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Camping in the Melville, Montana area centers around the Yellowstone River corridor and nearby Crazy Mountains, with multiple fishing access sites and established campgrounds within a 30-mile radius. Halfmoon Campground in the Crazy Mountains provides tent and RV sites with vault toilets in a forested setting, while riverside options include Otter Creek Fishing Access Site offering primitive camping directly along the Yellowstone River. Spring Creek Campground & Trout Ranch and Big Timber-Greycliff KOA provide more developed alternatives with cabin options for those seeking additional amenities in the Big Timber area.
Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, particularly for remote sites like Halfmoon Campground. "The road in is gravel for about 16 miles with the last 4 having vehicle crawl. If you go more than 10 miles an hour in this section you will probably pop a tire and should definitely have 4x4 and high clearance," noted one camper about accessing the Crazy Mountains. Most fishing access sites maintain gravel access roads suitable for standard vehicles. Camping is generally available from April through October, though higher elevation sites like Halfmoon typically close earlier due to snowfall. Fishing access sites along the Yellowstone River typically limit stays to 7 days, while Forest Service campgrounds may allow longer stays. Cell service ranges from good at riverside locations near towns to minimal in mountain settings.
The Yellowstone River corridor provides excellent opportunities for anglers and water enthusiasts at multiple fishing access sites. Several visitors mentioned the peaceful riverside setting at Otter Creek as a highlight, with one noting "you can fall asleep to the sounds of the river rushing by." Campsites directly along the water tend to fill quickly during summer weekends. Mountain campsites like Halfmoon offer cooler temperatures and access to hiking trails, including routes to waterfalls and alpine lakes. The area experiences rapid weather changes, particularly in the mountains where afternoon thunderstorms are common during summer months. Most established campgrounds provide fire rings and picnic tables, while fishing access sites typically have more limited amenities but offer direct river access and open camping areas suitable for both tent and RV camping.
"Great dispersed camping beside the Yellowstone River just off Interstate 90 near Big Timber, Montana."
"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."
"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"
"Conveniently located about 5 miles off I-90! We stayed one night on our way from the Badlands to Glacier National Park and I wish we would have had more time here."
"Campground is situated on Boulder River. Office staff was friendly. Laundry facility was clean but dated. (Harvest gold dryers from the 70’s dated). Great proximity to downtown big timber, MT."
"It's better to exit off the interstate just east of the campground."
"Usually we stay at KOAs for stopover convenience, but being tired of driving we decided to stick around for an extra night. For a KOA, this was a really decent spot."
"Only four or five spots right next to the river but plenty of open spots in the field next to where people Park their boats."
"Several areas for campers and travel trailers and even big rigs and popular area for fishing so rather than normal BLM 14 days it's a 7-Day Max but it's beautiful just next to the river so you can hear"
"Very nice campground about 6 miles out of Big Timber Montana."
"There are trains close by but that didn't bother too much. If you stay with kids there are spots where the river current is quite strong close to shore."
"The location is hard to beat. Being right by the stream adds such a peaceful touch, and the sunsets and sunrises here are truly beautiful. Waking up to that kind of view is something special."
"Restroom is located here. Not far from town so for dinner or anything else you might have forgot."
"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"Close to the Yellowstone. We camped on the second loop and at the end near the boat dock is a trail that follows the river. We enjoyed the walk with our dogs. Lots of folks fishing."
"Only a 5 min drive off the highway so it’s very convenient as a road trip stop. It has lots of shade and is located right next to the Yellowstone River."
"Right next to the river and right off the interstate (kind of noisy from traffic) there were a couple trucks working the railroad but don’t bother us."
"There are train tracks nearby, which wasn't necessarily negative for us since we live next to train tracks at home ."
ScoutI've only been there about 150 times, but no one has ever mentioned a pet policy. I have been there with 2-3 dogs for the last 20 years, although I try to visit during the week when others are rarely present.
ScoutVery peaceful surroundings for being in a city. My only complaints are that one if the two pit toilets was very unusable. And the water system was turned off to the outdoor faucets. But for free, one can’t really complain. And the city is very close to get water.
GuidePulled in to one of the last two spots and woah!!!
Yes, it’s right on the gravel/dirt road but it’s not a freeway so it gets quiet really fast.
Zero complaint from me when I can get prime real estate right on the water with this view.
Plan for mosquitoes, you will be eaten alive.
GuideGreat pit-stop on the way to/from you-name-it.
You can still hear traffic no matter how far you go but it’s faint. Harleys on the road and the train going through town are however annoying af and very audible.
Still, the location is very nice, convenient, and, - were it not for the above- would be ideal for longer stays. Tons of room to spread out, and “the homeless” are people too who seem to mind their own business so don’t sweat it. 👍
I also was pleasantly surprised at how clean it was. Great job, humans!!
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.
ScoutAdd some RV motorhome, mechanical control. They were very helpful. As far as facilities, the picnic tables were in great shape. There was more room between camping spots then in a lot of RV parks and the pull through we used did not have to share electric or water with anyone else. Clean and convenient!
ScoutClean restrooms and free camping along the Yellowstone River. A little bit of garbage but otherwise beautiful
TravelerFishing access site with several designated campsites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. I didn’t think the noise from the interstate or trains was too bad. Beautiful while passing through, but not “destination camping.” I had the place to myself on a weeknight.
I think you’re supposed to have a conservation license to stay here, I bought one online for $10 when I got here just in case. See my photo.
GuideHelpful reception, clean, pool, great place
Campsites near Melville, Montana provide access to both the Boulder and Yellowstone River corridors at elevations ranging from 3,800 to 5,000 feet. The region experiences significant temperature variations with summer highs reaching 90°F and overnight lows dropping to 40°F even in July. Most camping areas open from late April through early October, with fishing access sites typically maintaining longer seasons than mountain locations.
Fishing the Boulder River: Located just 3 miles from Big Timber, Otter Creek Fishing Access Site offers direct river access for anglers. "Beautiful views and quiet. Nice to have a small stone fire ring on the River," notes Susan W., highlighting the primitive but scenic setting. The area provides excellent opportunities for catching trout throughout summer months.
Hiking to alpine lakes: The Crazy Mountains provide challenging day hikes from Halfmoon Campground. "I hiked to Granite Lake (4mi) and it was hard but worth the effort for sure," shares Brodie B. The trailhead adjacent to the campground connects to several routes leading to mountain lakes and viewpoints, with most hikes requiring moderate to strenuous effort.
Trout fishing ponds: For families wanting guaranteed fishing success, Spring Creek Campground & Trout Ranch maintains stocked ponds. "They also stock the ponds with trout so that for dinner you can eat fish. They also clean the fish for you," explains Lillie D. The ranch charges a daily fee for fishing access but provides equipment rentals and cleaning services.
Riverside sleeping: Camping directly alongside the Yellowstone River ranks as the top experience for many visitors. "Going to sleep with sound of Rushing Water 20 ft away from me. Good cell reception on T-Mobile but no trash, water or power hookups," reports Steve M. about his stay at Otter Creek Fishing Access.
Mountain seclusion: The higher elevation sites provide cooler temperatures and forest surroundings. "Nestled at the base of the soaring peaks of the Crazy Mountain Range, Halfmoon Campground feels truly magical. The dozen campsites are spread amongst the tall pine forest," describes Aspen K. The campground sits at approximately 5,000 feet elevation, offering relief from summer heat.
Budget-friendly options: Most fishing access sites along the Yellowstone River corridor offer free or low-cost camping. "Free spot on the Yellowstone close to Big Timber. Fast and high water in June. Not much to do at this spot but it's free. One vault toilet," notes reviewer Kyla about Otter Creek Fishing Access Site. Many sites operate on a first-come basis with no reservation requirements.
Road conditions: Access to mountain campgrounds requires preparation and appropriate vehicles. "Road in is gravel for about 16 miles with the last 4 having vehicle crawl. If you go more than 10 miles an hour in this section you will probably pop a tire and should definitely have 4x4 and high clearance," warns Callie B. about accessing Halfmoon Campground.
Limited amenities: Most fishing access sites provide only basic facilities. "No amenities except a pit toilet but beautiful views and quiet," reports Susan W. about Otter Creek. Similarly, at Grey Bear, visitors note "vault toilet...no water...no trash" but appreciate the riverside setting and shade from cottonwood trees.
Seasonal availability: Mountain locations have significantly shorter seasons. "We woke up to the craziest wind storm around 1am!!! Our tent took quite a beating, we are estimating that winds were above 50mph!!!" shares Rachel S. about conditions at Halfmoon Campground. Weather at higher elevations can change rapidly, with mountain sites often experiencing snow by late September.
Playground access: For families wanting developed facilities, Chief Joseph City Park in Harlowton provides a mix of camping and recreation. "This is one of the nicest small town parks I have ever experienced. The play area for children is five star. Rodeo grounds, volleyball net, soccer field are just a short walk from the campsites," notes Denise W.
Swimming spots: The Boulder River offers several areas with slower currents suitable for supervised swimming. "Lots of river running through the campground and low enough to enjoy a swim, fish, or get your feet wet," mentions Robert B. about Big Rock fishing access. These locations typically feature gradual entry points with shallow water areas.
Wildlife viewing: Bring binoculars for spotting local wildlife. "Black bear and Moose are frequent visitors," advises Connie H. regarding Halfmoon Campground. Prairie Dog Town State Park near Big Timber offers another viewing opportunity within walking distance of some campgrounds, where kids can observe prairie dog colonies.
Length limitations: Most fishing access sites accommodate smaller RVs but have size restrictions. "Room for 5 or 6 big rigs and several tents, depending on how they are parked. There is an outhouse. Access is easy but a bit rough so go slow," advises Jeff & Alison H. regarding their experience at Otter Creek Fishing Access Site.
Hookup availability: Full-service options exist but are limited to private campgrounds. "Clean bathrooms and showers along the river," notes Mike about Spring Creek Campground & Trout Ranch, one of the few locations offering water, electric, and sewer connections for RVs in the immediate area.
Electrical-only options: Several municipal campgrounds provide electrical hookups without water or sewer. "Great small town RV park. $20.00 per night with electric. No sewer or dump station. Water on site but not to RV pads. Level, asphalt pads are all pull-through and long enough for my truck and 32 foot 5th wheel," explains Bradley H. about his stay at Chief Joseph City Park.
Frequently Asked Questions
What camping options are available in or near Melville, Montana?
The Melville area offers several camping options for outdoor enthusiasts. East Boulder Campground is located nearby with free sites featuring picnic tables, fire rings, and pit toilets. It's first-come, first-served with sites suitable for tents or small RVs. Deadmans Basin is another popular option east of Melville with lakeside camping and boating access. For those seeking more amenities, Chief Joseph City Park offers level pull-through RV sites with electricity, water, and a 14-day stay limit. Additional options include private accommodations like RV parks in nearby towns.
Where is Melville, Montana located and how do I get there?
Melville is a small rural community located in Sweet Grass County in south-central Montana, approximately 18 miles northwest of Big Timber. It sits between the Crazy Mountains and the Boulder River Valley. To reach Melville, take Interstate 90 to Big Timber, then head northwest on Highway 191 for about 9 miles before turning onto Melville Road. This location provides good access to nearby attractions like Otter Creek Fishing Access Site and Pelican Fishing Access Site, both located just north of Big Timber along the Yellowstone River.
What are the best seasons for camping around Melville, MT?
Late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the best camping conditions around Melville. Whitebird along the Stillwater River is ideal in summer, providing shade, swimming spots, and fishing access for $12/night with a Montana fishing license. Summer brings warm days for outdoor activities, while fall offers cooler temperatures and beautiful foliage. Some campgrounds like Big Timber-Greycliff KOA have seasonal facilities including a pool that's popular during summer months. October can still provide pleasant camping weather, though water levels at Deadmans Basin and other reservoirs are typically lower in fall.
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