Tent campsites near Dixon, Montana range from primitive backcountry sites to accessible fishing areas. Located in the western part of Montana where the Clark Fork and Flathead Rivers meet, the region features dense pine forests with elevations ranging from 2,500 to 7,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during the day with cooler nights, while spring and fall camping seasons offer milder temperatures but more variable weather conditions.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several camping areas provide direct access to fishing. Forest Grove Fishing Access Site offers year-round fishing options. According to one camper, "We boated around and actually bought some fish! I guess that's what happens when you go with people who have the right equipment and frequent this area often."
Hiking nearby mountains: The Kreis Pond Campground area connects to the Sleeping Woman trail. A visitor notes, "Once you drive up the mountain, the trailhead is off to the left and it's a heavy incline to the top so be prepared with lots of water and an awesome view at the end. 360 view of the Missoula Valley, Bitteroot Mountain Range, Flathead in the distance and Mission Mountains as well."
Water recreation: Several ponds and lakes allow for swimming and paddling during warmer months. At Mere's Magic Trout Pond, "There is potable well water and a canoe if you wanted to row in the pond."
What campers like
Privacy in small campgrounds: The limited number of sites at certain campgrounds creates a more secluded experience. A visitor to Kreis Pond Campground shared, "7 well spaced campsites all around the pond. Truly enjoyable stay."
Mountain views: The surrounding terrain offers scenic mountain panoramas from many camping areas. At Off The Beaten Path Glampground, one camper simply stated, "Nice large tent sites. They also have a geodesic dome you can rent."
Wildlife viewing: The area hosts diverse wildlife, including mountain goats at higher elevations. At Turquoise Lake, "There's lots of wildlife at this lake and you will more than likely be neighbors with some goats."
What you should know
Road access challenges: Many camping areas require navigating unpaved roads. One Kreis Pond visitor advised, "Be prepared for several miles of dusty, gravel, washboard road."
Tribal land requirements: Some camping areas fall within tribal boundaries. A visitor to North Crow Creek explained, "This campground was difficult to find online so we drove out anyways. Campers should know that it is on Tribal land and permits are required for use."
Interstate and railroad noise: Camping locations closer to transportation corridors experience noise disturbance. A Petty Creek FAS camper reported, "We were however woken up repeatedly by several, okay many, trains on the opposite side of the site as the interstate (think horns blaring, van shaking)."
Backcountry site limitations: Remote tent sites often have terrain challenges. At Turquoise Lake Backcountry Site, "This is a dispersed site so you can set your tent up anywhere within reason at the lake, however the terrain here is VERY rugged and most sites won't fit anything larger than a 1 person backpacking tent."
Tips for camping with families
Look for pond camping options: Ponds provide safer water recreation for children than rivers. At Kreis Pond, one camper suggests, "Bring tubes to float around the water and hammock to hang around. Neat, fun area especially with the Sleeping Woman hike so close."
Check facilities ahead of time: Portable toilets may be the only facilities available. At Mere's Magic Trout Pond, a visitor noted, "The porta potty was the cleanest one I've ever been to."
Consider seasonal timing: Different seasons offer varied experiences for family camping. When visiting Forest Grove Fishing Access Site, one camper mentioned, "This is an all season spot so if you are getting stir crazy indoors, this is an area you can adventure to."
Tips from RVers
Expect limited hookups: Most camping areas near Dixon have minimal or no RV amenities. At Mission Meadows RV Campground, a visitor reported, "There are a few spots with hookups, but the ground is very uneven. The best spots are W&E, and the dumpstation is at the Cenex in Ronan."
Be prepared for uneven terrain: Leveling challenges exist at most tent campsites near Dixon. One RVer mentioned, "Campground is no frills, but beautiful mountain views and fairly quiet."
Know dump station locations: With limited onsite facilities, knowing nearby service points is essential. According to a camper, "Many full-time residents. Great place has all the hook ups and public restrooms and laundry room. Place for tents."
