Afterbay South Campground

For those of us who call Montana home, there's a deep-seated appreciation for the quiet, untamed wilderness that defines our state. Finding a campground that captures this spirit, while still offering the basic comforts needed for a relaxing trip, can be a true gem. Afterbay South Campground, located near Fort Smith, is just such a place. It's a destination that perfectly balances the rugged beauty of the Bighorn Canyon with the practical needs of modern campers. This article is your guide to understanding what makes Afterbay South Campground a prime spot for your next Montana adventure, whether you're bringing an RV or a tent.

As a dedicated campground, Afterbay South provides a back-to-basics experience that allows you to truly disconnect and immerse yourself in nature. Unlike a busy RV park or a full-service resort, this site is focused on providing a clean, quiet, and secure environment for enjoying the outdoors. The peaceful atmosphere, a hallmark of this campground, is what draws many visitors seeking a tranquil retreat. While the area is popular with fly fishermen and guides, the campground itself offers a serene setting to relax and enjoy the scenic views. It’s a place where you can watch the beautiful birds, admire the local flora, and simply unwind to the sounds of the natural world.

Afterbay South Campground is located at Fort Smith, MT 59035, USA, a location that places it squarely within the stunning Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area. This accessibility is one of its greatest assets. The campground is situated not far from the town of Fort Smith, offering a convenient base camp for exploring the surrounding area. While a small local market is available for bare-minimum supplies, it's wise to come prepared with everything you need. The campground’s setting by the Afterbay lake provides easy access to fishing and other water-based activities. For those traveling with a vehicle, on-site parking is available, including a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, making it easy to unload and set up your camp. The park is well-maintained and provides secure food storage lockers to protect against wildlife, ensuring a safe and stress-free stay.

Afterbay South Campground offers a range of essential services designed to make your camping trip more comfortable, without taking away from the authentic outdoor experience. These offerings are particularly appealing to RV and tent campers looking for a mix of rustic charm and necessary amenities.

• RV Camping: The campground is well-suited for recreational vehicles, with sites that can accommodate a variety of sizes.
• RV Electric Hookup: A number of sites are equipped with electric hookups, providing power for your essential devices.
• RV Water Hookup: Fresh running water is available at each RV site, eliminating the need to haul your own water.
• Tent Sites: For those who prefer a more traditional camping experience, dedicated tent sites are available and provide a perfect spot for pitching your tent.
• Onsite Services: The campground features a number of onsite services to make your stay easier, including a large dumpster for trash disposal.

The highlights of Afterbay South Campground are what truly define the experience for visitors. These features speak to the park's focus on providing a family-friendly, pet-welcoming, and enjoyable environment for everyone.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, perfect for outdoor dining and family meals.
• Public Restrooms: The campground offers public restrooms, which are kept clean and available for use. While there are no showers, the toilets provide a necessary convenience.
• Running Water: Guests can find spigots with running water for cooking and cleaning.
• Good for Kids: With a variety of natural areas to explore and plenty of space to run around, the campground is a great place for children to enjoy the outdoors.
• On-site Parking: All sites offer on-site parking, so you can park your vehicle conveniently right at your campsite.
• Dogs Allowed: Your four-legged family members are welcome here, with dogs permitted on a leash throughout the campground, allowing them to join in on the fun.

For any questions, concerns, or to gather more information about your upcoming visit to Afterbay South Campground, the provided contact information can be used. It is always a good practice to check for any updates on fees or availability before your trip, especially since camping fees are a more recent addition to this previously free site.

Address: Fort Smith, MT 59035, USA

Phone: (307) 548-5406

Afterbay South Campground is a truly worthy choice for those seeking an authentic and peaceful Montana camping experience. What sets this campground apart is its unpretentious, nature-first approach. It's not a place with flashy amenities or constant noise; instead, it's a quiet, beautiful spot that allows you to connect with the incredible landscape of Bighorn Canyon. The provision of RV hookups for electricity and water is a significant convenience that makes camping here accessible without losing the feeling of being in the wilderness. The on-site food storage boxes are a practical and important feature, acknowledging the local wildlife and prioritizing camper safety. While there may be occasional disturbances from early-morning or late-night fishermen, the overall quietude and natural beauty make it an ideal place for relaxation. For those who love to fish, hike, or simply sit by a campfire under a Montana sky, Afterbay South offers a beautiful and well-maintained setting. It's a testament to the idea that a great campground doesn't need to be over-the-top; it just needs to be a clean, safe, and beautiful place to enjoy the best of what the outdoors has to offer.

Afterbay South Campground

Fort Smith, MT 59035, USA