RV campgrounds near Stevensville, Montana offer convenient access to the Bitterroot Valley with views of surrounding mountain ranges. Most campgrounds in this area sit between 3,500-4,000 feet elevation with summer temperatures typically ranging from 70-90°F. Winter camping options are limited as many facilities close seasonally from October to May, though several year-round operations remain available in Missoula.
What to do
Fishing access: Several campsites provide direct river access for anglers. At Lolo Hot Springs RV Park & Campground, site 7 offers prime fishing location. "This was perfect for our golden retriever as we could tie her on a long lead and she could swim her heart out. Site seven also seemed really large compared to others as there was a large tree between the next site where we tied up a hammock," notes a camper.
Hot springs soaking: The mineral waters at Lolo Hot Springs provide year-round relaxation. "The hot springs across the highway are $12 a person and we took a hot soak in the 106 degree enclosed mineral bath/pool area and rotated to the 86 degree pool outside. Kids and families all seemed to stay in the pool area while adults in the mineral bath area," explains one visitor.
Gem hunting: Jim & Mary's RV Park serves as a good base for day trips to sapphire mines. "I recommend heading out to gem mountain for some Montana sapphire hunting. Fun day trip, and was great for the kids," suggests a camper. The closest mines are about a 90-minute drive east.
What campers like
Natural water features: Campers consistently highlight creek and river access at sites. A camper at Lolo Hot Springs RV Park & Campground shared, "Great little campground across the road from the hot spring pools. The lady who answered the phone and ran the check in desk was really nice and helpful! Sites are a litttle close together, but to be expected at a resort style place. There was an access spot to the creek/river."
Affordable tent options: Budget campers appreciate the tent camping availability. At Travellers Rest Cabins & RV Park, a reviewer noted, "Really nice flat grass for tents. $12 gets you campsite showers and toilets, WiFi and coin laundry. Also really great access to the bitterroot valley if you're into hikin and river activities."
Mobile dump services: Bearmouth RV Park offers unique waste management options. "They offer a 'honey pot' mobile dump station where they come pump your sewage, sometimes offering a free dump for stays of a week or longer," explains one RVer, making extended stays more convenient.
What you should know
Reservation timing: Summer availability becomes extremely limited without advance planning. "We don't usually do RV parks but didn't want to fight for camp spots during the 4th of July long weekend," shared a camper at Lolo Hot Springs, highlighting the need for early bookings during peak periods.
Noise considerations: Highway and railway proximity affects some campgrounds. A reviewer at Bearmouth RV Park commented, "Interstate noise and the occasional train whistle would keep me from using the facility for nothing more than an overnight stop."
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs significantly between locations. At Boulder Creek Lodge, a camper reported, "Very nice people running it. Quick check in, quiet. Good WiFi, no att cell service. Level campsites." Always check service availability when booking if connectivity matters.
Tips for camping with families
Indoor recreation spaces: Some campgrounds offer weather-proof entertainment options. Boulder Creek Lodge provides diverse activities: "After we ate, we went down stairs to the game room and played pool, table soccer and checkers for about 4 hours. We went ahead and took showers in the downstairs bathroom/shower house. Huge clean shower stalls."
Seasonal activities: Plan around special events for enhanced experiences. A family at Lolo Hot Springs noted, "The fireworks show was spectacular and from site 7 which sits right on the bend of the creek where there is a brush clearing." The 4th of July celebrations run from approximately 4pm to 10pm with fireworks continuing until midnight.
Site selection for privacy: Request specific sites for better family accommodations. "We ended up booking site 7 on the 4th and 5th of July and had a great time camping along the river, going to the hot springs across the street and walking the area," advised a visitor about specific site benefits at Lolo Hot Springs.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Granite Peak RV Resort has varied site conditions. One RVer mentioned, "It's hot - in the 100's this week, reliable water and electric with a pool - what more do you need? Beautiful mountains as your backdrop." Be prepared with leveling blocks as many standard sites have slopes.
Seasonal operating hours: Check for limited off-season availability. Granite Peak RV Resort operates from May 1 to October 15, while Jim & Mary's RV Park remains open year-round with 74 full-hookup sites including 50-amp service.
Bathroom facilities: Quality and availability vary widely between campgrounds. "Huge clean shower stalls," praised a camper at Boulder Creek Lodge, while another noted at Granite Peak: "SUPER SUPER low water pressure, I mean I'd be surprised if it wasn't more than 1/4 gallon a minute. I could still feel the soap on my body as I write this review."
