The Drummond area sits at approximately 4,000 feet elevation in western Montana's Clark Fork River Valley, situated between the Flint Creek and Garnet mountain ranges. Summer temperatures typically reach the 80s during daytime hours while dropping considerably at night, even during peak camping months. Seasonal campground operations generally run from mid-spring through fall, with only select RV parks near Drummond, Montana remaining accessible during winter months.
What to do
River recreation access: Several camping locations near Drummond offer direct access to the Clark Fork River for fishing, floating, and swimming opportunities. Boulder Creek Lodge provides shuttles for river tubing excursions, as noted by a camper: "They made sure we had a shady pull through near our friends staying in a cabin and even provided a shuttle up and down the river so we could tube!"
Ghost town exploration: Visit the historic Garnet Ghost Town, located approximately 30 minutes from Bearmouth RV Park. "Beautiful views here along the Clark Fork River with lots of things to do in the nearby area including visiting the Garnet Ghost town, Philipsburg, Deer Lodge, Anaconda, Butte and Missoula," explains a visitor.
Hot springs soaking: Fairmont Hot Springs Resort is within walking distance of Fairmont RV Resort, offering both indoor and outdoor pools. "Right next to Fairmont Hot Springs. Hot Springs next door and able to get a pass from front desk to get access (still need to pay)," notes one reviewer who appreciated the convenience.
What campers like
Family-friendly amenities: Many campgrounds in the area offer recreational facilities specifically designed for families. A visitor to Boulder Creek Lodge shares: "After we ate, we went down stairs to the game room and played pool, table soccer and checkers for about 4 hours. We went ahead and took showers in the downstairs bathroom/shower house. Huge clean shower stalls."
Clean facilities: Campers frequently comment on well-maintained bathrooms and shower facilities at campgrounds near Drummond. At Fairmont RV Resort, a guest mentions: "Bathrooms very clean. Nice laundry. Right next to Fairmont Hot Springs." Similarly, at Boulder Creek Lodge: "Enjoyed our 3 nights there! Very nice people running it. Quick check in, quiet. Good WiFi, no att cell service. Level campsites. Large shower/bathroom area."
Green spaces for relaxation: Despite the predominantly gravel surfaces at many RV parks, some provide grassy areas for recreation. At Bernie & Sharons Riverfront RV Park, a visitor noted: "It has large spaces and nice walking area. It is nice that the owners have intentionally kept prices down too."
What you should know
Road and rail noise: Many campgrounds in the Drummond area experience occasional noise from nearby transportation routes. A camper at Bearmouth RV Park observed: "Interstate noise and the occasional train whistle would keep me from using the facility for nothing more than an overnight stop."
Cell service reliability: While connectivity varies throughout the region, specific details about service providers can help with planning. At Boulder Creek Lodge, a camper reports: "Good WiFi, no att cell service."
Reservation requirements: Most RV parks near Drummond, Montana have limited sites and fill quickly during peak travel months. According to a reviewer at Indian Creek RV Campground: "On our way to Yellowstone and it was getting late in the day, seen signs for the Old Montana Prison and decided that would be a fun stop. Pulled in and note on office door said to find a site and could either pay in the drop box or in the morning."
Wildlife encounters: The rural setting means potential interactions with local fauna. Boulder Creek Lodge earns praise as "the prettiest little RV park/campground with lovely little cabins alongside a wonderful creek. Something for everyone here and absolutely delightful. The game room and laundry open all night! Dog friendly."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer recreational facilities specifically for children. Bernie & Sharons Riverfront RV Park provides "large grounds, well maintained with green grass for the kid to run in. Walk to the river is about 3-5 min. Spaces were large."
Recreation room availability: Indoor entertainment options can be particularly valuable during inclement weather. One family reports about The Inn at Philipsburg: "Philipsburg is an awesome small Montana town that's worth a stop," providing additional entertainment options beyond the campground.
Affordable pricing policies: Some proprietors specifically maintain lower rates to accommodate families. A visitor to Bernie & Sharons notes: "It is nice that the owners have intentionally kept prices down too," while another mentions: "We were driving an electric car(Tesla) and were told that we could use the 30 amp to recharge it at no extra costs. At less than $40 for a site with 30 amp this was a steal compare to what we paid at other campgrounds."
Tips from RVers
Arrival procedures: Many Drummond area RV parks have specific check-in protocols. At Bernie & Sharons Riverfront RV Park, "We were greeted at the entrance by 2 gentlemen that showed up on golf carts, showed us our way to our site and even guide us when backing to our site."
Site leveling requirements: Terrain conditions affect setup time and equipment needs. Fairmont RV Resort offers "nice level gravel site. Sites are close to each other. There were no picnic tables and wood fires are not allowed so no fire rings."
Electric vehicle charging: For those traveling with electric vehicles, some campgrounds can accommodate charging needs. Bernie & Sharons Riverfront RV Park is "fully equipped for EV travelers with a 14-50 amp outlet, making it super convenient to charge our vehicle while we enjoyed the great outdoors."
Mobile dump service options: Some facilities offer specialized services for extended stays. A camper at Bearmouth RV Park appreciated that "They offer a 'honey pot' mobile dump station where they come pump your sewage, sometimes offering a free dump for stays of a week or longer."
