R
Ronnie K.
Scout
ScoutMaiden Rock Dispersed
Amazing
This place was beautiful. We enjoyed our 1 evening and night here. No fresh water, but in the town of Butte you can fill up at a casino/ gas station on Harrison Ave
Camping near Wise River, MT
151 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
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Campgrounds near Wise River, Montana range from primitive sites to developed facilities within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. Camping near Wise River spans free dispersed sites like Maiden Rock to developed campgrounds with picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, giving tent and RV campers a wide range of options. The area includes options like Dickie Bridge Campground along the Big Hole River and Lodgepole Campground about 13 miles south on the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway. Most campgrounds accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several sites offering picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets. Maiden Rock Dispersed camping area provides free camping options for those seeking a more rustic experience, while visitors looking for additional amenities can find cabin rentals at locations like Sportsman Lodge or Fairmont RV Resort in nearby Anaconda.
The camping season in this region typically runs from late spring through early fall, with many campgrounds operating from June through September. Road conditions vary significantly by location and elevation, with some areas requiring high-clearance vehicles. "Lodgepole Campground is located about 13 miles south of Wise River on Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway Road. With the exception of sites 1 and 2, all the other sites are nicely spread out. Campground is fully paved, has two vault toilets and one hand pump for water, 10 sites total," noted one visitor. Cell service is limited throughout the area, with several reviewers mentioning complete disconnection from service at campgrounds like Lowland. Water availability differs between sites, with some offering hand pumps while others require campers to bring their own supply.
Campers consistently praise the natural setting and proximity to water at many Wise River area campgrounds. The Big Hole River provides fishing opportunities directly adjacent to several sites, including Dickie Bridge. A visitor described it as "a small BLM campground located near the Big Hole River, just off of Montana Highway 43. This 10 site campground is well shaded by large pine trees." Campgrounds in the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway area offer cooler temperatures due to higher elevations, making them popular summer destinations. Sites tend to fill quickly on weekends while remaining relatively quiet midweek. Bear-proof storage is available at some locations, and campers should be prepared for variable weather conditions even during summer months. The ambient sound of flowing water is frequently mentioned as a highlight, with one camper noting that "even with a full camp, the ambient sound of the river shielded the sounds of people talking or kids playing."
Best Campgrounds near Wise River (151)
1. Maiden Rock Dispersed
"Blm camping on the big hole river, montana, free up to 16 days. About 15 spots. Boat ramp, fishing hiking fire pits, no wood available."
"Put toilet right outside of camp. We walked down the road to the angler parking and took a dip in the evening :)"
2. Divide Bridge Campground
"Then I noticed the sprinklers watering a manicured lawn in the middle of southwest Montana and genuinely did a double take."
"The BLM's Divide Bridge Campground is a nice campground located on the Big Hole River just off of state highway 43. The campground is a short distance past the pleasant day use area and boat launch."
from $10 / night
Check Availability3. Dickie Bridge
"Dicky Bridge Campground is a small BLM campground located near the Big Hole River, just off of Montana Highway 43. This 10 site campground is well shaded by large pine trees."
"Great location along big hole river for fishing and hunting.Some rvs run generators all night long very rude, caused some tent campers to leave because of noise , I guess some people do not respect to"
4. Fairmont RV Resort
"Nice location for an overnight rest spot. We had a tent site, close to the road, but traffic wasn’t bad after dark. Site was grassy. No fires allowed for obvious reasons."
"Sites are close to each other. There were no picnic tables and wood fires are not allowed so no fire rings."
5. Boulder Creek
"Great location closer to the north side of the park near Wise. Was great falling asleep to the sound of the river. Everything in the park was a short drive away."
6. Lodgepole Campground
"We had a lovely site that was close to the Wise River. Even with a full camp, the ambient sound of the river shielded the sounds of people talking or kids playing. The bathroom facilities were clean."
"Lodgepole Campground is located about 13 miles south of Wise River on Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway Road. With the exception of sites 1 and 2, all the other sites are nicely spread out."
7. Fourth of July Campground
"It is absolutely beautiful, and the ability to fall asleep under the stars while listening to the rushing river nearby is exactly why I would recommend other people stay here."
"This is a popular campground because of the access to the well shaded creek that is gray for playing and fishing."
8. Sportsman Lodge, Cabins & RV Park
"This is a great spot in a tiny town south of Butte Montana. They have a couple cabins, several motel rooms and about 10 full hookup, all grass, RV spots. Also a large area for car/tent camping."
"Quite hazy with smoke from forest fires when we were here but I can tell it is beautiful, nestled in between Montana mountain ranges. Easy walk to the river for fly fishing access."
from $29 - $48 / night
Check Availability9. Beaverdam Campground and Picnic Area
from $15 / night
Check Availability10. Beaverhead National Forest Pettengill Campground
"The campground is right next to the byway, but noise is not a problem as the road only received recreational traffic. Plenty of near by hiking trails in the area. "
Drive Time
- 1 hr 28 min from Helena, MT
- 1 hr 42 min from Bozeman, MT
- 2 hrs from Missoula, MT
- 2 hrs 40 min from Great Falls, MT
Recent Camping Photos near Wise River, MT
123 Photos of 151 Wise River Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Recent Reviews near Wise River, MT
438 Reviews of 151 Wise River Campgrounds
- AAmy O.
TravelerBarretts Station Park Campground
Nice place
Nice place. Come here to just hangout and relax before get my kid. It’s right by interstate and train so not sure if anyone will mind this. But nice place good place to do some Picnics.
Richard M.ScoutHomestake Pass Dispersed
Homestake Pass Dispersed
Great internet & Very well maintained & Relaxing, Great Spot
- DDevon C.Scout
Deer Lodge A-OK Campground
It’s AOK!
We were looking for a quick pass through stop for the night, needed to charge up our battery system, but also needed a dog friendly place. When we first pulled in we almost left because it seemed like a tiny little parking lot camping area. The owner Mike came out and told us that there was a little more behind the front of the space. It opened up into a little field with a dog friendly place, with electric hookups along a little stream that had ducks swimming around. Mike just exudes good vibes, the bathrooms were super clean, and it was a really pleasant overnight stop.
- JJoanne Y.Traveler
Divide Bridge Campground
Peaceful, clean, lovely!
We had a great night stay at this BLM dispersed camping ground. It sits right off Highway 15. Actually we found it by accident. They have beautiful sites by the river, but they go fast though.
We were not able to find any place to deposit, trash or gray water; they do have a place to fill up for potable water. They have picnic tables and fire pits as well as bear boxes for food. Really really lovely. We would come back again for sure!
- RRobert M.Scout
Divide Bridge Campground
Easy access though tucked away
Not far off a main road down a well kept gravel road. Tucked away in the trees along the river. Well kept and friendly host. The normal fee ($15) is half-off for Senior Park Pass holders plus a small transaction fee. Camped out in the campground aread along the river with grass and trees.
- RRobert T.Scout
Point of Rocks Jefferson River Campsite
Nice spot right on the river , but..
This was our first time at this spot and it was okay. We might stay here in the future. The only downside was that it was 30 or 40 minutes on dirt roads (from, I-90) A nice surprise was that there was a hot spring, a short walk north of the campsite.
- EEvan K.Scout
Maiden Rock Dispersed
Easy access and beautiful view
Right by the river with an easy drive from the highway yet it still feels remote. Very well maintained sites and roads. Highly recommend.
Hillary F.
GuideFlint Creek Campground
Small sites, Hwy noise, but the creek is close !
Pets are allowed on leash. Be bear aware . Has 2 vault toilets and fresh water. Easy access to hey 1 .
Guide to Wise River
Dispersed camping options near Wise River, Montana provide access to the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest at elevations ranging from 5,600 to 9,000 feet. The camping season typically runs from June through September when snow has melted from access roads and trails. Summer temperatures average 45-80°F with significant cooling at night, even during peak summer months.
What to do
Dig for crystals: Crystal Park is located about 18 miles south of Wise River on the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway. "Great location closer to the north side of the park near Wise. Was great falling asleep to the sound of the river. Everything in the park was a short drive away. Highly recommend Crystal park as an activity for families with kids, but even adults find it highly enjoyable," notes one Boulder Creek visitor.
Fish accessible waters: Big Hole River offers prime fishing opportunities with multiple access points. "The spot is close to the freeway, but far enough that you won't hear any of the noise so it's perfect if you are on a road trip. Also an incredible spot to fish!" according to a review from Maiden Rock Dispersed.
Hike nearby trails: The area has numerous hiking options within short drives from campsites. "There is a short paved bike trail that circles the campground, going behind sites and through the day use area," mentions a camper from Fourth of July Campground, which also connects to longer trail systems.
What campers like
River proximity: Campsites along waterways are highly valued. "This place was amazing! Very well maintained area! Picnic benches, tent camping spots, rv spots! We might have been lucky but no mosquitos! It's across the bridge in case you can't find it from google maps," describes a Maiden Rock visitor.
Peaceful environment: Many campsites offer separation from other campers. "We had a lovely site that was close to the Wise River. Even with a full camp, the ambient sound of the river shielded the sounds of people talking or kids playing," explains a visitor to Lodgepole Campground.
Clean facilities: Campgrounds maintain clean restrooms and organized sites. "Clean vault toilets. Friendly Hosts on sight. Grounds well maintained. WATER AVAILABLE. Came in dry and filled up with water," notes a camper at Divide Bridge Campground.
What you should know
Weather preparation: Mountain weather changes quickly, with cool nights even in summer. "The campground was nice, it was very pretty but the bugs were overwhelming for some," warns a Boulder Creek visitor, highlighting the need for proper gear.
Road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging access roads. "The road to the campground was terrifying. Steep drop offs, sharp rocks, narrow lanes, and just really scary to be honest," cautions a Boulder Creek reviewer.
Bear awareness: Wildlife management is essential in this region. "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," shares a Maiden Rock camper.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with amenities: Look for campgrounds with drinking water and clean facilities. "The campground has two loops. We chose the left loop. It sinks down into the rocks. Don't let these rocky protectors keep you sleeping all night. The dip keeps other lights away and the stars pop!" shares a Beaverdam Campground visitor.
Pack insect protection: Mosquitos can be intense, especially near water. "Super buggy, bring the industrial strength mosquito repellent! There is one semi clean vault toilet and one bear box for the entire campground to share," advises a camper at Dickie Bridge.
Plan for temperature swings: Pack layers even in summer months. "4 stars because the mosquitoes were INSANE! Apparently only in July and August," reports a Divide Bridge camper.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions: Many best places to camp near Wise River have limitations for larger rigs. "It is absolutely beautiful, and the ability to fall asleep under the stars while listening to the rushing river nearby is exactly why I would recommend other people stay here," notes a Fourth of July Campground visitor, though they add that sites are better suited for smaller setups.
Consider full-service alternatives: When needing hookups, look to nearby towns. "The grounds are meticulously maintained by the owner and it has nice views of the bluffs and mountains all around it. Walking distance to the restaurant and bar in town if that's your thing. Quality hookups at each site, and each site has its own trash can," explains a visitor to Sportsman Lodge in nearby Melrose.
Plan for limited cell service: Most campgrounds in the area have poor or no connectivity. "There is no cell service. About 2.5 miles from Maiden Rocks Road on Frontage Road you will get service for a small portion of the road," explains a Maiden Rock camper.
Frequently Asked Questions
What amenities are available at Wise River campgrounds?
What amenities are available at Wise River campgrounds?
Campgrounds in the Wise River area typically offer basic but functional amenities. Willow Campground provides spacious, paved sites that are mostly level, with water available seasonally (though it may not be turned on in September). Grasshopper Campground features clean bathrooms with a friendly camp host who ensures facilities are well-maintained. Most campgrounds in the area include vault toilets, hand pumps for water, and designated fire rings. Cell service is limited or non-existent at most sites, though Wi-Fi may be available at businesses in the town of Wise River. Campgrounds are primarily designed for tent camping and smaller RVs, as some areas may present challenges for large campers to maneuver. Hookups are generally not available at forest service campgrounds.
Where are the best campgrounds along Wise River in Montana?
Where are the best campgrounds along Wise River in Montana?
The Wise River area offers several excellent camping options along the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway. Lodgepole Campground is a standout choice located about 13 miles south of Wise River with 10 well-maintained sites, paved roads, and proximity to the river. For those seeking a more secluded experience, Little Joe Campground sits approximately 21 miles south of Wise River and features 5 nicely spaced campsites. Other quality options include Boulder Creek, Pettengill Campground, and Willow Campground, all offering scenic settings in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. Most campgrounds in the area charge modest fees ($8-15 per night) and operate seasonally, typically open from late May through September, depending on weather conditions.
What activities can you do near Wise River Montana when camping?
What activities can you do near Wise River Montana when camping?
The Wise River area offers abundant outdoor recreation opportunities. Fishing is a premier activity with access to excellent trout waters including the Wise River itself. Hiking trails abound throughout the surrounding Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. Near Twin Lakes, visitors can explore scenic alpine lakes after driving through open cattle ranges on the 18-mile gravel access road. Delmoe Lake is popular for OHV riding with multiple staging areas. Crystal Park, located near Grasshopper Campground, offers unique rock and mineral hunting opportunities. Wildlife viewing, photography, and mountain biking are excellent throughout the region. The Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway provides a stunning drive with numerous pullouts for taking in the views. During winter months, the area transforms into a playground for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
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