Camping near Pinesdale, Montana offers access to scenic mountain landscapes nestled at elevations between 3,800-5,000 feet in the Bitterroot Valley. Most campgrounds in this region operate from May through October, with occasional year-round options. Higher elevation sites typically close earlier in fall when snow begins accumulating on mountain passes.
What to do
Hiking from campsites: Blodgett Campground provides direct access to trailheads with moderate to difficult routes. "The campground is pristine with how small it is, the graciousness of the host, and with the outdoor access right at your fingertips!" reports Griffen G. Multiple well-maintained trails lead into the surrounding wilderness.
Fishing for trout: Several campgrounds offer creek and river access for anglers seeking native trout. At Blodgett Campground, Eric G. notes, "Good fishing for small trout. About 6 miles from main road." Bringing appropriate flies for seasonal hatches improves success rates.
Lake activities: Lake Como Campground provides water recreation options during summer months. "Lake Como is a dammed river that sits at a high elevation. The loop trail around the lake is around 9 miles, and worth every step," writes Lindsay B. The lake warms sufficiently for swimming by late June through August.
What campers like
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers appreciate no-fee sites in the national forest. At Lost Horse Dispersed Campground, Steve O. comments, "This is my favorite area for dispersed camping in the area. Lost Horse creek is beautiful. Can get a little tight with campers in peak season." Free sites typically lack amenities but offer more privacy.
Clean facilities: Many established campgrounds maintain well-serviced vault toilets. According to Annie C. at Chief Looking Glass Campground, "Vault toilets were clean and well serviced, and every site has a picnic table and fire ring." Regular maintenance keeps facilities usable throughout the season.
River proximity: Several campgrounds feature riverside locations with natural sound barriers. At Anglers Roost Campground, smittie writes, "The site itself covers 15 acres with 1/4 mile of riverfront. This includes 70 RV and tent spots. The sites themselves offer a variety of camping experiences from side by side coziness to more isolated spots."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most forest service campgrounds provide basic facilities only. "This is a very nice little campground that is free. There is a great hiking trail from the campground - listed in Lonely Planet Hiking the Rockies. Pit toilet and pump water. Sporadic cell phone connection," notes Will M. about Blodgett Campground.
Site availability: Competition for spots increases dramatically on weekends and holidays. "Only five sites so come early to this free Campground. You're allowed to stay 14 days," advises Genie C. about Blodgett Campground. Most non-reservable sites fill by Friday noon during peak season.
Weather variability: Mountain weather changes rapidly with temperature drops of 30+ degrees possible between day and night. At Three Frogs Campground, Celine K. recommends, "Completely wooded and spacious sites made this place really enjoyable!" Tree cover provides protection from sudden weather changes.
Tips for camping with families
Lake-based camping: Families often prefer lakeside options with swimming access. "The campground sits below the dam with less wind. The sites are pretty spacious," explains Marc M. about Lake Como Campground. Morning activities on the water typically experience calmer conditions than afternoons.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children enjoy observing small mammals and birds throughout the camping areas. "Deer bed down in the area and are often seen in the early morning hours," notes Sadie P. at Three Frogs Campground. Dawn and dusk offer optimal wildlife viewing times.
Food storage requirements: Proper food storage prevents wildlife encounters at campsites. "Each tent site has a fire pit, tent pad, table, and is completed with a bear proof storage bin for food," reports Sadie P. about Three Frogs Campground. All food items, cooking equipment, and scented products require secure storage overnight.
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Some campgrounds have tight turns or limited space for larger rigs. "Although a dirt road drive in, the campground has an older paved road within. I did see a 30+ foot trailer but I wouldn't do it. The drive out is a bit too tight for my comfort," warns Sadie P. about Three Frogs Campground.
Hookup availability: Anglers Roost Campground offers full-service sites for extended stays. "The spaces are on the grass with full hook ups. They have a little store for groceries and Sunday's and sell propane," states asta C. Some riverfront sites offer partial hookups at lower rates.
Leveling requirements: Many forest campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring leveling equipment. "Paved roads, large sites, (sloped, not level) very friendly hosts, water spigots throughout, pit toilets, cement picnic tables," reports MT Nesters 4 about Charles Waters Campground. Bringing extra leveling blocks helps secure stable positioning.
