Camping near Conner, Montana offers outdoor adventures in the Bitterroot National Forest at elevations ranging from 3,900 to 8,700 feet. The area experiences warm summer days with temperatures around 80°F and cool nights dipping to 45°F. Most campgrounds in this region close after Labor Day, with limited winter camping options along Highway 93.
What to do
Fly fishing opportunities: The Bitterroot River provides excellent fly fishing near Anglers Roost Campground. As one camper noted, "This is definitely the place to roost for anyone who enjoys fishing. All fifty spots are either on the bitterroot river or a short walk away. A pleasant walk along the water provides ample bank fishing for the plentiful trout."
Lake exploration: Painted Rocks Lake is accessible from nearby campgrounds for water recreation. A visitor to Rombo Campground shared, "This area is next to a huge river that runs off of painted rock dam. This campground is a must for thrillseekers, recreation types, and explorers coming to spend a weekend on the lake and the deep bitterroot mountains."
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds in this region offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Philipsburg Bay Campground, a camper experienced, "The area is beautiful. We heard wolves after dusk and saw elk at dawn. Fishing is good and plenty of waterfowl in the lake."
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many glamping sites near Conner position visitors right on the riverbank. A guest at River's Fork Lodge & RV Park reported, "Not sure if you can get any closer to the river. The back of the trailer was probably less than 10 ft. to the river. Outstanding view. The fishing was spot on, right on the river you don't have to even drive anywhere if you don't want."
Spacious sites: Campgrounds in this area typically offer well-spaced sites. A visitor to Philipsburg Bay Campground commented, "This campground has many sites shaded by lodgepole pines. The sites are far enough apart and angled to give a nice sense of privacy."
Clean facilities: Cleanliness is frequently mentioned in reviews. At Piney Campground, a reviewer noted, "Toilets are close to each campsite and they are very clean. We stayed here in October. Let's just say the sunset was spectacular!!"
What you should know
Limited cell service: Cell reception varies widely between camping areas. A review from Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground warns, "No cell service (AT&T & Sprint), Poor WiFi. If you are a digital nomad and stay here then go to Salmon (30-minute drive), turn left, and a few blocks down on your left is the public library. It's the best wifi you'll find."
Weather variability: Mountain weather can change quickly, even in summer months. A visitor to Piney Campground experienced "a surprise snow on the 2nd night but stayed 8 days/nights."
Reservation timing: For popular glamping spots near Conner, Montana, advance planning is essential. A reviewer at Powell Campground advised, "Reservations close 6 days prior, and then flip over to first come, first serve."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some glamping locations offer additional recreation options. A reviewer at Sula Country Store and Resort mentioned, "There is free put-put golf, horseshoes, tetherball and a small well stocked fishing pond with benches to watch the action or simply admire the beauty of the surroundings."
Spacious camping areas: Look for sites with room for children to play. At Powell Campground, a camper found, "The site was large, contained a picnic table and fire pit with cooking grate, and had plenty of trees for hammocking."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Kids often enjoy spotting animals around camp. A visitor to Philipsburg Bay noted they "saw elk at dawn" and observed "plenty of waterfowl in the lake."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Electric sites are available at certain forest service campgrounds. At Powell Campground, a reviewer specified, "Great sites next to river. Bathroom and water had already been closed for season. We had site 18."
Site selection: Choose your site carefully based on your needs. A camper at Travellers Rest Cabins & RV Park found, "We were in the area to fly fish and just needed a basic place to park our RV with power. We drove down the road to Traveler's Rest, a little frazzled from our recent experience and were very relieved that they were friendly, had availability and the facility was clean and nice."
Access considerations: Some glamping sites near Conner have limited access for larger rigs. At Rombo Campground, a visitor warned about the "tight road, don't tow anything to big."
