Lodgepole Campground

Welcome to Lodgepole Campground, a serene and inviting camping destination located near Wise River, Montana. Situated within the vast expanse of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, this campground offers a classic Montana outdoor experience, blending rustic charm with essential comforts. For locals seeking a peaceful getaway where the sounds of nature prevail and access to fantastic fishing is at your fingertips, Lodgepole Campground provides an ideal setting.

Lodgepole Campground is known for being a "perfectly functional campground" with "clean sites" and "clean restrooms," ensuring a comfortable stay for all visitors. Its location, nestled between the road and a steep hill across from the Wise River, provides a tranquil ambiance, often described as "very quiet" despite being just off MT Highway 1. Many campers appreciate the abundance of lodgepole pines that give the campground its name, offering excellent shade and contributing to a secluded feel. This campground has been a cherished spot for generations, with some visitors recalling fond childhood memories of camping here, highlighting its enduring appeal and consistent quality. Whether you're pitching a tent or pulling in with a trailer, Lodgepole Campground offers a genuine Montana outdoor experience, making it a beloved choice for those who call the Treasure State home.

Lodgepole Campground is situated in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, approximately 13 miles south of the intersection of Montana Highway 43 and the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway (Forest Service Road 73), near Wise River, MT 59762, USA. This location places it at an elevation of 6,400 feet, providing a refreshing mountain climate.

For Montana residents, Lodgepole Campground offers good accessibility. The campground is directly accessible from the paved Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway (FS Road 73), which makes for a smooth drive even for RVs and trailers (with a recommended maximum length of 30 feet). While it provides a sense of being comfortably remote, it’s still within a reasonable driving distance from major Montana population centers. For example, it's typically within a few hours' drive from cities like Butte, Dillon, and Anaconda, making it a convenient option for weekend trips or longer vacations. The scenic byway itself adds to the appeal, offering breathtaking views as you journey to and from the campground. Its relatively easy access from a well-maintained highway means that Montanans can comfortably reach this tranquil retreat without navigating extensive rough terrain, allowing for more time to enjoy the natural surroundings and recreational opportunities.

Lodgepole Campground, managed by the U.S. Forest Service, offers a range of services to provide a comfortable and traditional camping experience.

• Campsites for Tents and RVs: The campground features 10 campsites designed for both tent camping and RVs/trailers, with a recommended maximum trailer length of 30 feet. Some sites are back-in, and there are a few pull-through options at other campgrounds in the vicinity (though Lodgepole primarily offers back-in sites, as per some reviews).

• Vault Toilets: ADA accessible, clean vault toilets are provided for convenience.

• Potable Water: Drinking water is available via a hand pump, typically from June 1st through September 15th, making it easy to replenish supplies.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, ideal for outdoor meals and traditional campfires.

• Pack-In/Pack-Out Policy: As a Forest Service campground, it operates on a pack-in/pack-out policy, meaning campers are responsible for packing out all trash and waste to help maintain the pristine environment.

• Pets Allowed: Pets are welcome, provided they are kept on a leash at all times.

• Fee System: A nightly fee of $15 applies, with an additional $5 fee for extra vehicles. Payment is usually made through a self-service fee station on-site. Interagency Senior or Access passes may offer a 50% discount on single site camping.

• Seasonal Operation: The campground is typically open annually from mid-May through September, weather permitting.

• No Dump Station: There is no dump station on-site; the closest facility for RV waste disposal is typically in Anaconda.

Lodgepole Campground offers several appealing features and highlights that make it a desirable choice for Montanans seeking an authentic outdoor experience.

• Excellent Fishing Access: The campground is situated directly across from the Wise River, which is known for great fishing, including rainbow, cutthroat, and brook trout. The ambient sound of the river also provides a soothing backdrop.

• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Despite its proximity to MT Highway 1, reviewers consistently praise the campground for being "very quiet," making it an ideal spot for relaxation and escaping noise pollution.

• Abundant Shade: The prevalence of lodgepole pine trees provides excellent shade, keeping campsites cool and comfortable, especially during hot summer days.

• Wildlife Encounters: The surrounding Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including black bears, moose, elk, and deer, adding to the natural mystique and offering opportunities for wildlife viewing (though bear safety precautions are essential).

• Proximity to Recreation: Beyond the Wise River, the area offers opportunities for hiking, swimming (in the river), and exploring other nearby campgrounds and attractions along the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway.

• Well-Maintained Facilities: Campers consistently note the cleanliness of the sites and restrooms, contributing to a pleasant stay.

• Remote but Accessible: While offering a remote feel, the paved access road makes it surprisingly easy to reach, balancing a sense of wilderness with convenience.

• Affordable Camping: With a reasonable nightly fee, Lodgepole Campground offers an accessible option for quality outdoor recreation.

For inquiries or more information about Lodgepole Campground, please use the following contact details:

Address: Wise River, MT 59762, USA (Located within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest along the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway).

Phone: (406) 832-3178 (This is the phone number for the Wise River Work Center, part of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, which manages the area. It is recommended to call during business hours for specific information.)

Mobile Phone: +1 406-832-3178 (Same as above, directs to the Work Center).

For the most current conditions, water availability, and any alerts (especially regarding bear activity or fire restrictions), it's always best to contact the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest's Wise River Work Center or check the official U.S. Forest Service website.

Lodgepole Campground is an excellent choice for Montana locals seeking an authentic and peaceful outdoor experience. Its location near Wise River, accessible via the scenic Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway, means it’s within a reasonable driving distance for many residents across the state, making it perfect for weekend getaways or longer, refreshing breaks. For Montanans, the promise of a quiet campground with direct access to the Wise River for "great fishing" is a significant draw, offering a quintessential Big Sky Country experience.

The campground’s well-maintained sites, clean facilities, and the pervasive shade from the lodgepole pines contribute to a comfortable and inviting atmosphere, even on warm summer days. The sense of solitude and the presence of abundant wildlife, including the occasional bear (with proper precautions), add to the wilderness appeal that many Montanans cherish. Whether you're a seasoned angler, a family looking for a tranquil spot to connect with nature, or simply someone seeking a quiet respite from daily life, Lodgepole Campground provides an enriching and memorable outdoor adventure right in the heart of your home state. Its enduring charm, noted by generations of campers, solidifies its place as a reliable and beloved destination for locals.