Outdoor enthusiasts seeking RV camping near Bonner, Montana can access several options nestled along the Clark Fork River and surrounding mountain valleys. Located at approximately 3,400 feet elevation in western Montana, the region experiences warm summer days with cool nights and significant temperature shifts between seasons. The camping area sits at the convergence of several forest roads leading into Lolo National Forest, providing access to hiking trails.
What to do
River recreation access: Lolo Hot Springs Campground sits next to a creek with easy access points. "The sites are a litttle close together, but to be expected at a resort style place. There was an access spot to the creek/river and firewood was sold by the armload ($12)," notes one Lolo Hot Springs RV Park & Campground visitor.
Hot springs soaking: Take advantage of natural hot springs across from campgrounds. "The hot springs accross the highway are $12 a person and we took a hot soak in the 106 degree enclosed mineral bath/pool area and rotated to the 86 degree pool outside. Kids and families all seemed to stay in the pool area while adults in the mineral bath area," explains a camper at Lolo Hot Springs Campground.
Family game options: Some parks offer recreational facilities beyond camping. At Boulder Creek Lodge, guests report "After we ate, we went down stairs to the game room and played pool, table soccer and checkers for about 4 hours. We went ahead and took showers in the downstairs bathroom/shower house. Huge clean shower stalls."
What campers like
Large campsite layouts: Some parks offer spacious sites that accommodate large RVs. "This is one if the prettiest and cleanest campground we have ever stayed at. The sites are gravel, mostly level and most sites have shade. The pull through sites on the outer edge do not but others inside do," shares a visitor to Jim & Mary's RV Park.
River proximity: Waterfront sites are highly sought after. "We ended up not even going to the hot springs, there was lots to do! If you get a spot right on the creek it would be super nice, it's very quiet here and you can hear the water," mentions a camper at Lolo Hot Springs RV Park.
Pet-friendly accommodations: Most parks welcome pets with varying facilities. "We ended up booking here on the 4th and 5th of July and had a great time camping along the river, going to the hot springs across the street and walking the area. This was perfect for our golden retriever as we could tie her on a long lead and she could swim her heart out."
What you should know
Site leveling challenges: Some RV spots require additional equipment. At Granite Peak RV Resort, campers note varied experiences with the terrain: "Located on the north side of town, about 15 min drive to downtown Missoula. Our spot was a pull thru and super easy to get situated and set up. Level site, picnic table and close to neighbors."
Laundry availability: Facilities vary significantly between properties. "They should definitely invest in more washers or fix the ones that were out of order. They didn't have quarters in the office and the coin machine wasn't working. To avoid anymore hassle, I went downtown to Sparkle Laundry."
Highway noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience road noise. "Interstate noise and the occasional train whistle would keep me from using the facility for nothing more than an overnight stop," notes a visitor to Bearmouth RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Recreation options for children: Look for parks with dedicated play areas. "Great amenities (mini golf, horse shoes, pool, dog park), close enough to town. Grass at our site," reports a visitor to Granite Peak RV Resort, which caters to families with various activities.
Spacious common areas: Sites with room for children to play safely are valuable. At Bearmouth RV Park, "There is a big field next to the river that was great for kids to run around in. This feels like more of a stop through campsite than one you'd stay for several days, and it's perfect for that."
Consider unique accommodations: Beyond standard RV spots, some properties offer alternatives. "This campground is small but offers rv sites, cabins, teepees and covered wagons. So far on our month long trip (two weeks in) this is our family favorite!" shares a visitor to Boulder Creek Lodge.
Tips from RVers
Sprinkler timing awareness: Be prepared for automated irrigation systems. "There is flowers everywhere and they have a sprinkler system to keep everything pretty so you can't leave anything out overnight that you don't want to get wet. They mow each Thursday and are constantly doing upkeep on the grounds."
Mobile dump services: Some parks offer additional conveniences. "They offer a 'honey pot' mobile dump station where they come pump your sewage, sometimes offering a free dump for stays of a week or longer," explains a visitor at Bearmouth RV Park.
Site selection strategy: Choose sites carefully based on privacy needs. "Site seven also seemed really large compared to other as there was a large tree between the next site where we tied up a hammock. If you don't put a camp chair or something to the side of the picnic table, we found other campers will come and hang out there in your campsite as they must think its an open space to get to the water."
