Tent camping near Cameron, Montana offers varied terrain options at elevations ranging from 5,000-9,000 feet within the Beaverhead National Forest. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day with nighttime lows sometimes dropping to 40-45°F, creating ideal conditions for summer camping. The area receives moderate precipitation during summer thunderstorms, so waterproof tent gear is recommended.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Madison River at Varney Bridge Fishing Access Site provides excellent angling for brown and rainbow trout. "We stayed here for 2 nights, and it has become our traditional early summer spot. The views are stunning, and the fishing is superb!" notes camper J W.
Rock climbing: Revenue Flats offers numerous climbing routes for various skill levels, accessible via a challenging road. "Pulled up to this spot and camped under the most beautiful night sky I've ever seen. Road in was no beuno for the Honda Civic. She barely made it up and couldn't make it all the way back to some of the climbing spots. Tons of super fun climbing!" shares Lucille W.
Hiking adventures: For those seeking alpine experiences, Spanish Lakes provides challenging but rewarding trails. "An absolutely stunning area to camp. A relatively challenging nine-mile-hike in from the Spanish Creek campground. Turn left at the trail map and follow the well marked signs. You'll have stunning views of the mountains, rivers, and pines on your hike in," reports Ruby W.
What campers like
Mountain views: Many campsites offer panoramic vistas of surrounding peaks. At Revenue Flats, "We were there on Saturday and it was busy but not crazy. In the morning we went down to Norris hot springs and over to Ennis for pizza and beer. Pretty ideal way to spend the weekend!" says Alyssa L.
River access: Campers appreciate sites near water for recreation and ambiance. At Varney Bridge, "There are a few smaller sites right next to the river, which are close to the road. Further down, there are a few more spots with more space, but from those spots it's a short walk to the river. It's a quiet spot, close to Ennis and Virginia City," reports J W.
Wildlife viewing: The Cameron area offers opportunities to observe local fauna. At Targhee Creek, "We did see come bears and elk from our site which was fun! Basically, good weather is recommend! Bad weather...don't go here," advises Danielle S.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many camping areas require travel on rough roads. For Travertine Road Dispersed, "My only complaint was that the dirt road you have to drive on to access it is super bumpy due to many potholes and large rocks. This is likely no problem for a truck or suv but my sedan had a difficult time getting up the road," cautions Jeremiah L.
Limited amenities: Most dispersed sites lack facilities. Ruby Creek Campground provides more services than most. "Ruby Creek Recreation Area campground is a Bureau of Land Management campground with 22 campsites. This campground is in a flat grassy area along the Madison River, some bushes and small trees are along the river and in the campground. Campground has water, vault toilets, picnic tables, and metal fire rings," explains Dexter I.
Seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect camping comfort and access. At Targhee Creek, "If the weather is good it would be a great place to be! We went while it was raining…would not recommend. It was incredibly muddy and had lots of standing water," warns Danielle S.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: For families, some locations offer better options than others. At Varney Bridge Fishing Access Site, "My biggest beef is how fast some of these fisherman go by. They have no regard for children running around and just want to get into the water. I'm constantly worried about my 2 year old getting nailed by one of these idiots," cautions Micah O.
Water activities: Children enjoy creek exploration and swimming opportunities. The best tent camping near Cameron, Montana often includes water access. Spanish Lakes offers "crystal clear and cold" water with "Tons of west slope cutthroat trout that get flown in. There is a ~40 ft cliff you can jump off of into the super deep water," mentions Lucille W.
Wildlife education: Teaching children about bear safety is essential in this region. When visiting Yellow Mule Cabin, remember that "The cabin contained all the basic necessities that you need, but obviously you have to bring your own food, sleeping bags and hygiene products. We also brought sleeping pads to put down on the beds provided. The restroom is outside (outhouse) and there is no water or electricity," explains Kayla K.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Not all roads near Cameron accommodate larger vehicles. At Ruby Creek Campground, "Wide open BLM campground on Madison River. Ruby Creek Recreation Area campground is a Bureau of Land Management campground with 22 campsites. This campground is in a flat grassy area along the Madison River," notes Dexter I.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment for comfortable parking. Revenue Flats campers note, "We drove a F450 with triple slide truck camper and made it ok. Also saw a 2 wheel drive 30 foot class C motorhome that made it but would not recommend anything larger. The sites were roomy and private on a high plateau with beautiful views," reports Lisa A.
Water and waste management: With limited facilities, RVers need self-contained systems. For tent camping near Cameron, Montana, most locations have no hookups. At Ruby Creek, campsites cost "$12 a night for a level spot, fire ring, picnic table and clean vault toilet," according to meredith.
