Tent campsites near Divide, Montana offer primitive camping opportunities within the surrounding Beaverhead National Forest and along the Big Hole River. The area sits at elevations ranging from 5,600 to 6,200 feet, creating variable weather conditions throughout camping seasons. Most dispersed camping areas require pack-in, pack-out practices with limited services available at established sites.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Big Hole River provides premier fishing opportunities with multiple dedicated access sites. East Bank Rec Site maintains a dirt boat ramp with ample parking for anglers. According to Dexter I., the site offers "well spread out" camping spots where "each site has a gravel parking pad, picnic table and metal fire ring."
Crystal hunting: Visit Crystal Park while camping at Pettengill Campground. A camper notes, "Further up the byway be sure to visit Coolidge Ghost Town and dig for crystal at Crystal park." This unique geological attraction allows visitors to search for quartz crystals in designated digging areas.
Hiking trails: The area offers numerous hiking trails through diverse terrain. The Humbug Spires Wilderness Study Area provides access to hiking paths, though David M. cautions about road conditions: "Road was rocky and rutted by water runoff. The sprinter all wheel drive negotiated the trail easily from the trailhead up."
What campers like
River proximity: Direct water access remains a major draw for tent campers. Brownes Bridge Fishing Access Site receives high marks for its location, with Jessica E. noting it's "Right on the river with big trees and a view of the Browne Bridge." Another camper describes the sites as "Small but Private, Right on the River."
Small, uncrowded campgrounds: Most tent sites in the region accommodate just a handful of campers. Salmon Fly features "six campsites all nice spread apart from each other, and a decent size day use area," according to Dexter I. Nathan adds that while the spots are "Close together," they're "clean and right on the river."
Natural buffer zones: Despite proximity to transportation corridors, many sites offer natural sound barriers. At Brownes Bridge Fishing Access Site, a reviewer notes that "While this site is near the Interstate and a railroad the campground was still fairly quiet thanks to all the large cottonwood trees."
What you should know
Limited facilities: Prepare for minimal amenities at most tent sites. While vault toilets exist at most locations, water and trash services remain scarce. Pigeon Creek provides drinking water according to its amenities list, but most other sites require bringing your own supplies.
Access challenges: Some campgrounds require navigation skills and appropriate vehicles. Hellrazor D. warns about Pigeon Creek: "Google will take you up a private road if you come from the East, keep going three miles past the Cedar Hills Road turn to hit Fish Creek Road."
Variable pricing structure: Cost structures differ between sites. East Bank Rec Site was reported as "$15 a night" by Maggie K., while Pettengill Campground offers sites at "$6 per night" according to Dexter I. Some locations include differential pricing based on fishing license status.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection considerations: Choose campgrounds based on specific needs. Jordan V. notes Pettengill Campground "offer[s] a large fire ring and picnic table. There is a large day use area and vault toilets as well," making it suitable for families needing defined spaces.
Food storage requirements: Jerry Creek Br Fish Access offers basic accommodations described by kaitlyn L. as "just a big boat parking lot for the river. Plus side it has an outhouse." Meanwhile, East Bank Rec Site provides "bear proof food storage" according to Maggie K., an essential safety feature for families.
Navigation planning: Some campgrounds require careful route planning. For Pigeon Creek, a camper notes it's "way off the beaten trail but the road to it is maintained," though they caution about following mapping applications and advise to "keep going three miles past the Cedar Hills Road turn."
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: RV campers should verify site dimensions before arrival. At Salmon Fly, Nathan mentions the sites are "A little short on the length but okay for our 29'," indicating potential challenges for larger rigs.
Surface considerations: Parking surfaces vary between campgrounds, affecting leveling and stabilization. According to Dexter I., Salmon Fly sites have "gravel parking pads," while Pettengill Campground features paved spots, as the "campground road and parking pads are all paved."
Self-contained camping: Some locations work better for self-sufficient RVers. Jerry Creek is described as suitable if "you were self contained and just looking to get off the 15 for the night then it would work for ya," though it lacks typical campground amenities.
