Tent camping near Condon, Montana provides direct access to the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex and Mission Mountain range. Most sites sit at elevations between 3,500-4,200 feet, creating cooler overnight temperatures even during summer months. Winter camping is possible at lower elevations though snow can persist at higher sites well into May.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Multiple lakes offer excellent fishing for cutthroat trout and mountain whitefish. At Lindbergh Lake Boat Ramp, campers can easily access the water, with one visitor noting, "Several sites grouped together by lake down an access road... Nice wooded sites and easy access to lake for swimming or boating."
Non-motorized boating: The smaller lakes are ideal for paddlers rather than powerboats. Holland Lake Boating Site provides excellent launch options for kayaks and canoes. As one camper explains, "We use this area a lot. The boat launch is definitely not for larger boats, so there's not a lot of the chaos associated with type places. Parking is good, and it's easy to get to the restrooms."
Wildlife viewing: The region hosts mountain goats, elk, and black bears. Pack appropriate food storage. According to backcountry campers, you might have close encounters with mountain wildlife, especially at higher elevations where habitat remains relatively undisturbed.
What campers like
Secluded lake access: Many tent sites provide direct water access without the crowds of more developed areas. At Yellow Bay State Park Campground, "The bay itself is relatively shallow, protected a bit from the wind and the bottom is smooth mid sized rocks, all making for an excellent place to swim. There is a roped off public swim area, along with a small boat dock nearby."
Clean facilities: Despite being in remote areas, many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. One visitor to Mere's Magic Trout Pond mentioned, "The porta potty was the cleanest one I've ever been to. You have to fill up your own water for the shower. There is potable well water and a canoe if you wanted to row in the pond."
Minimal road noise: Despite proximity to highways, many sites remain peaceful. At Yellow Bay, a camper noted, "The highway is just above the campsite so there is road noise from time to time but it quiets down at night and the nearby stream drowns out most of it."
What you should know
Variable terrain: Many tent sites require flexibility in setup. At Placid Creek Pull Off, campers report, "It's not completely level but the road in is easy" and another notes it has "rough dirt entrance. 4-5 semi designated parking spaces. More if you were cozy."
Limited amenities: Most dispersed tent camping options near Condon require self-sufficiency. One visitor described Placid Creek as "a clearing with a clean outhouse. It works for a night or two," while another called it "primitive but usable. Open. Near creek. No amenities aside from outhouse."
Tribal land considerations: Some camping areas near Condon fall within tribal territories requiring special permits. A camper attempting to visit North Crow Creek found that "it is on Tribal land and permits are required for use."
Tips for camping with families
Group facilities: For larger family gatherings, consider facilities designed for groups. Camp Paxson offers cabin accommodations with electricity, though be aware they require renting the entire facility. A visitor mentioned, "Primitive cabins with electricity and bunk beds but nothing else. Dock to jump off of. Trails all over Seeley lake. An area with benches surrounding the fire and a stage."
Swimming areas: Designated swimming zones provide safer options for children. Yellow Bay State Park features a "roped off public swim area," making it easier to monitor younger swimmers.
Seasonal timing: For tent camping with families, mid-July through August offers the best balance of warm days and manageable nights. Earlier visits might encounter snow at higher elevations, as noted by several campers who experienced "winter weather" conditions even in June.
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas near Condon have restrictions for larger vehicles. At Mission Meadows RV Campground, "There are a few spots with hookups, but the ground is very uneven. The best spots are W&E, and the dumpstation is at the Cenex in Ronan."
Access challenges: Many roads to tent sites aren't suitable for larger vehicles. At Placid Creek Pull Off, campers warn it's "Not recommended for low clearance or large vehicles," making it necessary to research access carefully before attempting to reach camping areas with an RV.
Seasonal closures: Most campgrounds close between late September and early May. Yellow Bay operates specifically "May 1 to September 30," requiring alternative arrangements outside these dates.
