Camping options near De Borgia, Montana cluster primarily along the I-90 corridor and surrounding Lolo National Forest land. Located at approximately 3,100 feet elevation in western Montana's mineral county, this area experiences heavy winter snowfall and short but pleasant summers. Several campgrounds near De Borgia offer river access with trout fishing opportunities during the warmer months.
What to do
Fishing the Clark Fork River: Sloway Campground provides direct river access with a small boat launch. "We've been camping at Sloway for years because I love hearing the trains all night long! While my hubby flyfishes, I float on the Clark Fork. You can put in right from your campsite, the beach by the pullthru sites, Dry Creek or Superior, then float to your campsite/beach, St Regis, or 14 Mile/Ferry Landing," notes Lisa C. at Sloway Campground.
Riverside camping and swimming: The dispersed sites at Lolo National Forest Recreation Area offer riverside relaxation. "I was alone while camping, parked my car at the first fire pit I saw open and it was perfect. Absolutely beautiful river, beautiful spot. Great for fishing, swimming, etc.," shares Audrey L. at Lolo National Forest Recreation Area.
Hiking nearby trails: Pleasant Valley Campground features on-site hiking options. "There were also a couple of hiking trails right at the site with signs. Really beautiful views near the back," according to Alex P. who stayed at the campground.
What campers like
Free electric hookups: The 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground stands out for cost-conscious travelers. "This location was terrific. Showed up late, got gas, got directions from gas station attendant. Two campgrounds I guess you would call them. A little road to the back led us to the back lot of sites, probably 8-10 of them, pretty good spacing between them. RV outlets freely available, just hook up and flip the breaker," explains Darrin R. at 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground.
Private riverside sites: Campers value the secluded nature of dispersed camping in the area. "Dispersed camping at the 'Peninsula' Recreation Area. 6 day stay limit according to the sign. No potable water. Stone fire rings throughout. We stayed mid week during August. Stayed in a medium sized site on the river. Small steep slope to the water," describes Josh S.
On-site amenities: Kelly Creek Campground offers basic facilities in a scenic location. "Located along the clearwater river at the mouth of Kelly creek great scenery in this rugged river canyon," notes Christopher R. at Kelly Creek Campground.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds experience railway noise. "The I-90 highway runs fairly close to the campground & the noise can be distracting at times. The bigger noise maker is the train that runs on the other side of the Clark Fork River. There are two road crossings across from the campground, and the trains are required to blow their horns when approaching these crossings," warns Kenneth F.
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Most dispersed camping areas offer minimal amenities. "Pros: Plenty of space, both large and small sites. Room for a 30' in a couple of the sites. 3 bars Tmobile. Some sites on the water with a short steep slope down. 12 miles to gas station. Beautiful views. Cons: No pit toilets (edit: another camper said they are at the end of the campground). No potable water. Road/train noise. POISON IVY (found it... found all of it)," shares Josh S. about Isabella Landing Camp.
Weather considerations: Montana's weather can change quickly. Prepare for temperature swings and potential storms, especially in spring and fall months. Campers at Fish Lake Trailhead report good fishing but recommend weather awareness in this backcountry location.
Tips for camping with families
Easy access water spots: Finding safe water access points helps with family camping. "There was only one other camper so it was nice and quiet, it's very close off the 2 highway so it's really easy to get to. There are toilets that were ok at the time. Sites had some nice privacy with the trees, the horse camp sites at the back were a little more open but looked to be in really good condition," describes Alex P. at Pleasant Valley Campground.
Noise management: Train sounds may disrupt light sleepers. "Nice campground, privacy btwn sites was good, right on river, beautiful scenery. We were there late September and it was pretty vacant. The noise from the trains was no joke. Woke us up about 5 times overnight, fortunately toddler slept through it," reports Jess R.
Nearby amenities: Having access to supplies can be crucial with children. "Our kids love this gift shop. Great stop for a night along I-90. Friendly staff indoors. Yummy milkshakes, knowledgeable locals and electricity in our site. We filled up on groceries, water and WiFi was decent too," notes Jennifer H.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Some campgrounds offer partial utilities. "We stopped here on our way out of Montana (our home state). A winter storm rolled in and made the pass impassable. This is a FREE RV park with electric hookups…no water, cable, or dumping station, but again, FREE. The snow was hitting hard and having electricity was a lifesaver," shares Andi F.
Site access for larger rigs: Consider vehicle size when selecting campgrounds. "Great free camping spot for an overnight stay. Far enough from the interstate to eliminate most road noise. There is an overflow lot that is more private but closer to the interstate. 7 sites have free electrical hookups," reports rob D.
Emergency options: The area provides good stopover points. "A price that can't be beat! Several spaces available behind the restaurant/bar and casino- Tucked into the woods but road close- you can walk over for a meal, snack, coffee etc or some delightfully cheesey souvenirs. Plug in your rig and unwind for the night," recommends Renee Z.
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