Camping options around Florence, Montana cluster near the Bitterroot National Forest boundary at elevations of 3,700-5,000 feet. The area experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season from June through September. Winter access becomes limited after October when snow begins accumulating at higher elevations.
What to do
Fishing access points: Charles Waters Campground offers direct access to Bass Creek for fishing. According to Nick T., "The river by the camp sites is absolutely beautiful," while other nearby lakes provide additional fishing opportunities.
Day hiking: Several campgrounds near Florence connect to trail networks with varying difficulty levels. Rene S. notes that Charles Waters has "several spots with trails leading to Bass Creek. Recreational area, picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms, and about 10 minutes from Florence MT."
Ghost town exploration: Bearmouth RV Park serves as a convenient base for historical exploration. As Jason A. explains, there are "lots of things to do in the nearby area including visiting the Garnet Ghost town, Philipsburg, Deer Lodge, Anaconda, Butte and Missoula."
River tubing: Summer visitors can enjoy water recreation on the Clark Fork River. Reames C. mentions that at Bearmouth, "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!"
What campers like
Secluded sites: Charles Waters Campground offers privacy despite its popularity. Jess W. notes, "Sites are close-ish together but very private because of the tree cover. The creekside sites are especially lovely."
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. Thomas C. reports, "The bathrooms were clean, as well as the sites," while steve D. appreciates that "Campground is clean, sites are well spaced, parking pads are pretty flat and big."
Natural sounds: The sound of flowing water enhances the camping experience at several locations. MT Nesters 4 explains, "We love the fact that you can hear the cascading water at the sites, peaceful."
Off-season access: Some campgrounds remain accessible in shoulder seasons. Byron F. shares, "The main campground was closed for winter. There were 2 other van campers using some day use spots to overnight. The day use spots have a picnic table, fire ring and level site parking."
What you should know
Horse-friendly accommodations: While dedicated horse corrals are limited near Florence, some campgrounds accommodate equestrians. Byron F. notes at Charles Waters Campground, "Nice campground built to accommodate horse trailers. There are big day use parking/staging areas for trailers... There are a couple of 'horse trailer camping' spots outside the locked gate that were accessible."
Highway noise considerations: Campgrounds near interstate highways experience traffic sounds. Tadd B. cautions about Bearmouth: "Interstate noise and the occasional train whistle would keep me from using the facility for nothing more than an overnight stop."
Payment systems: Fee collection varies by season and campground. Robin F. mentions, "Free camping, as no envelopes were out," which indicates seasonal payment systems may not always be operating.
Water advisories: Water quality issues occasionally affect campgrounds. Andrea B. reports that at Ekstrom's Stage Station, "Staff provided jugs of water due to the water boil notice," showing management responds to such situations.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground offers numerous recreational facilities. eugenia W. shares, "We pulled in and the kids where so excited!! Wonderful people helped us to our spot, we are t up camp, kids went to the playground & then we went down to the restaurant for dinner!"
Open spaces for play: Some campgrounds feature fields for recreation. hanaa notes about Bearmouth, "There is a big field next to the river that was great for kids to run around in."
Recreation facilities: Multiple activity options keep families entertained. mitch explains Ekstrom's has "a basketball court, sand volleyball court, horse shoes and a playground. There's also a beautiful creek running along the campground with beautiful Mountain views."
Weather preparedness: Montana weather can change rapidly. eugenia W. recalls, "We had the best thunderstorm with hail that night as well…best night ever!!" suggesting families should prepare for variable conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site levelness: RV sites vary in levelness across the area. MT Nesters 4 reports about Charles Waters, "Paves roads, large sites, (sloped, not level) very friendly hosts, water spigots throughout, pit toilets, cement picnic tables."
Dump station alternatives: Bearmouth RV Park offers unique waste management solutions. Reames C. mentions, "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."
Off-season opportunities: Shoulder season camping provides options for RVers. Linda O. shares about Ekstrom's, "We called the number on their sign when we arrived. It's pretty shut down with no services but we dry camped. Owner was super nice."
Highway accessibility: Many campgrounds offer convenient highway access. Richard H. notes Charles Waters has "Easy access from highway. Just a mile of Highway 93," which benefits RVers making transit stops.
