Camping in Bonner, Montana sits at approximately 3,300 feet elevation near the confluence of the Blackfoot and Clark Fork Rivers. Winter temperatures can drop well below freezing while summer days typically reach the mid-80s with cool evenings. The region experiences high visitation during summer months, particularly July and August, when campgrounds often fill by mid-afternoon.
What to do
Fishing creek access: Lee Creek Campground offers direct river access with quality trout fishing spots. "Gorgeous part of the national forest, and the lower five campsites are gorgeous and creekside," notes one visitor, though they mention "the 70mph highway is a stone's throw away and every passing car seems pretty impossibly loud."
Soak at hot springs: Located just a short walk from Lolo Hot Springs RV Park & Campground, the mineral pools provide a relaxing experience. "We took a hot soak in the 106 degree enclosed mineral bath/pool area and rotated to the 86 degree pool outside," shares a camper who visited on July 4th. The hot springs cost $12 per person, with separate areas for adults and families.
Wildlife viewing: Campers at Beavertail Hill can explore short nature trails around the beaver pond. According to a visitor, "we did a little exploring by the beaver pond and river. The staff was super friendly." The campground features well-maintained paths suitable for casual hiking with children.
What campers like
Quiet camping spots: Town of Drummond Campground provides affordable overnight camping with river access. A visitor notes, "It is very quiet except for trains every few hours. I love it for the host who greeted us and keeps the greens and flower boxes watered." The campground charges $10 for tent sites and $25 for hookups.
Clean facilities: Kreis Pond receives praise for its maintenance. "7 well spaced campsites all around the pond. Truly enjoyable stay. Clean toilet facilities," writes one camper, though they caution to "be prepared for several miles of dusty, gravel, washboard road" to reach this secluded spot.
Outdoor activities: Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground maintains recreational areas beyond just camping. One visitor enjoyed their experience, sharing "There is a basketball court, sand volleyball court, horse shoes and a playground. There's also a beautiful creek running along the campground with beautiful Mountain views."
What you should know
Seasonal yurt rentals: Yurt camping near Bonner, Montana typically runs from May through October. The yurts at Beavertail Hill State Park Campground provide an alternative to traditional tent camping. "The tipis were a lot of fun to sleep in! The river trail was beautiful to walk," reports a visitor who enjoyed the permanent canvas structures.
Train noise: Several campgrounds near Interstate 90 experience periodic train disturbances. At Beavertail Hill, "the train mentioned in another review is a pretty big deal breaker though honestly. The tracks are right next to the wall in spaces. And during my visit on a weekday it was about every 2 hours," warns a recent camper.
Water quality issues: Temporary water advisories occur at some campgrounds. At Ekstrom's, "Staff provided jugs of water due to the water boil notice, but we would have preferred a discount from the $53 charge for our no water / no electric site," reports one visitor, though they acknowledged the "absolutely beautiful" surroundings.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Missoula KOA Holiday features extensive recreational facilities for children. A visitor reports, "This place is on my shortlist for favorites for my week long getaway with my daughter who is 5... From the bike rental to the playground, putt putt golf, swimming pool." The campground also offers bike rentals and ice cream socials Wednesday through Saturday.
Wildlife encounters: Keep food secured in approved containers due to bear activity. At Kreis Pond, a camper noted they "Saw bear prints, definitely lock up foods. Bring water treatment methods" as the water source may require filtering.
Swimming options: During summer, look for campgrounds with creek access for cooling off. One camper at Lolo Hot Springs RV Park mentioned that site 7 "sits right on the bend of the creek where there is a brush clearing. This was perfect for our golden retriever as we could tie her on a long lead and she could swim her heart out."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Lee Creek, be aware of campground layout constraints. "The upper sites are packed into a tiny ring and in plain sight of one another," notes one RVer, suggesting the lower sites provide more privacy and scenery despite highway noise.
Arrival timing: Drummond Community Park operates on a first-come basis with limited hookup sites. A visitor observed, "We arrived about 7 pm and the 4 electrical hook ups were taken and there were some day users and a few car campers." This campground maintains consistent availability even during busy season, with one camper noting "I have always enjoyed able to roll up and there was an available site."
Space considerations: Some sites at KOA may present challenges for larger RVs with slides. A reviewer suggests verifying site dimensions before booking as they encountered issues: "If I moved over my slide wouldn't open all the way due to the power box... And here we are with the slide 4 inches from going out all the way and bugs having free rein to enter thru the now non sealed siding."
