The dispersed camping areas near Virginia City, Montana sit at elevations between 5,000-6,000 feet in the Tobacco Root Mountains, creating cool summer nights even when daytime temperatures rise. Access roads to many sites become snow-covered and impassable from late October through May, with spring conditions often muddy and rutted due to snowmelt.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park offers convenient access to the Jefferson River, where anglers can target trout and whitefish. "Easy access from I-90. Would stay again mid-week or off season, but during prime time I'd prefer a bit more seclusion," notes Jeff K. who camped there.
Cave exploration: The main attraction at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park involves touring limestone caves with stalactites and stalagmites. "Amazing family campsite with amenities, gift shop and stores. For small children it's quite a hike for them, they do get fatigued on the way, there are pit stops along the hill with shade for rest," reports Carla S.
Historical sites: Missouri Headwaters State Park preserves the area where Lewis and Clark camped in 1805. A visitor noted, "Experience camping near where Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and the Corps of Discovery camped at the headwaters of the Missouri river in 1805... If you are a history buff or just want to learn about the Corps of Discovery journey then this is a must stay."
What campers like
Mountain views: Wade Lake Campground offers exceptional scenery with turquoise water surrounded by mountains. One camper described it as "Turquoise waters and white sandy beaches – surrounded by mountains in the middle of Montana, this place has absolutely stunning scenery."
Waterfront sites: Several campgrounds feature sites directly on rivers or lakes. At Red Cliff Campground, "Half the sights back up to the river. Sights 1-26 have electric, and all sights feel private," according to camper Soren B. who enjoyed the location.
Privacy between sites: Many campers appreciate adequate spacing between campsites. A Red Cliff visitor noted, "We stayed in the section right along the river with electric hookups—such a great spot. Water is available at nearby spigots, and our site had plenty of space plus a small trail that led down to the river."
What you should know
Bear safety requirements: At Beaver Creek Campground near Yellowstone, bear-proof food storage is essential. "The camp hosts were very kind and accommodating. They gave us a few tips about tenting in bear country, and advised us to look out for a few moose who inhabit the grounds," reports Gia R.
Mosquitoes near water: Missouri Headwaters State Park can have significant mosquito activity in summer months. A camper warned, "When the sun sets in June and July the mosquitos will come out. They are quite nasty but an hour after sunset they are gone, having a campfire going helps too."
Road conditions: Access to some glamping options requires preparation. For Spire Rock Campground, one visitor cautioned, "The area is stunning, but we could not get to the campground. Our campervan felt like it was going to tip over because of the ruts. Will try again in a car someday."
Traveler
