Most wildfires are preventable. Be fire safe

The best camping in Painted Rocks State Park, MT

Name: Painted Rocks State Park
Address: Painted Rocks State Park

Head here for forested lakeside camping in the Bitterroot Mountains.

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Painted Rocks State Park adventure.

Top-rated campsites near Painted Rocks State Park

Oxen-Le-Fields Montana

1. Oxen-Le-Fields Montana

100%

(32)

18mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 3 sites

Welcome to Oxen-Le-Fields Montana! With one cozy cabin and two 12 x 14' wall tents, our 6 sunny acres are surrounded by the Bitterroot National Forest. Whether you're hunting, hiking, or just looking for a quiet getaway, the camp offers remarkable views including an abundance of wildlife, Sula Peak, and forest hills as far as the eye can see. Nestled against the national forest, we have direct access to forest roads that go for miles. Come discover the beauty of the Bitterroot at Oxen-Le-Fields Montana. Nearby attractions include: • Bitterroot National Forest (immediate access) • Bitterroot River (1/2 mile) • Sula Peak Lookout (5 miles) • Lost Trail Ski Resort (16 miles) • PRCA rodeos in Darby (13 miles) • Lee Metcalf National Wildlife Refuge (57 miles) • Daly Mansion in Hamilton (34 miles) • Lake Como (17 miles) • Chief Joseph Ranch, site of Yellowstone TV series (14 miles) • Big Hole National Battlefield (33 miles)

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Camp Sula

2. Camp Sula

100%

(20)

19mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 8 sites

Welcome to the Historic Camp Sula! Camp Sula has been around for over 100 years and sits right near the Bitterroot River on the East Fork. Our location is just minutes from the Big Hole Battleground, Lewis and Clark Trail, Ross Hole, the Medicine Tree, and the famous Dutton Ranch, where the hit television series Yellowstone is filmed. Camp Sula is also located 12 miles north of Lost Trail Ski Resort, where we offer ski and stay packages. The area offers great fishing access, hiking trails, and the beauty of the surrounding mountains and rivers around our property. The campground also offers a general store , stock with a great selection of craft beer, domestic beer, wine, snack, snacks food fresh made breakfast burritos, deli sandwiches, baked goods, and a great gift shop. We set right on the East Fork branch of the Bitterroot River. You are a stones throw away from great fishing on the river. We have a fish feeding pond where there is no fishing allowed but people of all ages enjoy feeding our fish, the serenity and beauty that surround will make it worth your trip. We can give you a complete list of things to do in the general area, from great Hot Springs to hiking to fishing.

Pets

Full hookups

South Valley RV Site - Riverfront

3. South Valley RV Site - Riverfront

99%

(65)

23mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 1 site

Located on the Bitterroot River in Darby, Montana. Step out of your RV and into the river! Enjoy peace and solitude, knowing you will have the entire property to yourself. The town of Darby is a mile from the property. Beautiful river views and views of the Bitterroot and Sapphire mountains. Watch the river and wildlife, relax, adventure, and enjoy! Steps from the Yellowstone Dutton ranch from the television show Yellowstone. Full hookups, including 50 amp power, water, and septic. Dogs are allowed but MUST be in your physical presence at all times.

Pets

Full hookups

Breathtaking beaverhead basecamp

4. Breathtaking beaverhead basecamp

93%

(35)

42mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

Learn more about this land:Flat spot, decently private with a babbling ditch and view of the beaverhead mountains. Outhouse available complete with new toilet seat. All the delicious well water you can handle. Also, access to a slide in camper with a little wood stove and a propane cooktop. Available upon request.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Mountain Majik

5. Mountain Majik

97%

(133)

43mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 2 sites

Picture an idyllic setting, meadows dotted with horses and wildlife, encircled with breathtaking views of the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountain ranges. Horses from our breeding program are now in 8 different countries. But more importantly are the lives that have been touched in positive ways from this beautiful land and what it has produced. We share our home with horses, deer, elk, and birds of many kind. From the majestic bald eagles to the flashy Chinese pheasant. Nature is vibrant and alive. Peace and magnificent beauty abounds...and we want to share that with you. Learn more about this land: Experience the magic of Montana and the Bitterroot Valley - a feast for your senses! Wake up to the sound of the birds singing and the gurgling of a small stream right outside your door. Smell the intoxicatingly fresh mountain air. Watch the dazzling palette of colors as the sun disappears behind the Rocky Mountain peaks. Educational ranch tours of Majik Arabians are available. Nearby you can float the Bitterroot River, fish Blue-Ribbon trout streams, hike, bike, or ride horses on the many mountain trails. Have your own horse with you? There is a place for your companion, too! To top it off there are natural hot springs nearby to soak in after a fun and adventurous day. Enjoy the local flavor of multiple breweries, wineries, and restaurants. Plan enough days to bask in the beauty of Bitterroot Valley! If your planning on staying during the school months, anywhere between the end of August to the end of April, us this code for 10% off Code: XSTHVZJT

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Cactus River Ranch RV

6. Cactus River Ranch RV

97%

(124)

47mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

Currently, the property has 3 full RV hook-up with water, 30-50 amp power and septic (Site #1 - 30 amp, Site #2 - 50 & 30 amp, Site #3 - 50 & 30 amp). There is also 1 campsite for either a vehicle or tent, with access to complete bathhouse and shower facilities. Cactus River Ranch is located 12 minutes outside of Salmon, Idaho along the Salmon River. The sites have river front views with your own private river access. Hiking and mountain biking options are available right out the back door up Henry's Creek trail. Amazing fly fishing or bird watching location! Williams Lake is located 6 miles up the road and offers a variety of recreation activities including fishing, swimming, paddle-boarding, canoeing, or sight seeing. If you are looking for an area that is out of town, THIS IS IT!! We also have overnight stalls available for horses. Please make sure RV tanks are empty in order to hook up to septic. No RV dump station on site. With the river location, we get very windy conditions along the river corridor. Awnings can easily become damaged during these conditions. Please take notice and consider putting awnings away so that they don't get damaged. Along the same lines, please don't have campfires if the winds are high. Make sure your dogs are on a leash. We have mules on the property that DO NOT like dogs. This is for the safety of your dog. No fireworks on the premises. We do have a couple small trash cans that get dumped on Thursdays...that being said....we are NOT a dump. If trash cans are full or you have large items, please haul your trash to Lemhi County Landfill. They are open Monday-Friday: 7am-5:15pm and have dumpsters open on the weekend.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Lemhi River Natural Area Camping

7. Lemhi River Natural Area Camping

100%

(10)

48mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

Welcome to our serene retreat along the picturesque Lemhi River. Situated on five acres downstream from a magnificent river restoration project, our property offers a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike. Cast your line into the pristine waters of the Lemhi River and enjoy the thrill of fishing in one of nature's finest playgrounds. As night falls, marvel at the brilliance of the star-studded sky and listen to the soothing sounds of the surrounding wilderness. With direct access to BLM land, adventure awaits just beyond our doorstep. Lace-up your hiking boots or hop on your mountain bike to explore the scenic trails that wind through the rugged terrain. For a relaxing escape, take a short drive to Sharkey Hot Springs and immerse yourself in the rejuvenating waters. Whether you're seeking solitude in nature or seeking adventure in the great outdoors, our unique property along the Lemhi River offers the perfect retreat for your next getaway.

Pets

Campfires

Potable water

West Fork Hansen Hide Away

8. West Fork Hansen Hide Away

7.2mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

Hi! Thanks for checking out our spot. My husband and I are excited to host! RV Hookup Site on the West Fork • 50-amp electrical box with a pigtail conversion (50 ➡️ 30) for overload protection ✅ • Water access via frost-free spigot and hose on property ✅ • No sewer dump site 🚫 • No dogs or cats, please — our dogs like to roam and we want to avoid any aggressive interactions 🚫 Location: • About a 10-minute drive to Painted Rocks Lake (great for fishing 🎣) • 25–30 minutes from Darby, 20 minutes to Conner • Quiet area near river access points 🏞 • Just a few miles from Nez Perce Rates: • $30 per night or $180 per week 💲 • Unavailable October 20 – November 8 We’re not looking to rent long-term at the moment. Message me with any questions or booking details ☺️

Campfires

Potable water

Rye Creek Lodge

9. Rye Creek Lodge

22mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 5 sites

A Unique Montana Luxury Lodge Tucked away in the southern reaches of Montana's Bitterroot Valley between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks. Experience renowned hospitality and the captivating splendor of one of Montana’s best lodges set near the vertex of the awe-inspiring Bitterroot and Sapphire Range's of the Rocky Mountains. Rye Creek Lodge offers a vacation experience of distinguished rustic elegance amidst the beauty of a high mountain ranch. Our rustic Montana ranch features a fine selection of private luxury log cabins. At Rye Creek, travelers enjoy a truly romantic setting with unrivaled scenery, a wide variety of native wildlife, and an array of outdoor activities. Come join us for a memorable ranch/resort hotel experience and truly relax in our exemplary accommodations located near Darby, MT. Activities include trail riding, wilderness hiking, world class fly fishing, fly casting lessons, and white water rafting. Fly fishing is rewarding on the Bitterroot, Selway, Salmon and Big Hole Rivers or the many nearby alpine lakes. For a slower pace, relax on your cabin’s front porch and view wildlife or visit a hot spring. Our luxury hand-hewn log cabins are nestled in a beautiful ranch/resort setting and offer excellent privacy. Cabins are generously distanced from each other by 100 yards or more. Each luxury log cabin has a massive river rock fireplace, modern kitchen, and laundry facilities. Several fine restaurants are located within 10 minutes. Rye Creek Lodge is a unique Montana luxury lodge ranch resort located at the southern end of the scenic Bitterroot Valley near Darby. Rye Creek meanders through 120 acres, providing over a mile of prime habitat for moose, elk and deer. Several ponds create an oasis in the "high country" of Montana. Granite outcroppings, large Ponderosa and numerous Quaking Aspen provide close-up views while Trapper Peak looms overhead. Escape to one of the finest luxury hotel cabin ranch resorts in Montana. Join us at Rye Creek Lodge for an unforgettable private Montana ranch/resort cabin experience. Make your reservations today…

Toilets

Showers

Campfires

4 Private RV Ranch Sites in Montana’s Bitterroot Valley

10. 4 Private RV Ranch Sites in Montana’s Bitterroot Valley

100%

(2)

26mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 4 sites

Private river access across the street Only 5.5 miles from Lake Como. A beautiful stream runs the length of the property. There are FOUR RV hookups AMPLE PARKING Clean, well-maintained, and peaceful. Enjoy gorgeous sunsets and sunrises. No dump station is available. NON-potable water (YES) A dumpster is provided for trash. 10 acres of beautiful grassy land

Electrical hookup

Pets

Sapphire View

11. Sapphire View

37mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 1 site

Escape to Montana's beautiful Bitterroot Valley in this tiny house retreat. Enjoy indoor-outdoor living with views of the Sapphire Mountains and glimpses of the Bitterroot River. A gated keypad entry provides added privacy. In addition there is a tent site available near fire pit for extra room. Please inquire. Located between Hamilton and Darby, you're just minutes from world-class fishing, river access, scenic trails, local restaurants, breweries, and endless outdoor recreation. Whether you're here to fish, explore, or simply unwind, this cozy tiny house is the perfect Montana base camp. The space This thoughtfully designed tiny house makes the most of its 240 square feet, offering everything you need for a comfortable stay. The private bedroom features a queen bed and TV, while the living area includes a full-size futon and a second TV. The open layout makes the space feel much larger than its footprint. Guests enjoy a private setting with mountain views, gated keypad entry, and convenient access to the Bitterroot River, Hamilton, and Darby. The owners live on the property and are available if needed while respecting guests' privacy. Please note that there is one step onto the porch and two steps into the tiny house. As with much of Montana, the property features natural, uneven terrain. Guest access The property is gated, and the entry code will be provided on the day of check-in.

Toilets

Showers

Wifi

Sally’s Backyard

12. Sally’s Backyard

100%

(1)

39mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 1 site

Sally's Backyard offers a private, fully fenced RV campsite in the heart of Salmon, Idaho, making it a convenient and peaceful base for your next adventure. Perfect for RV travelers, campervans, and small camping setups, the site features 30- and 50-amp electrical hookups, water hookups, a picnic table, and a fire pit for relaxing evenings outdoors. Pets are welcome, and the fenced yard provides added privacy and peace of mind. Enjoy beautiful mountain views while staying within walking distance of local shops, restaurants, and other amenities in downtown Salmon. Whether you're exploring the Salmon River, hiking nearby trails, fishing, or simply passing through, Sally's Backyard offers a comfortable and convenient place to unwind after a day of adventure. Please note that there are no bathroom or shower facilities on site, so guests must be self-contained.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Mountains Hideaway Campground

13. Mountains Hideaway Campground

67%

(6)

41mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Mountains Hideaway Campground: A Minimalist Oasis in the High Desert Tucked behind Off the Beaten Path Saddlery in Salmon, Idaho, Mountains Hideaway Campground offers simple, dry camping with wide-open skies and mountain views—just minutes from town. 🌾 Note: This is high desert terrain. Grass is dry mid-to-late summer through fall. Not a lush green lawn—just honest Idaho beauty. What You’ll Find Here 🛖 Dry Camping Simplicity No water or electric hookups—just a level space for your RV or tent, room to breathe, and the freedom to create your own experience. 🌌 Open Skies With no tall trees or light pollution, this is a stargazer’s dream. Bring a blanket and enjoy the Milky Way above you. 🛍 Convenient Location Steps from a locally owned store offering western apparel, snacks, gifts, and more. Campers can use the indoor bathroom during store hours and visit with friendly locals. 🔥 Shared Firepits Relax and unwind around our communal firepits (weather permitting). Great for marshmallows and conversation. 🎠 Small Play Area Located beside Tent Site 1 and across from several RV sites—a cozy space for little ones to play while you relax nearby. 🐾 Pet-Friendly Bring your well-behaved pets! There’s room to roam, sniff, and explore. 🗑 Trash Cans for Bagged Trash Available next to the store building for camper use. Please bag all trash and keep the space clean for everyone. Amenities 🚽 24/7 Portable Toilet 🚿 Showers during store hours – $5 (towel rental $1) 💧 Potable water access (bring your own containers) Nearby Adventures 🎣 Salmon River – fish, float, or relax by the water 📜 Sacajawea Center – local history, Lewis & Clark info 🛶 Rafting Tours – whitewater or scenic floats 💦 Hot Springs – nearby soaking spots to unwind 🥾 Hiking Trails – explore the rugged Lemhi Valley This is a dry camping site: no hookups, no individual fire rings, and no green lawns. But if you love peace, stars, and rustic charm—it’s perfect. 💬 Ask about our monthly rates, which include free shower use. Secure your spot and embrace the beauty of the simple life at Mountains Hideaway Campground. 🏕️🌄

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Black Rabbit RV Park

14. Black Rabbit RV Park

100%

(3)

42mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 5 sites

Black Rabbit RV park is located in the beautiful Bitterroot Valley on the Bitterroot River. Check out how to get here as well as what we have to offer during your stay. We know you will enjoy your stay, whether you are on vacation, or just need a place to park your R.V. while your new house is being built. If you are new to the area, check out some of the fantastic attractions we have here in Montana. We will do everything possible to make your visit the best. Our services are the finest around. When you’re in the wilds of Montana, you’ll find that there’s a lot to enjoy. At Black Rabbit RV, we’ve made it our mission to help our guests experience everything they can near Hamilton, MT. Whether you’re exploring town or venturing the mountains, there’s something for everyone to enjoy here.

Pets

Full hookups

The Pond @ Sapphire Meadows

15. The Pond @ Sapphire Meadows

46mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 1 site

Escape to simplicity in this cozy, single-room, off-grid tiny cabin, perfect for those looking to disconnect and enjoy the outdoors. Nestled in a peaceful natural setting, the cabin offers a rustic retreat free from the distractions of modern conveniences. The cabin features a comfortable open living and sleeping area designed for relaxation and taking in the surrounding scenery. There is no electricity or running water, allowing guests to experience a true off-grid lifestyle. Bottled drinking water is provided for your convenience, and a traditional outhouse is located nearby. Outdoor cooking is easy with the provided barbecue grill and side burner, making it simple to prepare meals while enjoying the fresh air and beautiful surroundings. We also provide a camp coffee pot, a French press, dishes for two, and paper plates and cups. Whether you're seeking a quiet getaway, a base camp for outdoor adventures, or a chance to unplug and recharge, this cabin offers a unique and authentic back-to-nature experience.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

SpiritWood Natural Building

16. SpiritWood Natural Building

47mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 1 site

Set on five acres at the end of a quiet dirt road, just past a full disc golf course, the property features multiple ponds, lush trees, and plenty of space to relax. The cabin is a 110-square-foot straw-bale and earthen structure with solar electricity. Drinking water is provided inside the cabin, but there is no running water or refrigeration. An outdoor shower and composting toilet are available for guest use. Cabin Includes: • Drinking water • Electricity • Full-size bed • Sleeping bench • Rocket mass heater • Electric kettle

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Bitterroot Farm Getaway

17. Bitterroot Farm Getaway

100%

(9)

47mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 1 site

Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Bitterroot Valley and embrace the farm life experience on our small family farm. Nestled on the East side of the valley, slightly above the valley floor, our farm offers breathtaking vistas of sunrises over the Sapphire Mountains and sunsets over the Bitterroot Mountain Range. Situated in a rural farming area, our 5-acre property sits at the end of a private road, providing a tranquil and secluded retreat. Explore our expansive yard and pasture, where you'll encounter a delightful array of farm animals including horses, chickens, ducks, rabbits, farm cats, and friendly farm dogs. Wander through our bountiful vegetable garden and vibrant flower gardens, and keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, hawks, owls, killdeer, and other resident birds. Choose from several campsites tailored to accommodate RVs, trailers, tents, and LQ horse trailers. Our grassy, open pasture area offers easy access and flexibility for various setups. While leveling your trailer may be necessary depending on your chosen spot, rest assured that power and water hookups are available from the pedestal. Although sewer hookups are not currently available, we're happy to provide information and assistance as needed. Unwind in the evenings around the firepit, where wood is provided for your enjoyment under the starlit sky. The Bitterroot Valley beckons with a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, swimming, boating, golfing, trail riding, and wildlife and bird watching. The nearby Bitterroot River offers fantastic fishing opportunities just 10 minutes from our farm, while hiking trails are conveniently located within 5 to 20 minutes. Explore charming towns such as Corvallis, Hamilton, and Stevensville, each offering their own historic charm and attractions, including the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge. Winter activities include downhill skiing at Lost Trail Ski Area, cross country skiing at Chief Joseph Pass, and snowshoeing which are about an hour away. For groups of friends or family traveling together, please refer to the extras section for additional accommodations. If you're traveling with your horses, rest assured there's plenty of room—simply check out the extras section for more details.

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Panoramic Views at The Silo

18. Panoramic Views at The Silo

48mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 5 sites · RVs, Lodging

Welcome to The Silo. Once grain storage bins on a working dairy farm, these twin silos have been re-purposed into a brand new 2-story living space in the heart of the Bitterroot Valley. Three out of four original generations still make their home on this location which has transitioned from a full-time dairy farm to a host property. Acres on which to roam with your dog leash free (pet fee), a pond busy with birds & critters, incredible scenery, and delightful small towns along Hwy 93 await!

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Cloud Nine views of the valley

19. Cloud Nine views of the valley

49mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 1 site

This listing is no longer available. Apologies for any inconvenience. I’m working on deleting the listing

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

Pets

Luna NM-1

20. Luna NM-1

1013mi from Painted Rocks State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

1 Acre on New York Rd, Deming, NM — Off-Grid Desert Land with Mountain Views in Every Direction This is a one-acre vacant parcel on New York Road in the Sunshine Valley Ranchettes subdivision of Luna County, New Mexico. Located approximately 22 to 38 miles outside of Deming, the terrain is flat with native grasses and desert scrub. Luna County has three mountain ranges visible from the subdivision: Cooke's Range to the north, the Florida Mountains to the west (reaching 7,000 feet), and the Tres Hermanas Mountains to the southwest. The subdivision is surrounded by thousands of acres of public land, which limits nearby development and keeps the area open. There are no structures on the parcel; this is fully off-grid land with no electricity, water, or sewer available. Water wells in this area typically reach 300 to 400 feet in depth.

Pets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

4 Private RV Ranch Sites in Montana’s Bitterroot Valley

Stef

1 week ago

25 ft campervan

1 night at 4 Private RV Ranch Sites in Montana’s Bitterroot Valley

Beautiful spot, easy to find. If we ever come back, we'll stay here again! Thanks!

Lisa

2 weeks ago

40 ft Class A

Weekend Trip to South Valley RV Site - Riverfront

Great spot right on the river with full hookups. Easy to access and nice to have the entire place to yourself. Stayed for 2 nights and explored the area, including Lake Como, Painted Rocks State Park and the town of Darby. Grocery store and restaurants are very close by. We used Darby as the starting point on our drive south on the Salmon River Scenic Byway. Highly recommend taking this beautiful route! If we are ever back in Darby, we would definitely stay at this Hipcamp again.

Louis

2 weeks ago

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Cactus River Ranch RV

Really nice place to visit. Clean, private, and safe. Would definitely book again.

Leanne

2 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Cactus River Ranch RV

We had a wonderful week at Jessica’s very special place! We had site #1, looked out at the river, loved the full plug-in, sewer and water as well as the level spot and the convenient and clean bathrooms. The views were beautiful and it was extremely quiet. We will definitely be back!

Lesia

2 weeks ago

25 ft travel trailer

2 nights at South Valley RV Site - Riverfront

Nice and quiet - just no river access was only downside!

Brooklyn

2 weeks ago

1 night at Oxen-Le-Fields Montana

Loved it! Super cute, amazing views, and the bed was super comfortable!

Nettie

3 weeks ago

21 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Lemhi River Natural Area Camping

Unfortunately we didn’t get to stay at the site due to the fires, but the host was incredibly understanding and responsive!

Marie

3 weeks ago

32 ft Class C

3 nights at Camp Sula

We enjoyed Camp Sula. The campground is clean, well kept and attractive with the fishpond and the river on the outside border. Wendy was great to send everything we would need to know before we arrived. She was also very helpful to give us suggestions to areas we might want to visit specific to our preferences.

Ian

3 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

2 nights at Cactus River Ranch RV

This is a very special location with great facilities right on the bank of the North Fork of the Salmon River. It has to be right up there with the best Hipcamp sites available. We’ll definitely be back …

Jocelyn

3 weeks ago

4 nights at Oxen-Le-Fields Montana

This campsite was one of the best I’ve gone to. Lynda was very nice and an amazing host. The bed is comfortable and all the amenities worked well. We loved our stay there and will do it again soon.

vince

August 2026

26 ft travel trailer

4 nights at South Valley RV Site - Riverfront

The site was clean, quiet and restful. Right next to the Bitterroot river. Lots of animal life around the area. Close to town but still quiet. Loved it. Full hookups for our RV.

Thomas

August 2026

20 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Sally’s Backyard

Quaint little backyard oasis in Salmon, in a quiet neighborhood. A lot of thought, care and hard work went into making this an enjoyable place to stay. Picnic tables, a little green lawn, a little sandbox, a fire pit (when not prohibited due to fire ) and an umbrella for shade. Also, some old cottonwood’s provide shade in the latter part of the day. Easy to get to, a few blocks off of Highway 93 and a short trip to restaurants and river fun in town. Host was helpful and quickly answered questions when asked.

Vickie

August 2026

22 ft travel trailer

With pets

3 nights at Cactus River Ranch RV

The ONLYYYY negative thing about our stay was having to leave so soon!! 5 nights wasn’t long enough!! It was AMAZING!!! We had a LOVELY experience at this private property campsite. What impressed me THE MOST was the clean, freshly groomed grounds. AND it has 2 full CLEAN bathrooms with showers and a mini kitchen and full size washer and dryer!! There are 3 full hook ups right on the river, 1 glamping tent and another tent or rv space that doesn’t have hookups. If you have to have WiFi, I know campsite 1 was excellent and maybe 2 and 3. I should have tested that! But I’m certain Jessica would let you know. It was quiet and peaceful and we actually added an extra day because we enjoyed it so much! We WILL come again and we WILL bring all our friends and family! We just loved it so much that it will become an annual stay.

Jody

August 2026

29 ft Class C

With pets

7 nights at Mountain Majik

First off Telesha is super sweet. Our campsite was perfect. Just the right amount of shade and privacy. Not that we don’t like people but we were very fortunate to have the area to ourselves. We spent the majority of our time visiting our old friends and neighbors. leaving in the morning and returning at night . We gad electric and water which was exactly what we needed. The grounds are kept immaculate and the grass was super doft. We 100% recommend this HipCamp spot! Thank you for a peaceful and beautiful stay.

Linda

July 2026

30 ft travel trailer

1 night at South Valley RV Site - Riverfront

This property was lovely. The river was great for bird watching and the occasional fisherman. It was great to have a space all our own with full hookup. Would come again for sure!

Deborah

July 2026

22 ft travel trailer

1 night at South Valley RV Site - Riverfront

We liked the location. Quiet next to the river and short distance from town. However, no shade. So be prepared.

Kim

July 2026

25 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Camp Sula

We have been here multiple times, one of our favorite camping spots! Campgrounds are always well maintained, bathrooms always clean!

David

July 2026

29 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Cactus River Ranch RV

Great spot right on the river. Electric and water hookups. Bathrooms and shower house was spectacular. Easy back in gravel spots. Host was nice. Short mountain ride to Williams lake. Do this at dusk and dawn. Beautiful sunset and Lake. Nice grocery store and gas close. Nice town.

Gina

July 2026

25 ft toy hauler

With pets

Weekend Trip to 4 Private RV Ranch Sites in Montana’s Bitterroot Valley

The scenery here was beautiful! The place was just two minutes down the road from the Lake Como turn off, and Jeremiah was a very friendly and hospitable host. We would definitely stay again!

CHRISTINA

July 2026

32 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to South Valley RV Site - Riverfront

Nice place to stay right next to the river. It is right outside of Darby with good access to town.

Painted Rocks State Park camping guide

Overview

About

Painted Rocks State Park puts campers deep in Montana’s Bitterroot Mountains and right on the banks of Painted Rocks Reservoir, which derives its name from the orange, yellow, and green lichens that cover its surrounding cliffs. Situated in a pine forest with views of surrounding peaks, the park’s boat ramp and dock make it easy for boaters, fishers, and swimmers to enjoy the sub-alpine water. The surrounding Bitterroot National Forest has numerous hiking trails accessing the range’s summits, where camper are likely to spot wildlife like moose, mule deer, bighorn mountain sheep, elk, or even bald eagles. The sole Painted Rocks State Park campground features 25 campsites with fire rings and picnic tables but no hookups or potable water. At all but two sites, the maximum vehicle length allowed is 25 feet. RV campers seeking more space and full hookups should look at RV resorts in nearby Darby and Hamilton.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Of the park’s 25 campsites, six can be reserved in advance for Thursdays through Sundays during peak season (Memorial Day to Labor Day).
Aside from the six mentioned above, all campsites are first-come, first-served, so early arrival is key.
If you need a backup plan, the Bitterroot National Forest’s Slate Creek Campground is also close by on the reservoir.

When to go

The Painted Rock campground is open year-round, but summer is the peak season for a good reason—the weather is great and the reservoir is a perfect way to cool down. Summer and fall visitors should monitor wildfire activity in the area. Snow can fall in this area as early as September, though November is typically when large accumulation occurs.

Know before you go

Painted Rocks State Park is a primitive state park. There is no potable water available at the campground (you’ll need to bring your own) and campers must pack out all trash.
Painted Rocks State Park has excellent nighttime visibility for stargazing as a Class 1 location on the Bortle dark sky scale.
With a black bear presence in this region, campers should store food in bear-resistant containers or coolers and carry pepper spray on hikes.
The nearest grocery store is 35 minutes north of the park in Connor.