Sam Billings Memorial Campground offers dedicated equestrian facilities near Pinesdale, Montana, where the Bitterroot Mountain Range creates diverse terrain for horse riding between 4,000-8,000 feet elevation. The campground is situated at approximately 5,600 feet elevation with temperatures ranging from 30°F at night to 80°F during summer days. Trail access points connect directly to the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness with over 1.3 million acres of ridges, valleys, and alpine lakes.
What to do
Mountain trail riding: Several trailheads provide immediate access to extensive backcountry riding opportunities. At Charles Waters Campground, "there are several spots with trails leading to Bass Creek. Recreational area, picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms, and about 10 minutes from Florence MT," according to Rene S.
Fishing nearby creeks: Access multiple fishing locations within short riding distance. As one visitor to Mussigbrod Campground noted, "The camp grounds were not busy, and no mosquitoes right now. Fishing was slow but we caught fish. Saw lots of animals even a video of a Grizzly not but 3 miles from the camp grounds."
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer prime opportunities to spot wildlife from horseback. According to a visitor at Hogan Cabin, they "Saw several deer and elk feeding in the field near the cabin, as well as a moose in the marsh along the creek."
What campers like
Private, shaded sites: Surrounding forest provides good separation between sites. At East Fork Group Area, "The river by the camp sites is absolutely beautiful. The lake at the top of the hill is a sight to be seen with the surrounding mountains. There are hiking trails and access to a massive wilderness area that has in excess of 40 separate lakes," according to Nick T.
Vault toilets maintained regularly: Multiple clean facilities throughout the campground. One camper at Charles Waters Campground mentioned, "Trees for shade, clean vaulted toilets. Nice camp sites and camp ground. I gave it 4 star only due to campers with generators. Other than that a great place."
Direct trail connectivity: The horse camping area connects to multiple trail systems without needing to trailer horses between rides. At Bear Creek Pass Campground, "There are facilities for horses: several hitching posts and a loading ramp. These don't look like they have been used for a while. We did see signs that horses were up here recently but the area is little impacted by horse use."
What you should know
Season timing: Campground is free during off-season months. Tom U. from Bear Creek Pass Campground advises, "I would certainly sleep in my vehicle over night here or set up a tent. You can overnight here before starting on a hike from one of the trail heads. However, this site has little to recommend itself as a destination for an extended stay."
Water availability: No drinking water on site – bring sufficient water for both humans and horses. At Hogan Cabin, a visitor noted, "There's no running water so be sure to bring plenty."
Bear safety protocols: Active bear territory requires proper food storage and awareness. A camper at Mussigbrod observed, "Another camper had the video of the Grizzly from the night before!"
Trailer parking logistics: Limited parking near horse sites requires coordination for larger rigs. A visitor at Charles Waters Campground explained, "Nice campground built to accommodate horse trailers. There are big day use parking/staging areas for trailers. The main campground was closed for winter."
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra layers: Temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common. At Out Post Campground, a visitor mentioned, "We made an overnight reservation for this spot and it was great to get our precaming game going... And it's a huge bonus to be outside and enjoying greasy air."
Kid-friendly hikes: Several shorter trails suitable for children connect to the main campground. One visitor to Mussigbrod noted, "This camping spot is a great one. All the campsites are pretty isolated from each other by the pine trees so you can't really see your neighbors. The lake is beautiful and not too cold."
Ranger programs: The nearby Ranger station occasionally offers educational programs during summer months. According to a camper, "Ranger station on the main road less than a mike from the entrance. They show up once a week."
Tips from RVers
Generator restrictions: Be aware of specific hours when generators are permitted. A visitor to Bearmouth RV Park noted, "There is a good amount of space between RV campsites, all of which have water and electric. There is a big field next to the river that was great for kids to run around in."
Limited cell service: No reliable cell coverage in the immediate area – download maps beforehand. A camper mentioned, "No cell service, only 1 mile to the paved road, Ranger station is only about 1/2 mile down that paved road."
Navigating access roads: The final approach road can be challenging for larger rigs during wet conditions. One visitor observed, "Only three site requires walking access, the rest are drive right in to. Only a few sites so if its great weather or holiday show up mid week or even a week ahead if you can."
Ranger
