Best Campgrounds near Saltese, MT

Located in western Montana, Saltese offers access to multiple camping areas throughout the Lolo National Forest. Cabin City Campground provides tent and RV camping surrounded by wooded areas and is one of the more developed options in the region. Dispersed camping can be found at Stevens Lakes Backcountry and Cliff Creek Campground Primitive Dispersed sites, while facilities like 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground and Nugget RV Resort offer more amenities for travelers. The area sits near the Montana-Idaho border, making it a convenient stopover for those traveling the I-90 corridor.

Many campgrounds close seasonally, with most operating from April through October. Cabin City Campground features clean pit toilets and private sites, while some dispersed areas lack facilities entirely. High mountain roads may require careful navigation, especially for larger vehicles. Several RV parks accommodate big rigs with full hookups, including Wallace RV Park and Nugget RV Resort, though travelers should verify seasonal availability before arrival. Weather can change rapidly in the mountains, particularly at higher elevations. As one visitor noted, "We were surprised how nice this was since it's just about 5 minutes from the highway. You feel miles away - absolutely no noise. It's super clean and pretty with very clean pit toilets and nice private spaces."

Campers frequently mention the peace and solitude available in this region's mixed-use campgrounds. The proximity to rivers and lakes serves as a major draw, with several fishing access sites and water-adjacent camping areas throughout the region. Thompson Falls State Park Campground provides sandy beaches and river access, while more remote options like Stevens Lakes offer backcountry experiences with excellent fishing opportunities. Railroad tracks run through parts of the region, occasionally creating noise disruptions for some campgrounds. A reviewer described Muchwater Recreation Area: "Easy to get to. You have to walk down a steep drop to access the river. Train runs often across the river and will disrupt your night unless you live in Montana then you're already used to it." Cell service varies greatly across the region, with better coverage near towns and spotty reception in more remote forest areas.

Best Camping Sites Near Saltese, Montana (183)

    1. 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground

    10 Reviews
    De Borgia, MT
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 678-4242

    "Several spaces available behind the restaurant/ bar and casino- Tucked into the woods but road close- you can walk over for a meal, snack, coffee etc or some delightfully cheesey souvenirs."

    "We stopped here on our way out of Montana (our home state). A winter storm rolled in and made the pass impassable."

    2. Cabin City Campground (Mt) — Lolo National Forest

    13 Reviews
    De Borgia, MT
    12 miles
    +1 (406) 822-4233

    $15 / night

    "I was surprised how nice this was since it's just about 5 minutes from the highway. You feel miles away - absolutely no noise. It's super clean and pretty."

    "We chose it because of its proximity to the highway on our road trip through the area, but it was quiet and peaceful."

    3. Thompson Falls State Park Campground

    9 Reviews
    Thompson Falls, MT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 827-3110

    $14 - $56 / night

    "Thompson SP, Montana

    Very quiet, remote and sandy. Did an overnight here after a KOA so you can imagine the differences! There is a “garage” set up as the park office."

    "Montana is special in every way."

    4. Wallace RV Park

    14 Reviews
    Wallace, ID
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 753-7121

    $30 - $45 / night

    "Within walking distance to charming downtown. Very friendly staff. Some spots border a small river. Pet friendly. All gravel spots with cabins in other side of the river."

    "We were hesitant to stay as there were no trees in individual sites, but because if it’s location in a narrow canyon it became shady and cooled down quickly in the afternoon. Clean showers!"

    5. Nugget RV Resort

    13 Reviews
    Superior, MT
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 649-2122

    "Great spot to find at the end of a long drive day. Just the kind of Rv spot for Montana. Trees & stars in big sky country. The layout was nice with lots of spots to choose from."

    "We followed our RV GPS to the CG that is near I-90, but far enough away that you don’t hear highway noise."

    6. Tin Can Flat Campground

    3 Reviews
    Avery, ID
    13 miles
    Website

    "Nice little path down to the river. Right next to the road so it can be a little noisy. Nice spot to drive up and down for fishing"

    "Happened across this little gem by chance. we set up camp in one of the very few spots and walked down to the river via the very convenient path, looked down, and there was a bunch of purple sand."

    7. Campground St. Regis

    9 Reviews
    De Borgia, MT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 649-2470

    "I have to say, if you can, visit when the Flathead Lake Cherries are in season. Omg! The BEST cherries I have ever had. Exiting at St. Regis, I had to stop to get."

    "Yes, it's near the freeway but the noise is no more than a hum."

    8. Stevens Lakes Backcountry

    1 Review
    Mullan, ID
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (208) 783-2363

    "By far one of my favorite Mt lake hikes! With great camping at both the lower and upper lakes, I recommend using the trails app to help navigate through the switch backs, and have lots of water!"

    10. 2 Mile Turn Off Dispersed Camp

    5 Reviews
    De Borgia, MT
    18 miles

    "Cross the bridge at the exit and there is a wide turn around. I'd pull my teardrop down here, but unsure about longer trailers."

    "Just as described by other reviews, it’s right off the highway and right by the creek. About 50 yards away is an outhouse next to a few RV’s."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 183 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win


Recent Reviews near Saltese, MT

409 Reviews of 183 Saltese Campgrounds


  • Kyle M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Bull River Pavilion

    Popular for a reason

    The camp area is pretty full even in the off season, because it is absolutely beautiful. Located not far from Thompson Falls, and lot of water ways. Fish are not as abundant as other areas, and there are no walking trails within walking distance.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Dispersed Site - Lolo National Forest Recreation Area

    Very nice

    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. We took the second right offshoot and got an awesome view with plenty space to spread out. We car camp in a Wagoneer

  • Danny V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2025

    Bull Run Access Dispersed

    Ornery locals

    My friend and I travel for work. We're all over the Pacific Northwest with a rooftop tent and a camper on the truck in order to save money on hotels. Basically we live out of rest stops and, if we can find them, nice secluded spots out in nature on our way to the next job. The reviews for this spot seemed promising. We were on our way from Coeur d'Alene to Missoula, and really need a nap to kill some time before our payroll checks cleared. From the start, the locals in this area were understandably curious. However there is a fine line between driving by to see what's with the unfamiliar vehicle, and deliberately trying to make visitors feel uncomfortable. We were only parked for about four hours, but several vehicles decided to drive by several times very slowly during this span of time. Visibly (and I repeat, visibly) staring at us with their mouths open. This location is pretty far from civilization. So I can't imagine how many places you could even need to go back and forth from in the span of an hour or two. Wherever that is it must be popular because no exaggerating, five different vehicles exhibited this pattern of behavior. Just in case there was any questions about the locals' intentions, about halfway through our stay apparently the neighbors made a deal to get some tractor work done. The tractor fired up and proceeded to go back and forth between the two properties to switch implements. I figure the average person would just bring the various implements closer to where the work is, but I'm not here to direct a man on efficient use of his tractor. These kinds of things are no bother to me, as I can sleep through just about anything. But my coworker is a little bit more of a light sleeper. So is his dog, who also didn't get much rest due to all the activity. So I figure either the neighbors weren't to happy with our presence, or theres a very popular drug dealer who lives on this road and they've got the good stuff. Because I've never seen so much repeat traffic in such a short span of time. Needless to say, we left and wish everyone there the best of times moving forward. With perhaps a gentle reminder that the parking area and boat ramp in their neighborhood is a public amenity provided by the state of Idaho. That is all.

  • Kyle M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    North Shore Campground

    Pretty great!

    Nice big shady spots. Pretty okay restrooms. Beautiful dock area!

  • F
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Bull River Campground

    Beautiful but the State of Montana has mismanaged to the point of absurdity

    This used to be a great place to camp, especially at the Pavilion. However, two recent camping trips were not so great. There is no water, even though there are cisterns everywhere. There is no trash pickup. Restrooms are visited and "cleaned", but there is no evidence that anything was done. There are still tons of bugs and webs. I think they just replace the TP. Last visit was at the Pavilion with a men's campout with around 20 individuals. No trash containers, no bear boxes, and no water. We brought 250 gallons of water with us and pulled up to where the fire pit was, so it would be close to the fire for safety and convenience. The day after we left the site, a ranger called and accused us of "off-roading" and not placing our food in the non-existent bear boxes. We weren't "cited," but the temperament of the management is that they want you to pay the same price for camping without a host, water, trash, bear boxes, or clean restrooms. If you wish to dry camp, there are plenty of spaces, but it is definitely dry camping. Beautiful campground with severe management issues, all blamed on"lack of funding".

  • BoGwen J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    By the Way Campground

    Okay in a pinch

    Your right next to freeway very noisy. The AC couldn’t drown out the traffic noise. Wore earplugs. Very nice people and a clean spot! Bonus the moose come to visit.

  • Kara S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 14, 2025

    copper mountain rd dispersed

    Mountain views

    Nice spot up the road about 10 minutes. Great views. Close to the highway so a little bit of noise from the interstate. Fire ring and that’s it.

  • Kyle M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Thompson River Dispersed Camping and Shooting

    Low budget fun

    It was free. It provided nothing, but was close to the river. We pooped in a bag, and provided our everything. We made a made a campfire. We didn’t shoot anything, but there were a lot of shells around.

  • Kyle M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 12, 2025

    Thompson River Dispersed Camping and Shooting

    Free redneck camping

    Off the side of the road, with no amenities near some pretty cool stuff. The sight is ugly, but free. Close to some good trout fishing via river. There is a pretty lame fire pit already established, and people fire their guns out here. There is no toilets, but if you’re looking for free, and absolutely zero neighbors this is your spot. Yes, I said zero neighbors!


Guide to Saltese

Dispersed camping options near Saltese, Montana encompass forested sites with varied terrain and seasonal availability. The region sits at elevations between 3,000-5,000 feet with moderate summer temperatures averaging 70-85°F during peak camping season. Winter access becomes limited as snow accumulates from November through April, particularly on forest service roads leading to backcountry sites.

What to do

Fishing access points: Several campgrounds provide direct river access for fishing enthusiasts. At Thompson Falls State Park Campground, the Clark Fork River offers excellent fishing with sandy beaches. "The Clark Fork through this area is beautiful and our camp site was right next to a semi protected bay that was perfect for our young kids to wade in," notes one visitor.

Mountain hiking trails: The Stevens Lakes area features backcountry hiking with lake camping options. As one camper at Stevens Lakes Backcountry shared, "By far one of my favorite Mt lake hikes! With great camping at both the lower and upper lakes, I recommend using the trails app to help navigate through the switch backs, and have lots of water!"

Local attractions: Wallace, Idaho is within a short drive of many camping areas. A reviewer at Wallace RV Park mentioned, "Great spot to stay especially if you're visiting Wallace for a festival or stopover. Within walking distance to charming downtown. Very friendly staff. Some spots border a small river."

What campers like

Free electric hookups: Several travelers note the unusual offering of free electricity at certain locations. At 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground, campers appreciate this benefit. "Great free camping spot for an overnight stay. Far enough from the interstate to eliminate most road noise. There is an overflow lot that is more private but closer to the interstate. 7 sites have free electrical hookups."

Privacy between sites: Campers consistently mention the well-designed spacing at Cabin City Campground. One visitor reported, "Great spacing on the campsites. Loved it here. Every other spot is reservable. We had fun watching the chipmunks. The bear boxes were a bit of a walk though."

Natural water features: The region's rivers and creeks add to the camping experience. "Tin Can Flat Campground has 10 shaded spots with many old Cedar trees... trails to the water from camp, pump water, clean bathrooms," according to one review. Another camper discovered, "we set up camp in one of the very few spots and walked down to the river via the very convenient path, looked down, and there was a bunch of purple sand. I panned a bit of the sand and it is full of tiny garnets."

What you should know

Train proximity: Several campgrounds in the region sit near active railroad tracks. One reviewer of Wallace RV Park noted, "Road next the RV Park is very busy! It does slow down after dark but be prepared for road noise during daylight hours."

Seasonal recreation options: The Hiawatha trail is accessible from some camping areas. A camper at Cliff Creek Campground Primitive Dispersed observed, "This is primitive off grid camping. No services, no water, no tables, just a bathroom in a field with a few campsites around it near the creek. Great location to stay if you're doing the Hiawatha trail...The busses picking up hiawatha trail users go right by the campground multiple times a day in the summer."

Bug preparation: Mosquitoes can be abundant in warmer months. A camper at Tin Can Flat Campground specifically advised, "Spaced well for privacy, trails to the water from camp, pump water, clean bathrooms. Bring the bug spray!!!"

Tips for camping with families

Swimming options: Several camping spots feature kid-friendly water access. A visitor to Thompson Falls State Park mentioned, "We spent one Saturday night here and fell in love with this spot! The Clark Fork through this area is beautiful and our camp site was right next to a semi protected bay that was perfect for our young kids to wade in."

Campground amenities: Some locations offer facilities specifically appealing to families with children. At Nugget RV Resort, a camper shared, "Great place to stay if your in the St. Regis area. You don't have to leave the campground if you don't want to with tons of great activities."

Nature activities: Many sites provide opportunities for wildlife viewing and exploration. A camper at Tin Can Flat described, "Beautiful area with an abundance of wild flowers and ferns. There are song birds that sing until nightfall, so peaceful. I wish I knew what kind of song birds they were on the tree tops."

Tips from RVers

Overnight convenience: Many RVers mention the area's suitability for quick stopovers. A traveler at 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground shared, "We stopped here on our way out of Montana (our home state). A winter storm rolled in and made the pass impassable. This is a FREE RV park with electric hookups…no water, cable, or dumping station, but again, FREE. The snow was hitting hard and having electricity was a lifesaver."

Site selection advice: Experienced RVers recommend specific sites at certain campgrounds. At Nugget RV Resort, a camper advised, "Tree sites 7 and 8 would be our preferred sites. Larger rigs look at B2. It's shaded throughout the day."

Resort-style options: Several campgrounds offer comprehensive facilities. "Nugget RV Resort is a Good Sams CG. I agree with the previous reviewer in that it does remind me of a KOA. There are different levels. Premium sites. Standard sites. W/E sites. There are cabins. A nice camp store. Laundry room. Nice clean restrooms with showers. And really nice owners."

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping options are available in Saltese, Montana?

Saltese, Montana offers several camping options in the surrounding area. Lake Creek Campground is about 6.5 miles off the highway, providing secluded dispersed camping with basic bathroom facilities. For those seeking water activities, Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park Campground offers crystal clear water and breathtaking views, with areas like Horseshoe being particularly scenic. Additionally, dispersed camping opportunities exist at locations like Muchwater Recreation Area, which provides river access though limited spots. The region also features RV options at various locations near the Idaho-Montana border, making Saltese a good base for exploring this beautiful part of western Montana.

Is the 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar located near Saltese, Montana?

No, the 50,000 Silver Dollar Bar is not located in Saltese, Montana. It's actually situated in Haugan, Montana, about 17 miles west of Saltese along I-90. While traveling in this area, you might consider staying at Cabin City Campground (Mt) — Lolo National Forest, which is just minutes from the highway yet offers a peaceful forest setting with clean facilities and private spaces. The Silver Dollar Bar is a popular tourist attraction in western Montana, featuring a large collection of silver dollars and a gift shop where travelers can purchase souvenirs, honey, and other items.

What camping is available near Saltese, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, Saltese, MT offers a wide range of camping options, with 183 campgrounds and RV parks near Saltese, MT and 33 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Saltese, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Saltese, MT is 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground with a 4.9-star rating from 10 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Saltese, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 33 free dispersed camping spots near Saltese, MT.