Recreational vehicle camping near Conner, Montana provides ready access to the Bitterroot National Forest and Salmon River. Located at an elevation of approximately 4,000 feet, the area features steep mountain terrain with multiple year-round and seasonal camping options. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F, with cooler nights even during peak season.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Salmon River offers productive fishing spots near River's Fork Lodge & RV Park. "The fishing was spot on, right on the river you don't have to even drive anywhere if you don't want. They also offer kayak rentals," reports one visitor who stayed at site #2.
Hiking trails: Several campgrounds provide direct trail access. At Sam Billings Memorial Campground, visitors can explore nearby geology. "Stayed we with a friend here to do some surficial geology in the Bitterroots Mt. It was a really nice central area to work out of," notes one camper.
Lake activities: Lake Como offers swimming and boating opportunities during summer months. "We loved running the 8 mile trail around the lake in the morning while the beach filled up with day time visitors," mentions a camper who stayed near the boat launch area.
River floating: The Salmon River provides calm sections ideal for summer floating. A camper at River's Fork notes, "Unfortunately I didn't realize how warm, calm, and popular the river was. Next time we come back we will definitely float the river."
What campers like
River proximity: Campsites along the Salmon River provide waterfront access. "The back of the trailer was probably less than 10 ft. to the river. Outstanding view," according to a River's Fork Lodge visitor who appreciated the short distance to water.
Spacious sites: Lake Como Campground offers well-spaced sites with hookups. "Electricity and water was a plus, great sites, lake was pristine!" writes a visitor who rated the experience 5 stars.
Pet amenities: Several parks accommodate pets with dedicated areas. At Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground, "Dog friendly and there is a dog island that your fur kid can run around off leash," notes a visitor who appreciated the pet-friendly environment.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities are highlighted at multiple campgrounds. "Showers and restrooms spotless and free, great little laundry room," reports a Wagonhammer visitor who stayed in summer.
What you should know
Cell coverage limitations: Internet and phone service vary significantly by location. At Wagonhammer, "If you want complete solitude from the internet and TV this is the place for you to reconnect with nature. No cell service for Verizon. Nearest town with groceries etc. is in Salmon so stock up before you go."
Site spacing variations: Black Rabbit RV in Hamilton features compact sites. "Very full park with mostly long-term guests on gravel pads, no grass. Spots very close together but each site had a picnic table," notes a visitor who stayed during peak season.
Reservation policies: Most campgrounds fill quickly during summer weekends. At Black Bear Campground, "This campsite is first-come, first-served. We arrived here around 6:00 on a Friday night in June and plenty of spots were still available," according to a recent visitor.
Limited seasonal operations: Many campgrounds operate with restricted hours or services during shoulder seasons. Wagonhammer RV Park operates from May 15 to November 15, with varying amenity availability throughout the season.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Safe water areas benefit families with young children. "Running creek nearby with little trails, great for little ones," notes a visitor to Lake Como Campground.
Private site options: Black Bear Campground offers secluded sites that reduce noise concerns. "The sites feel very private. There were groups staying at the sites on either side of us, but we barely heard them," reports a family who visited in June.
Activity planning: Prepare additional entertainment for children at river sites. One family at River's Fork Lodge noted, "If there was really anything they could add, would possibly be something for kids to do. Just as a family of four with a 3 and 6 year old, they can only fish so much."
Budget-friendly options: Several campgrounds offer free or reduced-price camping during certain seasons. At Sam Billings Memorial Campground, "Be sure to read the notice above the envelope box before you pay. From weather dependent dates chosen by the Rangers there is no cost from late Oct to late May."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Vehicle height restrictions affect some campgrounds. At Sam Billings, most sites accommodate standard RVs, but specific sites work better for larger rigs: "Sites #1 & #2 get the most sun, are the largest, and can accommodate any size RV. The remaining sites vary in size."
Hook-up availability: Travellers Rest Cabins & RV Park in Darby provides reliable utilities. "We were in the area to fly fish and just needed a basic place to park our RV with power. The facility was clean and nice," reports a visitor who appreciated the reliable electrical service.
Site preparation: Some campgrounds require clearing before setup. At Sam Billings, one visitor noted, "You will likely need to rake through or clear your site" due to natural debris accumulation.
Supply planning: Limited services mean advance provisioning is necessary. At Wagonhammer, visitors advised, "Nearest town with groceries etc. is in Salmon so stock up before you go," highlighting the need to arrive prepared.
