Campgrounds in the Divide, Montana area include both developed sites and dispersed camping areas set along the Big Hole River and 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 :)"
$10 / night
"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."
"Boat ramp in the campground and also one at the main entrance (fun for dogs ) Only 10.00/night. 4 stars because the mosquitoes were INSANE! Apparently only in July and August."
$29 - $48 / night
"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."
"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."
"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."
$15 / night
"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."
"The fishing access site is with in walking distance to the small town of Melrose. The site has one vault toilet. No water or trash service is available."
"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."
"Found a spot right by the entrance to the large camping area (approx 1/2mile past railroad tracks on the left). We were exposed from 3 sides, luckily we could park our jeep for privacy block."
"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."
GuideThis Campground has been remodeled and updated in the last couple of years. The sites are large with full hookups. It is quiet and has nice trees for shade as well as deer and other wildlife. Communication with the front desk was great. The hot springs and Golf Course are roughly a 200 yd walk.
LegendThe campground (CG) was easy to access right off I-90. We pulled off to the side of the General Store next to the RV park for check-in, which was quick and easy. We had originally selected pull-through Site 18 online, but a large boulder beside the pad made it impossible to fit our 40' toy hauler and F-450. As promised during check-in, there were backup options available, and Greg came out to assist us and reassigned us to pull-through Site 1 with water and electric (50/30/20 AMP). This site did not have sewer, but that wasn’t an issue for our two-day stay. Utilities were positioned close enough to the middle of the pad to make water and electric hookups simple. The CG WiFi was above average at 59.3 Mbps download and worked very well, though the park was fairly empty this time of year. They have a nice shower house that includes laundry. We enjoyed the nice trail that runs along the back of the CG beside the irrigation ditch— perfect for walking our pups. They had a food truck(closed Monday) that had excellent smash burgers and brisket. Overall, a convenient and pleasant two night stop.
ScoutFriendly staff. Clean showers. Plenty of space on the CG.
TravelerThis campground has many sites shaded by lodgepole pines. The sites are far enough apart and angled to give a nice sense of privacy. Some of the sites have electric, but there is essentially no water. Vault toilets are clean. Near the water, but not on it.
RangerRoad was rocky and rutted by water runoff. 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. We camped adjacent to the private property sign.
ScoutFriendly and clean. I would have no issue staying here again if I was back in the area.
GuideI think the other reviews say it best but it’s a really nice spot, almost feels like it should be paid for. Smooth gravel roads and well set out campsites with picnic tables and a Bear box. The river is right there next to most of the sites, but could be a bushwhack to get to depending on where you are.
The only downside is as of September 1st 2025 a Bear might still be active in the area. It tried to get into our camper (it didn’t thankfully lol, but it did pull my window open and give me a heart attack). We didn’t see it the next two nights after that encounter. Apparently his name is Boo-boo, and he was orphaned as a cub and fed by miners making him not so human afraid. Last I heard rangers were trying to get him further away and up the canyon. Carry bear spray and you’re probably fine!
ScoutGreat no frills campsite 7.00 a night
TravelerGrounds are nice and clean. Laundry room and bathrooms are very clean. Host is very nice. Bring your own WiFi.
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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