Tent camping near Dillon, Montana allows visitors to explore the diverse terrain of Southwest Montana at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 feet. The area sits at the confluence of several mountain ranges including the Pioneer Mountains, Tobacco Roots, and Ruby Range. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during the day while dropping to 40-50°F at night, making sleeping bags rated for cooler temperatures essential even in July and August.
What to do
Fishing access sites: Several spots along the Big Hole River provide direct water access and primitive camping. At Varney Bridge, one camper noted, "Great for Madison River fishing access. Not a whole lot of conveniences, but nice." Sites cost $5 per night.
Crystal hunting: The Pioneer Mountains offer unique mineral collecting opportunities. Near Grasshopper Campground, "A short drive to crystal park where you can dig up quartz and amethyst," according to one visitor who appreciates the geological features of the area.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings provide the best wildlife spotting opportunities. One camper at Varney Bridge reported seeing "lots of birds, rabbits and a cow moose and calf" during their stay, making it worth bringing binoculars for nature observation.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Many tent sites provide direct access to water for fishing and wading. At Salmon Fly, campers enjoy "6 spots right on the river" with sites described as "clean and right on the river."
Shaded sites: The forest campgrounds provide natural cooling during hot summer days. One camper described Mill Creek Campground as "a well shaded campground due to the large fir and pine trees," making it more comfortable during summer heat.
Spacing between campsites: Less crowded campgrounds provide more privacy. Grasshopper Campground features "spots are nicely spread out" and maintains a peaceful atmosphere even when full, with one visitor noting, "A full campground on Father's Day weekend and very peaceful."
What you should know
Water availability: Many campgrounds lack reliable water sources. While some have hand pumps, at Lone Tree Campground, campers should "bring water for drinking" as noted by one reviewer who stayed for three nights.
Bear safety: Food storage requirements vary by location. At Mill Creek Campground, "This is grizzly bear territory, food must be stored in your car or the provided bear proof foot locker at the campground."
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly even in summer. A Grasshopper Campground visitor warned, "We got snow on Labor Day weekend (still Summer!), so check the forecast," highlighting the need for cold-weather gear year-round.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds may be challenging. One camper reported some roads had "horrible washboard" conditions that caused damage to camping equipment, making slower driving necessary.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose locations with natural features for children. One parent at Brownes Bridge Fishing Access Site appreciated that sites are "nicely spread apart from each other" providing room for children to explore safely.
Safety concerns: Be aware of vehicle traffic at busy fishing access points. A parent camping at Varney Bridge warned about boat traffic: "They have no regard for children running around and just want to get into the water. I'm constantly worried about my 2 year old getting nailed by one of these idiots."
Timing considerations: For the best tent camping near Dillon, Montana with families, avoid mid-summer at water sites due to insects. Most riverside campgrounds experience peak insect activity in July, especially near dawn and dusk.
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Many sites accommodate smaller rigs better than large ones. At Salmon Fly, one RVer found the sites "A little short on the length but okay for our 29'" indicating potential challenges for longer vehicles.
Parking surfaces: Most tent sites have minimal improvements for parking. Even at established campgrounds like Barretts Station Park Campground, "It's basically a park with 2 RV spots tucked in at the end that were taken. The rest of 'camping' is free in the gravel lot."
Highway proximity: Some campgrounds experience traffic noise. At Barretts Station, "It was close to the freeway, so there was lots of road noise all night," making earplugs advisable for light sleepers camping near main transportation routes.
