Fishing Creek access sites offer undeveloped camping spots near Huson, Montana at elevations ranging between 2,900-3,500 feet. The terrain features mixed conifer forests dominated by ponderosa pine and Douglas fir, with multiple creek systems flowing through steep valleys. Nighttime temperatures can drop 30-40 degrees below daytime highs even during summer months, creating challenging conditions for unprepared campers.
What to do
Explore Nez Perce history sites: Lolo Creek Campground provides access to Lewis and Clark/Nez Perce National Historic Trail. "This is a gorgeous area with tons of shade and sites right on the water... Only a short drive further down the road to Lolo Hot Springs! Sites are shaded and well spread apart," notes a Lolo Creek Campground visitor.
Fish mountain streams: Multiple waterways offer trout fishing opportunities near established and dispersed camping areas. "We were looking for an out of the norm camp site and just happened to check out this place. We can only say awesome," reported a visitor to Big Pine Campground, which provides creek access.
Mountain sapphire hunting: Gem Mountain offers a unique day trip experience from camping locations. A visitor at Missoula KOA remarked, "Lots to do in Missoula and surrounding areas. I recommend heading out to gem mountain for some Montana sapphire hunting. Fun day trip, and was great for the kids."
What campers like
Secluded creek access: Many campers value waterfront sites. "This is a beautiful location with dispersed sites and enough room for rigs. There is a creek and tons of sites to camp along," notes a Big Pine Campground reviewer. Another adds, "Such a beautiful campsite. Free, right on the River, clean bathroom, quiet!"
Off-grid camping experience: Petty Creek Road Dispersed Camping provides free primitive camping. "Great little spot to hold over for the night. The GPS coordinates listed on the map are spot on, and the turn-off comes up quickly. There look to be 4 spots," explains one camper. Another adds, "super easy to get to! just exit off I90 onto Petty Creek Road and go straight for a mile or two."
Undeveloped small ponds: Kreis Pond offers a unique experience. "Great secret camping spot. There's only about 5 spots and summer will be crowded when it's hot and awesome weather! Bring tubes to float around the water and hammock to hang around," shares a Kreis Pond Campground visitor.
What you should know
Bear activity considerations: Proper food storage is essential as wildlife activity is common. A camper at Big Pine noted, "Something is eating big game out here so lock up your food." Another visitor to the area observed, "Saw bear prints, definitely lock up foods. Bring water treatment methods."
Variable water sources: Many dispersed sites lack reliable water. "The only water source is from the stream and if the water level is high it's difficult to get," reports a Big Pine Campground visitor. At Petty Creek, camping is available year-round but stream levels fluctuate seasonally.
Communication limitations: Cell service is non-existent at many sites. "THERE IS NO SERVICE once you reach the campsite areas," warns a Big Pine visitor. Another camper notes, "There is no cell service at nor near the campsite," referring to Lolo Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Small pond activities: "Bring tubes to float around the water and hammock to hang around. Neat, fun area especially with the Sleeping Woman hike so close," suggests a Kreis Pond Campground visitor. Water recreation provides entertainment for children when swimming areas are available.
Bathroom access: Consider campgrounds with toilet facilities for easier family camping. "The campsite comes with a small fire pit and access to restrooms in the warmer seasons," notes a local camper. River Edge Resort offers more developed facilities, with a visitor noting "The facilities were clean."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campsites offer chances to see various animals. "We saw deer," reports one camper. Another mentions, "We saw lots of wildlife sightings, including bunnies throughout the campground. She loves them."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most dispersed sites have size constraints. "We have a 27 foot Class C with a drivers side slide. Not a tiny RV but by no means large," noted a camper about site dimensions. Another Petty Creek visitor warned, "I wouldn't recommend parking a 20ft plus rig in the back site."
Road conditions: Access roads to many camping areas require caution. A Petty Creek Road camper noted, "Be prepared for several miles of dusty, gravel, washboard road." Another camper at The Holmestead advised, "This cabin is so lovely, my dogs had a blast playing in the stream. I was happy to have a big real bed!"
Limited hookup options: Most camping near Huson lacks RV services. For full hookups, many RVers travel to Missoula where "Sites are grassy with flowers And sprinklers. Sites are all level with gravel. There are picnic tables. Reasonable and discounts accepted. Not far off of the highway."
