Camping spots near Ovando, Montana primarily center around the Blackfoot River and nearby lakes within this mountainous region at elevations between 4,000-5,000 feet. Winter temperatures regularly drop below freezing with summer daytime averages in the 70s-80s. Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally, typically closing by late September due to snow conditions, with proximity to water and fishing opportunities being the main attraction.
What to do
Fly fishing excursions: The Blackfoot River area near River Junction offers excellent trout fishing. "Peaceful wooded site with the confluence of the Blackfoot and North Fork Blackfoot. Several sites right along the river," notes James K.
Lake activities: Salmon Lake State Park Campground provides water recreation on a larger scale. "Salmon Lake is quite stunning. There's a nice boat launch and dock right off the highway. It's a busy spot for day use," writes Brad B., who stayed for three nights and was "impressed by the cleanliness of the shower and restrooms."
Hiking trails: Multiple trails are accessible from Seeley Lake Lolo Campground, including paths to Girard Grove. "It is also near Girard Grove, home of Gus, the largest larch tree in the US. There are many trails, some leading you to this grove on Boy Scout Road," shares Judy T.
What campers like
Direct water access: Campsites at Russell Gates Memorial let you walk straight into the water. "You can walk right into the river from your campsite," explains Jay M. Another camper adds that it's "a cozy, unique campground with tons of water access, vivid greenery and hills and a peaceful night life."
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the room between sites at locations like Lost Moose Meadows Campground. "Each site is like a little oasis with plenty of room to stretch (B3 feels like a 1/2 acre lot, and likely not too far off from it), plenty long enough for even the longest of rigs," notes Karl B., who extended his stay from a few nights to over two weeks.
Wildlife viewing: Bear sightings are common in the area. Jason S. at Seeley Lake Lolo Campground mentions, "Warning: there are bears in the area. We didn't see any, but saw some evidence of them." The natural surroundings offer chances to see other wildlife like deer, eagles, and various bird species.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads are unpaved and can be challenging. At Harry Morgan, Melvin B. warns, "Second caution if one would come in the early spring park by the vault then walk down to the camp grounds... spring run off comes high water has cut deep ruts that could make it difficult getting turned around."
Limited facilities: Most fishing access sites have minimal amenities. Dexter I. notes that Harry Morgan FAS "is a dry campground and you will need to take your trash with you," though "each site has a picnic table and metal fire ring."
Bear safety: Proper food storage is mandatory in this area. At Harry Morgan, campers need to "make sure that everything is stored in your vehicle or use the campgrounds one bear proof food locker." Some sites have shared bear boxes, with James K. noting River Junction has "a single shared bear box among about 8 sites."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Salmon Lake State Park offers organized activities. Brad B. shares, "We met the park manager (Ryan I think). He came to talk to us about Bear safety and our grill. He gave the kids a state park ranger badge and a sucker... Now my son says he wants to be a park ranger."
Swimming spots: Find safe swimming areas at lakes rather than rivers. At Seeley Lake Lolo Campground, Jason S. notes, "The lake is incredibly clear and beautiful. One of the highlights of our stay was the stunning sunrise over the water—waking up to those colors reflecting off the lake was absolutely breathtaking."
Weather preparation: Summer conditions can change rapidly. At Placid Lake State Park, a camper advises bringing extra layers as mountain temperatures can drop significantly at night, even in summer months.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RVs, Placid Lake State Park Campground offers some sites with hookups. Dan M. mentions, "Beautiful lake, rich forest area. Camping spots were nicely spread out, all paved. Ours, number 27 was a pull through. Easy access, a clean spacious vault toilet very close by."
Turn-around space: Many fishing access sites have limited turning room. James K. notes about River Junction, "The road back to the campground would be tough for trailers, I think."
Hookup availability: Electrical and water connections are limited in the area. At Lost Moose Meadows, Soren B. appreciates that "all the sites are spacious and comfortable" with hookups available, making it "a great place to relax and reset after spending time in crowded national parks."
