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Camping near Wise River, MT

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    SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

    Campgrounds near Wise River, Montana range from primitive sites to developed facilities within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. The area includes established 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."

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    Best Campgrounds near Wise River (151)

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      1. Maiden Rock Dispersed

      4.8(19)12mi from Wise RiverRVs, Tents

      "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

      4.9(11)9mi from Wise RiverRVs, Tents

      "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

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      3. Dickie Bridge

      4.3(4)7mi from Wise RiverRVs, Tents

      "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"

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      4. Fairmont RV Resort

      3.9(17)19mi from Wise RiverRVs, Tents, Cabins, Glamping

      "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."

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      5. Boulder Creek

      4.3(4)11mi from Wise RiverRVs, Tents

      "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."

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      6. Lodgepole Campground

      4.3(4)11mi from Wise RiverRVs, Tents, Glamping

      "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."

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      7. Fourth of July Campground

      4.7(3)10mi from Wise RiverRVs, Tents

      "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."

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      8. Sportsman Lodge, Cabins & RV Park

      5.0(8)17mi from Wise RiverRVs, Tents, Cabins

      "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

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      9. Beaverdam Campground and Picnic Area

      3.7(3)10mi from Wise RiverRVs, Tents

      from $15 / night

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      10. Beaverhead National Forest Pettengill Campground

      4.0(2)9mi from Wise RiverTents

      "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. "

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    Recent Camping Photos near Wise River, MT

    123 Photos of 151 Wise River Campgrounds

    Recent Reviews near Wise River, MT

    417 Reviews of 151 Wise River Campgrounds

    • Vahste (.The Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 29, 2026

      Homestake Pass Dispersed

      Plenty of room and lots of cattle

      Spent the entire 16day limit camping here and overall it was enjoyable. Its pretty heavy traffic at all times (day and night) since its located pretty close to the entrance of the 17mile NF road loop, and off-roaders will zip by. There were ample spots to pick from, many with tables and most with established fire rings. My main complaints are nonstop offroading traffic, and the herd of freerange cattle that loved using my van as a scratching post every time they wandered through (roughly 20 times over my 16 days).

    • AThe Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 29, 2026

      Homestake Pass Dispersed

      Complete with cattle friends!

      Quick access off i90 and road was not too bad. For free dispersed camping it was a dream! Fire pit, picnic table, no water or toilet but that’s ok. Plenty of Large RVs and OTVs but plenty of space to spread out. Can hear some interstate noise but it was not that loud. Free roaming cattle were wandering around but they were chill

    • Colleen L.The Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 28, 2026

      Pipestone RV Park & Campground

      Peaceful campground with quick access to trails

      We enjoyed this new campground which was beautiful and quiet. Trails are readily accessible and plenty of dispersed camping just up the road. The WiFi signal is terrible which forced us to turn off the electronics and enjoy the tranquility. However we were unable to check the weather or plan the next day of our journey.

    • JThe Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 27, 2026

      Lost Creek State Park Campground

      Great little hidden gem

      We didn’t actually camp here, just came for the waterfalls and hike. The dump toilet was the cleanest I’ve ever seen. Zero bugs/questionables and smelled of bleach rather than poo. The sites were all partially shaded, and semi private. It’s not a huge place but it’s kind of perfect.

    • GThe Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 27, 2026

      eastfork reservoir

      Where is everyone?

      Don't know if it's the long gravel road in, but I was amazed how few people were enjoying this gem on a weekend. Beach access is tough without decent ground clearance, but doable if you pick your line.

    • JThe Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 27, 2026

      Maiden Rock Dispersed

      Beautiful!

      This campground is well taken cared for! We saw a heard of at least 8 deer cruise through o their way to the river, an osprey, bunnies, and 2 heron. We were the only people here apart from some vehicles driving up the road to what must have a boat launch. If the park was full we wouldn’t have much privacy, but we came on a Sunday afternoon and had no neighbors until a little after sunset when a subaru came in to sleep. It was awesome! We chose the best spot to back in with the van and see the rocks of the valley.

    • TThe Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 25, 2026

      Cardwell General Store and Campground

      Friendly and lovely spot

      Easy access off I90. Walking path and bench swings. Very nice place. Great bathrooms and laundry included. Very friendly and helpful staff. Highly recommend.

    • David R.The Dyrt Pro User
      Jul. 25, 2026

      Grasshopper Campground and Picnic Area

      Amazing spot

      Site #8 is at the end, right next to beautiful creek, levelish site, private for a campground, wonderful for getting a peaceful night sleep with the creek. Tent pad separate from rig, picnic table and fire ring (bring firewood). Vault toilets were clean by vault toilet standards. You can hike to Elkhorn hot springs easily which are rustic but fun. Host was attentive and happy to talk for a bit. Mtn biking nearby at the little ski resort. The whole Pioneer Scenic byway was beautiful and the Crystal park is close by to go dig some crystals out of the mountain (bring bug spray and a shovel)

    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?

    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?

    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?

    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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