Beaverhead National Forest holds this free, five-site campground along a small fishing lake in southwestern Montana, reached by roughly 10 miles of rocky dirt road through cattle country. Expect no cell service. Reviewers have noted the campground includes a vault toilet and picnic tables, with the lake drawing swimmers, anglers, and boaters. Short trailers can fit the loop, though anything over 20 feet will be difficult to maneuver. South Van Houten Campground sits just across the lake. Stock up on supplies before heading out, as this is dry camping with no services nearby, and those planning to visit should note that camping near Beaverhead National Forest spans a wide region worth exploring over multiple days rather than a single overnight.
Description
This is a small high elevation campground surrounded by lodgepole pine near Van Houten Lake.
There is no water at this campground. Guest are advised to bring their own. Any water taken from streams or springs must be treated prior to consumption. There is no cell phone coverage in the area. There is no garbage service at the campground so please pack out what you pack in.
This lakeside campground has 3 sites available on a first come, first served basis.
There is a 16 day stay limit at this campground.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsNorth Van Houten Campground is located in Montana near Jackson
Directions
From Jackson, MT travel 1.5 miles south on Highway 278. Take Forest Road 181 for 10.5 miles to the campground.
Coordinates
45.246568 N
113.477947 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Dispersed
- Group
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
FREE established camping
Enjoy camping on government land. Limited or no services at this camping area.
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 57 min from Helena, MT
- 3 hrs 1 min from Bozeman, MT
- 3 hrs 2 min from Missoula, MT
- 3 hrs 5 min from Idaho Falls, ID







