Price Creek Campground

For Montana residents seeking a true escape into the majestic wilderness, where outdoor adventure meets a welcoming community, Price Creek Campground near Polaris, MT, is an outstanding choice. Nestled within the expansive Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, this campground offers a quintessential Montana experience, characterized by towering pines, lush meadows, and abundant wildlife. It's more than just a place to set up camp; it's a strategic base for exploring some of southwest Montana's unique attractions, particularly the famous Crystal Park, known for its public quartz digging opportunities. Whether you're an avid hiker, an ATV enthusiast, or simply looking for a peaceful retreat, Price Creek Campground provides a well-maintained and friendly environment for all.

Visitors consistently praise Price Creek Campground for its well-kept facilities and the friendly demeanor of its camp hosts. One happy camper recounted their four-day stay in July 2020, noting the reasonable cost of $8 per night, with a 50% discount bringing it to just $4 with an All Access Pass. This affordability makes it an even more attractive option for local Montanans looking to enjoy their state's natural beauty without breaking the bank. The campground's layout is also a highlight, with "all the outter spots are back in & all the inner loop are pull through," providing flexibility for various vehicle sizes and camping preferences. The sense of community and security is enhanced by visible and engaged camp hosts, who are often found "checking spots & making sure there was no trash left" and engaging in friendly conversation with campers.

One of the primary advantages of Price Creek Campground, frequently highlighted by its visitors, is its proximity to Crystal Park. As one reviewer enthusiastically noted, "We chose this campground because it is only a few minute drive from Crystal Park," emphasizing its convenience for those planning a trip to dig for quartz crystals. This direct access to such a unique recreational area adds significant value to a stay at Price Creek. For Montanans who enjoy unique outdoor activities and geological exploration, the combination of a comfortable campsite and a nearby natural wonder makes this campground an incredibly appealing destination. The experience of unearthing your own crystals after a short drive from your peaceful campsite is a memorable one.

Despite its popularity, the first-come, first-served nature of many sites at Price Creek Campground doesn't always lead to overcrowding. The same reviewer who visited in July 2020 mentioned their initial worry about finding an open spot, but "when we arrived on Monday afternoon there was plenty of open spots." This suggests that even during peak season, there's a good chance to secure a spot, especially if you arrive earlier in the week. The camp hosts play a crucial role in managing the campground and ensuring a positive experience. Their diligence, from verifying information on payment envelopes to providing wildlife advisories ("let us know of a bear spotting down the way at another campground"), underscores a proactive and caring approach to campground management. This level of attentiveness from the hosts contributes significantly to the overall sense of safety and well-being for campers.

It's important for visitors to be prepared for the natural elements, as one review highlighted: "The only down side was there is a lot of mosquitos especially in the evening but it's camping so it's to be expected." This is a common aspect of camping in forested, natural areas, especially in Montana, and can be managed with appropriate repellents and netting. The positive spin that "we were glad there were no horse flies or bees" indicates that while mosquitoes might be present, other common nuisances were not. Another crucial piece of information for campers is the "pack in/pack out" policy regarding trash: "There are no trash cans or dumpsters so plan to haul out your trash." This policy helps maintain the pristine condition of the National Forest and requires responsible stewardship from all visitors, a common practice in many Montana public lands.

Price Creek Campground is located in Polaris, MT 59746, USA. This address places it within the vast Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, the largest national forest in Montana. Specifically, the campground is nestled along the Pioneer Mountain Scenic Byway, a renowned route in southwest Montana celebrated for its breathtaking landscapes and numerous recreational opportunities. Polaris itself is a small, unincorporated community, adding to the remote and peaceful ambiance of the area. The campground’s elevation of 7,400 feet contributes to its tall lodgepole pines and meadows, creating an ideal habitat for diverse wildlife, including deer, moose, and elk. Its location provides easy access to various outdoor activities, making it a central point for exploration in this beautiful part of the state.

The accessibility of Price Creek Campground for Montana residents is a key benefit. It is an easy drive from larger full-service communities like Dillon (approximately 46 miles southeast) and Butte (about 65 miles northeast). For those coming from other parts of Montana, accessing the campground typically involves driving along the Pioneer Mountain Scenic Byway (Highway 73), a paved road that is well-maintained, ensuring a relatively smooth journey for RVs up to 30 feet. While there is no cell phone coverage at the site, which contributes to its appeal as a true escape, it's wise to plan navigation beforehand and enjoy the digital detox. The proximity to Crystal Park (only 1.5 miles north) further enhances its accessibility for those specifically interested in quartz digging, making it a very convenient base for this popular activity. This balance of being immersed in nature while remaining reasonably accessible makes it an ideal local getaway.

Services Offered:

• Individual campsites for RVs (up to 30 feet) and tents
• Pull-through and back-in sites available
• First-come, first-served basis for most individual sites
• One extra-large reservable group site (accommodating up to six trailers)
• Vault toilets (outhouses)
• Potable water available from hand pumps (availability can vary, especially late season)
• Picnic tables at each site
• Fire rings at each site
• Friendly and attentive camp hosts
• Bear-resistant food storage bins available
• Pets allowed (on a leash)

Features / Highlights:

• Extremely close proximity (1.5 miles) to Crystal Park for quartz digging
• Located in the beautiful tall pines and meadows of Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest
• Affordable nightly rates, with discounts for Interagency Senior/Access Passes
• Spacious campsites, offering room for multiple tents or trailers
• Opportunity for wildlife viewing (deer, moose, elk)
• Access to hiking and ATV/UTV trails directly from the campground area
• Part of the scenic Pioneer Mountain Scenic Byway
• Engaged and friendly camp hosts who actively maintain the campground
• Peaceful atmosphere conducive to relaxation and outdoor enjoyment
• Offers a true disconnect due to lack of cell phone coverage

Contact Information:

Address: Polaris, MT 59746, USA

Phone: (406) 683-3900 (Dillon Ranger District, Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest)

Mobile Phone: +1 406-683-3900

In conclusion, Price Creek Campground is an exceptionally suitable destination for Montana locals seeking an authentic and engaging outdoor experience. Its prime location within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, coupled with its close proximity to Crystal Park, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and recreational opportunities. The campground's affordability, well-maintained facilities, and the presence of friendly, diligent camp hosts contribute to a highly positive and welcoming environment. While campers should be prepared for mosquitoes and the "pack in/pack out" trash policy, these are minor considerations for those who appreciate the untouched beauty and rustic charm of a National Forest campground.

For any Montanan looking to explore the Pioneer Mountains, delve into the unique experience of digging for quartz crystals, or simply enjoy a peaceful retreat amidst tall pines and abundant wildlife, Price Creek Campground is a top recommendation. It embodies the spirit of Montana's outdoors – rugged yet accessible, wild yet welcoming. Its consistent positive feedback from visitors, highlighting the good experiences and the intention to return yearly, solidifies its reputation as a cherished local gem. Plan your trip, embrace the wild, and discover why Price Creek Campground is perfect for your next Montana adventure.