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.
"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."
$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."
$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."
$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!"
"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."
"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."
"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."
"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!"
"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."
TravelerWe didn't get the spot by the river but were satisfied with the one we got for our truck camper. We prefer more trail access from campground which this campground lacks. Vault toilet was clean. Big Pine tree was cool to see. We didn't go in the river but on a hot day it would be nice. River access by the Big Pine was good. Not far from I-90 which was nice.
ScoutNice facilities, including shower. If you can snag one, half the sites back up to a babbling stream that you can listen to all night by keeping your back door or window open.
GuideGreat site with fire ring overlooking lake. Only 3 stars because the area is on an extreme slope. Had to use 4 2x4s to get almost level. There is a spot up from the lake that is level but you lose the nice view.
TravelerThe most remarkable part of my stay here was the management. Emerald is kind and easy to work with. The park is clean and well maintained. When I was there, they were doing some landscaping clean up from the recent storms and ate putting in new pads, yet they kept it all tidy. It's surprisingly quiet, given it's proximity to the highway. But it's a flat spot on the highway there so the trucks aren't climbing or descending and aren't excessively noisy. I was early in the season, so there were only about 8 RVs there on the busiest night. A paved and well maintained walk/bike path goes right by it, with some beautiful scenery. All in all, my stay was relaxing and comfortable. I'll stay there again, and definitely recommend it.
ScoutFriendly hosts and a very well taken care of campground. Very clean and spacious lots.
GuideLovely spot. The sound of waterfowl are so peaceful. Excellant fishing spot if you have the appropriate license. Easy access to most of it in a car/van. Crushed gravel road with a few watery potholes. Right off the Cour de lain trail which is asphat paved so great spot for bike rides, walks, skateboard is your pebble aware 😂🛹. 3 days camping only allowed. Within site of some homes so wear clothes 😂 From the trail head take the little road with a sign that says "sportsmans access". i did not drive over to the wooded side as theres one spot thats a little iffy for my low vlearance van. More shade and privacy over there. This is a great spot for solar panels.
TravelerWe absolutely loved this spot! We were able to camp right on the river in a nice and level spot. The dogs loved the river! The spots were all secluded from each other so it felt like we had the whole place to ourselves. They were very well-maintained each had a fire ring and a camp table.
TravelerThis campground has everything you need & more, clean bathrooms, spacious sites that are secluded by a creek that just so happens to make falling asleep under the stars EVEN better. Our site was tucked by the river and had so much room to spread out. & A cute little gift shop with the added bonus of icecream. We loved this campground.
GuideRight off the main road but still peaceful and quiet. This was our first night sleeping in the "new to us" camper van we purchased in Seattle Washington to drive cross country back to Rome Georgia. It was a cold night, but the water flowing by and a cracked window made sleep wonderful. 10/10 recommend.
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.
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."
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."
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!!!"
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."
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 184 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 8 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.
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