RV camping near Jackson, Montana offers a mix of established parks and riverside locations within the valley's high-elevation terrain at approximately 6,500 feet. The area experiences short summers and long winters with occasional wind exposure, particularly at some of the more open campgrounds. Most RV sites in this southwestern Montana region remain open from spring through fall with limited year-round options.
What to do
Riverside fishing access: At Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground, campsites sit directly beside the Salmon River. "Our campsite was right next to the river. Dog friendly and there is a dog island that your fur kid can run around off leash," notes Lisa B., highlighting the proximity to water.
Mountain drives: The surrounding mountains offer scenic drives with views of the valley. "My second pic is a drive we took on Shoup Rd," mentions one Cia S. from Andreas on the River RV Park, suggesting roads worth exploring beyond the campgrounds.
Local town exploration: Dillon is within walking distance from several campgrounds. "There's an easy 5 minute walk to town. Great local grocery, bakery, and a few breweries," according to Daniel & Vicky C. at Andreas on the River RV Park.
Historical site visits: The region features notable historical landmarks. "There isn't much in this corner of the world that isn't nearby...it's near Lewis and Clark sites, Bozeman Trail's destination Virginia City, all the major National Parks in the Yellowstone area," shares Greg I. at Southside RV Park.
What campers like
River views: Many campers appreciate the waterfront locations. "The sites are large and level," notes Karla B. about Southside RV Park, while another camper at Wagonhammer mentions "Not sure if you can get any closer to the river. The back of the trailer was probably less than 10 ft. to the river."
Clean facilities: Maintenance standards receive consistent praise. "The grounds were well maintained by the owner and it has nice views of the bluffs and mountains all around it," reports Ben H. about Sportsman Lodge, adding that they have "clean bathrooms and laundry on site."
Spacious sites: Several parks offer room to spread out. At Beaverhead River RV Park, one camper notes, "The water and electric only sites in the back (spots 28 to 36) of the park are long and spread out. I recommend if you can go without having sewer connection, the ones in back are the best to stay in."
Mountain surroundings: The scenic landscape enhances the camping experience. "After driving 5 hours from Glacier National Park through arid ranch land, the Sportsman Lodge was like happening upon an oasis in the desert," writes Angela M., highlighting the contrast between locations in the region.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Internet connectivity varies significantly. At Wagonhammer RV Park, Brian C. reports, "Being new RV'ers we didn't do our due diligence before booking, we went by pictures and the park did their part. They said poor internet and poor cell service we just didn't believe them. There was internet at the office but it was 56k speed."
Weather considerations: The region experiences strong winds at times. "No trees and in a wide open location... This location is beautiful but can be very windy. We were there on a very windy night," notes a camper about Countryside RV Park.
Sewer connections: Some parks have unusual dump setups. At Beaverhead River RV Park, one camper details, "The openings for dumping are a couple of inches below ground level and the kind you just point the hose down and put a few rocks over to hold it down."
Seasonal operation: Most parks operate seasonally. Southside RV Park runs from March through December, while others have shorter seasons due to Montana's winter conditions.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly areas: Many parks welcome pets with designated spaces. "Dog friendly and there is a dog island that your fur kid can run around off leash! They also have bathrooms, showers (on demand hot water), laundry mat, fire pits, and a small store in the office," reports Lisa B. about Wagonhammer.
Entertainment options: Some parks provide additional entertainment. "There are movies to check out, no cost, in the office," mentions Robin K. about Southside RV Park.
Activity planning: Camping with kids requires thinking beyond fishing. At Wagonhammer, Gabe L. advises, "If there was really anything they could add, would possibly be something for kids to do. Just as a family of four with a 3 and 6 year old, they can only fish so much."
Pool availability: Sportsman Lodge offers clean sites and amenities for families. "Entire place is clean and well maintained. Very accommodating hosts," notes one reviewer, while Barbara D. mentions another park has a "nice pool" among its amenities.
Tips from RVers
Level sites: RV campers emphasize the importance of level parking. "The sites are good sized and easy to pull through. Gravel road in good condition," notes one camper about Countryside RV Park.
Space considerations: Site configurations vary between parks. At Right Turn Clyde RV Park, a camper reports, "Level spots with concrete areas. Each site has their own large outdoor trash bin that they come and empty twice a week."
Hookup specifications: Electrical service varies between parks. One Beaverhead River RV Park camper notes, "I did not see any 50 amp, only 30 amp," which matters for larger RVs with greater power needs.
Supplies and provisions: Stock up before arriving at remote parks. One camper at Wagonhammer advises, "Nearest town with groceries etc. is in Salmon so stock up before you go."
