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."
"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 :)"
$10 / night
"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."
"Boat ramp in the campground and also one at the main entrance (fun for dogs ) Only 10.00/night. 4 stars because the mosquitoes were INSANE! Apparently only in July and August."
"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"
"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."
"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."
"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."
$29 - $48 / night
"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."
"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."
$15 / night
"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. "
GuideThis Campground has been remodeled and updated in the last couple of years. The sites are large with full hookups. It is quiet and has nice trees for shade as well as deer and other wildlife. Communication with the front desk was great. The hot springs and Golf Course are roughly a 200 yd walk.
LegendThe campground (CG) was easy to access right off I-90. We pulled off to the side of the General Store next to the RV park for check-in, which was quick and easy. We had originally selected pull-through Site 18 online, but a large boulder beside the pad made it impossible to fit our 40' toy hauler and F-450. As promised during check-in, there were backup options available, and Greg came out to assist us and reassigned us to pull-through Site 1 with water and electric (50/30/20 AMP). This site did not have sewer, but that wasn’t an issue for our two-day stay. Utilities were positioned close enough to the middle of the pad to make water and electric hookups simple. The CG WiFi was above average at 59.3 Mbps download and worked very well, though the park was fairly empty this time of year. They have a nice shower house that includes laundry. We enjoyed the nice trail that runs along the back of the CG beside the irrigation ditch— perfect for walking our pups. They had a food truck(closed Monday) that had excellent smash burgers and brisket. Overall, a convenient and pleasant two night stop.
TravelerThis campground has many sites shaded by lodgepole pines. The sites are far enough apart and angled to give a nice sense of privacy. Some of the sites have electric, but there is essentially no water. Vault toilets are clean. Near the water, but not on it.
RangerRoad was rocky and rutted by water runoff. The sprinter all wheel drive negotiated the trail easily from the trailhead up. We found an open meadow of sagebrush. Beautiful sunrise. One bar AT&T signal. We camped adjacent to the private property sign.
ScoutFriendly and clean. I would have no issue staying here again if I was back in the area.
GuideI think the other reviews say it best but it’s a really nice spot, almost feels like it should be paid for. Smooth gravel roads and well set out campsites with picnic tables and a Bear box. The river is right there next to most of the sites, but could be a bushwhack to get to depending on where you are.
The only downside is as of September 1st 2025 a Bear might still be active in the area. It tried to get into our camper (it didn’t thankfully lol, but it did pull my window open and give me a heart attack). We didn’t see it the next two nights after that encounter. Apparently his name is Boo-boo, and he was orphaned as a cub and fed by miners making him not so human afraid. Last I heard rangers were trying to get him further away and up the canyon. Carry bear spray and you’re probably fine!
ScoutGreat no frills campsite 7.00 a night
TravelerGrounds are nice and clean. Laundry room and bathrooms are very clean. Host is very nice. Bring your own WiFi.
GuideAlready left a review but forgot to mention —about water. 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. Very sad and unfortunate. We were weary even getting filtered refill water from Walmart. Either bring your own drinking water or buy bottled. There is an rv park in Pipestone that said they’d allow fill-up there, though not sure what the fee would be, but they’re seemed super nice and willing to help out.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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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