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Best Campgrounds near Polaris, MT

275 Reviews

The small town of Polaris, Montana serves as a gateway to diverse camping opportunities within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. Grasshopper Campground, located directly in Polaris, provides basic amenities with drinking water and toilet facilities for both tent and RV campers. Within a 30-mile radius, visitors can access established sites at Bannack State Park, which features two campgrounds—Vigilante and Road Agent—adjacent to a preserved 1860s ghost town. The surrounding national forest lands offer additional options ranging from developed campgrounds with picnic tables and fire rings to more remote dispersed camping areas along creeks and mountain roads.

Camping in this region requires preparation for variable mountain weather conditions, even during summer months. According to one visitor at Lodgepole Campground, "Bring bug spray because the mosquitos are out of control!" Most forest service campgrounds operate seasonally from late May through mid-September, with some sites like Willow Campground specifically open from Memorial Day to September 15. Many campgrounds near Polaris lack cell service, and GPS coordinates can sometimes be unreliable. As one local camper noted, "I always double check before leaving home plus I live in Montana and been in that area. GPS readings are not necessarily correct." Bear country precautions are necessary throughout the region, with proper food storage required.

Fishing access sites along the Big Hole River receive consistently high ratings from campers seeking water-based recreation. Dickie Bridge Campground, a free BLM site, offers "level gravel parking pads, picnic tables and fire rings" with a dirt boat ramp for anglers. Several reviewers mention the quality of fly fishing opportunities as a primary draw to the area. Historical attractions complement the natural setting, with Bannack State Park allowing visitors to "camp next to a ghost town" where buildings from Montana's first territorial capital have been preserved. The combination of mountain scenery, river access, and historical sites makes the Polaris area particularly appealing for campers seeking both recreation and cultural experiences.

Map showing campgrounds near Polaris, MontanaExplore the Map

Best Camping Sites Near Polaris, Montana (129)

    1. Grasshopper Campground and Picnic Area

    4 Reviews
    Polaris, MT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 683-3900

    2. Vigilante Campground — Bannack State Park

    10 Reviews
    Polaris, MT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 834-3413

    $54 / night

    "The adjacent campground would be handy but is $28 for those who are not Montana residents. The sites are closely spaced but do offer a few large cottonwoods for shade."

    "Bannack Montana was the 1st Territorial Capital of Montana. The Ghost town allows you a look at how settlers and miners leaved in the early day of Montana."

    3. Beaverhead National Forest Grasshopper Campground and Picnic Area

    2 Reviews
    Polaris, MT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 683-3900

    "Walking distance to the rustic Elkhorn Hot Springs Resort where you can swim and get a bite to eat. A short drive to crystal park where you can dig up quartz and amethyst."

    4. Price Creek Campground (Mt) — Beaverhead Deerlodge National Forest

    2 Reviews
    Polaris, MT
    8 miles
    +1 (406) 683-3900

    $8 - $25 / night

    "Close to Crystal Park"

    5. Grasshopper Campground

    1 Review
    Polaris, MT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 683-3900

    $8 - $25 / night

    "We stayed at a different campground the last time we visited Montana and it wasn’t a very good place, so we definitely did more research beforehand and found that this place was a real gem and it truly"

    6. Little Joe

    2 Reviews
    Polaris, MT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 832-3178

    "You are fairly close to the road, but it is quiet at night and there is a little creek running not too far away to provide some white noise. All sites have nice shade and hammock trees."

    7. Road Agent Campground — Bannack State Park

    2 Reviews
    Polaris, MT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 834-3413

    $18 / night

    "Camp at Bannack State Park, site of Montana's 1st Territorial Capital. Road Agent Campground is one of two campground at Bannack State Park."

    8. Southside RV Park

    12 Reviews
    Dillon, MT
    26 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 683-2244

    "There isn't much in this corner of the world that isn't nearby."

    "Located in the neighborhood near campis you can walk to restaurants and the cite downtown area. The sites are spacious and level.

    Get reservations to assure a site. Pull throughs or backins."

    9. Lodgepole Campground

    4 Reviews
    Philipsburg, MT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 832-3178

    "This campground is probably one of my favorite places to visit in Montana. My family makes the trip from washington to Montana once every summer, since I was little."

    "Right on top of the highway, you definitely get some road noise here. The trees are pretty thin (maybe not good for hammocks), but there are a lot of them which provide a bit of privacy."

    10. Willow Campground

    2 Reviews
    Wise River, MT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 832-3178

    "The campground has 5 sites, the best site is site 3 as it is next to the creek and has large logs around the fire ring for sitting on and enjoying the fire and plenty of flat ground for a tent or two."

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Recent Camping Photos near Polaris, MT

72 Photos of 129 Polaris Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Polaris, MT

275 Reviews of 129 Polaris Campgrounds

  • L
    Sep. 7, 2025

    Morgan Bar Campground

    Comfortable

    Good for an overnight stay. Cattle farms nearby but not a bother. Small campground that is quiet with camp host on site. Camp host dog wanders but is friendly. Only 2 sites with direct river access, a few adjacent, and a few more on a turnaround. Verizon signal very strong, vault toilets were clean and had TP. No hookups. $15/nt. The sign says there is a 50% discount for interagency passes (including military) but we did not get that option when using scan & pay. Can use the envelopes to pay the discounted rate directly if you have cash I guess.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Maiden Rock Dispersed

    Amazing spot but be Bear aware

    I think the other reviews say it best but it’s a really nice spot, almost feels like it should be paid for. Smooth gravel roads and well set out campsites with picnic tables and a Bear box. The river is right there next to most of the sites, but could be a bushwhack to get to depending on where you are.

    The only downside is as of September 1st 2025 a Bear might still be active in the area. It tried to get into our camper (it didn’t thankfully lol, but it did pull my window open and give me a heart attack). We didn’t see it the next two nights after that encounter. Apparently his name is Boo-boo, and he was orphaned as a cub and fed by miners making him not so human afraid. Last I heard rangers were trying to get him further away and up the canyon. Carry bear spray and you’re probably fine!

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 4, 2025

    Morgan Bar Campground

    Nice small campground

    It’s a nice quiet camp close to town on the river. It is not $5, it is $15 a night. Which is more - but 1/2 off for old farts like me.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 2, 2025

    Cactus River Ranch RV & Campground

    Here overnight

    Beautiful river - the non service site is great- easy back in with 24 ft TT. Wouldn’t choose service sites. Too close together and hard right angles.

  • Darren P.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Browne's Bridge Campground

    Great spot just off 15

    We really appreciated the quiet and nature with beautiful river views and fishing. Historical Browns bridge is worth looking up, quite interesting. Only a couple actual sites with picnic tables and burn rings, 4 in total.

  • Lisa M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 22, 2025

    Maiden Rock Dispersed

    Convenient to Hwy 15

    This was a nice dispersed site off the Big Hole River

  • RETIRED R.
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Beaverhead Campground

    Well maintained

    They have a covered concrete pad that you pull up next to and enjoy the view of the water at the dam.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 20, 2025

    Maiden Rock Dispersed

    Diverse Landscape & Clean

    This spot was so friggin beautiful! Surrounded by mountains, each with a different look to them every direction you look. The entire area was extremely clean and well kept up with. Sunrise and sunset were beautiful. Very peaceful

Guide to Polaris

Camping near Polaris, Montana, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and cozy campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family adventure, there are plenty of options to explore.

What to do:

  • Fishing and Boating: The area around Clark Canyon Recreation Area is perfect for fishing and kayaking. One visitor mentioned, "Beautiful lake! Perfect for boating and kayaking," highlighting the fun you can have on the water.
  • Hiking: Trails abound in the region, especially near Vigilante Campground — Bannack State Park. A reviewer noted, "The ghost town is a must see!" which makes for a great hiking destination.
  • Exploring History: Check out the historic sites at Bannack State Park. One camper shared, "If you like history, ghost towns, and camping then Bannack State Park is for you," making it a great spot for history buffs.

What campers like:

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the sites. A review for Southside RV Park stated, "This is a very well maintained park with all the amenities."
  • Spacious Sites: Many campgrounds, like Beaverhead Campground, offer plenty of space. One visitor remarked, "Nice campground easy in and out right off the hwy big rig friendly."
  • Friendly Hosts: Campers often mention the welcoming atmosphere. A review for Sportsman Lodge, Cabins & RV Park said, "The campground, showers, laundry room were spotless clean," showcasing the effort put in by the staff.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Divide Bridge Campground, have basic facilities. A camper noted, "Clean vault toilets. Friendly Hosts on site," but mentioned the lack of showers.
  • Weather Considerations: Be prepared for windy conditions, especially at places like Countryside RV Park. One visitor said, "This location is beautiful but can be very windy."
  • Wildlife Precautions: Many campgrounds are in bear country. A review for Grasshopper Campground and Picnic Area mentioned, "This is bear country and there are food storage boxes located throughout the campground."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for spots like Vigilante Campground — Bannack State Park that offer space for kids to play. A family shared, "Each space has plenty of room for the kids to run around and play."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring along fishing gear or hiking boots. One camper at Beaverhead Campground said, "Lots to do in the area," which is great for keeping kids entertained.
  • Pack Snacks and Meals: With limited markets nearby, it's smart to bring food. A visitor at Clark Canyon Recreation Area mentioned, "Trash and bathrooms available," but noted the need to pack out trash.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the campground. A review for Southside RV Park mentioned, "Most are pull through," which is helpful for larger rigs.
  • Look for Full Hookups: Campgrounds like Sportsman Lodge, Cabins & RV Park offer full hookups, making it easier for RVers to stay comfortable. One camper said, "Beautifully maintained property with lots of green grass."
  • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Some campgrounds, like Lewis & Clark Campground, may have limited services. A visitor noted, "Only RV location with hookups around the lake," so plan accordingly.

Camping near Polaris, Montana, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, with plenty of options for families and RVers alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities does Sportsman Lodge & RV Park offer in Polaris, Montana?

Sportsman Lodge, Cabins & RV Park features approximately 10 full hookup RV sites on well-maintained grass pads. The property includes several motel rooms, a few cabins, and a designated area for tent camping. The grounds are meticulously maintained with beautiful views of the surrounding bluffs and mountains. The owners are friendly and helpful, assisting guests with parking and other needs. Located just one mile off Interstate 15, this RV park provides a convenient overnight stop with all the basic amenities needed for a comfortable stay in the tiny town of Polaris.

Where is Polaris, Montana located?

Polaris, Montana is a tiny town located south of Butte in southwestern Montana. It's situated just off Interstate 15, making it accessible for travelers. The area is characterized by beautiful mountain views and rural landscapes. Barretts Park - USBR is nearby, offering a Montana equivalent of a rest area with picnic facilities and a bridge over a stream for fly fishing. Polaris is close to Dillon, which is known for outdoor recreation and amenities. The region sits in Beaverhead County, surrounded by national forest lands and scenic mountains, providing a peaceful rural Montana setting.

What outdoor activities can you do when camping in Polaris, MT?

The Polaris area offers excellent fishing opportunities, particularly along the Big Hole River. Salmon Fly Fishing Access Site provides river access with six well-spaced campsites. Hiking is popular at Twin Lakes, located south on Highway 278 from Wisdom and accessible via an 18-mile gravel road through open cattle ranges. The region also features historical exploration at ghost towns like Bannack State Park. For rock climbing enthusiasts, there are sport climbing routes near Barretts Park. The surrounding mountains and national forests provide opportunities for wildlife viewing, photography, hunting (in season), and mountain biking. The area's remote nature makes it perfect for stargazing and enjoying scenic drives.

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