Dispersed camping options near Ovando, Montana range from riverside sites to wooded lake access points. The area sits at approximately 4,100 feet elevation in the Blackfoot Valley, surrounded by wilderness areas and national forest land. Many sites become inaccessible during spring snowmelt, with optimal camping conditions from late June through early October when temperatures typically range from 45-85°F.
What to do
Paddle on smaller lakes: Placid Creek Pull Off offers direct access to creek waters. "It's a clearing with a clean outhouse. It works for a night or two. It's not completely level but the road in is easy," notes camper Lady Phyre.
Launch small watercraft: Holland Lake Boating Site provides non-motorized water access. "We use this area a lot. The boat launch is definitely not for larger boats, so there's not a lot of the chaos associated with type places. Parking is good, and it's easy to get to the restrooms," explains Heather B.
Fishing for variety: The waterways near Ovando support multiple fish species. At Upsata Lake, campers can expect "Bass, Pike and Perch to pluck for days," according to AmiLinn Jean H.
Camp near river confluences: Sites near water junctions provide multiple fishing opportunities. James K. notes that River Junction offers "peaceful wooded site with the confluence of the Blackfoot and North Fork Blackfoot. Several sites right along the river."
What campers like
Quiet weekday opportunities: Many sites experience less traffic on weekdays. At River Junction, James K. reported "I was there Friday night in early August and was the only camper there."
Spacious riverfront sites: Corricks River Bend features well-spaced camping areas. Julie L. found that "Our site (9) was big enough for two trucks and a camper with plenty of room to spare. There aren't many sites, and the price is $18 per night."
Cost-effective alternatives: Camping near premium areas provides budget options. Celine K. mentions that Corricks River Bend is "Kind of neat to drive past the Paws Up resort and the campground is much more affordable!"
Primitive lakeside options: Less developed sites provide direct water access. Matt observed at Lindbergh Lake Boat Ramp: "Several sites grouped together by lake down an access road. Only one other camper here on a Sunday night. Nice wooded sites and easy access to lake for swimming or boating."
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to several sites requires planning. Celine K. warns about Corricks River Bend: "The road to get to this campsite is rough!"
Basic amenities only: Most sites provide minimal facilities. At Garnet Road Dispersed Campsites, Robert C. notes: "There are multiple spots to pull off from Garnet Range Rd, and there are spots with a stone firepit along them. Verizon has around 2 bars, there's no toilets or running water."
Variable cellular coverage: Service depends on exact location and carrier. Johnathan I. found at Clearwater Crossing: "Good cell service on TMobile. Lots of road noise, bring earplugs."
Resident vs non-resident fees: Montana's fishing access sites charge different rates based on residency. AmiLinn Jean H. explains: "Residents pay $12 a night for up to seven days, non-residents pay $18 a night for up to seven days."
Tips for camping with families
Know campground layouts: Some sites require walking to reach tent pads. At Big Nelson Complex, Dexter I. found: "Sites 4, 5, and 6 require parking in the parking area and walking down a set of stairs to access."
Site selection matters: Space varies significantly between numbered sites. Dexter I. notes: "Site 4 is tiny... if you want to pitch a tent at site four you would need to do it next to the fire ring and skip making a fire. Sites 5 and 6 are fairly roomy."
Consider cabin options: For families seeking more shelter, organized camps provide structured accommodations. Megan B. describes Camp Paxson: "Primitive cabins with electricity and bunk beds but nothing else. Dock to jump off of. Trails all over Seeley Lake."
Pack noise protection: Some sites experience traffic sound. Johnathan I. recommends for roadside areas: "Lots of road noise, bring earplugs."
Tips from RVers
Low clearance limitations: Several sites pose challenges for larger vehicles. Terri F. advises about Placid Creek Pull Off: "Rough dirt entrance. 4-5 semi designated parking spaces. More if you were cozy. Not recommended for low clearance or large vehicles."
Trailer accessibility challenges: Back roads to remote sites often pose difficulties. James K. cautions: "The road back to the campground would be tough for trailers, I think."
Site spacing considerations: Riverfront campgrounds typically offer more room between sites. Julie L. notes at Corricks River Bend: "The campgrounds are pretty spread out and most along the river."
Dump station locations: Plan waste management carefully as few remote sites offer dumping facilities. Only select Forest Service campgrounds like Holland Lake provide sanitary dump stations within reasonable driving distance of Ovando.
