Tent camping near Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest encompasses a diverse range of elevations from approximately 5,000 to 8,000 feet. The camping season typically runs from late May through September, with July and August offering the most reliable weather conditions. Most camping areas experience significant temperature drops at night even during summer months, with potential for frost in spring and fall.
What to do
Fishing accessibility: At Salmon Fly Fishing Access Site, concrete boat launches provide direct river access, though Montana FWP warns "the water is shallow for larger boats." The site's proximity to Melrose puts anglers within walking distance of additional supplies.
Ghost town exploration: When camping at Pettengill Campground, visitors can access the Coolidge Ghost Town and Crystal Park, where one camper notes you can "dig for crystal at Crystal park" as a unique day activity from your campsite.
Hiking options: East Bank Recreation Site serves as a gateway to hiking trails, with one visitor mentioning that despite beetle kill removing most trees, the "sites are well spread out and a few still have large trees," making it suitable for hikers wanting riverside access and trail proximity.
What campers like
River proximity: At Brownes Bridge Fishing Access Site, one camper appreciated that it's "Right on the river with big trees and a view of the Browne Bridge. Some highway noise but not too bad," highlighting the balance of natural beauty with minor infrastructure sounds.
Affordability: Pettengill Campground visitors consistently mention value, with one noting "At $6 per night you can't beat the price. With only three sites crowds will not be a problem." The paved spaces and low fees make it popular with budget-conscious campers.
Privacy between sites: Salmon Fly campsites are "all nice spread apart from each other," according to one review, which mentions the campground is "nice and quiet, far enough from the Interstate to not really hear the road traffic" despite the nearby rail line.
What you should know
Seasonal water availability: Water sources are extremely limited in the region. Pigeon Creek operates only "Memorial Day to Labor Day" according to its listing, and requires navigating forest roads carefully as "Google will take you up a private road if you come from the East."
Limited facilities: Most campgrounds offer only basic amenities. At Maidenrock FAS, a visitor noted it "has two picnic tables, one of which has a large rock fire ring next to it. The other picnic table has had fires next to it but does not really have a fire ring."
Bear safety measures: Some campgrounds provide bear-proof storage. East Bank Recreation Site has "vault toilets(handicapped accessible), but no water or trash service so come prepared," requiring visitors to plan accordingly for food storage and waste management.
Tips for camping with families
Best small group sites: Pettengill Campground works well for families with "a large paved parking area" that "is used for snowmobile parking in the winter" but serves as extra space during summer. A camper mentioned each site has "a metal fire ring and picnic table" with good spacing between sites.
River safety considerations: Families staying at Brownes Bridge should know it's "a small campground (5 spots) with picnic tables and fire rings at each spot and a vault toilet," but requires supervision as it sits directly on the river with easy access points.
Storage and preparation: Campers at East Bank noted it has "bear proof food storage" facilities, making it suitable for families needing secure food storage without bringing specialized equipment.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: At Salmon Fly Fishing Access Site, RVers should note the sites are "A little short on the length but okay for our 29'" according to one review, indicating larger RVs may struggle with the available space.
Surface conditions: Jerry Creek Bridge Fish Access provides a practical overnight option for self-contained units, but one camper described it as "just a big boat parking lot for the river. Plus side it has an outhouse," making it suitable for RVs seeking quick overnight stops rather than extended stays.
Limited hookups: None of the campgrounds in the immediate area offer electric or water hookups. RVers staying at East Bank Recreation Site should be aware that while it has "gravel parking pads," there are no services, making it essential to arrive with full water tanks and charged batteries.
