Camping options near Stevensville, Montana provide access to the Bitterroot Valley with elevations ranging from 3,200 to 9,000 feet in the surrounding mountains. Summer temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, often reaching 90°F during the day and dropping to 45°F at night. The area receives moderate rainfall with approximately 13 inches annually, creating variable camping conditions throughout the spring, summer, and fall seasons.
What to do
River activities: The Bitterroot River near Chief Looking Glass Campground offers fishing, kayaking and tubing during summer months. "There is a boat launch for non motorized boats (kayaks, tubes, SUP), but the water seemed too low to me in mid July," notes Annie C. in her review.
Mountain hiking: Trek to high alpine lakes from the trailheads near Peterson Lake Dispersed camping areas. The trails gain significant elevation before reaching the lakes. "About 5 miles one way to Peterson lake, another 1 and 2 miles to Duffy and Holloway lakes above Peterson. Nice secluded valley heading into Bitteroot-Selway wilderness," explains K B.
Fly fishing: Rock Creek offers excellent trout fishing opportunities. "Harry's Flat campground is a great campground along Rock Creek, set in a huge old growth ponderosa pine forest. This is a great spot for people interested in doing some fishing, as Rock Creek is a blue ribbon stream, with brown trout, rainbow trout, and brook trout," writes Dexter I.
What campers like
River access sites: Many campers appreciate the riverside locations. "All fifty spots are either on the bitterroot river or a short walk away. A pleasant walk along the water provides ample bank fishing for the plentiful trout," explains smittie at Anglers Roost Campground.
Forested shade: Most campgrounds in the area feature mature trees providing relief from summer heat. "This is a gorgeous area with tons of shade and sites right on the water. Sites are shaded and well spread apart," notes Juliana H. at Lolo Creek Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area provides opportunities to see native Montana wildlife. "Deer, Moose, and other wildlife are all present as you cross into the forest land there," reports Beth D., adding that watching "fly fishermen work their way up the creek has stayed with me for many years" at Dalles Campground.
What you should know
Seasonal gate closures: Some campgrounds restrict access during certain hours. "The gate to the campsite is closed from 10 PM to 8 AM so if you need to leave early, you cannot do so," warns Riley at Chief Looking Glass Campground.
Road conditions: Access to several campgrounds requires driving on rough roads. "The road to Dalles campground is not recommended for RVs of trailers as it get pretty bumpy after the pavement ends, this only get worse the further you travel down the road, but is doable if you drive very slow," advises Dexter I.
Variable water levels: Creek and river conditions change throughout the season. "The creek was all dried up and it just overall was not a great campsite. We packed up and moved on," reports Riley about a late July stay at Chief Looking Glass.
Limited cell service: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Stevensville have poor or no connectivity. "AT&T phone service was available and at good speeds. I chose to stay the extra day and was able to work remotely from the campground with my hotspot," notes Rodderz at Chief Looking Glass Campground, though connectivity varies by location.
Tips for camping with families
Safety near water edges: Some riverside campsites have steep drops. "Campsites on the creek side butt right up to the bluffs above the creek, so make sure to keep little ones and dogs close at hand!" warns Julie I. at Dalles Campground.
Kid-friendly activities: Several campgrounds offer recreational options. "They have a golf game around the property and trail to the river. It was a nice campground for a one night stay," mentions Kristi D. about Yellowrock Campground (formerly Square Dance Center).
Campground amenities: Look for sites with family-friendly facilities. "Playground, pool, mini golf, clean showers, restrooms and laundry! It was great!" reports Desiree D. about Missoula KOA Holiday, which is among the most developed pet-friendly campgrounds near the Stevensville area.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about local wildlife safety. "We did have our bear spray handy, but no bear were spotted," mentions Beth D. about camping at Dalles Campground, though proper precautions remain important.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose sites based on your specific needs. "We are full-timers in a 36 ft Class A with a Cherokee Trailhawk tow and stayed in site 17 (away from the river) for 1 day in early August. Most of the sites are fairly large and well spaced," reports Ray & Terri F. at Chief Looking Glass Campground.
Hookup availability: Many campgrounds have limited or no RV hookups. "There are no hookups, only a central hand pump for water and no dump station. Prices are cheaper for residents and those with state fishing license," notes Dave S. about Chief Looking Glass.
Maneuverability: Consider road access and turning radius when bringing larger rigs. "The road is narrow, so large RVs or travel trailers are not recommended. Most of the sites better suited for tents," advises Lisa M. about Harrys Flat Campground.
