Wade Lake Campground — Beaverhead Deerlodge National Forest
One of our top campgrounds ANYWHERE
I'd been wanting to camp here for YEARS, and the planets finally aligned (did this as a break from the chaos in Yellowstone, highly recommend - only 50 minutes from West!). It is as, or perhaps even more, beautiful than its reputation. Got an amazing site along but above the river, so no concerns in rain/about flooding.
Site 4 is directly across from a bathroom, bear box, and potable water, but this little row (sites 1-5 I believe) is one-way and only for registered campers, so it's not at all busy. Fit our SUV with tons of room, would easily accommodate an RV or multiple vehicles. Very cool overnight in mid-July, hot during the day but plenty of shade around (plus of course the water!). Heard elk bugling early in the morning and saw a snake slither off into the bushes down by the water, so wildlife is definitely around.
Note the no cell service thing is very real, there's even a sign warning you as you drive in. There's also no trash service available (but there is up by Cliff Lake), and the camp host had a sign that they don't sell firewood.
Pro tip: after check out, enjoy the day use area for awhile before leaving.










