Dispersed camping options near Miles City, Montana include Bureau of Land Management sites at Strawberry Hill Recreation Area and Mathews Recreation Area. The Yellowstone River corridor contains several fishing access sites suitable for overnight stays. Miles City sits at 2,362 feet elevation in a semi-arid climate with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F between June and August. Winter camping requires preparation for sub-freezing temperatures and potential snow coverage.
What to do
River access for recreation: Twelve Mile Dam Fishing Access Site provides direct access to water activities along the Yellowstone River. "Pretty nice spot for a few days. Fire rings (no fires allowed right now), picnic tables, a super cute stream that runs through, nice, level spots, vault toilets, and quiet, gorgeous views," notes Alexandra T.
Hiking opportunities: The BLM lands near Miles City offer walking trails for those seeking exercise. At Mathews Recreation Area, one camper describes "a park like atmosphere" with "a large covered patio with barbecues, suitable for large gatherings. Designated spots have picnic tables and fire rings, but a lot of area for tent set up. Handicap accessible with concrete walks for easy mobility."
Stargazing: The dark skies outside Miles City create excellent stargazing conditions. A camper at Strawberry Hill notes, "Views were beautiful and stargazing was awesome top tier." The minimal light pollution in this region makes astronomical observation particularly rewarding during clear nights.
What campers like
Swimming spots: The Yellowstone River provides cooling relief during hot Montana summers. At Far West Fishing Access Site, campers appreciate the water access: "Some sites are alongside a pond, where I have seen people swimming. There is a short hiking trail to the river." The site remains available year-round with consistently maintained facilities.
Shade coverage: Many campers value tree cover during hot summer days. At Rosebud East, visitors enjoy "Great little campground right in the river. Fun for swimming, fishing, and rock collecting. Campground was clean and shaded, with potable water, a pit toilet, and trash cans."
Campground layout: Sites with adequate spacing receive positive reviews. "We pulled our 42ft. 5th wheel camper here and there is plenty of room. Giant cottonwood trees and a great fishing spot. We ate walleye 3 nights in a row," reports one Rosebud East camper. Well-designed campgrounds with space between sites allow for privacy while maintaining access to shared amenities.
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks run near several campgrounds in the region. At Rosebud East, one camper warns: "Beautiful campground. Nice sites, forested area, cool access to Yellowstone River. Clean pit toilets, reasonable rates. But oh boy, the trains came all night, announcing their arrival. So bring some earplugs and you'll have a better night's sleep."
Rough access roads: Some dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. A Strawberry Hill camper advises: "Primitive style camping with a rough road leading to potential site. Definitely need AWD or 4WD." Scout access routes before committing to remote sites, especially with larger rigs or during wet conditions.
Insect activity: Prepare for seasonal bugs, particularly near water. "Was easy to get to, pulled in our 32ft trailer very easily. Lots of open spaces and fire pits at every site. We had a water spout right by our site which was very convenient! Other then 104 degrees and a horrible amount of gnats, flies and mosquitoes it was a nice stop," reports a Rosebud East visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access: Miles City KOA offers water recreation for children. "This place is very relaxing a great little heated pool, playground and dog park (our dog loves being off leash!) super clean bathrooms and a great communal pavilion with grills to use. Swings and sitting areas all around and a river close by that my kids and dog loved walking by/in," writes Amber W.
Playground facilities: Several established campgrounds maintain play equipment for children. The Miles City KOA features "a nice playground for kids" alongside other family amenities that keep younger campers entertained during downtime at camp.
Educational opportunities: Miles City's Range Riders Museum sits within walking distance of some campgrounds. According to one camper at Wagon Wheel Campground, "You can get your laundry and groceries in town, only 3min drive away. You can even catch a movie at the theatre." The museum showcases regional history with exhibits on ranching and pioneer life.
Tips from RVers
Bridge clearance awareness: Access routes may have height restrictions. At Miles City KOA, one camper advises: "Pay attention to the directions given to get into the campground as there is an 11' clearance bridge in town." Large rigs require careful route planning to avoid low-clearance obstacles.
Level parking areas: RVers prioritize sites allowing easy setup. At Big Sky Camp & RV Park, visitors appreciate practical features: "Though it's not the most glitzy spot, it is clean and the management is extremely accommodating. You can get your laundry and groceries in town, only 3min drive away."
Hookup availability: Full-service sites vary widely in the region. A camper at Wagon Wheel notes: "Stayed here overnight on our way to Big Sky. Very easy to get to right off of I94. Friendly host, easy check in. Full hook ups, Wi-Fi, pull through site which was level so it didn't take much to set up camp. Bathroom/shower facility was clean. Plenty of shade."
