Twin Lakes Campground sits at high elevation in Montana's Pioneer Mountains, where overnight temperatures can drop to freezing even in summer. The campground has 17 sites and a cabin option situated around two pristine lakes connected by a shallow channel. Remote camping opportunities extend along the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway, with several smaller campgrounds offering dog friendly options near Jackson, Montana.
What to do
Explore historic ghost towns: At Vigilante Campground — Bannack State Park, visitors can explore a perfectly preserved ghost town. "Bannack lies in a remote corner of Montana, but there is much to see and do at the Bannack State Park. The Bannack ghost town is extensive and well-preserved. They offer tours, gold panning and more," notes Lindsay B. The park hosts reenactments periodically for an immersive historical experience.
Mine for crystals: Just a short drive from Grasshopper Campground is Crystal Park, where visitors can dig for quartz and amethyst crystals. "A short drive to crystal park where you can dig up quartz and amethyst," shares Mitch G. The digging area is family-friendly and requires minimal equipment.
Soak in hot springs: After a day of hiking, campers can visit Elkhorn Hot Springs near Grasshopper Campground. "Walking distance to the rustic Elkhorn Hot Springs Resort where you can swim and get a bite to eat," mentions Mitch G. The springs offer a rustic pool and hot soaking options for a modest fee.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Many pet-friendly campgrounds near Jackson feature creeks that provide natural white noise for sleeping. At Grasshopper Campground, "You can hear the creek at night, which is a huge plus for me," writes R W. The campground sits adjacent to Grasshopper Creek, offering a peaceful soundtrack for overnight stays.
Spacious, well-designed sites: Little Joe Campground gets high marks for its layout. "Little Joe Campground is approximately 21 miles South of Wise River on the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway Road. Little Joe has 5 campsites nicely spread out," explains Dexter I. Annie C. adds: "All sites have nice shade and hammock trees."
Lake access for non-motorized craft: Twin Lakes prohibits motorized boats, creating a peaceful environment for paddling. "Clear water to see the bottom where it's shallow enough. No motorized boats allowed, so bring your own kayak or canoe and a fishing pole or two to enjoy the refreshing waters at the bottom of the mountains," says madeline K.
What you should know
Rough access roads: Most dog-friendly campgrounds in the Pioneer Mountains require travel on gravel roads. For Twin Lakes Campground, "The road is pretty long, and narrow. Not advisable for pulling a large trailer," warns Kat S. Chris J. adds: "It's about a 15 mile commute on a gravel road to get there."
Limited supplies: Pack everything you need before heading to these remote locations. For North Van Houten Campground, Richard M. advises: "Bit of a drive from Dillon and you'll want to stock up on supplies. Dry camping for sure."
Bear country precautions: Food storage is essential in this region. "This is bear country and there are food storage boxes located throughout the campground for shared use," notes Todd M. about Grasshopper Campground. The absence of trash receptacles at many sites is also related to bear management policies.
Tips for camping with families
Try tent camping at higher elevations: The Pioneer Mountain campgrounds sit at approximately 7,000 feet, requiring extra preparation. "Gets near freezing temps overnight. Bring your fall/winter sleeping bag if tent camping here in late August or late Spring!" advises Todd M. about camping at Grasshopper Campground and Picnic Area.
Book the tipi at Bannack: For a unique family experience, "You can stay in a teepee. Excellent campsite right next to a ghost town," suggests Kat S. The tipi rental costs "$30 a night for Montana residents or $42 for non-residents," according to Dexter I.
Consider cabin option for cold nights: At Twin Lakes, temperatures can drop significantly. "In July it gets to be around 30* F at night so bring lots of extra blankets," warns Katie G. The cabin rental provides a warmer alternative for families with young children or dogs.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations for trailers: Most pet-friendly campgrounds near Jackson Montana have size constraints. At North Van Houten Campground, "Possible to fit 30' trailer. Will be difficult to maneuver," notes Richard M. For South Van Houten, Tee C. observed: "I did see a truck with a big fifth wheel on it, so you can definitely do it!"
Bring generators for power: With no hookups available at these remote sites, power management becomes important. "Bring a generator to charge you bank, though I felt bad about running them because of the disruption in the serenity," shares Richard M. about camping at Bannack State Park.
Be strategic about site selection: For larger RVs with multiple vehicles, choose specific sites. At Grasshopper Campground, "Site 5 could park 4 vehicles easy. The rest can only fit 2," advises R W., adding "Number five could park about six cars easy. Also you could pitch about 7 to 9 tents on it."
Traveler
