Camping options near Clinton, Montana feature locations at elevations of 3,400 to 4,000 feet with access to local waterways including Rock Creek and the Clark Fork River. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F, with occasional thunderstorms in July and August. The region's pine forests create natural boundaries between campsites at many locations, offering shade during summer months.
What to do
Fish Rock Creek: At Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground, anglers have direct access to premium fly fishing. "About a mile of rt 90. Camping is tight by fly fishing is very good. Freindly people with great food. Beautiful country," reports one visitor who found success on the creek.
Hiking local trails: The area offers family-friendly trails with riverside views. A camper at Town of Drummond Campground noted, "We showed up LATE and left early because we were just passing through. There didn't seem to be designated camping spots but it wasn't bad at all... except for the train that came through every few hours!"
Swim in mountain lakes: Just over an hour's drive from Clinton, Philipsburg Bay Campground provides lake access for swimming. "Nice, shaded little spot on the lake. Every site we saw was in the pines. Great for shade, terrible if you rely on solar," mentioned one visitor, highlighting the shade factor for hot summer days.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention facility cleanliness as a highlight. At Beavertail Hill State Park, a visitor noted, "Nature trail was fun and bathrooms were excellent. Very clean. Camp host was friendly as well. Power hook ups. Firewood vending machine!!!!!"
Privacy between sites: Many appreciate the thoughtful site layout at Philipsburg Bay Campground, where "The sites are far enough apart and angled to give a nice sense of privacy. Some of the sites have electric, but there is essentially no water. Vault toilets are clean."
Proximity to water: Access to creeks and rivers ranks high on camper preferences. At Jocko Hollow Campground, one reviewer shared, "This is a cute little camp site. We were right next to the river which was amazing. But some of the sites are for permanent residents, which feels weird."
What you should know
Train noise: Several campgrounds near Clinton experience railroad noise. At Town of Drummond Campground, campers report, "There is a set of RR tracks that run along the freeway. There were 8-10 trains that went by daily.. honking at the RR crossing."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through September or October. A visitor to Ekstrom's Stage Station noted, "We called the number on their sign when we arrived. It's pretty shut down with no services but we dry camped. Owner was super nice."
Water advisories: Temporary water quality issues may arise. A camper at Ekstrom's Stage Station reported, "Absolutely beautiful. 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."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Children enjoy the playground facilities at several Clinton area campgrounds. At Lolo Hot Springs RV Park & Campground, a family mentioned, "This was perfect for our golden retriever as we could tie her on a long lead and she could swim her heart out."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area provides chances to see local wildlife. At Philipsburg Bay Campground, a visitor shared, "The area is beautiful. We heard wolves after dusk and saw elk at dawn. Fishing is good and plenty of waterfowl in the lake."
Glamping options for comfort: Families seeking glamping near Clinton, Montana appreciate the upgraded camping experience. Missoula KOA Holiday offers "several very creative approaches to tent sites. The one that I am staying at has a tent circle, five sites in the round, facing outward, fenced on each side with a picnic table, stand up barbecue, fire pit."
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: RVers should prepare for potential leveling issues. At Missoula KOA Holiday, one RVer noted, "The loops were tight and the sites very close. Most sites will need work to level campers."
Seasonal dump station access: Not all glamping locations near Clinton, Montana offer year-round dump stations. At Lee Creek Campground, facilities typically close after Labor Day, with a camper noting, "Small campground, right off highway, fair amount of road noise. Great access for hunting, skiing, snowmobiling."
Site selection tips: Choose RV sites carefully for the best experience. One camper at Missoula KOA advised, "Sights 17-20 are the gem of the bunch, particularly 19. We stayed here and at West Glacier KOA and I'd come back here in a heartbeat."
