Campgrounds near Twin Bridges, Montana cluster along the Ruby, Beaverhead, and Big Hole rivers in Madison County. The area sits at approximately 4,600 feet elevation with camping options situated in cottonwood groves or open grasslands beneath the Continental Divide. Winter temperatures can drop below zero while summer days often exceed 85°F with minimal precipitation.
What to do
Fly fishing access: Several campgrounds provide direct river access for anglers. At Sportsman Lodge, Cabins & RV Park in Melrose, "The RV sites are on grass that is pretty level. Lot of space in front and on the sides." One camper noted it's "a 7 minute walk from the fishing access on the river."
Historic sites: The area offers proximity to Western mining history. "Close proximity to Virginia and Nevada cities," notes a camper at Ruby Valley Campground and RV Park. Another camper mentions being "near Big Hole National battlefield" which offers educational exhibits about the 1877 conflict.
Stargazing opportunities: Limited light pollution makes for excellent night sky viewing. "The open skies and no city lights make for great stargazing," reports a visitor at Sportsman Lodge, highlighting the clear mountain air that enhances astronomical viewing throughout the region.
What campers like
Mountain views: The surrounding mountain ranges provide scenic backdrops. A visitor to Ennis RV Village mentioned "Lovely view of mountain ranges & good places to walk or run your dog." Another noted the "gorgeous view of the mountains" visible from campsites.
Clean facilities: Well-maintained bathrooms and showers receive consistent praise. "Bathrooms and showers are small but very nice and clean," reports a camper at Beaverhead River RV Park, while another commented on "IMMACULATE bathrooms and showers with hot water and pressure!"
Small town atmosphere: The rural setting offers a quieter camping experience. A camper at Sportsman Lodge described it as having a "very remote is the feel" while another noted the "beautiful setting" in a "very small town" where fly fishing appears to be "the main activity."
What you should know
Cell service variations: Mobile connectivity differs between locations. One camper mentioned "The wifi works very well, at least at our site near the office" at Ennis RV Village, while others note limited signal strength in more remote areas.
Limited dining options: Small towns have restricted food service hours and availability. "Melrose is teeny tiny, so don't expect several restaurants to choose from. There are 2 and one is closed on Sundays," reports a camper at Sportsman Lodge.
Seasonal business closures: Many local establishments operate on reduced schedules. A visitor to Ennis RV Village noted "Many businesses close midweek, either Tuesday or Wednesday or both," which can affect supply runs and dining plans during shoulder seasons.
Weather considerations: The area experiences significant temperature swings. According to a camper at Countryside RV Park, "This location is beautiful but can be very windy. We were there on a very windy night," indicating the need for secure tent stakes and proper RV stabilization.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Some campgrounds provide water recreation. "We stayed here one night and then the the Lewis and Clark Limestone Cavern tour. It is about an hour," noted a family camping at Countryside RV Park, highlighting nearby day trip options when temperatures rise.
Pet-friendly sites: Most rv sites near Twin Bridges, Montana welcome dogs with designated areas. Ennis RV Village offers "lots of green grass for the pups to walk through. And there are doggie bag stations galore!" according to one pet owner.
Playground access: Limited campgrounds offer play equipment. A visitor to Cardwell General Store and Campground mentioned "The kids loved the playground and tons of open grass space and swings throughout, and they also have a pond that you can even fish him on site at the back of the property."
Budget considerations: Tent camping costs vary widely between facilities. One budget-conscious camper reported paying "$28 for a roomy site adjacent to the water" at Ruby Valley Campground, making it more affordable than some neighboring options.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose locations based on specific needs and rig size. At Southside RV Park, a camper noted "Our site was an end site and therefore felt pretty roomy," while mentioning "Most are pull through. All gravel except the grass but very level and really well surfaced."
Hookup variations: Water availability differs seasonally at some campgrounds. At Countryside RV Park, "Water was available but not yet turned on so we could not hook up. Electric was fine. It did have sewer but we did not use it," reported a spring visitor, indicating the need to confirm utility status when making early or late season reservations.
Leveling requirements: Many rv sites near Twin Bridges require adjustment. "The sites were nice and level," noted one RVer about Sportsman Lodge, while another mentioned sites being "mostly level" but recommended bringing leveling blocks for minor adjustments.
Dump station locations: Not all campgrounds offer on-site dumping. "I had to move my trailer to dump the black tank because my site didn't have sewer connections," reported a camper at Cardwell General Store and Campground, highlighting the importance of planning tank management during longer stays.
