Clark Canyon Reservoir serves as a hub for RV camping near Lima, Montana, with several campgrounds positioned around its 6,500-acre water surface. Located at 5,578 feet elevation, the area sits within the Beaverhead Valley surrounded by mountain ranges that create variable weather conditions. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F to 85°F with frequent afternoon winds.
What to do
Fishing for reservoir species: Clark Canyon Reservoir offers multiple fishing access points for anglers pursuing rainbow trout, brown trout, and burbot. "Swimming, boating, kayaking, etc! You can pretty much choose your favorite spot around the whole reservoir and just park and set up camp," notes a visitor to Lewis & Clark Campground.
Visit nearby historic sites: The Lewis and Clark Trail runs through the area with interpretive displays at several locations. "There isn't much in this corner of the world that isn't nearby. Just off I-15, it's near Lewis and Clark sites, Bozeman Trail's destination Virginia City, all the major National Parks in the Yellowstone area," explains a camper from Southside RV Park.
Beach activities: Several campgrounds maintain small beach areas for swimming and shoreline recreation. "You can stay in this great campground which has clean toilet, drinking water, fire pit, a shelter style cabin, boat ramp, small sandy beach for swimming, and beautiful water/lake view," reports a visitor to Clark Canyon Recreation Area.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Many campgrounds in the area provide good separation between sites. "The sites are spacious and level. Get reservations to assure a site. Pull throughs or backins," notes a camper at Southside RV Park.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain tidy grounds and service areas. "This campground was very clean. Trees and grass and the creek at each of the front sites. Nice laundry and clean bathrooms and showers," shares a visitor to Beaverhead River RV Park.
Scenic mountain views: The surrounding landscape provides visual appeal from most campsites. "The back drop of the snow capped mountains across the reservoir was spectacular. Prepare for wind. Very clean and well kept spot for boondocking," comments a camper at Clark Canyon Recreation Area.
What you should know
Seasonal operation changes: Operating dates vary significantly by campground. "Make sure to call in advance after October as they close for the season," advises a visitor to Lewis & Clark Campground.
Weather conditions: High elevation creates variable conditions with significant wind. "The wind blows A LOT here, so be prepared," warns one camper about the Lewis & Clark area.
Limited shade at some locations: Many sites lack tree cover. "Decent space between gravel sites but no real shade for hotter days," notes a Lewis & Clark Campground visitor.
Variable cell coverage: Signal strength differs by location and carrier. "Verizon had spotty signal (less than 1 bar)," reports a camper at Lewis & Clark Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Some campgrounds provide play structures for children. "Nice playground if you have kids. Trees are nice in high summer," mentions a visitor to Beaver Head RV Park & Campground.
Entertainment options: Some parks offer additional amenities for families. "There are movies to check out, no cost, in the office," notes a Southside RV Park camper.
Protected picnic areas: Many sites include shelters that provide wind protection during meals. "Sites had their own covered picnic areas and fire pits," reports a visitor to Clark Canyon Recreation Area.
Walking access to town amenities: Some campgrounds sit within walking distance of restaurants and services. "Located in the neighborhood near campus you can walk to restaurants and the cite downtown area," shares a Southside RV Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Level site access: Most RV sites require minimal adjustment. "Sites are level, water was good and the park was CLEAN! Good place to stay for a long time or just for a night," states a camper from Southside RV Park.
Easy interstate access: Several campgrounds provide convenient highway connections for travelers. "Easy on/off, full hookups, beautiful location located just off I-15. Amenities in town just opposite the exit for the rv park," notes a visitor to Countryside RV Park.
Site surface conditions: RV pads vary in material and maintenance. "Plan on dirt in your camper because the grounds are not well kept and the gravel pads need a refresh," warns a Beaver Head RV Park & Campground visitor about spring conditions.
Camp store options: Several RV parks maintain on-site stores with supplies. "Beautiful kept park. Lots of activities. Large dog park. Propane, laundry, store," shares a camper at Beaverhead River RV Park.
