The McLeod area offers camping options within the Custer Gallatin National Forest and along the Boulder River valley at elevations ranging from 4,800 to 5,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach the upper 70s with cool nights dropping into the 40s. Most camping sites near McLeod remain snow-free from late May through mid-October, though higher elevation sites can experience frost even in summer months.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: East Boulder Campground provides access to mountain stream fishing in East Boulder Creek. One camper noted, "There's good fishing and the trailhead for the Green Mountain Trail, a very nice 6 mile hike to the Natural Bridge, is across the road."
Hiking trails: Several trails near Aspen Campground offer varied difficulty levels. A visitor mentioned, "There were a lot of great hikes along the way, some that were 'easy' 'moderate' and 'difficult.' I would recommend looking up hikes ahead of time, that way you can do a hike that best suits your abilities."
Water activities: The Yellowstone River access points support multiple activities. At Otter Creek Fishing Access Site, a camper shared, "This is a free Montana Fishing Access Site next to the Yellowstone River north of Big Timber. There was one clean single vault toilet for about 5 sites. No water or garbage available but each site has a picnic table and fire ring. There is a boat launch for fishing."
What campers like
River proximity: Most highly-rated camping sites near McLeod feature direct water access. At Grey Bear, a camper wrote, "A great take out for a 3 day overnight on the river. Can get a bit buggy, but lots of shade from the cottonwoods. Great fishing!"
Secluded spots: Many campers appreciate the privacy at smaller campgrounds. An East Boulder Campground visitor shared, "I came in from the North so I traveled MILES on stone/dirt roads through gorgeous Montana back country. I had the site to myself, sometimes one of the many road construction crews would stop to use the facilities."
Minimal development: The primitive nature appeals to many visitors. At Big Beaver Campground, a camper noted, "This is a beautiful site right on the side of a wonderful swift moving clear, rocky bottom stream. If traffic is moving fast this can be a dusty area. The backdrop of the mountains put the cherry on top for me."
What you should know
Limited availability: Many campgrounds have very few sites. A camper at East Boulder Campground reported, "There are only 2 sites here but they are spacious and private! There is a toilet, fire ring, and picnic table. The river is beautiful and loved hearing it at night."
Road conditions: Access requires travel on unpaved roads. About Big Beaver Campground, a visitor noted, "About 5 various spots very close to the main Boulder Rd so expect to hear traffic. But several spots are on the river and these spots include a fire ring and a vault toilet."
Wildlife considerations: Bears frequent the area. One camper at Aspen Campground shared, "We did encounter a young grizzly who gave me a scare in the middle of the night when I was urinating but he didn't threaten me."
Tips for camping with families
Fishing opportunities for kids: Several sites offer child-friendly fishing. At Spring Creek Campground & Trout Ranch, a parent reported, "I have 5 kids of all ages. They love it here. Fishing ponds and river too. The husband and wife have worked so hard to make this place fun for everyone. Kids got to feed fish in the pond just stop in and ask for the food."
Swimming spots: Certain access points provide safe water play areas. At Big Rock, a visitor noted, "Lovely little spot! Great spot not too far in from Big timber. Lots of river running through the campground and low enough to enjoy a swim, fish, or get your feet wet."
Amenities for longer stays: Some campgrounds offer more services for extended family trips. A Spring Creek visitor shared, "They also stock the ponds with trout so that for dinner you can eat fish. They also clean the fish for you. The cabins that they have are clean and cozy. They even have a laundry room for you to wash clothes."
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most camping areas have size restrictions. At Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp, a camper noted, "There's a spot down by the water that someone took with a tent who we let by us. We took a spot just above before you drive down to the water. I wasn't sure if I could turn around my 20' travel trailer down by the water."
Hookup availability: Most sites lack services. A camper at Spring Creek mentioned, "The spots on the river were really tight. The river was really beautiful though, so maybe it was worth it. We were on a pond, and had plenty of room. We didn't have sewer hookup, but they had a honey wagon."
Noise factors: Highway and railway noise affects some locations. At Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp, a visitor reported, "Beautiful spot by the Yellowstone River. Train whistles woke us up four times."
