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Camping near Divide, Montana ranges from developed campgrounds with picnic tables and river access to free dispersed sites in the surrounding mountain landscapes. The Bureau of Land Management operates Divide Bridge Campground just off state highway 43 with two camping loops offering picnic tables, fire rings and river access. Several miles away, Maiden Rock Dispersed camping area provides free primitive sites suitable for both tent and RV campers without hookups. The region supports a mix of accommodation types from basic tent sites to RV parks with full hookups and even cabin rentals at locations like Sportsman Lodge and Fleecer Station.
Road conditions and campground accessibility vary significantly by season in this mountainous region. Most established campgrounds operate from late spring through early fall, with Divide Bridge Campground remaining accessible year-round. "The BLM's Divide Bridge Campground is a nice campground located on the Big Hole River just off of state highway 43. The campground is a short distance past the pleasant day use area and boat launch," wrote one visitor. During winter months, many forest roads become impassable due to snow accumulation. Summer temperatures typically range from 70-85°F during daytime hours but can drop significantly at night given the higher elevations. Cell service is limited or non-existent at more remote camping areas, particularly at dispersed sites like Homestake Pass where campers should bring all necessary supplies including drinking water.
Fishing access represents a primary attraction for many campgrounds in the area, with several sites positioned strategically along the Big Hole River. Salmon Fly Fishing Access Site features six well-spaced campsites with gravel parking pads, metal fire rings and access to the river. A camper noted, "Cost to camp is $12 with a valid MT fishing license, $18 without." Wildlife viewing opportunities abound throughout the region, with early mornings offering the best chance to spot deer, elk and various bird species. While many sites provide basic amenities like vault toilets, most dispersed camping areas lack drinking water and trash service. Weekends see higher occupancy rates, particularly during summer months and fishing season, with some visitors reporting that riverside sites fill quickly. For those seeking more amenities, several RV parks in nearby communities offer full hookups, showers and laundry facilities.
"Blm camping on the big hole river, montana, free up to 16 days. About 15 spots. Boat ramp, fishing hiking fire pits, no wood available."
"Put toilet right outside of camp. We walked down the road to the angler parking and took a dip in the evening :)"
"The BLM's Divide Bridge Campground is a nice campground located on the Big Hole River just off of state highway 43. The campground is a short distance past the pleasant day use area and boat launch."
"After a few days of roughing it, pulling into Divide Bridge felt like checking into the Ritz."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"This is a great spot in a tiny town south of Butte Montana. They have a couple cabins, several motel rooms and about 10 full hookup, all grass, RV spots. Also a large area for car/tent camping."
"Quite hazy with smoke from forest fires when we were here but I can tell it is beautiful, nestled in between Montana mountain ranges. Easy walk to the river for fly fishing access."
from $29 - $48 / night
Check Availability"Its pretty heavy traffic at all times (day and night) since its located pretty close to the entrance of the 17mile NF road loop, and off-roaders will zip by."
"The spot was close to the highway - lots of potential spots - some “locals” who seem to live out there and run generators 24/7 - we had no problem and got a good night sleep to carry on our journey."
"Nice location for an overnight rest spot. We had a tent site, close to the road, but traffic wasn’t bad after dark. Site was grassy. No fires allowed for obvious reasons."
"Sites are close to each other. There were no picnic tables and wood fires are not allowed so no fire rings."
"I didn't really walk around the campground, but it seemed like a smaller KOA. It is easy to find right off the interstate. I thought perhaps the highway noise would be an issue, but it was not. "
"The Campground is located just south of downtown and within walking distance of many of the attractions in this lovely historic city."
from $65 - $120 / night
Check Availability"Only 3 miles from the highway, this campsite is at the end of a well maintained, slightly rutted gravel road. It’s wide enough for trailers."
from $15 / night
Check Availability"The sprinter all wheel drive negotiated the trail easily from the trailhead up. We found an open meadow of sagebrush. Beautiful sunrise. One bar AT&T signal."
TravelerBy the interstate, $10 to camp. Takes cash, check or there is a kiosk for cards. Definitely interstate noise and gun shots in the distance, but great for one night stay. You can back in right by the river. Our travel trailer was 27ft and we chose site #3, it was easy to back into to.
RangerReviewed by: The Crew at Hitched4fun.com
If you are looking for an overnight stop while rolling through southwestern Montana on Interstate 15 or Interstate 90, the Butte KOA Journey serves its purpose as a functional travel hub. It is far from a luxury resort destination, but if you need a safe, inexpensive, and easily accessible place to park your rig for the night, it gets the job done.
Campground Grounds & Amenities
It is best to set expectations before pulling in—this is a very basic, older KOA:
Location & Highway Access
Must-See Local Stop: The Berkeley Pit Tour
If you stay here, do not leave town without visiting the Berkeley Pit.
The Hitched4fun Verdict
The Butte KOA Journey won't win awards for landscaping, but its budget-friendly rate, safe atmosphere, and prime interstate convenience make it a viable 3-star overnight rest stop. Pair it with a half-hour visit to the Berkeley Pit to get an authentic taste of Montana's copper history before hitting the highway again.
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (3 out of 5 Stars)
ScoutThe campground has been updated with level gravel pads, metal fire rings, and picnic tables. One group site. In addition to the updated sites, there are several old ones without picnic tables or pads. I really liked the open country, with hills surrounding the reservoir, but the lack of shade could be an issue in summer. There really are garnets in the lakeshore sediments. We were van camping, so cannot comment on whether long rigs will fit.
GuideWe are here in October and we are getting snow I love it. Only 3 other campers here. .the dogs just run. Getting about 6 inches of snow. Going to hike some trails tomorrow. We have AT&T and there is cell service but we also have Starlink. No water this time of year and there is only 1 pit toilet...across the campground. It would not be a place I would stay in summer....no trees I'm not a fan of seeing all the campers. Looks like pretty decent gravel sites. We do have electric. The rangers are very nice.
TravelerPlenty of sites to pick, it seems that at least half of them are right on the water. Pit toilets available. Campground host is attentive but not invasive.
ScoutNice for overnight stop cose to I90 sites are tight trails and Butte visitor center next to campground
TravelerThe area is gorgeous but the ride in was rough. Quite a few miles of rough, gravel road and very narrow. We made it in our. Class C but I wouldnt recommend trying in anything larger
GuideQuiet, few campers, closes Oct. 1st with some campgrounds remaining open. Narrow asphalt roads in campground. Narrow asphalt pad fairly level. Lots of shade in this campground
TravelerSuper clean and very quiet. Full hookups and they take most discount programs. Only drawback is that the sites are a bit close.
Divide, Montana camping areas feature access to the Continental Divide Trail and backcountry wilderness opportunities beyond the riverfront locations. Elevations range from 5,500 to 6,500 feet throughout the region, creating significant temperature variations between day and night. Nights commonly drop into the 40s even during summer months, requiring appropriate sleeping gear regardless of daytime temperatures.
Hiking at Humbug Spires: Access the trailhead 3 miles from the highway on a well-maintained gravel road suitable for most vehicles. "Beautiful rocks, some shade, pretty epic views on the way in," notes Tee C. about Humbug Spires Trailhead Basecamp, which offers basic facilities including pit toilets.
Soak in natural hot springs: Located within walking distance of Fairmont RV Resort, the hot springs complex features indoor and outdoor pools. "If you like waterslides or golfing this will be hard to beat. At check-in, I was offered a day pass to the golf course and water park at no cost for the day," mentions Jeff about the resort amenities.
Stargazing opportunities: The rural setting provides exceptional night sky viewing with minimal light pollution. "Don't let these rocky protectors keep you sleeping all night. The dip keeps other lights away and the stars pop!" writes Art S. about Beaverdam Campground, noting how the campground's geography enhances stargazing conditions.
Riverside camping spots: Many campers appreciate the direct river access at Maiden Rock Dispersed. "Incredible spot to fish! Getting to the spot - you will get off the main road and drive through some dirt roads and past some private property. At the end of one of the roads you'll see a small bridge," explains Maddie F.
Well-maintained facilities: Several dispersed areas feature unexpected amenities. "All the spots have a picnic table, fire pit and bear box. The mountain views all around you are gorgeous," reports Kelda C. about Maiden Rock Dispersed, highlighting the bear-safe food storage options not commonly found at free sites.
Proximity to small towns: Camping near towns allows for supply runs and dining options. "The Sportsman Lodge is a 7 minute walk from the fishing access on the river. Melrose is teeny tiny, so don't expect several restaurants to choose from. There are 2 and one is closed on Sundays," notes Angela M. about Sportsman Lodge, Cabins & RV Park.
Water availability challenges: Limited drinking water sources require advance planning. "There is not a faucet to get any water (but it's dispersed so totally acceptable)," mentions Brodie B. about Maiden Rock's facilities, highlighting the need to bring sufficient water supplies.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly with significant temperature swings. "It was pouring rain when we visited but had full hookups," shares Michael B. about camping at Fairmont RV Resort, emphasizing the importance of rain gear and appropriate shelter.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds have limited or no connectivity. "There's no cell service. About 2.5 miles from Maiden Rocks Road on Frontage Road you will get service for a small portion of the road," advises C L., providing specific locations for emergency communications.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Divide Campground located in Montana?
Divide Bridge Campground is located just off Montana state highway 43 along the Big Hole River in southwestern Montana. It's situated a short distance from a day use area and boat launch, with the Sawmill Gulch Trail Head nearby. The campground consists of two loops and provides convenient access for travelers exploring this scenic region between Butte and the Big Hole Valley.
Is fishing available near Divide Campground in Montana?
Yes, excellent fishing is available at and near Divide Campground, as it sits right on the Big Hole River—a renowned fishing destination in Montana. The nearby Dickie Bridge campground also offers prime access to the Big Hole River for fishing enthusiasts. For those willing to explore the region, Delmoe Lake in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest near Butte provides another beautiful fishing opportunity. The Big Hole River is particularly known for its trout fishing, making this area a favorite among anglers.
What amenities are available at Divide Bridge Campground?
Divide Bridge Campground offers basic amenities typical of BLM campgrounds. The campground features two loops with multiple campsites, each typically equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. For comparison, nearby Salmon Fly has six campsites spread nicely apart, with gravel parking pads, metal fire rings, picnic tables, and grassy areas for tent setup. Most campgrounds in this area provide vault toilets but no running water, so campers should bring their own water supply.
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