Radersburg sits at an elevation of 4,409 feet in the foothills of the Elkhorn Mountains, surrounded by public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management. This former mining town provides access to multiple fishing spots including Canyon Ferry Lake and the Missouri River. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds provide excellent access to fishing waters. At Missouri Headwaters State Park Campground, "you're right at the spot where the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers come together to form the Missouri River" with "great fishing opportunities" as "you have four rivers to choose from, all with great fishing opportunities."
Historical exploration: Learn about Lewis and Clark's journey at Missouri Headwaters State Park. "Experience Camping near where Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and the Corps of Discovery camped at the headwaters of the Missouri river in 1805." The park features "historical signs about the Corps of Discovers stay at the headwaters of the Missouri and their journey" located throughout.
Beach activities: Head to Confederate Campground for lakeside recreation. "Beautiful clear lake and large beach. Easy to distance yourself from other campers, lots of space." The campground offers "Great Lake access for fishing, boating, etc." Though the beach isn't sandy — "this is a gravel beach, but still nice."
What campers like
Peace and quiet: The Radersburg area offers several secluded camping options. At Crow Creek Campground, visitors appreciate that "sites all have access to the water" and note "the sites were clean." This small BLM campground has minimal signage, making it less known to typical tourists.
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention well-maintained facilities in the area. Canyon Ferry Lake KOA receives praise for having the "Cleanest and nicest bathrooms I've seen in a long time!!" Another camper confirms "Clean and well maintained bathrooms and campsite."
Stargazing: The remote location provides exceptional night sky viewing. At Confederate Campground, campers enjoy the "Very pretty sunset and crystal night sky. Saw plenty of satellites zipping around up there." Minimal light pollution makes this area ideal for astronomy enthusiasts.
What you should know
Mosquitoes: Several campgrounds near Radersburg report significant mosquito activity, especially near water. At Missouri Headwaters State Park, "When the sun sets in June and July the mosquitos will come out. They are quite nasty but an hour after sunset they are gone, having a campfire going helps too." At Confederate Campground, campers report being "eaten alive" as "The mosquitoes were absolutely blood thirsty and aggressive."
Water access: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Radersburg offer some form of water access. Yorks Islands Fishing Access Site provides "Swift current, but nice water to wade in" and Crow Creek Campground features a "Beautiful Waist deep Creek."
Limited amenities: Most campgrounds in the area have basic facilities. At Crow Creek Campground, there's just "a single vaulted toilet" and no trash service. Similarly, Indian Road Campground has "No trash, water or electric. It's free and has a picnic table and fire ring at each site."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several pet-friendly campgrounds near Radersburg offer play areas for children. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park provides "a child's playground located on the camp" and campers note it's a "Great spot for kids" with "amenities, gift shop and stores."
Educational opportunities: Combine camping with learning about local history. At Missouri Headwaters State Park, "If you are a history buff or just want to learn about the Corps of Discovery journey then this is a must stay" and "If you have never spent a night in a tipi you can do it here, just be sure to reserve it ahead of time."
Swimming options: Most water access points near Radersburg are suitable for family swimming. At Confederate Campground, "A couple of people were there when I visited and were swimming in the river and camping on its banks." The area provides "Right on the river, obviously.. SOOO incredibly beautiful of a spot."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RVers should research site dimensions before arrival. At Three Forks KOA Journey, "Tight turns. I think rigs or trailer bigger then 24ft will have a hard time maneuvering in here, but they do have good spots too." For a more accommodating option, Yorks Islands Fishing Access Site notes "We're 52' overall with the truck and a 30' bumper pull toyhauler and had no issues."
Leveling needs: Some sites require significant leveling equipment. At Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, one camper "Had to use all our jack stands to combat the slope of our site" although "Others looked much more level."
Weather preparation: The area experiences significant wind and sudden storms. At Three Forks KOA Journey, campers should "beware the sprinklers that came on overnight - it soaked the chairs and picnic table by our camper." At Confederate Campground, it "can be windy being on the east side of the lake."
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