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."
