Charles Waters Campground near Stevensville, Montana sits at the base of the Bitterroot Mountains at approximately 3,800 feet elevation. The campground serves as a gateway to the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, which spans over 1.3 million acres across Montana and Idaho. Temperatures in this area typically range from lows around 40°F to highs near 85°F during the main camping season from May through October.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Bass Creek Trail provides excellent wildlife spotting chances. Charles Waters Campground connects to trails where campers regularly spot deer, various bird species, and occasionally moose. "There are some nice hiking and horseback riding trails across the road, and there is a forest road that goes all the way to the top of the mountains with picnic tables to watch the sunset or sunrise," notes Annie C.
Fishing in mountain streams: Clear, cold mountain streams near Stevensville offer productive fishing spots. "Traveling south in Montana and found this lovely little place. Trees, meadows and solitude. Just the way I like it," writes Jen F. about the creek access at Charles Waters Campground.
Day trips to ghost towns: The historic Garnet Ghost Town is accessible within a 90-minute drive from Bearmouth RV Park, making it an excellent base for exploration. "Beautiful views here along the Clark Fork River with lots of things to do in the nearby area including visiting the Garnet Ghost town, Philipsburg, Deer Lodge, Anaconda, Butte and Missoula," shares Jason A.
What campers like
Spacious sites with natural separation: Many horse campgrounds near Stevensville feature well-spaced sites. "Sites are well spaced, parking pads are pretty flat and big," reports Steve D. about Charles Waters Campground. The natural vegetation provides privacy while accommodating larger vehicles needed for horse transport.
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives consistent praise from visitors. "Extremely clean! Terrific staff!" notes Shelly about Bearmouth RV Park. Thomas C. adds about Charles Waters, "The bathrooms were clean, as well as the sites."
Water features: Streams and rivers enhance the camping experience around Stevensville. "Paved sites, large sites, (sloped, not level) very friendly hosts, water spigots throughout, pit toilets, cement picnic tables. We love the fact that you can hear the cascading water at the sites, peaceful," shares MT Nesters 4.
What you should know
First-come camping strategy: Most equestrian campgrounds in the area don't accept reservations. At Sam Billings Memorial Campground, "Only a few sites so if its great weather or holiday show up mid week or even a week ahead if you can," advises Sadie P.
Weather considerations: Mountain weather changes quickly in the Bitterroot Valley. "We had the best thunderstorm with hail that night as well...best night ever!!" remembers Eugenia W. about her stay at Ekstrom's Stage Station, highlighting how dramatic weather can be part of the experience.
Cell service limitations: Most campgrounds in more remote areas lack reliable connectivity. Tom U. notes about Bear Creek Pass Campground, "No cell service, only 1 mile to the paved road, Ranger station is only about 1/2 mile down that paved road."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. At Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground, "There is a basketball court, sand volleyball court, horse shoes and a playground. There's also a beautiful creek running along the campground with beautiful Mountain views," shares Mitch.
Creek exploration spots: Kids enjoy wading and exploring the shallow creek areas. "There are several spots with trails leading to Bass Creek. Recreational area, picnic tables, fire pits, bathrooms, and about 10 minutes from Florence MT," says Rene S. about Charles Waters Campground.
Wildlife education opportunities: The national forest areas provide excellent chances for children to learn about local ecosystems. Jess W. mentions, "Sites are close-ish together but very private because of the tree cover. The creekside sites are especially lovely," highlighting spots where kids can observe nature.
Tips from RVers
Generator policies vary: Not all campgrounds allow generators, which impacts RV campers. "Trees for shade, clean vaulted toilets. Nice camp sites and camp ground. I gave it 4 star only due to campers with generators. Other than that a great place," notes LeRoy U. about Charles Waters Campground, indicating that generator noise can be an issue.
Site leveling challenges: Many sites in mountain campgrounds require leveling. At Out Post Campground, "Easy little spot to set up for the night," says Cody L., but many reviewers note that Bitterroot Valley sites often have slopes that require leveling blocks.
Overnight convenience: Several campgrounds serve as perfect overnight stops along travel routes. "We made an overnight reservation for this spot and it was great to get our precaming game going. They were kinda expensive but it totally beat paying the local costs for lodging," shares Megan K.
