sites and through the day use area," according to Annie C.
Rock climbing and exploration: The unique granite spires at Humbug Spires Wilderness Study Area offer climbing opportunities with routes suitable for various experience levels. "Road was rocky and rutted by water runoff. The sprinter all wheel drive negotiated the trail easily from the trailhead up. We found an open meadow of sagebrush. Beautiful sunrise," shares David M.
What campers like
Spacious designated sites: Campers appreciate well-defined areas with ample space between neighbors. "The designated camp spots are super clean and nicely laid out," reports a visitor at Maiden Rock Dispersed. Another camper, Maddie F., notes, "The camping spots are somewhat close together so that's good to keep in mind. But omg, the spot is insane. The mosquitoes were not bad at all."
Accessible water features: Sites near rivers receive consistent praise for recreation options. "This spot was so friggin beautiful! Surrounded by mountains, each with a different look to them every direction you look," says Ashleigh Z. about Maiden Rock. At Fourth of July Campground, Annie C. mentions, "This is a popular campground because of the access to the well shaded creek that is gray for playing and fishing."
Surprising amenities at dispersed sites: Free dispersed camping areas often exceed expectations with provided facilities. Laura B. from Maiden Rock Dispersed shares: "This place is amazingly beautiful! We stopped by twice over three weeks- both times only one other site occupied. Sites are spaced nicely, brand new looking picnic tables, bear boxes, and fire rings."
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically throughout the forest. Tee C. reports about Humbug Spires Trailhead: "No cell service, unfortunately. Another con is that there's another road that goes in further, but it's narrow and eroded." At Glen Campground, visitor Tee C. mentions it's "Only 9 miles from Dillon" where services are available.
Wildlife considerations: Bears are active throughout the region. "A Bear might still be active in the area. It tried to get into our camper... Apparently his name is Boo-boo, and he was orphaned as a cub and fed by miners making him not so human afraid. Carry bear spray and you're probably fine!" warns Meatball W. from Maiden Rock.
Water availability: Many sites lack running water. Annie C. advises about Fourth of July Campground: "Be sure to give FULL pumps on the water pump if you want water- it takes 10!" At Glen Campground, Janelle G. reminds visitors: "it is maintained, they do not come daily as it is a free campground on BLM land and does not have garbage bins or water spigots."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with shade: Summer temperatures can be intense at exposed sites. "We had a lovely site that was close to the Wise River. Even with a full camp, the ambient sound of the river shielded the sounds of people talking or kids playing," shares Lisa K. about Lodgepole Campground.
Look for established recreation spaces: Sites with built-in activities work best with children. At Fourth of July Campground, Hannah S. reports, "There is a campfire with an attached grill, along with a nice picnic table." Sasha W. adds, "Great trails with beautiful views!!!"
Consider toilet accessibility: Facilities vary greatly between sites. Regarding Sportsman Lodge, Angela M. notes, "Beautifully maintained property with lots of green grass for the pups to walk through. And there are doggie bag stations galore!" While at Lodgepole Campground, Lisa K. mentions, "The bathroom facilities were clean."
Tips from RVers
Site length considerations: Many forest campgrounds have limited space for larger vehicles. At Divide Bridge Campground, Steven L. shares: "Stayed in the upper area. More like a parking lot than a campground. But large sites and very level."
Surface conditions: Level parking pads are crucial for comfortable RV camping. At Sportsman Lodge, Patrick J. notes, "The RV sites are on grass that is pretty level. Lot of space in front and on the sides." Ben H. adds, "All sites are back in, but they are reasonably wide and very long."
Hookup availability: Most forest campgrounds lack connections, though some options exist. About Sportsman Lodge, Ben H. writes, "Quality hookups at each site, and each site has its own trash can. Clean bathrooms and laundry on site. Owners are very present and attentive on site and super friendly."
