Camping options near Forsyth, Montana center around the Yellowstone River corridor, which cuts through the eastern Montana plains at roughly 2,500 feet elevation. Summer temperatures in this region regularly climb above 90°F from June through August, making water access a priority for many campers. Several campgrounds feature dedicated fishing access points, reflecting the area's popularity among anglers targeting walleye and other river species.
What to do
Riverside hiking trails: Far West Fishing Access Site offers several mowed paths through the prairie for walking opportunities. "There are several paths mowed down for great walks through the prairie," notes one visitor, who adds that "the pond and surrounding scenery are gorgeous."
Rock collecting: Rosebud East Fishing Access Site provides excellent opportunities for finding interesting rocks along the Yellowstone River shoreline. "Great little campground right in the river. Fun for swimming, fishing, and rock collecting," reports one camper who enjoyed the riverside activities.
Fishing: BLM Mathews Recreation Area offers boat access to the Yellowstone River for anglers. The recreation area features "a boat landing" and is described as a "nice scenic location by the river side with boat access," making it convenient for fishing enthusiasts.
What campers like
Shaded sites: Twelve Mile Dam Fishing Access receives praise for its natural setting. "Pretty nice spot for a few days. Fire rings, picnic tables, a super cute stream that runs through, nice, level spots, vault toilets, and quiet, gorgeous views," shares a satisfied camper.
Cleanliness: The vault toilets at Far West Fishing Access Site earn positive reviews for maintenance. "Vault toilet was stocked and clean. Game warden drove by during my stay making sure trash wasn't left out," reports one visitor who appreciated the upkeep.
Spacious camping areas: Miles City KOA offers well-maintained facilities with room to spread out. "This is a very nice KOA, well maintained and clean with a cute store, playground, dog area, pool and pavilion area. Walking distance to downtown and to the Yellowstone river," notes a reviewer who valued the amenities.
What you should know
Train noise: Multiple campgrounds along the Yellowstone River corridor experience train noise. A visitor at BLM Mathews Recreation Area cautions about "6 trains in the night just a quarter mile away," suggesting light sleepers should come prepared.
Weather conditions: Summer heat can be intense, and insects may be problematic. At Rosebud East, a camper reported: "It was quite and site are spaced out. Other then 104 degrees and a horrible amount of gnats, flies and mosquitoes it was a nice stop."
Cell service: Far West Fishing Access Site offers reliable connectivity for those needing to stay connected. "Had full LTE service via AT&T. There's a delicious drive thru coffee place 12 min away called Cattle Coffee in Forsyth," notes a visitor who appreciated both connectivity and nearby amenities.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming opportunities: Twelve Mile Dam provides safe water access for children. "Right next to the creek/dam, you can fish or play in the water with your dog," shares a camper who spent five nights enjoying the area.
Playground access: Miles City KOA features facilities designed for children. "This place is very relaxing a great little heated pool, playground and dog park (our dog loves being off leash!) super clean bathrooms and a great communal pavilion with grills to use," reports a family who enjoyed their stay.
Educational opportunities: Myers Bridge offers nature exploration along its island trail. "A nice 1 1/2 mile trail runs around the island," notes a visitor, making it suitable for family nature walks and wildlife spotting.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Most campsites at Far West Fishing Access Site accommodate various RV sizes. "Sites are well groomed and demarcated, with fire pits and picnic tables. Although I pulled in on a Friday at 5:30 pm only one site was occupied. I got a nice spot next to the creek," reports one RVer.
Hookup availability: Wagon Wheel Campground offers full hookups for those requiring amenities. "Very pet friendly with wonderful ammenities. We have a 35 foot fifth wheel and felt we had plenty of room to put out out awning and really spread out," shares a long-term RV camper.
Road access: BLM Mathews Recreation Area features accessible entry for larger rigs. "This is a very well maintained camping area. Handicap accessible with concrete walks for easy mobility," notes a visitor, highlighting its suitability for RVers with mobility concerns.
