The Boulder River offers an alternative to the more crowded Yellowstone River locations for camping spots near Big Timber, Montana. Most campsites in this area sit at elevations between 4,500-5,000 feet, with summer daytime temperatures averaging 80-90°F and nighttime temperatures dropping to 45-55°F. Cell service varies significantly by location, with stronger coverage at fishing access sites closer to Interstate 90 and spotty or non-existent service in higher elevation campgrounds.
What to do
Fishing for trout: The Boulder River provides excellent fishing opportunities at Spring Creek Campground & Trout Ranch, where they stock ponds with trout and even clean fish for campers. "They also stock the ponds with trout so that for dinner you can eat fish. They also clean the fish for you," notes one visitor.
Swim in the river: During hot summer days, the cool river waters provide relief at sites like Big Rock. A camper mentioned, "Lots of river running through the campground and low enough to enjoy a swim, fish, or get your feet wet."
Hiking to alpine lakes: For those seeking higher elevations, trails from Halfmoon Campground lead to scenic mountain lakes. The challenging hike to Granite Lake is "4mi and it was hard but worth the effort for sure," according to one hiker.
Wildlife viewing: Prairie Dog Town State Park is within walking distance of Big Timber-Greycliff KOA. A visitor notes it's "a cute place to watch prairie dogs and check out the local flora."
What campers like
Riverside camping sites: Many fishing access areas provide direct river access with the soothing sounds of flowing water. At Grey Bear, campers enjoy "camping and fishing on the Yellowstone river. Fun for the kids and only a few miles from town to get supplies."
Family-friendly facilities: Several campgrounds cater specifically to families with children. Spring Creek Campground receives praise from parents: "I have 5 kids of all ages. They love it here. Fishing ponds and river too. The husband and wife have worked so hard to make this place fun for everyone."
Affordable options: Free camping is available at several fishing access sites with basic amenities. At Otter Creek, "This is a free Montana Fishing Access Site next to the Yellowstone River north of Big Timber. There was one clean single vault toilet for about 5 sites. No water or garbage available but each site has a picnic table and fire ring."
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites that provide privacy. Halfmoon Campground features "well separated, timbered sites with miles of hiking available."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires travel on rough roads. Halfmoon Campground requires "about 45-60 minutes outside of Big Timber to get here" and "the last 4 [miles] having vehicle crawl. If you go more than 10 miles an hour in this section you will probably pop a tire."
Train noise: Several riverside camping areas are near train tracks. At Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp, "Train whistles woke us up four times" during the night, according to one camper.
Limited amenities at fishing access sites: Most fishing access sites have only vault toilets and fire rings. One visitor to Big Rock noted, "This is primitive. Not water or hook ups or trash but there is a pit toilet."
Weather variability: Mountain campsites can experience extreme weather changes. At Halfmoon Campground, campers "woke up to the craziest wind storm around 1am!!! Our tent took quite a beating, we are estimating that winds were above 50mph!!!"
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly fishing: Big Timber-Greycliff KOA offers various activities for children. "Lots of kids having a blast at the pool, riding their bikes and playing in the creek that borders the campground," notes one visitor.
Entertainment options: Spring Creek Campground provides multiple ways to keep kids engaged. A camper shared, "Kids got to feed fish in the pond just stop in and ask for the food. They are kind to kids and pets as well."
Swimming access: Look for camping spots with gentle river access. One camper at Big Rock mentioned, "Lovely little spot! Beautiful scenery and river running through."
Local treats: Combine camping with trips to town for special treats. One Spring Creek visitor suggested, "Right down the road to Big Timber is a small drug store with the best shakes that brings a perfect end to the day."
Tips from RVers
Spacious sites: Otter Creek Fishing Access Site offers generous parking areas for RVs. "Only four or five spots right next to the river but plenty of open spots in the field next to where people Park their boats," notes one RVer.
Level site considerations: For those with larger rigs, Spring Creek Campground has "level [sites] with gravel, framed out, and have nice grass."
RV size limitations: Some fishing access sites have restrictions on rig size. At Boulder Forks, camping is "dispersed-like so find a campfire ring and set up" but it's not suited for larger RVs.
Hookup availability: Spring Creek Campground offers various hookup options. "We didn't have sewer hookup, but they had a honey wagon," noted one RVer who stayed nearly two weeks.
