Campgrounds near Clinton, Montana occupy a region between the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountain Ranges where elevations range from 3,500 to 5,000 feet. The area features multiple waterways including Rock Creek and Clark Fork River with typical summer temperatures reaching 80-90°F during peak camping season from June through September. Mosquito activity increases near creek and riverside sites, particularly during early summer evenings.
What to do
**Waterfall hiking: ** Charles Waters Campground connects to the Bass Creek Trail system where hikers can access mountain views and cascading water. "There are some nice hiking and horseback riding trails across the road, and there is a forest road that goes all the way to the top of the mountains with picnic tables to watch the sunset or sunrise," notes Annie C.
River tubing: At Bearmouth RV Park, campers can enjoy floating down Clark Fork River during summer months. "They made sure we had a shady pull through near our friends staying in a cabin and even provided a shuttle up and down the river so we could tube!" shares Reames C.
Mountain lake access: Holland Lake provides swimming, paddling, and fishing opportunities with trail access to waterfall views. "The lake itself is gorgeous, and the camping spots are beautiful. There's even one site on the island, if you brought a canoe or kayak, as we did!" says Anna B.
What campers like
Quiet creek settings: Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground offers peaceful sites along Rock Creek. "It's a very beautiful setting with big trees, and very quiet. Nice playground for the kids," writes Wendy W., highlighting the combination of natural surroundings and family amenities.
Wilderness access: Holland Lake Campground provides entry to extensive wilderness areas. "You are right at the mouth of the Bob Marshall Wilderness for hiking exploring needs! Holland Lake is beautiful year round!" reports Sara C., who values the proximity to extensive trail systems.
Scenic mountain views: East Fork Group Area offers access to multiple lakes surrounded by mountains. "The river by the camp sites is absolutely beautiful. The lake at the top of the hill is a sight to be seen with the surrounding mountains," notes Nick T., mentioning the "access to a massive wilderness area that has in excess of 40 separate lakes."
What you should know
Bear activity: Both black and grizzly bears frequent campgrounds in the Clinton area. "Keep an eye out for bears. We saw a black bear across the road from the campground," warns Sara D. at Holland Lake. Another camper reports: "There are both black and grizzly bears that frequent this area daily, so be very careful with your food."
Water advisories: Out Post Campground and several other sites occasionally implement boil water notices. At Ekstrom's Stage Station, Andrea B. notes: "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."
Highway noise: Some campgrounds near Clinton sit close to Interstate 90 and railroad tracks. "Interstate noise and the occasional train whistle would keep me from using the facility for nothing more than an overnight stop," mentions Tadd B. about Bearmouth RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children to burn energy. "There is a basketball court, sand volleyball court, horse shoes and a playground. There's also a beautiful creek running along the campground with beautiful Mountain views," reports a camper at Ekstrom's Stage Station.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes are common near water sources, particularly in early summer. "Bring bug spray, the mosquitos are out. They really go nuts when you first pull in but relax after a few minutes," advises Sara D. at Lake Elsina.
Water activities: Several sites offer swimming and wading opportunities. At Charles Waters Campground, "There are several spots with trails leading to Bass Creek. Recreational area, picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms, and about 10 minutes from Florence MT," mentions Rene S., pointing out the family-friendly amenities.
Tips from RVers
Mobile dump services: Some campgrounds without permanent dump stations offer alternative options. "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 Reames C. about Bearmouth RV Park.
Site spacing considerations: Campground layouts vary significantly in the Clinton area. At Ekstrom's Stage Station, Mary Ellen H. notes: "Campsites are the reason for not giving 5 stars. Very tight and not great space for maneuverability. Was not full so we were fine with a big rig. Had it been full would be a little uncomfortable."
Paved sites available: For RVers seeking more stable parking, certain campgrounds provide improved surfaces. "Paves roads, large sites, (sloped, not level) very friendly hosts, water spigots throughout, pit toilets, cement picnic tables," reports MT Nesters at Charles Waters Campground.
