Best Campgrounds near Cardwell, MT
Camping near Cardwell, Montana sits at the intersection of mountain landscapes and river valleys, with options ranging from full-service RV parks to state park campgrounds. The area includes the Cardwell General Store and Campground in town and Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park just 15 minutes east. These established campgrounds provide convenient access to Interstate 90, making them popular stopover points for travelers between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks. Missouri Headwaters State Park, located about 30 minutes east near Three Forks, offers camping at the historic confluence where the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers form the Missouri River.
Most campgrounds in the Cardwell area are open year-round, though services may be limited during winter months. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F, while winter can bring temperatures well below freezing with occasional heavy snowfall. Mosquitoes can be prevalent near water sources during summer months. Highway noise is noticeable at some campgrounds close to I-90, as one camper noted: "The park was well kept and we had electric plus sewer and water, but it is about a mile from the interstate which is convenient but you can occasionally hear trucks pass by." Cell service is generally reliable near town and along major highways but becomes spotty in more remote areas.
The camping options around Cardwell accommodate various preferences and needs. RV campers will find full hookup sites at Cardwell General Store and Campground, which also offers a market and gift shop. Those seeking more natural surroundings can head to Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, which features tent sites, RV spots, and cabins amid pine-covered hills. For free camping, Homestake Pass Dispersed area provides primitive sites about 30 minutes west of Cardwell. Fishing enthusiasts often prefer sites along the Jefferson River, which flows through the area and offers good trout fishing opportunities. Most campgrounds are pet-friendly, though leash rules apply in developed areas.