Primitive Camping - Twelve Mile Dam Fishing Access Site, near Miles City, Montana, is a straightforward spot for those looking to escape into nature without the frills. With a handful of sites along a small river, it offers a clean and quiet environment that many visitors find lovely and private.

Each site comes with a fire ring and picnic table, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. Campers have enjoyed the peaceful views and the sound of the nearby stream, making it a great place to unwind. One visitor noted, “Pretty nice spot for a few days,” highlighting the level spots and the well-kept grounds.

While there are no drinking water or trash services, the campground is free, which is a big draw for many. Just keep in mind that you’ll need to pack out what you bring in. If you’re up for some fishing or just want to relax by the water, this spot has you covered. It’s also pet-friendly, so your furry friends can join in on the fun.

Though some campers have had mixed experiences, many appreciate the tranquility and the chance to connect with nature. If you’re looking for a simple, no-frills camping experience close to Miles City, this location might just be what you need.

Twelve Mile Dam Fishing Access Site (FAS) is located on the Tongue River 13 miles south of Miles City, Montana. This recreation site is maintained by Montana's Fish, Wildlife & Parks Department (FWP) and is known for its hunting and fishing opportunities. Campers should be aware that the camping area at Twelve Mile Dam FAS does not have hookups or potable water (dry/primitive camping) but the Fishing Access Site does offer vault toilets, ADA fishing pier, and a boat launch. Twelve Mile Dam campsites are first-come, first-served with a maximum stay of 7 nights. 

Primitive Camping - Twelve Mile Dam Fishing Access Site - Montana

Join the fun near Miles City. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Miles City campgrounds just for you. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Miles City. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Miles City

The Best Camping Near Miles City, Montana

Stayed 5 nights and it sure was lovely! Right next to the creek/dam, you can fish or play in the water with your dog. The 2 vault toilets were always clean &amp; stocked. Lawn was mowed while here and everyone was respectful of each other’s space. Can’t hear much noise from the highway. There’s two farms that back against the place so you may hear some noise from it. There’s at least 8 spots here and a tent site. Definitely enough room for all rig sizes. Picnic table and fire ring at each site. Had 2-3 bars of LTE via AT&amp;T. Definitely would stay here again! Only 15 minutes from mile city. No water, no trash but it’s free!

So relaxing & quiet

10/10 free camp sites. We arrive late in the night but were able to find a spot. Once it was light out we could see how well Mainers the grass was, there were paths to the river, mowed by whomever takes care of this place. Would defiantly stay here again!!￼

Wrong Coordinates, easy to look up and find!

Pretty nice spot for a few days. Fire rings (no fires allowed right now), picnic tables, a super cute stream that runs through, nice, level spots, vault toilets, and quiet, gorgeous views. Would definitely stay again.

Nice Spot for a Few Days

This actual spot was mediocre, there was non flammable trash shoved into the fire ring and it was pretty gross and noisy.

Most of the spots we’ve found on here have been amazing but our night here was downright terrifying. We pulled into a spot on the river and it seemed like a busy night, a few trucks even drove into our spot but politely backed out.

In the middle of the night we were woken up by our dog barking crazily towards the river. Several figures were looming over there pretty far from the car but they were audible and sounded inebriated. We already thought about leaving and then one person who was dressed in all black came across the spot about five feet from our car and then our dog scared them off. Thank god we car camp because this was honestly terrifying and whoever that jerk was ruined our night and shook us up for at least a day. 

Terrible night

Handful of sites on a small river. Clean, quiet, well kept. Super private and lovely. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table.

Photos of Primitive Camping - Twelve Mile Dam Fishing Access Site - Montana

Real photos from real campers