Dispersed primitive camping on the Big Hole River at an elevation of 5803 ft.
Discharge of weapons prohibited year round.
This is a Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF campground—one of the Forest Service camps that define Montana camping for travelers who want a fire ring, a picnic table, and quiet timber rather than full-hookup convenience. Amenities are modest by design. Confirm water, trash, and fire restrictions with the local ranger district before you drive in.
Nearest town: Wise River. Elevation about 6200 feet.
Campground snapshot
- Agency / unit: USFS — Beaverhead-Deerlodge NF
- Sites: 14
- Type: Tent/RV
- Fee range: No fee listed
- Season: Year-round (primitive)
- Reservations: FCFS
- Access road: Paved to area, then gravel/dirt for sites
- Max RV length: 20 ft
- Best for: Big Hole River
How to book
Reservations and site details typically run through FCFS. Many Forest Service camps keep first-come, first-served loops; remote camps may be entirely FCFS. Confirm current fees, water status, and fire restrictions before arrival. Official listing: myfwp.mt.gov/fishMT/fas/39753482.
Bear country & campcraft
This stop sits in classic Montana bear country. Store all attractants—food, trash, toiletries, cookware, and pet food—in a hard-sided vehicle, an IGBC-approved container, a provided bear box, or a proper hang. Never bring food or cooking clothes into the tent.
Campfires belong only in provided metal rings when restrictions allow. Drown, stir, and feel the ashes with the back of your hand before leaving or sleeping. In Stage II restrictions, open fires are banned even in developed sites—use a shut-off stove only.
Follow Leave No Trace: camp on durable surfaces, pack out everything you pack in, and leave the site cleaner than you found it.
Plan the rest of the trip
- Camping reference: reservations, bears, and fire rules
- Open this stop on the Backroads Guided Trails map
- Campgrounds directory
Visitor Access
- Nearest town: Wise River
- Focus: National Forest
- Coordinates: 45.8836, -113.1633
- Road note: Paved to area, then gravel/dirt for sites
- Access note: Confirm road conditions, water availability, and fire restrictions before arrival. Mountain weather can drop below freezing even in midsummer.
- Legal reminder: Follow agency food-storage orders, stay within designated sites in developed camps, and respect private land and tribal boundaries.