Tent camping near Wise River, Montana provides direct access to the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway and several fishing access sites along the Big Hole River. The area sits at approximately 5,600 feet elevation with summer daytime temperatures typically reaching the 70s-80s and nighttime lows dropping to 40-50°F. Most sites remain accessible from late spring through early fall, with several locations requiring fishing licenses for discounted camping fees.
What to do
Hiking at Crystal Park: Located up the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway from Beaverhead National Forest Pettengill Campground, visitors can dig for crystals at designated digging areas. "Further up the byway be sure to visit Coolidge Ghost Town and dig for crystal at Crystal Park," notes Dexter I.
Snowmobile access in winter: The Pettengill area maintains a large paved parking lot specifically for winter recreation. "The campground road and parking pads are all paved. A large paved parking area is also available and is used for snowmobile parking in the winter," according to a reviewer.
Backcountry exploration: Use Humbug Spires Wilderness Study Area as a starting point for wilderness trips. "Road 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," shares David M.
What campers like
Shade and privacy: Larger cottonwood trees create natural screening between sites at several riverside locations. "Brownes Island Fishing Access Site has five campsite sitting under large cottonwood trees... The campsites are nicely spread apart from each other," explains Dexter I. about Brownes Bridge Fishing Access Site.
Affordable pricing options: Many sites offer discounted rates with valid Montana fishing licenses. "Cost to camp is $12 with a valid MT fishing license, $18 without, if you are over the age of 62 then those rates drop to $6 or $9 a night," reports a reviewer about Salmon Fly.
River access: Direct water access for fishing and water activities. "Great sites. Close together but clean and right on the river. A little short on the length but okay for our 29'," notes Nathan about Salmon Fly's six riverfront sites.
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most sites lack drinking water and trash service. "Very beautiful area with not too many people around. River runs right next to it. Has a vault toilet and bear proof food storage. Was $15 a night," reports Maggie K. about East Bank Rec Site.
Weather preparation: Temperature swings of 30-40 degrees between day and night are common, especially near water. "It gets a lot colder in a riparian area at night," warns Christine R. about camping near rivers.
Road conditions: Several access roads require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain. "If you were getting ready to hike in from this trailhead the next morning it might be an okay place to sleep in your truck," suggests one camper about more remote areas.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: Choose established campgrounds with vault toilets for easiest family camping. "Pettengill Campground is a nice pleasant three site campground. This is the first campground as you travel up the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway," suggests a visitor.
Noise considerations: Some sites experience train or highway noise that might disturb light sleepers. "While this site is near the Interstate and a railroad the campground was still fairly quiet thanks to all the large cottonwood trees," notes a reviewer about Brownes Bridge.
Recreation planning: Plan for diverse activities beyond fishing. "Plenty of near by hiking trails in the area," mentions one camper about Maidenrock FAS, though others note this is "not the greatest camping area, and private residents are near the site."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Most sites accommodate smaller to mid-sized RVs only. "There are only 3 paved spots at Pettengill, but they offer a large fire ring and picnic table. There is a large day use area and vault toilets as well," reports Jordan V.
Boat ramp conditions: Boat launch facilities vary significantly between locations. "The boat ramp is dirt, but the area has a large parking area," notes a reviewer about East Bank, while another mentions, "The site has a concrete boat launch, but be warned that Montana FWP has posted that the water is shallow for larger boats."
Limited hookups: No sites in the immediate area offer electrical, water, or sewer connections. "If you were self contained and just looking to get off the 15 for the night then it would work for ya. Otherwise it's just a big boat parking lot for the river," explains Kaitlyn L. about one basic location.
