Tent campsites near Wisdom, Montana are situated in the Pioneer Mountains and Big Hole Valley region, with elevations typically ranging from 6,000 to 7,500 feet. Most campgrounds in this high-mountain region operate seasonally from late spring through early fall, with several closing after the first significant snowfall. Summer temperatures average 70-85°F during daytime with nighttime lows often dropping below 40°F even in July.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Fishtrap Creek Montana FWP provides direct river access for anglers. "Fish Trap FAS campground is a nice campground along the Big Hole River. The campground is in the open as no trees occupy this area, the closest you can get to trees is some willows on the west end of the campground," notes one camper who appreciated the riverside location.
Crystal hunting opportunities: Drive approximately 25 miles from Wisdom to Crystal Park where visitors can dig for quartz crystals. A camper at Beaverhead National Forest Grasshopper Campground mentioned, "A short drive to crystal park where you can dig up quartz and amethyst."
Hot springs access: Some camping areas provide proximity to natural hot springs. "Walking distance to the rustic Elkhorn Hot Springs Resort where you can swim and get a bite to eat," reports a visitor who camped at Grasshopper Campground in the Pioneer Mountains.
What campers like
River proximity: Many campsites are positioned along waterways, particularly the Big Hole River. At East Bank Rec Site, a visitor noted, "River runs right next to it. Has a vault toilet and bear proof food storage."
Small, uncrowded campgrounds: Several camping areas feature limited sites, creating quieter experiences. At Pettengill Campground, a reviewer appreciated that "With only three sites crowds will not be a problem."
Clean facilities: Campground maintenance receives positive mentions. One visitor to Grasshopper Campground stated, "Pit toilets were clean, plenty of TP, didn't stink. The campground is well maintained, and a beautiful place to camp."
What you should know
Variable road conditions: Access to remote sites can be challenging. Regarding Pintler Campground, a camper warned, "The mostly gravel road is far from smooth with uncomfortable washboard feeling much of the route."
Extreme weather fluctuations: Mountain weather changes rapidly even in summer months. A Grasshopper Campground visitor cautioned, "We got snow on Labor Day weekend (still Summer!), so check the forecast."
Limited amenities: Many campgrounds offer basic facilities only. For Bobcat Gulch, a camper described it as a "Pretty small and basic campground... no numbered sites, just designated fire rings to indicate the different sites."
Bug populations: Insects can be problematic, particularly near water sources. A Pintler Lake visitor mentioned, "It's buggy with only a slight breeze to keep flies away."
Tips for camping with families
Spacing between sites: For families needing privacy, select campgrounds with well-separated sites. A visitor to Pettengill Campground reported, "All three sites are quiet nice, with good spacing between them."
Paved accessibility: Some campgrounds offer easier setup for family gear. "The campground road and parking pads are all paved," noted a Pettengill visitor, making equipment transport simpler.
Highway proximity considerations: When camping with children, note campground proximity to roadways. At Bobcat Gulch, a camper mentioned, "Only downside is it's rather close to the highway and you can hear cars driving by pretty regularly."
Tips from RVers
Limited big rig access: Most campgrounds near Wisdom accommodate smaller RVs only. At Fishtrap Creek, a visitor described "level gravel parking pads" but noted the campground's open setting without large trees for shade.
Seasonal water availability: RV campers should plan water needs carefully. A Pettengill Campground visitor mentioned "water is available in the summer" but seasonal timing varies by site.
Site leveling requirements: Many camping areas feature varied terrain. An East Bank campground reviewer noted that while sites have "gravel parking pad, picnic table and metal fire ring," the overall area "has seen better days" with varying site quality.
