Tent campsites near Jackson, Montana provide access to the remote Pioneer Mountains within Beaverhead National Forest. Sites range from 5,500 to 8,000 feet elevation, with significant temperature fluctuations between day and night even during summer months. Most campgrounds remain snow-covered until late May, with some higher-elevation locations not fully accessible until mid-June.
What to do
Crystal hunting at Crystal Park: Located a short drive from Grasshopper Campground, this 220-acre recreation area permits visitors to dig for quartz crystals. "A short drive to crystal park where you can dig up quartz and amethyst," notes a camper from Beaverhead National Forest Grasshopper Campground and Picnic Area.
Hot springs soaking: Elkhorn Hot Springs offers rustic soaking pools with natural mineral water. "Walking distance to the rustic Elkhorn Hot Springs Resort where you can swim and get a bite to eat," reports a visitor staying at Grasshopper Campground.
Fishing mountain streams: Multiple creeks in the area offer trout fishing opportunities. "Plenty of nearby hiking trails in the area," mentions a camper at Beaverhead National Forest Pettengill Campground, which sits near fishable streams once runoff subsides.
Ghost town exploration: Historic mining settlements provide glimpses into Montana's past. "Further up the byway be sure to visit Coolidge Ghost Town," suggests a Pettengill Campground visitor.
What campers like
Quiet camping atmosphere: Despite peak summer visitation, many campgrounds maintain peaceful environments. "A full campground on Father's Day weekend and very peaceful," reports a visitor to Grasshopper Campground.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained vault toilets are appreciated by campers. "Pit toilets were clean, plenty of TP, didn't stink. The campground is well maintained, and a beautiful place to camp," notes a camper at Grasshopper Campground.
Streamside sites: Many campsites are positioned near flowing water. "Most sites back up to the river which is pretty nice," writes a visitor to Bobcat Gulch, noting the appeal of riverside camping.
Attentive camp hosts: Seasonal staff maintain facilities and provide local information. "The camp host, Al, does a fabulous job," shares a Grasshopper Campground visitor regarding site maintenance.
What you should know
Severe weather changes: Summer snow remains possible at higher elevations. "We got snow on Labor Day weekend (still Summer!), so check the forecast," warns a Grasshopper Campground visitor about unexpected conditions.
Limited amenities: Many campgrounds offer minimal facilities. "There are only 3 paved spots at Pettengill, but they offer a large fire ring and picnic table. There is a large day use area and vault toilets as well, but NO trash service so pack it in, pack it out," explains a camper.
Small campground sizes: Most area campgrounds contain fewer than 10 sites. "Pettengill Campground is a nice pleasant three site campground. This is the first campground as you travel up the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway," explains a visitor at Pettengill.
Highway noise factors: Some locations experience traffic sounds. "Only downside is it's rather close to the highway and you can hear cars driving by pretty regularly," notes a visitor to Barretts Station Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area supports diverse animal species. "Saw quite a bit of wildlife. We had a great camping spot right by the water," shares a visitor to Wallace Lake Campground.
Insect preparation: Mosquitoes can be abundant in summer months. "Bugs are INTENSE though!" warns a Barretts Station camper, while another notes "prepare for the skeeters our thermacell was no match for these guys."
Lake recreation: Some campgrounds offer water activities for children. "We piddled around in a raft around the lake and did some fishing," recalls a Wallace Lake Campground visitor about family-friendly activities.
Mining history exploration: Historic sites provide educational opportunities. "Touring the mining towns near by was so much fun!" shares a Wallace Lake visitor about family excursions.
Tips from RVers
Limited designated RV spaces: Most campgrounds offer few dedicated RV sites. "There are 9 tables dispersed in a grassy area and a couple RV parking spaces," explains a camper at Barretts Station Park Campground.
Paved access considerations: Some campgrounds provide improved surfaces. "The campground road and parking pads are all paved. A large paved parking area is also available and is used for snowmobile parking in the winter," notes a Pettengill visitor about the accessibility.
Small rig requirements: Larger RVs face significant limitations in this area. "It's basically a park with 2 RV spots tucked in at the end that were taken," cautions a visitor at Barretts Station about limited availability for recreational vehicles.
Fire ring availability: Campfire opportunities vary by site. "There were a few fire rings in the area," notes a Barretts Station camper about amenities available to both tent and RV campers.
