Tent camping near Conner, Montana provides access to the Bitterroot National Forest's varied terrain with elevations ranging between 4,000-9,000 feet. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with July and August offering the most reliable weather conditions. Forest service roads accessing many campgrounds require cautious driving, particularly after rain when mud can create challenging conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Gold Creek Campground offers prime trout fishing in its namesake creek. "Located in the remote forest is a perfect campground. Not alot of people, gold creek is prime fishing for trout," notes camper Kat S. about Gold Creek Campground.
Wildlife observation: Deep Creek provides chances to see river otters and other wildlife in their natural habitat. A visitor at Deep Creek shared, "We fished off the dock and was visited by a large otter!" This area supports diverse wildlife including deer, otters, and various bird species.
Remote lake exploration: Pintler Lake offers a secluded camping experience approximately 10 miles from Highway 43. "Pinter Lake is 10 miles from the main road hwy 43. The mostly gravel road is far from smooth with uncomfortable washboard feeling much of the route," reports Lisa K. The lake features extensive lily pad growth, creating distinctive paddling opportunities.
What campers like
Creek-side campsites: Many tent campers appreciate the ambient sounds of running water at Crazy Creek Campground. Matthew F. reports about Crazy Creek Campground, "What an awesome camp ground. Easy access, and friendly camp host. Stay here for quick access to Lamar Valley. Be aware of your surroundings, we had a coyote visit us unexpectedly!"
Low occupancy: Even during peak season, some campgrounds remain relatively empty. Will M. noted about Gold Creek Campground, "In 4 nights I had two other campers on two different nights. Forest Service was checking campground almost daily." This provides solitude rarely found in more popular camping destinations.
Clean facilities: Despite remote locations, most campgrounds maintain serviceable vault toilets. "The pit toilet was clean and well supplied," reports Will M. about his stay at Gold Creek. Regular maintenance by Forest Service staff helps maintain sanitary conditions even at primitive sites.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many campgrounds require travel on rough forest service roads. "It is a long gravel road to get there but worth the trip! It's beautiful!" explains Marian J. about reaching Deep Creek. Some access roads feature washboard surfaces requiring slow driving speeds.
Limited water access: Though many campgrounds sit near creeks, reaching water can require effort. "The site is nice. Only water source is the creek which is not easy to access. Note, it isn't really difficult, either," explains Will M. about Gold Creek Campground. Bringing container water remains the most reliable option.
Insect activity: Biting flies and mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly in early summer. "A lot of biting flies when I was there," notes one Gold Creek camper. At Pintler Campground, Lisa K. observed it was "buggy with only a slight breeze to keep flys away."
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife encounters: Prepare children for possible wildlife sightings and establish safety protocols. "Saw a doe and fawn on the way out in the morning," notes Annie C. from Crazy Creek Campground. While exciting, maintaining safe wildlife distances remains important.
Creek safety: Many sites feature creeks with variable water levels depending on snowmelt. Raena M. describes Gold Creek as having "no easy access to creek" with terrain features that naturally limit direct water access, potentially beneficial for families with small children.
Site selection: Look for level tent pads when camping with children. Some sites feature uneven ground that can make sleeping uncomfortable. Annie C. noted about Crazy Creek, "Sites were of different sizes...and of differing amounts of levelness. I had site 2 and had to go to a fairly low spot to find a level place to pitch my tent."
Tips from RVers
Limited designated RV spaces: Many campgrounds near Conner primarily accommodate tent camping with few dedicated RV sites. At Pintler Campground, Lisa K. observed, "Three spots are available, although people did make two ad how sites down by the river. Both were RVs."
Road conditions: Forest service roads often feature washboard surfaces and occasional muddy sections. "The mostly gravel road is far from smooth with uncomfortable washboard feeling much of the route," notes a Pintler Campground visitor, indicating high-clearance vehicles may be advantageous for accessing remote sites.
Availability of services: Limited amenities exist at most campsites, with Indian Creek Campground being an exception. Daniel M. reports, "Nice $4 warm shower and slightly over priced $20 camp site. Not my favorite stop but it's quick easy and reliable. There are a couple of restaurants within walking distance."
