Dispersed camping opportunities surround Plains, Montana, with sites distributed along forest roads and riverbanks at elevations between 2,500-3,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 75-90°F during the day, dropping to 45-55°F at night. Many campers utilize stone fire rings left by previous visitors, though seasonal fire restrictions can limit their use during peak wildfire season from July through September.
What to do
Swimming access: Easy river entry at Muchwater Recreation Area provides relief during hot summer days. "The river was so soothing to hear. Didn't go in due to the current being so strong," notes one camper at Muchwater Recreation Area.
Fishing opportunities: Pack your gear for multiple access points along the Clark Fork River. "I was alone while camping, parked my car at the first fire pit I saw open and it was perfect. Absolutely beautiful river, beautiful spot. Great for fishing, swimming, etc.," says a visitor to Dispersed Site - Lolo National Forest Recreation Area.
Nature hiking: Explore interpretive trails near developed campgrounds. "Had an interpreter trail just short of a mile. Free wood each night. Friendly camp-host. Just a great little gem," reports a camper about Cabin City Campground.
Wildlife watching: Keep binoculars ready for eagle sightings along the river. "There was a young lonely moose crossing the river and sleeping in the camp at night during my stay," shares a visitor at Muchwater Recreation Area.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: Most dispersed areas offer good separation between campsites. "Spots are very private and spacious overlooking river. Minimal road noise. Only a couple spots taken," notes a visitor to National Forest Recreation Area - Peninsula.
Easy river access: Many sites feature paths down to the water. "Some sites on the water with a short steep slope down. 12 miles to gas station. Beautiful views," explains a camper at Dispersed Site - Lolo National Forest Recreation Area.
Budget-friendly options: Free camping areas with 14-day stay limits provide extended stay possibilities. "This is a wonderful camping area right off of quiet rt 56 along the Clark Fork river. I only saw one other van there. It's a nicely maintained gravel road to the campsites," shares a camper at Muchwater Recreation Area.
Natural shade coverage: Most sites feature pine tree canopies for temperature management. "Very wooded with paths down to the water. We hung out in a hammock most of the day but it rained throughout the night and into the next day," describes a visitor at Much Water Campground.
What you should know
Railroad proximity: Train noise affects most riverside camping areas. "Freight rail runs RIGHT along the other side of the river. I can sleep through a midwestern thunderstorm, but the night trains shook me awake even with earplugs in," warns a camper at Much Water Campground.
Road accessibility: Access roads vary from well-maintained to challenging. "Main dirt road is well maintained but narrow and curves up the mountain. Lots of spots if you keep on going, but some offshoots are steep and rocky," explains a visitor at Dispersed Site - Lolo National Forest Recreation Area.
Water availability: No potable water at dispersed sites. "It has been pretty difficult to find potable water in the area. The 'free spring' just south of Paradise has been turned off as of August 2022 and locals say it is unlikely to be turned back on," reports a camper at Much Water Campground.
Seasonal crowding: Sites fill quickly during summer months. "From other guests it sounds as if there are several sites at this location. The first one was taken and we passed under the railroad trestle and drive 1/4 miles to a pull in place that sits in an embankment overlooking the Clark Fork," describes a visitor to National Forest Recreation Area - Peninsula.
Tips for camping with families
Poison ivy awareness: Some areas have significant poison ivy patches. "POISON IVY (found it... found all of it)," warns a camper at Dispersed Site - Lolo National Forest Recreation Area about the potential hazard.
Wildlife safety measures: Bear activity requires proper food storage. "There was a young lonely moose crossing the river and sleeping in the camp at night during my stay," reports a visitor at Muchwater Recreation Area.
Recreation alternatives: Access nearby amenities during poor weather. "Only a short distance off interstate 90. Half reservable and half 1st come first serve, pretty easy to get a spot. Nice spots, good privacy," notes a visitor to Cabin City Campground.
Swimming safety: River currents can be dangerous for children. "You have to 'walk down' a steep drop to access the river. When it's high don't try or say goodbye," cautions a camper at Muchwater Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Look for level areas away from the highway and railroad. "We stayed mid week during August. Stayed in a medium sized site on the river. Small steep slope to the water. Plenty of space, both large and small sites. Room for a 30' in a couple of the sites," advises an RVer at Dispersed Site - Lolo National Forest Recreation Area.
Navigation caution: GPS directions may be inaccurate for some areas. "Do not follow maps directions to this spot. Click the one a little south east next to the river titled 'Dispersed Site - Lolo National Forest Recreation Area'. This is the right location," warns a camper at National Forest Recreation Area - Peninsula.
Connectivity options: Cell service varies by location and carrier. "We didn't drive further down the road to confirm whether there was a toilet there. No Verizon or Tmobile but had a nice spot on the river that gave us great Starlink service," reports a camper at Off The Beaten Path Glampground.
Supplies planning: Nearest provisions require driving. "Closest gas is down in St. Regis (about 15 minute drive). Closest Grocery is in Plains (about 20 minute drive)," notes a visitor to Muchwater Recreation Area.
