Primitive camping near Forsyth, Montana provides opportunities along the Yellowstone River with seasonal considerations affecting site selection. The area sits at approximately 2,500 feet elevation and experiences extreme temperature variations between summer and winter months. Most campgrounds remain operational from April through October, with limited winter access at select locations.
What to do
Fishing access points: Far West Fishing Access Site offers multiple riverside activities with boat launch facilities and walking paths. "This was a quiet little spot. Stayed a few days leading up to Memorial Day weekend and had 3 campers come Wednesday and pick a spot then left their camper so they had it for the weekend," notes one visitor at Far West Fishing Access Site.
River exploration: Campers at Rosebud East can wade or swim in the Yellowstone River during summer months. "Beautiful campground. Nice sites, forested area, cool access to Yellowstone River. Clean pit toilets, reasonable rates," explains a camper who stayed at Rosebud East.
Rock collecting: The riverbanks near Miles City KOA contain interesting geological specimens. "Quick hike down to the Yellowstone River where there is great rock picking and it's the perfect spot to cool off in the middle of a hot Montana summer," writes one visitor at Miles City KOA.
What campers like
Quiet atmosphere: BLM Mathews Recreation Area provides peaceful surroundings with minimal traffic noise. "This is a very well maintained camping area. Most sites are walk in from parking area. No sites right on the river, though plenty of trees and shade," notes a camper at BLM Mathews Recreation Area.
Spacious sites: Twelve Mile Dam Fishing Access offers larger camping spots with distance between neighbors. "Stayed 5 nights and it sure was lovely! Right next to the creek/dam, you can fish or play in the water with your dog. The 2 vault toilets were always clean & stocked," reports one camper at Twelve Mile Dam Fishing Access Site.
Clean facilities: Despite limited amenities, most area campgrounds maintain serviceable restrooms. "The bathhouse had been recently painted and the showers recently tiled. The staff were very kind and welcoming. Small off leash Kamp K9 park for your pup and a nice playground for kids," writes one visitor about Miles City KOA.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad proximity affects sleep quality at multiple campgrounds. "Not one of my favorites. There are some smaller private sites suitable for tents. The only thing this campground has going for it is that it's right on the yellowstone river. Someone took our campsite while we were in town," notes a camper about Rosebud East.
Insect activity: Summer months bring mosquitoes and flies to riverside campgrounds. "Was easy to get to, pulled in our 32ft trailer very easily. Lots of open spaces and fire pits at every site. We had a water spout right by our site which was very convenient! Other then 104 degrees and a horrible amount of gnats, flies and mosquitoes it was a nice stop," writes another Rosebud East visitor.
Limited availability: Holiday weekends fill quickly at fishing access sites. "The campground is in a field behind the restaurant. We paid $35.00 for 30amp power, water, and sewer. Each utility pylon supports two RVs electric, water, and sewer connection. There are no other amenities. Excellent for an overnight stop," reports a camper at The Fort at 49.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly areas: Several campgrounds welcome pets with minimal restrictions. "My two hunting dogs ran amok for hours. There was nobody in the park but us. A few people drove through. The park is kept immaculate. There are several paths mowed down for great walks through the prairie," writes a visitor at Far West Fishing Access Site.
Playground access: Miles City KOA maintains play equipment for children. "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," reports one camper.
Water activities: Shallow river areas provide safe wading spots during summer. "Great little campground right in the river. Fun for swimming, fishing, and rock collecting. Campground was clean and shaded, with potable water, a pit toilet, and trash cans," notes a visitor at Rosebud East.
Tips from RVers
Overnight convenience: The Fort at 49 offers basic RV accommodations specifically designed for transit stops. "The utilities are pretty much in the center of these hard-packed grass sites with some gravel mixed in. All the sites are in a straight line parallel to I-94 with a large field/parking lot for the restaurant in front, which made backing a breeze," writes a reviewer at The Fort at 49.
Power considerations: RV parks near Forsyth, Montana vary in electrical capacity. "We pulled our 42ft. 5th wheel camper here and there is plenty of room. Giant cottonwood trees and a great fishing spot. We had the choice of electric hookup spots or not.. $5. extra for the power, totally worth it," notes a Rosebud East visitor.
Level sites: Most RV camping areas maintain reasonably flat parking surfaces. "We just used this as a place to refuel, buy groceries, do laundry, etc. Very pretty campground and staff were very friendly," explains a Miles City KOA camper.
