The Bitterroot National Forest near Hamilton offers multiple equestrian-friendly campgrounds at elevations ranging from 3,600 to 7,200 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F with cool nights dropping to 45°F. Most horse camping areas remain open from May through November with limited winter accessibility depending on snow conditions.
What to do
Horseback riding on established trails: Charles Waters Campground provides access to numerous riding trails directly across from the camping area. According to a visitor, "There are some nice hiking and horseback riding trails across the road, and there is a forest road that goes all the way to the top of the mountains with picnic tables to watch the sunset or sunrise."
Fishing in mountain streams: Near Mussigbrod Campground, visitors can fish in lakes and streams throughout the season. One camper notes, "Fishing was slow but we caught fish. Saw lots of animals even a video of a Grizzly not but 3 miles from the camp grounds."
Wildlife observation: The high-elevation forests provide excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. At Hogan Cabin, a visitor reported, "Saw several deer and elk feeding in the field near the cabin, as well as a moose in the marsh along the creek."
Hiking to mountain overlooks: Trails from several campgrounds lead to scenic vistas with valley views. A visitor at Sam Billings Memorial Campground mentioned there's "so much firewood laying around" for evening campfires after a day of hiking.
What campers like
Shaded campsites: At Charles Waters Campground, campers appreciate the natural forest setting. One visitor noted, "Trees for shade, clean vaulted toilets. Nice camp sites and camp ground."
Creek access: Many campers value proximity to water. A reviewer mentioned, "The creekside sites are especially lovely" and another noted, "I like the sites on the far side of the loop as they are closer to the creek and away from the dusty road."
Privacy between sites: Mussigbrod offers well-spaced camping areas. A camper observed, "All the campsites are pretty isolated from each other by the pine trees so you can't really see your neighbors."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds near Hamilton maintain serviceable restrooms. At Sam Billings Memorial, a visitor noted, "3 vault toilets that are kept clean" and described it as a "well maintained NFS campground."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most horse campgrounds near Hamilton operate May through November. At Sam Billings Memorial Campground, "From weather dependent dates chosen by the Rangers there is no cost from late Oct to late May. Otherwise it is $10 per night, $5 with golden or access passes."
Variable water availability: Not all campgrounds offer drinking water. One visitor to East Fork Group Area mentioned, "The river by the camp sites is absolutely beautiful" but campers should bring their own potable water.
Limited cell service: Most forest campgrounds have no connectivity. A camper at Sam Billings noted, "No cell service, only 1 mile to the paved road, Ranger station is only about 1/2 mile down that paved road."
Bear country precautions: The area has active bear populations. A Mussigbrod camper reported, "Saw lots of animals even a video of a Grizzly not but 3 miles from the camp grounds." Proper food storage is mandatory.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer recreation facilities for children. At Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground, visitors noted, "There is a basketball court, sand volleyball court, horse shoes and a playground."
Kid-friendly water features: Creeks and lakes provide natural play areas. One camper at Ekstrom's mentioned, "Beautiful views here along the Clark Fork River with lots of things to do in the nearby area."
Open spaces for games: Several campgrounds have meadow areas for activities. At Bearmouth RV Park, a visitor found "a big field next to the river that was great for kids to run around in."
Weather preparedness: Mountain conditions can change quickly. A family at Ekstrom's recalled, "We had the best thunderstorm with hail that night as well…best night ever!!" Pack appropriate gear for all conditions.
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: At Bearmouth RV Park, a visitor noted, "There is a good amount of space between RV campsites, all of which have water and electric."
Hookup availability: Limited full-service sites exist in the area. At Outpost Campground, "They were kinda expensive but it totally beat paying the local costs for lodging."
Road conditions: Access to remote horse campgrounds requires preparation. Sam Billings Memorial offers "sites #1 & #2 get the most sun, are the largest, and can accommodate any size RV."
Level parking considerations: Forest service roads may present challenges. At Charles Waters, a visitor observed, "Parking pads are pretty flat and big" but noted sites are "sloped, not level."
