Recreational vehicle camping options near Cardwell, Montana include both full-service RV parks and more rustic accommodations. Located in the Jefferson Valley at approximately 4,500 feet elevation, this area serves as a strategic base for exploring southwestern Montana. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing, while summer days typically reach the 80s with cool evenings.
What to do
Fishing access: Sportsman Lodge, Cabins & RV Park offers convenient river access for fly fishing enthusiasts. "The Sportsman Lodge is a 7 minute walk from the fishing access on the river," notes one camper. The surrounding area is known for exceptional trout fishing opportunities.
Hot springs relaxation: Take advantage of natural hot springs facilities near camping areas. "Site rental includes passes to Hot Springs indoor and outdoor pools. Great stop and worth the price," mentions a visitor at Bozeman Hot Springs Campground. Multiple temperature pools provide therapeutic soaking options throughout the year.
Historical exploration: The mining towns of Virginia City and Nevada City are within driving distance of several campgrounds. "Close proximity to Virginia and Nevada cities," notes a Ruby Valley Campground visitor. These well-preserved ghost towns offer museums, period demonstrations, and guided tours of 19th-century buildings.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the cleanliness of Ennis RV Village, with one noting, "Very clean restrooms & sites are spaced nicely apart for being in a RV setting." Another adds, "The grounds, shower, and bathrooms are very nice and clean."
Mountain views: Many campgrounds provide scenic vistas. "Overlooks a bluff with gorgeous view," writes one visitor about Ennis RV Village. Another camper at Sportsman Lodge mentions the area is "nestled in between Montana mountain ranges."
Well-maintained grounds: Proper upkeep matters to visitors. "The grounds are meticulously maintained by the owner and it has nice views of the bluffs and mountains all around it," writes a Sportsman Lodge reviewer. Another notes, "Beautiful grassy grounds & some great scenery."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires careful driving. One visitor to Fairy Lake Campground warns, "The 6-mile unmaintained road to get to the campground is definitely rough. The warnings are justified—it's bumpy, rocky, and slow going."
Site spacing varies: Some parks offer more privacy than others. "Sites are close to each other," notes a 2 Bar Lazy H RV Campground reviewer, while another mentions, "They are reasonably wide and very long."
Seasonal availability: Many campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Fairy Lake Campground operates from "July 1 to September 15," while Ennis RV Village runs from "April 1 to November 1." Plan your visit accordingly.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Cardwell General Store and Campground provides recreational areas for children. "The kids loved the playground and tons of open grass space and swings throughout, and they also have a pond that you can even fish in on site at the back of the property," reports one family.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Bring binoculars for animal spotting. "Mountain Goats will come in your camp and they will do what goats do and want to check you out. They are not scared," notes a Fairy Lake Campground visitor.
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds offer additional activities. "They even have movie dvd rentals in the store since tv reception is non-existent if you try to use just an antenna for local channels," mentions a camper at Cardwell General Store and Campground.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: RV campers appreciate stable parking at 2 Bar Lazy H RV Campground. "The campground is well laid out plenty of room to drive around with big rigs. Each site has a picnic bench," notes one RVer. Another mentions, "The sites themselves are level on gravel."
Utility connections: Many rv sites near Cardwell, Montana offer comprehensive hookups. "We had a tent site, close to the road, but traffic wasn't bad after dark. Site was grassy. No fires allowed for obvious reasons," shares a visitor at Fairmont RV Resort. Others mention varied amperage options, with most parks offering 30/50-amp service.
Laundry availability: Some RV parks provide washing facilities. "And the free wifi is really strong! And the water pressure is amazing," reports a camper at Sportsman Lodge about the amenities, while another notes, "Clean bathrooms and laundry on site."
