Best Campgrounds near Pinesdale, MT
Pinesdale, Montana sits adjacent to the Bitterroot National Forest with numerous camping possibilities in western Montana. Established options include Blodgett Campground and Charles Waters Campground, both offering tent and RV camping with basic amenities. Several miles south in Hamilton, campers can find more developed facilities at Anglers Roost Campground with full hookups for RVs, while Lake Como Campground provides both tent and RV sites with some electric hookups and water. Dispersed camping opportunities exist at locations like Lost Horse Dispersed Campground, allowing for more primitive experiences in the surrounding forest lands.
Most campgrounds in the Pinesdale area operate seasonally, with many sites closed during winter months. Lake Como Campground typically operates from Memorial Day through Labor Day, while some forest service campgrounds like Charles Waters remain open from May through November. Access to higher elevation sites may require high-clearance vehicles, particularly during spring when snowmelt and rain can create muddy conditions. Water availability varies significantly between developed and dispersed sites, with many forest service campgrounds offering vault toilets but limited drinking water. Cell service is spotty throughout the region, especially at more remote locations. "Montana is such a beautiful place to visit. We come every summer but try and hit a new spot in Montana every time. We like experiencing new places, new hikes and new campgrounds!" noted one camper.
The Bitterroot River runs through the camping region, providing fishing opportunities that attract many visitors. Several campgrounds offer direct river access, including Anglers Roost, which one visitor described as "definitely the place to roost for anyone who enjoys fishing. All fifty spots are either on the Bitterroot river or a short walk away." Wildlife viewing represents another popular activity, with campers frequently spotting deer and various bird species. Sites with more tree coverage, like Charles Waters Campground, offer better shade during hot summer months. Campgrounds near Lake Como provide both lake activities and mountain views, with snow-capped peaks visible well into summer. Proximity to hiking trails ranks high in visitor preferences, with multiple review mentions of the quality and accessibility of nearby trail systems.
