Clinton sits at an elevation of approximately 3,500 feet along Interstate 90, with camping options that span from riverside sites along Rock Creek to mountain-adjacent grounds near the Blackfoot River. The area features significant seasonal temperature variations, with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter lows dropping below freezing. Year-round camping options require different preparations depending on the season, with many sites closing from November through April.
What to do
Fishing access points: Clinton area camping provides multiple river access points for anglers. At Turah RV Park and Store, campers have convenient access to fishing opportunities nearby. As one visitor noted, "Great place to stay! Beautifully maintained RV Park. Good WiFi and close to great fishing."
Swimming and river activities: The Blackfoot River offers swimming holes accessible from several campgrounds. Thibodeau provides excellent water access with "its own little stair set down to the river," according to Nick T., who added, "Plenty of space between sites for a more private experience."
Ghost town exploration: The historic Garnet Ghost Town is accessible from campgrounds east of Clinton. From Bearmouth RV Park, visitors can explore this preserved mining town. "Beautiful views here along the Clark Fork River with lots of things to do in the nearby area including visiting the Garnet Ghost town, Philipsburg, Deer Lodge, Anaconda, Butte and Missoula," shares Jason A.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the well-designed sites at Clinton area campgrounds. At Chief Looking Glass Campground, Rene S. observed, "All of the camp spots are close to the river and have easy access to bathrooms and trails. I have camped with 4 tents in one space and still had room for more."
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness is frequently mentioned in positive reviews. Ray & Terri F. noted that Chief Looking Glass Campground "is pretty well maintained and quiet, other than a fair bit of traffic on the loop in the early evening, and most of the sites are fairly large and well spaced."
River sounds: The natural soundtrack of flowing water enhances the camping experience. Anna B. commented about Thibodeau, "The campground is right next to the river which is nice for the sound of running water over night. There's pit toilets. There's generally some people here, but I've never seen it overly crowded."
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks run parallel to I-90, affecting several campgrounds with train noise. At Beavertail Hill State Park Campground, David H. observed, "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."
Seasonal closures: Most non-commercial campgrounds in the Clinton area operate seasonally. BarbDave B. reported that at Beavertail Hill, "The park is relatively small, but the sites all seemed large enough and well spaced. There were a few large RVs there. The camp hosts were super friendly. Flush toilets were clean."
Day-use restrictions: Some fishing access sites have converted from overnight camping to day-use only. Sara L. warns about Johnsrud Park FAS: "No camping allowed. Day access only! Beautiful camping sites, just not allowed to use them!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: When camping with children, sites with playgrounds provide additional entertainment. At Missoula KOA Holiday, Desiree D. found it "Great for kids! Playground, pool, mini golf, clean showers, restrooms and laundry! It was great!"
Space for multiple tents: Family groups often need expanded camping space. Chief Looking Glass Campground accommodates larger family setups, with one camper noting, "I have camped with 4 tents in one space and still had room for more. Great spot to stay."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children can observe wildlife safely at certain campgrounds. Brad B. shared about Beavertail Hill: "My family and I loved this campground. We are tent campers. It was well-laid-out. We did a little exploring by the beaver pond and river. The staff was super friendly."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: RV campers should note ground conditions at different campgrounds. At Jim & Mary's RV Park, Susan V. found that "Sites are all level with gravel. There are picnic tables. Reasonable and discounts accepted. Not far off of the highway."
Utility hookups: Full-hookup sites are available at several campgrounds near Clinton. As callan G. noted about Jim & Mary's RV Park, "Great park and the owners are very friendly. This is the second time we have stayed here."
Bridge clearance issues: Some dispersed camping areas require navigating narrow bridges. Reames C. warned about Rock Creek Dispersed Spot, "Not for low clearance vehicles, it's not far off the highway but we struggled with the two narrow bridges with tight turns in our travel trailer and then there's a large flood way dip in the road that you can bottom out on."
