Richardson Campground provides three basic campsites along a small creek near White Sulphur Springs. Each site includes a picnic table and metal fire ring, with a trailhead and horse corral available at the entrance for equestrian camping. The campground features primitive facilities with a wooden outhouse rather than modern vault toilets. No drinking water is available on site, making this a pack-in, pack-out destination. The limited turning space becomes problematic for vehicles with horse trailers beyond the second campsite. For RV campers seeking more amenities, Fergus County Fairgrounds offers full hookup sites with 30-amp electrical, water and sewer connections at $38 per night, though larger rigs may find the spaces challenging. Horse owners should note that neither location provides extensive trail riding directly from camp, requiring day trips to nearby riding areas.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Richardson Creek provides accessible fishing for campers, with local wildlife adding to the outdoor experience. One visitor to Richardson Campground noted, "Great fishing, Hiking, and wonderful overall experience! Saw tons of wildlife."
Horse activities planning: When organizing equestrian camping near Stanford, Montana, riders should prepare for limited direct trail access from campsites. Though Richardson Campground offers a corral at the entrance, horses are not permitted in the actual camping area, requiring trailering to preferred riding locations in the surrounding Little Belt Mountains.
Overnight convenience stops: Fergus County Fairgrounds serves as a practical stopover point for travelers with full hookups. A camper reported, "For an overnight stop it works great. Easy in and out."
What campers like
Creek access: The small creek running alongside Richardson Campground provides a pleasant natural feature for campers seeking water proximity. Sites are arranged to take advantage of this setting while maintaining a primitive camping experience.
Basic amenities: The metal fire rings and picnic tables at each Richardson site meet essential needs for primitive camping enthusiasts. The campground maintains its rustic character while providing fundamental comforts.
Self-contained camping: The pack-in, pack-out nature of Richardson Campground appeals to campers seeking minimal infrastructure. The absence of trash service and drinking water encourages proper wilderness ethics and self-reliance for horse owners and standard campers alike.
What you should know
Turning limitations: Vehicle maneuverability becomes severely restricted beyond the second campsite at Richardson. As one camper warns, "Be sure to pay attend to the sign at the beginning of the campground 'NO TURN AROUND' this sign is correct. Once you get past the second campsite their will not be room to turn around if you have a trailer."
Primitive facilities: The toilet facilities at Richardson consist of a basic wooden structure rather than modern vault toilets. Campers should adjust expectations accordingly for this primitive equestrian camping option near Stanford, Montana.
Site leveling challenges: RV campers at Fergus County Fairgrounds should prepare for uneven sites. A reviewer mentions, "The sites are not incredibly level," requiring additional setup time and leveling equipment.
Tips for camping with families
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Families camping at Richardson can incorporate wildlife observation into their activities. A visitor reports experiencing "tons of wildlife" during their stay, making this an educational opportunity for children.
Space planning for trailers: Families traveling with horse trailers should claim the first or second site at Richardson Campground whenever possible. The limited turning space becomes progressively more problematic toward the end of the campground, particularly challenging for vehicles with horse trailers.
Activity preparation: With minimal on-site amenities, families should bring all necessary equipment for fishing, hiking, and horse-related activities. Packing sufficient drinking water is essential for both human and equine members at this pack-in, pack-out facility.
Tips from RVers
Unhooking requirements: RVers at Fergus County Fairgrounds should anticipate needing to disconnect from tow vehicles. One camper notes, "I have a 38-ft travel trailer and I had to unhook to fit in the space."
Hookup confirmation: RVers should verify the exact utility specifications when planning stays at fairground facilities. A camper simply confirms the basics available: "30 amp water sewer."
Limited navigation space: Larger RVs require careful planning when considering Richardson Campground. With the restricted turning radius, particularly beyond the second site, RVs over 25 feet may find access problematic, especially those carrying horse trailers for equestrian camping trips.
