Camping near Whitehall, Montana ranges from basic tent sites to full-hookup RV parks within a 30-mile radius of town. The area sits at approximately 4,300 feet elevation with significant temperature fluctuations between day and night, even in summer months. Many campgrounds offer direct access to OHV and hiking trails, with sites typically ranging from $5-40 per night depending on amenities.
What to do
Mountain biking at Pipestone OHV Recreation Area: This area features numerous trails for various skill levels through boulder formations and forest terrain. "There is small areas for single campers and lager sites for glamping caravans. Lots of awesome rock outcrops to climb and explore. Just a short drive to Delmo lake from any of them," notes a Pipestone OHV Recreation Area visitor.
Cave exploration tours: Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park offers guided tours that require some physical stamina. "The caverns has been modified since I was young making paths and walking through easier with better footing and railing for balance. You will see live animals and bats!! Lots of history to learn," shares a Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park camper.
Fishing at Delmoe Lake: The campground provides lake access for anglers. "Camp sites are fairly spread out, there's room for RVs if that's your style. Boat launch available for easy access and a large enough parking lot to park your trailer," explains a Delmoe Lake visitor.
What campers like
Boulder camping at Toll Mountain: Sites tucked among massive rock formations offer unique camping experiences. "This campground has about 10 sites on a small loop. The ones on the left on you way in are up in the rocks...very cool. Typical FS campground amenities like outhouse, fire pits, and tables," notes a Toll Mountain Campground visitor.
Budget-friendly dispersed camping: Free camping at Homestake Pass provides easy highway access. "The dispersed camping is super easy to find, and it's right off the highway! It was perfect for a quick spot to camp on our way home to Colorado instead of getting a hotel room," shares a Homestake Pass camper.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campsites offer chances to observe local wildlife. "Deer visited camp at night! Check weather report, strong winds and we had thunderstorms. Warm showers $3," reports a Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park visitor.
What you should know
Seasonal access limitations: Many forest service roads become impassable during wet periods. "Because I pulled in late last night, I just went to the first place that I found group camping. The road goes on and on winds around there's plenty of sites everywhere," explains a Homestake Pass Dispersed camper.
Cell service variability: Connectivity ranges from none to limited at most sites. "There is slight phone service in some spots. Lots of rock formations in the area to climb and explore. There's a few trail heads to get to the peaks and get an amazing view of the lake and surrounding valley," notes a Delmoe Lake visitor.
Water quality concerns: Visitors should bring their own drinking water in Butte area. "I do not recommend getting water from Butte other than from 'Ultimate Big Spring Water' which cost $15 for 5gal with a jug. Apparently Butte has occasional toxic leakage into the mains from the Toxic Pits," warns a Homestake Pass Dispersed camper.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas. "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 because of it," shares a Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park camper.
Junior ranger activities: Educational opportunities available for children. "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," notes a Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park visitor.
Fishing pond options: Kid-friendly fishing spots at some campgrounds. "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," explains a Cardwell General Store and Campground visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Many campsites require adjustments for larger vehicles. "Had to use all our jack stands to combat the slope of our site (P007). Others looked much more level," shares a Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park RVer.
Pull-through availability: Several campgrounds offer convenient access. "Our pull-through site was spacious, level, and equipped with reliable full hookups (30/50 amp), shady trees, fire pit, picnic table, and Wi-Fi," explains a Three Forks KOA Journey guest.
Dump station considerations: Plan waste management accordingly as not all sites offer full hookups. "The only bad part was that I had to move my trailer to dump the black tank because my site didn't have sewer connections," notes a Cardwell General Store and Campground visitor.
