Best Campgrounds near Fort Smith, MT
Fort Smith, Montana provides access to several campgrounds within the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, including Afterbay Campground, Black Canyon Campground, and Trail Creek/Barrys Landing. The area features a mix of established campgrounds with varying amenities and accommodation types, from tent-only sites to RV-friendly locations with hookups. Cottonwood Camp offers cabin camping options alongside tent and RV sites, while fishing access sites like Bighorn Fishing Access and Mallards Landing provide opportunities for waterfront camping. The surrounding landscape combines prairie views with proximity to the Bighorn River and Bighorn Canyon, creating diverse camping environments within a relatively compact geographic area.
Road conditions and accessibility vary throughout the region, with some campgrounds requiring travel on unpaved roads. "The roads are horrible... if it rained you have to be in a jacked up 4x4 to get through," noted one visitor describing access to a nearby campground. Summer temperatures can be quite hot, particularly at lower elevations, while spring and fall offer more moderate conditions. Most established campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, with limited winter camping options. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region, with better coverage near Fort Smith proper and diminished signals in canyon areas. Campgrounds like Afterbay and Black Canyon have specific regulations regarding fires and pets, with some prohibiting both entirely.
Waterfront access represents a significant draw for campers visiting the Fort Smith area. The Bighorn River provides excellent fishing opportunities, with several access points designed specifically for anglers. According to one visitor, "Great access to the river with a little boat ramp" makes sites like Mallards Landing popular despite limited amenities. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with visitors reporting moose and deer sightings at campgrounds in the broader region. Campers frequently mention the contrast between the developed amenities at places like 7th Ranch RV Park, which offers full hookups and "amazing sunset views," and the more rustic experiences available at primitive sites. The area's relative distance from major population centers means that even during peak summer months, campers can often find available sites without advance reservations except on holiday weekends.
