The Clark Fork River region surrounding Plains, Montana sits at approximately 2,470 feet elevation, nestled between the Cabinet Mountains and the Coeur d'Alene Mountains. RV campgrounds near Plains, Montana experience warm summers with temperatures averaging in the 80s while winter temperatures often drop below freezing. Most camping areas close from November through early spring due to snow accumulation and freezing conditions.
What to do
River activities: Year-round fishing is available near campgrounds in the Plains area. The Clark Fork River provides excellent access for kayaking and fishing. At Birdland Bay RV Resort, "You have a quick access to the Clark Fork River for fishing and kayaking. Just a short stroll down the path is a beach on the lake."
Golfing: Public course options within short driving distance. "In Thompson Falls a new brewery opened this year. They are working hard to make it a success," notes one camper about local attractions near Birdland Bay. Another reviewer highlights, "A 2 min. Drive puts you at River Bend Golf Course. It is one of the best public courses we have played in our travels. Views for days. Well maintained."
Hiking trails: Multiple difficulty levels available at Nugget RV Resort and nearby mountains. "The hiking trails on site were fun and also the FS trails nearby are great as well," according to a camper. Another mentions, "Nice hiking trails and scenic open field with frisbee golf."
What campers like
Clean facilities: Consistently maintained bathhouses with reliable hot water across multiple campgrounds. At Wallace RV Park, campers appreciate the "Clean showers." One reviewer specifically notes, "Clean park with beautiful creekside camping. Friendly employees and a convenient Brew Pub within walking distance."
Recreation amenities: On-site activities for all ages during summer months. A reviewer at Jim & Mary's RV Park praises, "Beautiful campground with shade trees and lots of flowerbeds. Wonderful bathhouse, clean, well maintained. Nice laundry room. Free wi-fi and cable." Another mentions, "Great place to stay! Beautifully maintained RV Park. Good WiFi and close to great fishing."
Natural surroundings: Sites positioned near water features provide ambient sound and views. A camper at Wallace RV Park describes it as "Very peaceful next to the river." Another notes, "The creek running alongside the campground is really nice. It's hard to beat having a brewery and restaurant on site. Walking distance to downtown."
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Limited winter availability across many campgrounds in the region. At Rollins RV Park, the season runs "Apr 1 - Oct 31," with no services available during winter months.
Train noise: Railroad proximity affects several campgrounds throughout the Clark Fork River valley. A camper at Trout Creek Motel & RV Park mentions, "There are trains all night, but the whole valley is like that." Another notes, "At first we were a little taken aback by all the train noises but they didn't run too late into the night."
Varied site sizes: Length and width constraints differ significantly between parks. One reviewer of Nugget RV Resort advises, "Larger rigs look at B2. It's shaded throughout the day." Some parks like Jim & Mary's RV Park offer "pull thru and back in spots" with "Good amount of space between sites."
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and pools: Kid-friendly amenities available at select locations during summer. A guest at Granite Peak RV Resort mentions, "Nice amenities, well taken care of, individually owned. -WiFi -hook ups -small&big sites -clean showers -shop with stickers -gym -mini golf."
Open recreation areas: Designated play spaces for various age groups. One camper at Rollins RV Park notes, "One of the best things about the park is the great playground for kids. Our kids loved it!" Another reviewer at Nugget RV Resort mentions "pool, hiking trails, pickle ball court, frisbee golf" as features that make it "Great for family reunions."
Safety considerations: Seasonal hazards including wildlife and weather extremes. A camper staying at Nugget RV Resort advises, "Tree sites 7 and 8 would be our preferred sites," suggesting specific locations that offer better protection from elements.
Tips from RVers
Hookup placements: Variable utility locations require planning and equipment. At Diamond S RV Park, one RVer reports, "Full hookups. Solid, clean, well kept place to stay." Another mentions, "Easy to find on Highway 93 on way to the park. Family operated, reliable, friendly and secure."
Site spacing: Privacy varies significantly between campgrounds. A visitor to Jim & Mary's RV Park describes, "Sites are grassy with flowers And sprinklers. Sites are all level with gravel." Another notes, "We got the last site of the day and were so pleased with our overnight stay. Such nice people and beautifully kept grounds."
Internet connectivity: Service quality fluctuates throughout the region, with better reception near towns. A camper at Diamond S RV Park reports, "WIFI works good in all areas. Stay clear of trees in center/maple sap! Covered rv quickly. Easy clean up and owners offered to move us."
