Dispersed camping sites near Twin Bridges, Montana offer direct river access at elevations ranging from 4,600 to 5,800 feet, creating distinct seasonal challenges for campers. The area sits at the junction of several trout streams including the Big Hole, Beaverhead, Ruby, and Jefferson rivers, forming the headwaters of the Missouri River. Summer temperatures typically reach 75-85°F during the day while dropping to 45-55°F at night.
What to do
Fishing access sites: Several access points along the Big Hole River provide both camping and prime angling opportunities. At Maiden Rock Dispersed, campers appreciate the well-maintained sites and river proximity. As one visitor noted, "Sites are spaced nicely, brand new looking picnic tables, bear boxes, and fire rings. Put toilet right outside of camp. We walked down the road to the angler parking and took a dip in the evening."
Hiking trails: The surrounding national forest lands offer multiple trails for day hikers. Near Mill Creek Campground, visitors can access several mountain paths. "This is a well shaded campground due to the large fir and pine trees. In the mile between the forest boundary and the campground about 6 marked primitive campsites can be found as well," explains one reviewer.
Wildlife viewing: The areas around Twin Bridges host diverse wildlife including deer, eagles, and occasionally bears. A camper at Maiden Rock Dispersed reported, "The only downside is as of September 1st 2025 a Bear might still be active in the area. It tried to get into our camper. Apparently his name is Boo-boo, and he was orphaned as a cub and fed by miners making him not so human afraid."
What campers like
River views: The Big Hole River corridor provides scenic camping with direct water access. One visitor to Brownes Bridge Fishing Access Site described it as a "Small but Private, Right on the River" spot with "big trees and a view of the Browne Bridge."
Secluded sites: Many campgrounds offer well-spaced sites for privacy. At Maiden Rock Dispersed, a camper reported, "The designated camp spots are super clean and nicely laid out. I couldn't give 5 stars for several reasons: there is not any shaded spots, it's very exposed; the vault toilet is a significant jaunt for the campers to reach."
Affordability: Most fishing access sites and forest service campgrounds offer reasonable rates or free camping. According to one visitor at Glen Campground, "Nice free camping area with fishing access near a nice river. Only 9 miles from Dillon. Easy gravel road in and out and at least 1 pull through site for bigger rigs."
What you should know
Insect considerations: Mosquitoes can be problematic during summer months, particularly near water. A camper at Homestake Pass Dispersed advised, "Cows did come to our campsite nightly and dig through our fire pit. Several big classA's in and out. Several other campers running gens all day."
Bear safety: The area has active bear populations requiring proper food storage. One camper at Mill Creek noted, "This is grizzle bear territory, food must be stored in your car or the provided bear proof foot locker at the campground."
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack amenities like running water or trash service. A visitor to Glen Campground emphasized, "You must pack in/pack out all of your belongings & trash."
Tips for camping with families
Educational opportunities: Several sites offer learning experiences for children. At Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, one visitor mentioned, "Did you know you can print out a packet for your little ones to become Cub Rangers at this State Park? There are great amenities for both camping and RV'S with a child's playground located on the camp."
Playgrounds: Some established campgrounds provide play areas for children. A camper at Lewis & Clark Caverns noted, "We camped here with a group of families and the playground was nice for the kids. There aren't many trees and the land is flat but we were able to really keep a decent eye of the kids running around."
Water activities: Younger visitors enjoy wading and swimming in the calmer sections of rivers. At Maiden Rock Dispersed, a camper shared, "This place is amazingly beautiful! Very well maintained area! Picnic benches, tent camping spots, rv spots! We might have been lucky but no mosquitos!"
Tips from RVers
Site accessibility: Many campgrounds can accommodate larger vehicles with some limitations. At Sportsman Lodge, Cabins & RV Park, a visitor observed, "All sites are back in, but they are reasonably wide and very long... It is about a mile or two from the interstate which is convenient but you can occasionally hear a large truck pass by."
Electric considerations: RVers should confirm power availability as issues can arise. One Sportsman Lodge camper reported, "We pulled into our assigned site and hooked up the 50 amp shore cord. There was a fault or problem, but unusable power. Made a quick call to the manager, and was assigned another site. No issues."
Seasonal access: Some roads become difficult for larger vehicles in winter or spring. A camper at Homestake Pass Dispersed cautioned, "This place is just a few minutes from the freeway on a relatively good dirt road. There is a big open space that you come to first, which can accommodate a number of RV's. We drove farther up the road and found a more secluded place."
