Tent campsites near Hamilton, Montana range from accessible Forest Service sites to remote backcountry areas throughout the Bitterroot National Forest. Elevations in this region typically range from 3,500 to 6,000 feet, creating significant temperature variations between day and night even in summer months. Most dispersed camping areas require campers to position tents at least 100 feet from water sources and follow strict food storage protocols due to bear activity.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lolo National Forest Harry's Flat Campground serves as an excellent boat launch location for accessing fishing spots along Rock Creek. "Good place to launch your boat though and when it is open it's great," notes camper Kelly, though seasonal flooding can affect access into early summer.
Hot springs access: Jerry Johnson Campground offers proximity to natural hot springs requiring a short hike. "Jerry Johnson has totally unimproved, rustic hot springs. There is a short hike from the road at the pull-off back to a series of lovely hot springs," reports Lindsay B. The springs remain primitive with no constructed facilities.
Wildlife viewing: Seasonal opportunities for wildlife observation exist throughout the camping areas, particularly during dawn and dusk hours. At Crazy Creek Campground, Matthew F. advises, "Be aware of your surroundings, we had a coyote visit us unexpectedly!" The campground provides quick access to wildlife-rich areas.
What campers like
Creek sounds: Water features enhance several tent sites in the area with ambient background noise. Annie C. notes about Crazy Creek Campground: "Right next to the creek, with another small branch cutting through the middle of the campground, the only thing I could hear was the water and later a fire spotter plane overhead."
Fall colors: Seasonal changes create distinctive camping experiences in late September through mid-October. At Jerry Johnson Campground, Celine K. observed, "I went during early October and the larches and deciduous trees were showing great fall colors."
Fishing access: Gold Creek Campground offers specific angling opportunities. Kat S. highlights, "Located in the remote forest is a perfect campground. Gold creek is prime fishing for trout." Most fishing spots require walking access from the campground.
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Verify campground status before traveling as several sites close seasonally or may be temporarily unavailable. One reviewer noted about Jerry Johnson, "Closed for the 2022 season," while David E. added, "They cut all the trees down some years ago and then closed it."
Water access limitations: Many tent sites lack easy water access despite proximity to creeks. Will M. observed at Gold Creek: "Only water source is the creek which is not easy to access. Note, it isn't really difficult, either." Campers should plan to bring sufficient water supplies.
Road conditions: Blue Mountain Forest Road 365 presents challenges for vehicles. David B. warns, "Road is absolutely clapped out going up for like ten miles. I got a flat tire going up so be careful of sharp rocks." Most rough sections occur within the first several miles of the access road.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection priorities: When camping with children, secure sites away from potential hazards. At Gold Creek Campground, Will M. noted, "The site is nice. Only water source is the creek which is not easy to access," suggesting families should consider water accessibility when choosing locations.
Toilet facilities: Facility quality varies significantly between campgrounds. Annie C. reports about Crazy Creek, "The vault toilet was super clean and serviced recently," while Celine K. was similarly impressed at Jerry Johnson Campground, noting, "The outhouses were immaculate! Honestly the nicest outhouse I have ever seen."
Wildlife awareness: Educate children about appropriate wildlife interactions. At Crazy Creek Campground, Matthew F. shared, "We had a coyote visit us unexpectedly!" suggesting the need for proper food storage and wildlife awareness even at established sites.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most tent campsites near Hamilton cannot accommodate larger recreational vehicles. Leonidas R. cautions about Blue Mountain Forest Road 365, "You've got to go in at least 5 miles to camp," with limited pullouts available for parking.
Surface challenges: Unpaved access roads often present difficulties for trailers and RVs. Ben H. notes about Blue Mountain dispersed areas: "This area would probably not be ideal for RVs. Four wheel drive does not seem to be a requirement." Most tent-focused campgrounds have limited designated parking for larger vehicles.
Turnout limitations: Finding suitable parking can be challenging. Danielle B. cautions about Blue Mountain, "There's not actually anywhere to camp unless you want to camp on the road," suggesting RVers should research specific pullout locations before attempting access.
