69 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping areas around Martinsdale, Montana provide a range of options spanning from established campgrounds to primitive sites. The Martinsdale Reservoir Montana FWP offers waterfront camping with basic amenities including picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, situated on the north shore of the reservoir. Spring Creek Campground accommodates both tent and RV camping, with access to drinking water and toilet facilities. Several other developed campgrounds within driving distance include Chief Joseph City Park in Harlowton and Richardson Campground near White Sulphur Springs, offering varying levels of amenities.
Road conditions and accessibility vary significantly across the region's campground options. Many sites are accessible via drive-in routes, though some roads may require careful navigation. The Martinsdale Reservoir area experiences significant wind patterns that can affect the camping experience, particularly for fishing enthusiasts. Most campgrounds operate seasonally, with many open from late spring through fall, typically Memorial Day to October or early December. Limited tree cover in some areas means exposure to sun and wind. A review noted, "The problem with this campground is it has no trees so you are at the mercy of the sun and wind. The wind, it really blows through the area, every time I have visited this site I have found it too windy to attempt to fish."
The camping experience in the Martinsdale area features notable contrasts between developed and primitive sites. Waterfront camping represents a significant draw for visitors, with several campgrounds offering lake or reservoir access. Sites are generally well-spaced, providing privacy between campers, though amenities remain basic across most locations. Many areas operate on a first-come, first-served basis rather than reservation systems. Pricing varies, with some locations offering free camping while others charge modest fees ranging from $5-$18 depending on residency and fishing license status. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, stargazing opportunities rank highly among campers' experiences, with one visitor commenting on a nearby reservoir: "With no light pollution here, on a clear night like ours, the stars were simply astounding."
"Regardless we were able to find a great water front site a good distance away from anyone else. Close to Yellowstone National Park and Grand Teton National Park."
"Very nice quiet campground.Located by the shore of large lake. I thimk there were 12 or so sites available, each has table, fire ring and bear box."
"You need to drive up a narrow paved road then a wider graded gravel road then make a sharp turn down to the right. Sites aren’t big but we did see some hunters in a small trailer."
from $10 / night
Check Availability"A very nice small town town campground east of Montana’s front range. Several level pull-through RV sites with electricity. Dumpster and water hydrant near by in the campground."
"Really well maintained grounds, level gravel sites, fairgrounds close by."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"Some are not well situated for parking a camper, but it didn’t seem to crowded and we had our choice of spots early evening on a Friday."
"As you enter this campground you find a trail head to the left and then a picnic area to the right. The campsites start right after the first of two vault toilets for the campground."
"I arrived around 1pm on a Friday and there were only two spots remaining. I grabbed spot #8, it certainly is not the most desirable but it was a spot nonetheless."
"The scenery surrounding the campground is breathtaking: sharp peaks that rise upwards of 7,000 ft in elevation, crystal clear mountain streams rushing down the mountain sides, waterfall after waterfall"
TravelerParked in the trees for shade. Yellowstone river accessable but high. Floaters liked it. Train is very close but not obnoxious. Ya hear it almost as loud in nearby Big Timber. Mosquitos are abundant and hungry.
TravelerGreat spot! Can drive easily to each spot, don’t need to cross a wood mini bridge. The back two spots are close together and ideal if you want to camp with others, otherwise just solo. However I did realize that the back spots also pose a security risk to leave if you feel the need because it’s a one lane drive to get back here and someone can easily block you. So keep that in mind. River access in the back two spots is easy and amazing. Also mice here as per usual for being in the woods.
LegendThird attempt at getting into a spot but this one was a gem. Got a spot right by the river. A few other campers but we were spread out so plenty of privacy. Big field for our dog to burn off excess energy and get her full of sniffing.
ScoutBeautiful spot. Nice big cottonwoods. Only a few sites are riverside. All sites are blasted by freight train horns approximately every 30 minutes all day and all night. Camp here at your own risk to your ears and your sanity. Mosquitoes were also horrendous due to the beaver pond in site 10. I would totally recreate here or launch a raft from here, but I will not camp here again.
ScoutVery quiet when we came down. A few families camping. Great river spot with boat launching area
TravelerThis campground has several campsites. They are self-pay at the kiosk when you enter. There are no road signs on the main highway . We started seeing signs the last couple of turns into the area.
Guide5 miles down a gravel road with a few potholes but drivable! Vault toilet and open spot for solar and Starlink …if you want shade there is that. We were there for 4th weekend (full for the weekend) otherwise just one other camper!
TravelerThe fishing access campground was nice enough but the trains were really loud and close to campground.
TravelerWhen they say get lost. GET LOST.
Bring your toys and onX!
No potable water and limited toilets. Adventurous attitude required.
The Martinsdale, Montana area encompasses several established campgrounds within the Lewis and Clark National Forest and surrounding public lands. Campground options range from basic sites along Martinsdale Reservoir to more developed facilities like Spring Creek Campground. The region supports both tent and RV camping, with several locations providing primitive sites along waterways. Martinsdale Reservoir Montana FWP offers drive-in access for both tent and RV campers, while Spring Creek provides a more secluded experience with creek-side sites. Most campgrounds in this area maintain a rustic character with limited amenities and services.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with several campgrounds requiring travel on rough gravel or dirt roads. Spring Creek road leads to multiple camping areas including Whitetail Camp, located 12 miles north of U.S. Highway 12. Many sites operate seasonally, typically from Memorial Day through October or early December, with weather conditions determining actual closure dates. The area experiences significant winds, particularly at Martinsdale Reservoir where exposed campsites offer little protection from the elements. Campers should be prepared for potentially muddy conditions and limited facilities. A review noted that "Martinsdale Reservoir Fishing Access Site campground is a very large campground with sites well spread apart from each other. The problem with this campground is it has no trees so you are at the mercy of the sun and wind."
Waterfront access represents a common feature across multiple campgrounds in the Martinsdale area. Spring Creek Campground receives consistently positive reviews for its creek-side sites, with visitors appreciating the small canyon setting that provides shade and cooler temperatures in summer months. Wildlife viewing opportunities include potential bear encounters, requiring proper food storage at all locations. Fishing is available at several sites, with Spring Creek offering brook trout fishing. The more remote camping areas like Richardson Campground provide greater solitude but extremely limited facilities. A camper commented that Spring Creek has "10 sites with Spring Creek running through it. Our site backed up to the creek. You need to drive up a narrow paved road then a wider graded gravel road then make a sharp turn down to the right." Vault toilets are common at most established sites, but drinking water is limited to a few locations with hand pumps.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping at Martinsdale Reservoir?
Martinsdale Reservoir Montana FWP offers camping directly at the reservoir with well-spaced sites. This fishing access site features a large campground area where sites are generously spread apart, though not all are numbered. For alternatives near Martinsdale, consider Deadmans Basin, another reservoir camping option that's convenient for travelers passing through the area. The fishing access sites provide basic accommodations for both tent and RV campers, with easy water access for fishing and boating activities.
What amenities are available at Martinsdale camping areas?
Camping areas around Martinsdale offer basic amenities. At Chief Joseph City Park, you'll find level pull-through RV sites with electricity, a dumpster, nearby water hydrant, and access to a large community playground. It allows stays up to 14 days. For a more rustic experience, Ackley Lake State Park Campground provides basic facilities in the Martinsdale vicinity. Most Martinsdale area sites have picnic tables and fire rings, though amenities vary by location. Expect limited services with some sites offering vault toilets but generally no hookups or running water beyond community spigots.
When is the best season for camping in Martinsdale, Montana?
The optimal camping season in Martinsdale runs from late spring through early fall (May-September). Summer offers warm days perfect for water activities at Crystal Lake Campground, where you'll find peaceful waters, clear lakes, and meadows filled with wildflowers. By October, areas like Dry Wolf become less crowded while still offering beautiful Montana scenery, though temperatures drop significantly. Fall camping at reservoirs like Deadmans Basin shows lower water levels. Winter brings harsh conditions making camping difficult, while spring can be wet with unpredictable weather. Summer remains the most reliable season with the fullest access to facilities and activities.
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