Primitive camping near Garryowen, Montana offers riverside experiences along the Yellowstone River at elevations around 3,000 feet. This area sits in the rolling plains of southeastern Montana, characterized by cottonwood groves and prairie landscapes. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 90°F, while spring brings high water levels during snowmelt runoff.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Yellowstone River provides productive fishing spots for anglers seeking catfish, sauger, and walleye. At Captain Clark, the boat ramp allows easy river access. "Great spot right next to the river. Has toilet and boat ramp," notes Robert B.
Historical exploration: Visit nearby historical sites related to westward expansion. Several campers mention Pompey's Pillar National Monument as worth exploring. "We backtracked the next morning to explore Pompey's Pillar National Monument," shares Dorothy J. about her Captain Clark stay.
Birdwatching: The riparian corridors attract diverse bird species. "Lots of cool bird activity," reports Morgan B. about Captain Clark. Kevin C. notes, "We saw several geese. Heard several wild turkeys but never saw them."
What campers like
Riverside camping: The Yellowstone River frontage provides scenic camping with natural soundscapes. Campers at Captain Clark appreciate the riverside location. "Dirt road to get to, keep going all the way back past train tracks and houses. Sites are nice, everyone dispersed pretty well. Vault toilet super clean. Right on the river, so silent," explains Steve N.
Spacious sites: Captain Clark features well-separated camping areas with basic amenities. Kevin C. describes, "We were lucky enough to get the site under this truly massive tree that was likely here when captain clark was on his expedition. Sites are well spread apart. Fire rings and picnic tables at each."
Swimming opportunities: Despite the Yellowstone's fast current, safe swimming spots exist. Morgan B. shares about Captain Clark: "The Yellowstone River is a fast moving and dangerous river but there is a great swimming hole on the other side of the boat launch."
What you should know
Conservation license requirement: Montana requires permits for some camping areas. "A Montana State Parks Conservation Permit is now required to camp here. Don't know if they enforce that requirement. Your permit is good all year," explains Mike C. about Captain Clark. For out-of-state visitors, this costs $10 annually.
Weather considerations: Wind can impact camping comfort in this open area. Chad L. mentions about Captain Clark, "Very windy the day we were there, but the campsites were nice with fire rings and the scenery was exceptional."
Limited facilities: Prepare for primitive camping conditions. "There is no place nearby to purchase firewood. Stop in Miles City or Billings on your way in depending on the direction you're coming from if you need it," advises Kevin C.
Road conditions: Expect variable access road quality. Mike C. notes about Captain Clark, "A little slow going in on the dirt road. Could be slick if rainy."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety: The swimming hole at Captain Clark provides a safer alternative to the main river. Morgan B. explains, "The Yellowstone River is a fast moving and dangerous river but there is a great swimming hole on the other side of the boat launch."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The riparian environment supports diverse wildlife watching for children. "We saw several geese. Heard several wild turkeys but never saw them," notes Kevin C. about Captain Clark.
Insect protection: Mosquitoes can be problematic, particularly in certain areas. Zach S. advises about Captain Clark, "Pretty buggy. Bring your mosquito repellent."
Site selection: Look for sites that balance privacy with accessibility. "There are only four spots to camp here but they are large and grassy. Each of them faces the river with a firepit and a table," explains Morgan B.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Vehicle length limits affect RV camping options. Mike C. explains about Captain Clark, "Length limit on vehicles is 20 feet. They clarify 20 ft tow vehicle and 20 ft trailer. Don't know how strict they are on this. It would be tough to get anything big in here anyway."
Campsite access challenges: Some sites require navigating tight spaces. Luke H. notes about Captain Clark, "A small tow behind camper would fit in here."
Overgrown access roads: Vegetation can damage larger vehicles at some locations. At General Custer Fishing Access Road, one camper reports, "There are only three campsites, one of which requires running a gauntlet of overgrown willow bushes and scratching a substantial amount of paint off the sides of your vehicle to access."
