Castle Rock offers multiple pet-friendly fishing access sites along the Stillwater River, with several dog-friendly campgrounds near Fishtail within easy driving distance. At 4,100 feet elevation, the Fishtail area provides cooler summer temperatures than nearby lowlands, typically 5-10°F lower during July and August. Winter camping requires preparation for temperatures that can drop below 0°F from November through March.
What to do
River access for fishing and water activities: Castle Rock sits directly on the Stillwater River with elevated cement lookout areas for setting up fishing chairs. According to Kathi F., "There's a really cool, elevated cement lookout area next to the river to set up your chairs and fish. Across the river is a rock ledge swimmers use to dive off of into a deep pool."
Rock hounding and nature exploration: Castle Rock provides opportunities for rock collectors. "Quiet, nice fishing access, nice spot for rock hounding too," writes Jacee R., who visited during Labor Day weekend when the campground was full.
Wildlife observation: The Fishtail area offers wildlife viewing opportunities, especially in early mornings. At Itch-Kep-Pe Park, campers report waking to "beautiful bird sounds" according to David M., who stayed at site #39.
What campers like
Spaciousness between sites: Many campgrounds in the Fishtail area provide good separation between sites. TravelingTaylors T. notes that at Whitebird, you'll find "a small campground next to the Stillwater River. Plenty of shade in most spots. Boat dock and some mellow spots for swimming."
Natural beauty and river access: The Stillwater River creates a peaceful camping environment with natural sounds. Stacey N. describes Swinging Bridge Fishing Access Site as "a great campsite. You are along a fast moving creek and the campsites are well spaced out with trees, vegetation or roads between each site."
Free or low-cost camping options: Several sites offer affordable camping. Troy M. found Itch-Kep-Pe Park to be "nice level spots. The campsite is right on the Yellowstone river. Free but they do have a donation box."
What you should know
Limited facilities and amenities: Most fishing access sites offer minimal facilities. At Swinging Bridge, Taylor T. reports "clean bathroom and privacy between sites are probably the two best aspects about the campground" but notes there are "A LOT of bugs here" and potential issues with site amenities as "one site not having a table, another not having creek access."
Site availability challenges: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. Buffalo Jump Camp has "only 2 spots for camping here. It's a nice spot with river access, but close to road and no room for big rig," according to Mike M.
Access road considerations: Some fishing access sites have difficult approach roads. Art S. notes that Swinging Bridge has a "narrow dirt road is really only wide enough for one vehicle. Perhaps this isn't the best spot for big rigs."
Tips for camping with families
Pet-friendly swimming options: Several campgrounds offer shallow water access perfect for dogs and children. Basin Campground is located "just a few miles outside Red Lodge, Montana at the foot of the Beartooth Mountains. The road in is paved and passes through beautiful elk country and along the West Fork of Rock Creek, a large stream coming out of the mountains," according to Bob R.
Campground activities for children: Some sites provide recreational amenities. Gay Lynn A. found Itch-Kep-Pe Park to be a "pleasant place close to town" with "nice trees, shade, grassy areas."
Bathroom facilities: Vault toilets are standard at most sites. Luckybreak R. reports at Itch-Kep-Pe Park, "Restrooms are well maintained. Lower campground is 1/2 mile further in and only has a single vault toilet."
Tips from RVers
Campsite access and maneuverability: RV campers should consider site accessibility. At Whitebird, Art S. notes the "Wide gravel road all the way to the campground. We saw RV's in some sites so this is more accessible."
Full-hookup alternatives: For those wanting amenities, Mountain Range RV Park in Columbus offers more services. TravelingTaylors T. describes it as a "Very clean RV/tent campground just outside of Billings with full hookups and a lovely area for tent camping. Laundry facilities, showers."
Weather and seasonal considerations: Weather patterns affect camping comfort. Austin K. found Cooney State Park offered "nice little semi secluded section of beach, soft sand and the water temp was great" but warned about insects: "Went to start setting up camp and their were ants and a variety other bugs EVERYWHERE."
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