The Florence area sits at the intersection of the Bitterroot and Sapphire mountain ranges, creating diverse camping environments at elevations ranging from 3,200 to 5,000 feet. Dispersed camping options along forest service roads provide alternatives to established camping sites near Florence, Montana. Water availability varies significantly with many creeks drying up by late summer, requiring campers to bring their own water supply.
What to do
Mountain biking access: Blue Mountain Forest Road offers multiple dispersed camping spots with direct access to mountain biking trails. "Blue Mountain is a great place to recreate! Very dog friendly and tons of trails for hiking and mountain biking. Camping is allowed west of road 365," notes one camper at Blue Mountain Forest Rd 365 - Dispersed.
Creek exploration: Most campgrounds in the area provide access to small waterways perfect for wading during summer months. At Charles Waters Campground, "There are some nice hiking and horseback riding trails across the road, and there is a forest road that goes all the way to the top of the mountains with picnic tables to watch the sunset or sunrise."
High-elevation hiking: Peterson Lake dispersed camping area offers backcountry sites with lake access via a challenging trail. "About 5 miles one way to Peterson lake, another 1 and 2 miles to Duffy and Holloway lakes above Peterson. Nice secluded valley heading into Bitteroot-Selway wilderness. You gain around 1700ft in elevation before dropping down around 800ft into the first lake."
What campers like
Easy river access: Several camping areas provide direct water access with flat areas suitable for small watercraft. At Chief Looking Glass Campground, "There is a beautiful flat water river with two access points and locals tube and paddle here. There are tent sites, back-in sites, and pull through sites."
Scenic drives: Many camping areas serve as base camps for scenic drives along the Bitterroot Valley. "There is a forest road that goes all the way to the top of the mountains with picnic tables to watch the sunset or sunrise (when the smoke doesn't cloud the view)."
Midweek availability: Most camping sites in the Florence area remain available midweek even during peak season. "Plenty of open sites M-Th, even during the summer. Sites are close-ish together but very private because of the tree cover. The creekside sites are especially lovely," reports a camper at Charles Waters Campground.
What you should know
Gate restrictions: Several fishing access sites implement overnight gate closures affecting early departures. "The gate to the campsite is closed from 10 PM to 8 AM so if you need to leave early, you cannot do so," warns a camper about Chief Looking Glass.
Seasonal water levels: Many creeks run dry by mid-summer, affecting fishing and water recreation options. "The creek was all dried up and it just overall was not a great campsite. We packed up and moved on."
Campsite variety: Lolo Creek Campground provides a mix of stream-adjacent and wooded sites with varying degrees of privacy. "Wide campsites in a loop near river. Most people stay here for a night. Easy to pay, at the entrance you can pay in cash in a envelope."
Cell service gaps: Coverage varies widely between campgrounds and can be nonexistent in some areas. "There is no cell service at nor near the campsite," notes a Lolo Creek Campground visitor, while others report "Medium 5G" or "spotty" service at other locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer built-in recreational facilities that keep children entertained. Missoula KOA Holiday has "Playground, pool, mini golf, clean showers, restrooms and laundry! It was great!" according to one family camper.
Wildlife watching opportunities: Many camping areas provide chances to observe local wildlife in natural settings. "My daughter wanted me to add that they have three very large bunnies that roll around the campground. She loves them."
Creek access for hot days: Several campgrounds feature shallow creek areas perfect for supervised water play. "Great for tent camping, there are several spots with trails leading to Bass Creek. Recreational area, picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms, and about 10 minutes from Florence MT."
Tips from RVers
Pad conditions: Yellowrock Campground offers level, maintained RV spaces with good separation between sites. "Very nice campground! The sites are large, private, shaded, and well maintained. The bathhouse is immaculate and the showers are like you wish you had at home."
Generator policies: Several campgrounds have specific rules about generator use, which impacts RV campers without solar setups. "I gave it 4 star only due to campers with generators. Other than that a great place."
Site measurements: RVers should confirm exact dimensions before booking as some "large" sites have restrictions. "Sites varied in size and shape and shade. I like the sites on the far side of the loop as they are closer to the creek and away from the dusty road."
