Camping spots near Frenchtown, Montana range in elevation from 3,000 to 4,500 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak season. The region sits at the convergence of five valleys with the Clark Fork River flowing through, creating diverse camping environments from riverside locations to forested mountain sites. Most dispersed camping areas require vehicles with higher clearance, especially after spring thaw when forest roads become rutted.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Kreis Pond Campground, campers often spot local wildlife around the small pond. One visitor noted, "Saw bear prints, definitely lock up foods," highlighting the importance of proper food storage in this wilderness setting.
River recreation access: The nearby Clark Fork River offers excellent fishing opportunities at River Edge Resort, where you can camp with direct river access. A camper shared, "Had a great afternoon and evening. Enjoyed the river view and ate dinner at the restaurant."
Hiking trails: Blue Mountain offers numerous hiking and mountain biking trails. A visitor to Blue Mountain dispersed camping areas explained, "Blue Mountain is a great place to recreate! Very dog friendly and tons of trails for hiking and mountain biking."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Petty Creek Road provides quiet camping spots away from crowds. A camper reported, "Great site, easy access for our van. Flat parking and quiet. A ranger came to say hello in the morning while we were making breakfast."
Convenient travel stops: Many camping spots serve as excellent overnight stops on longer journeys. At Missoula KOA Holiday, one visitor appreciated the "playground, pool, mini golf, clean showers, restrooms and laundry! It was great!"
Restaurant access: Some campgrounds offer dining options, eliminating the need for camp cooking. A River Edge Resort camper emphasized, "The restaurant was unbelievably good. Like one of the best meals I've had in years! Campground was basic but perfect for an overnight stay."
Year-round availability: While many campgrounds close seasonally, certain options remain open through winter. One visitor noted the accessibility of camping near Frenchtown, stating, "Free laundry was a bonus" when staying at River Edge Resort during the off-season.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to remote camping spots can be challenging. A Blue Mountain camper warned, "Road is absolutely clapped out going up for like ten miles. Wouldn't recommend an RV or trailer unless you don't mind washboards."
Site availability: Many campgrounds fill quickly during summer months. At Kreis Pond, a visitor advised, "There's only about 5 spots and summer will be crowded when it's hot and awesome weather!"
Noise factors: Highway proximity affects some camping areas. A Jocko Hollow Campground visitor mentioned, "Small camp, has shower, and laundry. I was by a lovely gurgling creek. Only drawback was highway traffic. But convenient from 93."
Varying amenities: Facilities range widely between established and dispersed sites. At Petty Creek Road Dispersed Camping, "super easy to get to! just exit off I90 onto Petty Creek Road and go straight for a mile or two. not totally isolated, the site is not too far from the road."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some campgrounds offer extensive recreation options. A visitor to Whitefish-Kalispell North KOA shared, "This campground has it all. Lots of fun for the kids with mini golf, bikes, paddle boats, and arcade games."
Swimming options: Water features provide summer cooling opportunities. A Kreis Pond visitor recommended, "Bring tubes to float around the water and hammock to hang around."
Safety considerations: Wildlife awareness is essential when camping with children. A Petty Creek camper advised, "Something is eating big game out here so lock up your food," reminding families about proper food storage protocols.
Bathroom facilities: Clean restrooms make family camping more comfortable. A Missoula KOA visitor appreciated that they have "clean showers, restrooms and laundry!"
RV tips
Site dimensions: RV campers should verify site sizes before booking. At Jim & Mary's RV Park, a visitor noted, "We got the last site of the day and were so pleased with our overnight stay. Such nice people and beautifully kept grounds."
Hookup options: Full-service sites are available at several locations. One RVer at Jim & Mary's described, "Sites are grassy with flowers And sprinklers. Sites are all level with gravel. There are picnic tables."
Seasonal considerations: Some RV parks offer year-round access while others close seasonally. A visitor to Jim & Mary's RV Park mentioned it's "Reasonable and discounts accepted. Not far off of the highway."
Leveling challenges: Not all sites provide perfectly level parking. A camper at River Edge Resort advised, "Sites are close, so prepare to be friendly. Highway is close by as well, so you will hear some traffic noise."
