Camping options near Missoula, Montana range from riverside tent sites to full-service RV parks situated at elevations between 3,200 and 4,000 feet. The surrounding Lolo and Bitterroot National Forests provide over 250,000 acres of public land access, with most dispersed camping areas located along forest roads. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during July and August, while early and late season campers should prepare for overnight temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Paddling activities on Lolo Creek: Visitors can bring non-motorized boats to Chief Looking Glass Campground for flatwater paddling. "There is a beautiful flat water river with two access points and locals tube and paddle here," reports one visitor who appreciated the riverside setting.
Mini golf at family campgrounds: Several RV parks offer on-site recreation, including Granite Peak RV Resort which features a course for families. "They had a mini golf course that I wanted to play at," mentioned one camper, though noting they "had no time" during their visit.
Hiking on Blue Mountain: Forest roads southwest of Missoula provide both camping and trailhead access. "Very dog friendly and tons of trails for hiking and mountain biking. Camping is allowed west of road 365," notes a regular visitor to the area's extensive trail system.
Sapphire hunting day trips: Visitors staying at campgrounds west of town can take a memorable day trip for gem hunting. "I recommend heading out to gem mountain for some Montana sapphire hunting. Fun day trip, and was great for the kids," advises a camper from Jim & Mary's RV Park.
What campers like
Private, wooded campsites: Charles Waters Campground receives high marks for site privacy. "Sites are close-ish together but very private because of the tree cover. The creekside sites are especially lovely," explains one reviewer who enjoyed the natural separation between sites.
Affordable tent camping options: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate the pricing at national forest campgrounds. Charles Waters Campground offers "$10 per night" with a "16 day stay limit" according to one reviewer who also noted the "paved roads, large sites" and "water spigots throughout."
Swimming and fishing access: Water activities rank high among camper priorities. "There is a beautiful flat water river with two access points and locals tube and paddle here," mentions one visitor to Chief Looking Glass Campground, highlighting the dual recreation potential.
Natural soundscapes: Campers value the natural audio environment at sites away from the interstate. "You can hear the cascading water at the sites, peaceful," writes one Charles Waters visitor, emphasizing how creek sounds enhance the camping experience.
What you should know
Limited cell coverage in some areas: Connectivity varies significantly between campgrounds. Lolo Creek Campground has "no cell service at nor near the campsite," according to a recent visitor, while other campgrounds closer to town maintain reliable connections.
Gate closure hours: Some campgrounds restrict vehicle access overnight. "The gate to the campsite is closed from 10 PM to 8 AM so if you need to leave early, you cannot do so," warns a Chief Looking Glass visitor who found this limitation problematic.
Train noise considerations: Railroad tracks run parallel to several campgrounds. At Beavertail Hill State Park, "there is also a set of RR tracks that run along the freeway. There were 8-10 trains that went by daily.. honking at the RR crossing," reports one camper.
Dusty forest roads: Access to dispersed camping requires driving on unpaved routes. "Road is absolutely clapped out going up for like ten miles. Wouldn't recommend a rv or trailer unless you don't mind washboards," warns a Blue Mountain visitor who experienced a flat tire from "sharp rocks."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Square Dance Center and Campground offers activities for younger campers. "They have a little putting course for kids among the trees. It is a good family campground," observes one visitor who appreciated the child-oriented options.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children often enjoy spotting animals at campgrounds. "There are three very large bunnies that roll around the campground. She loves them," wrote a parent whose daughter was delighted by the resident wildlife at Missoula KOA.
Accessible swimming spots: Water access ranks high for families with children. "The creek was just 50 yards from the camper and so clear," notes one Charles Waters visitor, highlighting the convenient proximity to water play areas.
Insect preparation: Parents should pack appropriate protection, especially at waterfront sites. "Mosquitoes can be problematic at waterfront locations," notes one visitor to Chief Looking Glass, suggesting families bring adequate repellent during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Varying hookup availability: RV campers find diverse utility options across the Missoula area. Jim & Mary's RV Park offers "full hookups" that made one visitor's "stay enjoyable," while also noting "there is a small dog park" though "it's mostly in the sun."
Sewer hose length requirements: Some RV parks have unusual utility layouts. At Granite Peak RV Resort, you "need about 20 foot of sewer hose to reach the sewer drain," according to one RVer who found this setup inconvenient.
Laundry facility limitations: Campers planning extended stays should note laundry access varies. Square Dance Center "only washes in cold" and "they don't have a dryer," forcing campers to use clotheslines, while others noted limited washer availability at some parks.
Premium site considerations: Higher-priced sites don't always deliver proportional value. One Missoula KOA visitor who paid for a "deluxe extra wide site" with their 27-foot Class C motorhome found they couldn't fully extend their slide-out, noting "here we are with the slide 4 inches from going out all the way."
