Camping near Corvallis, Montana occurs primarily along the western slope of the Sapphire Mountains and eastern foothills of the Bitterroot Range at elevations between 3,500-4,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 85°F during day, with frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August. Fall camping offers ideal conditions with fewer crowds and daytime temperatures in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Fly fishing access points: Gold Creek Campground offers proximity to productive trout streams. "Gold creek is prime fishing for trout," notes one visitor, though be prepared for "a lot of biting flies" during summer months.
Family-friendly hiking trails: Charles Waters Campground connects to several trail systems with varied difficulty levels. "Great for tent camping, there are several spots with trails leading to Bass Creek. Recreational area, picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms, and about 10 minutes from Florence MT," reports one camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings at Blodgett Campground provide excellent chances to spot wildlife. "The campground is pristine with how small it is, the graciousness of the host, and with the outdoor access right at your fingertips!" writes one reviewer.
Evening stargazing: Open night skies make for excellent stargazing. One camper at Anglers Roost Campground noted, "The nights are dark and star gazing is wonderful. Hamilton MT is 2 miles away with all amenities and if you like craft beer, there are two breweries."
What campers like
Small, uncrowded campgrounds: Blodgett Campground's intimate setting receives consistent praise. "Great spot! This is a very nice little campground that is free. There is a great hiking trail from the campground - listed in Lonely Planet Hiking the Rockies. Pit toilet and pump water. Sporadic cell phone connection."
River access sites: Many campers specifically seek waterfront sites. At Angler's Roost On the Bitterroot River, "Site 15 is right on the river. The campground had access to water and trash. Gas station and store on site. The hosts were very kind and welcoming."
Hiking trail proximity: Direct trail access ranks high for visitors. "Paves roads, large sites, (sloped, not level) very friendly hosts, water spigots throughout, pit toilets, cement picnic tables. We love the fact that you can hear the cascading water at the sites, peaceful," commented a visitor at Charles Waters Campground.
Clean facilities: Facility maintenance stands out in reviews. "This site has the cleanest and most amazing campground bathroom I've ever seen. The showers are hot, and the entire bathroom stayed clean for the length of my stay," wrote one camper about Angler's Roost.
What you should know
Early arrival essential: Most small campgrounds fill quickly. "Only five sites so come early to this free Campground. You're allowed to stay 14 days. Clean sites, vault toilet, BEAUTIFUL granite mountains on both sides that made for a perfect evening," noted a camper at Blodgett Campground.
Weather variability: Be prepared for rapid temperature changes. "Nights are cold, even in midsummer, so pack appropriate sleeping gear regardless of daytime heat," advises a regular visitor.
Road conditions vary widely: Access to more remote sites requires appropriate vehicles. "The last 2.3 miles of the drive was on a fairly rough, but very manageable, forest road. (Mostly washboard and a few holes)," reported a camper at Lost Horse Dispersed Campground.
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically by location. At Black Bear Campground, "Although right off the road, there isn't much road noise due to not much traffic. You have access to the creek with most sites (look for the trail in the back of your site). Bugs can be an issue in season, so keep that in mind."
Tips for camping with families
Look for creek-side sites: Children enjoy water play opportunities. "Plenty of open sites M-Th, even during the summer. Sites are close-ish together but very private because of the tree cover. The creekside sites are especially lovely," commented a visitor to Charles Waters Campground.
Pack insect protection: Biting flies and mosquitoes can be prevalent near water. "The site is nice. Only water source is the creek which is not easy to access. Note, it isn't really difficult, either. Pit toilet was clean and well supplied. A lot of biting flies when I was there," warned a camper at Gold Creek.
Reserve lake sites early: Lake Como Campground sites book quickly during summer months. "The campground has water and electricity. It's a great deal, especially for seniors with the America the Beautiful pass. We paid $12.50 a night. The sites are pretty spacious."
Consider cabin options: For families new to camping, cabins provide comfort with outdoor access. Angler's Roost offers "cabin right next door" according to one visitor, providing alternatives during inclement weather.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions matter: Smaller RVs fare better at most forest sites. "Nice campground. About 6 miles from main road," notes a reviewer at Blodgett Campground, highlighting access limitations.
Hookup availability varies: Full-service sites are limited to a few campgrounds. "We were right on top of 2 other campgrounds, but some spots are bigger than others. Look at their map before selecting a site," advises a camper who stayed at Anglers Roost.
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven parking surfaces. "7 day max stay despite what the website says. Additional $5 a day fee for water and electric despite what the website says. At $25 though thats not terrible. 1/2 price with applicable passes," warns a Lake Como visitor about unexpected costs and rules.
