Best Campgrounds near Jackson, MT
Campgrounds surrounding Jackson, Montana range from remote lakeside sites to accessible RV options in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. Twin Lakes Campground provides tent and RV sites with lakeside views, while the South and North Van Houten Campgrounds offer free camping on a quiet fishing lake. Several established campgrounds like Grasshopper feature picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. The region includes both primitive tent sites and developed areas with amenities such as drinking water and toilets, with Vigilante Campground at Bannack State Park providing electric hookups for RVs and cabin options.
Access to many campgrounds requires traveling on unpaved roads, with several sites located 10-15 miles from main highways. "The road is pretty long, and narrow. Not advisable for pulling a large trailer," noted one visitor about Twin Lakes. Elevation at campgrounds like Price Creek sits around 7,000 feet, resulting in cold overnight temperatures even during summer months. Most campgrounds are seasonal, typically operating from June through early September, with some experiencing snow as early as Labor Day weekend. Public land camping areas may require high-clearance vehicles to access, while others accommodate smaller trailers and RVs. Visitors should be prepared for limited cell service throughout the region and pack appropriate gear for significant temperature drops at night.
Waterfront camping represents a significant draw throughout the area, with campers highlighting the serene fishing opportunities at Van Houten Lake. A recent review noted that "Nice small camping area with about 5 sites, complete with picnic tables and fire rings with grills" at South Van Houten Campground. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with moose sightings possible near creeks and wetlands, particularly at dawn and dusk. Several campgrounds feature shared food storage boxes due to bear activity, with most requiring visitors to pack out their trash. Primitive sites often provide more solitude, with reviewers mentioning minimal crowds even on summer weekends. Developed campgrounds near water sources tend to fill more quickly, particularly those with accessible amenities like drinking water and well-maintained vault toilets. The proximity to hiking trails, Crystal Park, and Elkhorn Hot Springs enhances the camping experience for many visitors seeking outdoor recreation beyond their campsites.
