Campsites near Dillon, Montana sit at elevations between 5,000-5,800 feet in Montana's southwestern corner, creating variable weather conditions throughout camping season. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 75-85°F but can drop to 40-45°F at night, even in July. The region marks the exact halfway point between the North Pole and Equator, a geographic distinction celebrated with a marker near Clark Canyon Reservoir.
What to do
Fishing access points: Clark Canyon Reservoir provides excellent fishing opportunities with boat launch areas at Beaverhead Campground. "Better than we expected. Missed the turn into this little gem, and traveled across the dam to the pay CG across the lake," notes Chuck N. "Large, flat gravel pads, not crowded, and almost every site has a firepit and ramada over the picnic table."
Ghost town exploration: Visit the preserved 1860s mining settlement at Vigilante Campground — Bannack State Park. "Bannack is a ghost town that has been designated as a MT State Park. The 1860s mining town's buildings have been stabilized but not restored. It's fascinating," writes Gretchen B. The park offers interpretive programs where "you can go in to and check out just about every building in the town."
Camping with historical context: Camp alongside Grasshopper Creek where Montana's first gold discovery occurred. "Awesome little campground next to Grasshopper Creek. There aren't many sites here but we were lucky enough to get two. Each space has plenty of room for the kids to run around and play. Caught a few fish on the fly too," says Jeff W. about Vigilante Campground.
What campers like
Riverside sites: Barretts Station Park Campground offers free camping near the Beaverhead River. "Sweet little park with the beautiful beaverhead river running through it. Nice evening watching the Canada geese and muskrats," reports mary F. The campground provides vault toilets and easy interstate access, making it popular for overnight stops.
Mountain views: The region's open landscape creates panoramic mountain vistas from most camping areas. "The view of the surrounding snow packed peaks was beautiful with the new June green grass. Site was somewhat flat. Dry camping. Shelter with picnic table," shares Phillip R. about his experience at Beaverhead Campground.
Water recreation: Multiple reservoirs and rivers create options for swimming, fishing, and boating. "There was so much room for tents, rigs, cars, and boat trailers. Dog friendly, clean pit toilets, manual water pump, and beautiful sunrise/sunset over the lake," writes Sienna V. about her stay at Beaverhead Campground.
What you should know
Wind exposure: Many campgrounds in the area have limited tree cover and experience significant wind. "It is in a nice location with old growth trees all around... Not as windy of a location as the Countryside RV Park because of its location," notes skiranch about Beaver Head RV Park & Campground, highlighting the importance of seeking sheltered sites.
Seasonal insect pressure: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near water. "Bugs are INTENSE though!" warns Alyessa L. about Barretts Station Park. Another camper mentions, "Mosquitos were bad, no surprise there with the creek close by" at Vigilante Campground.
Highway noise: Several camping areas sit close to I-15, creating traffic noise. "It was close to the freeway, so there was lots of road noise all night," reports Marne F. about Barretts Station Park Campground. When possible, request sites furthest from highways for quieter conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Covered picnic areas: Beaverhead Campground offers sheltered picnic tables at most sites, providing shade during hot summer days. "Almost every site has a firepit and ramada over the picnic table," mentions Chuck N., making this campground particularly good for family meals regardless of weather.
Junior Ranger programs: Bannack State Park offers educational activities for children. "Kids visiting the park can work on a Jr. Ranger program. Great time to visit is when they have volunteers dressed in period clothing," suggests Dexter I., providing structured learning opportunities during your stay.
Playgrounds: Some campgrounds feature play areas for children. "Nice playground if you have kids. Trees are nice in high summer," notes skiranch about Beaver Head RV Park & Campground, offering a place for kids to burn energy between outdoor adventures.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: Southside RV Park receives high marks for site conditions. "The sites are spacious and level. Get reservations to assure a site. Pull throughs or backins," advises Karla B. Another reviewer confirms, "All gravel except the grass but very level and really well surfaced."
Big rig accessibility: Larger vehicles can access most campgrounds in the region. "Our 43.5' TH fits fine," reports Chuck N. about Beaverhead Campground, while skiranch notes about Countryside RV Park, "The sites are good sized and easy to pull through. Gravel road in good condition."
Year-round availability: Some RV parks remain open through winter. "This is a great place in Montana. Easy access. Right outside Dillon MT," shares Stephanie G. about Countryside RV Park. Before traveling in cold months, confirm which parks offer winter access and whether water systems remain operational.
