Beaverdam Campground and Picnic Area

For Oregonians, the call of the wild is a familiar tune, and when it comes to finding that perfect blend of tranquility, natural beauty, and convenient access, Beaverdam Campground and Picnic Area near Butte, Montana, answers with a resounding echo. Nestled within the expansive Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, this USFS-managed campground offers a truly refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle, providing a serene forest setting where privacy is cherished and wildlife sightings are a delightful bonus. If you're a local seeking a quiet, clean, and accessible spot to unwind, pitch a tent, or park your RV, Beaverdam Campground is a hidden gem waiting to be discovered.

Montana is synonymous with wide-open spaces, towering forests, and an abundance of opportunities for outdoor adventure. Beaverdam Campground perfectly encapsulates this spirit, offering a calm and peaceful environment that many of us Montanans prioritize in our outdoor excursions. Unlike some bustling campgrounds, Beaverdam is designed to provide a sense of seclusion, allowing you to truly immerse yourself in the natural sounds and sights of the forest. We understand that local users value well-maintained facilities, ample space, and the chance to observe the rich wildlife that defines our state. Beaverdam delivers on all fronts, promising a comfortable and memorable camping experience that connects you deeply with Montana's wilderness.

In the following sections, we'll delve into the convenient location and accessibility of Beaverdam Campground, outlining how easily you can reach this peaceful haven from various points in Montana. We’ll detail the specific services and features that set it apart, from its well-spaced campsites and clean amenities to its proximity to hiking and fishing opportunities. We’ll also provide essential contact information and offer a comprehensive overview of why Beaverdam Campground and Picnic Area is not just another camping spot, but a truly suitable and highly recommended destination for Montana locals eager to embrace the serene beauty of their home state.

Beaverdam Campground and Picnic Area is conveniently located within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, with its address linked to Butte, MT 59701, USA. More specifically, it's situated in the Fleecer Mountain Range, approximately 17 to 20 miles south of Butte and west of Interstate 15. This location offers excellent accessibility for many Montanans, particularly those residing in the western and central parts of the state.

From Butte, access to Beaverdam Campground is straightforward. Visitors can take I-15/I-90 west for about 7 miles, then merge onto I-15 south for approximately 12 miles. The campground is then accessed by taking the Feeley exit (Exit 111) and driving west on Forest Service Road #96 (Divide Creek Road) for roughly 6 miles. The campground will be found on the left. The gravel road leading to the campground is generally "suitable for passenger vehicle access," making it easy to reach for most vehicles, including those towing trailers up to 50 feet.

The accessibility is a significant advantage for locals, allowing for relatively quick drives from population centers like Butte, Bozeman, and Helena. This makes Beaverdam an ideal spot for weekend getaways or even longer stays without the burden of extensive travel. While it feels wonderfully secluded once you arrive, its proximity to Butte means that essential supplies, groceries, and even a quick pizza run are just a 20-mile drive away, providing a comfortable balance between rustic camping and convenient access to town amenities. This blend of remote tranquility and practical accessibility makes Beaverdam Campground a highly appealing destination for Montanans seeking outdoor recreation.

Beaverdam Campground and Picnic Area, managed by the US Forest Service, offers a well-maintained yet rustic camping experience in a beautiful forested setting. Based on customer reviews and public data, here are the services and features you can expect:

Services Offered:

• Campsites: The campground features 15 developed sites. These sites are designed to accommodate both tents and RVs/trailers up to 50 feet in length. There are five pull-through sites, with the remaining being back-in sites. Tent pads are available at most sites.

• Spacious and Private Sites: A key highlight from customer reviews is that campsites are "far enough away from each other that you have a little bit of privacy," contributing to a quiet and calm atmosphere.

• Vault Toilets: Clean vault toilets are available throughout the campground, ensuring basic sanitation needs are met.

• Potable Drinking Water: Potable water is available at the campground, typically through hand pumps. Water is generally available during the operational season (Memorial Day through Labor Day).

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings/Grills: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, often with a grill, for cooking and campfires (when conditions allow).

• Designated Picnic Area: In addition to individual site amenities, there is a dedicated day-use picnic area with picnic tables and barbecue pits, ideal for group gatherings or non-camping visitors.

• Group Fire Pit: A group fire pit is available, offering a communal gathering space.

• Operational Season: The campground is typically open seasonally from the Friday before Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, weather dependent. Water and garbage services might not be available during shoulder seasons.

• Fee: There is a $15.00 per night fee for a single campsite. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide a 50% discount. Payment is typically cash or check at a self-pay station.

• 16-Day Stay Limit: A maximum stay limit of 16 days is enforced.

• Wood Available: Wood can generally be found within the campground area for campfires.

Features / Highlights:

• Beautiful Forest Setting: The campground is interspersed within evergreen and aspen trees, creating a pleasant and scenic environment, noted by visitors as a "beautiful campground."

• Quiet and Calm Atmosphere: Many reviewers emphasize the peaceful nature of the campground, often reporting that it's "pretty quiet and calm most of the time," making it ideal for relaxation.

• Wildlife Viewing: The area is rich with wildlife. Campers have reported seeing "lots of wild visitors to camp," including deer, and the proximity to bear country means being "bear prepared" is essential.

• Proximity to Divide Creek: The campground is located along Divide Creek, providing opportunities for fishing in the creek.

• Access to Hiking Trails: It is in close proximity to various hiking trails, including access to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (approximately 2 miles north) and other motorized loop trails within the Fleecer Mountain Range.

• Off-Road Motorized Vehicle Trails: The Fleecer Mountain Range offers over 40 miles of trails for motorized recreation, providing loop riding opportunities for OHV enthusiasts.

• Dark Skies for Stargazing: Being away from significant light pollution, the campground offers excellent opportunities for stargazing, with the stars reportedly "pop" in the night sky.

• Well-Maintained Facilities: Reviewers consistently commend the cleanliness of the bathrooms and the overall well-maintained nature of the campground.

Visitors should always be bear aware, storing food and garbage properly, and checking current conditions with the Butte Ranger District, especially regarding fire restrictions and road conditions during shoulder seasons.

For those planning a visit to Beaverdam Campground and Picnic Area or seeking more information, here is the essential contact information:

Address:Butte, MT 59701, USA

(Note: While the ZIP code is for Butte, the campground is located south of Butte in the Fleecer Mountain Range, accessible via Forest Service Road #96 off I-15's Feeley exit.)

Phone:(406) 683-3900

Mobile Phone:+1 406-683-3900

This phone number connects to the Butte Ranger District of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, which manages Beaverdam Campground. This is the primary and most reliable source for up-to-date information regarding:

• Current operational status of the campground, including opening and closing dates (Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather dependent).

• Road conditions, especially during spring and fall when the access road may be muddy or have patchy snow.

• Availability of water and garbage services during shoulder seasons.

• Current fire restrictions, which are crucial for campfire planning.

• Specific regulations for camping, food storage (bear preparedness), and motorized trail use in the area.

• General information about the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.

The Butte Ranger District office can also provide insights on local hiking trails, fishing opportunities in Divide Creek, and other recreational activities nearby. It is highly recommended to contact them prior to your visit, especially if you are traveling during the early or late parts of the season, to ensure a smooth and enjoyable camping experience.

Beaverdam Campground and Picnic Area stands out as an exceptionally suitable destination for locals across Montana, perfectly embodying the spirit of outdoor recreation that defines our state. Its unique blend of tranquility, accessibility, and natural beauty makes it an ideal choice for a wide range of Montana residents seeking an authentic and peaceful escape.

Firstly, its strategic location near Butte, within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, provides remarkable accessibility for many Montanans. The relatively short and scenic drive from major population centers means less time on the road and more time spent enjoying the serene forest. For locals seeking a convenient weekend getaway or a longer family vacation without extensive travel, Beaverdam Campground offers that perfect balance of feeling remote while still being within easy reach of necessary town amenities.

Secondly, the campground truly delivers on the promise of a peaceful and private camping experience. As highlighted by local reviewers, the "campsites are far enough away from each other that you have a little bit of privacy," creating a quiet and calm atmosphere. This is a significant draw for Montanans who value solitude and the opportunity to truly disconnect from the daily grind. The absence of overwhelming crowds, even in July according to one review, allows for a deeper appreciation of the natural sounds and sights of the forest, fostering a genuine connection with Montana's wilderness.

Moreover, Beaverdam Campground offers a diverse range of recreational opportunities that cater to various outdoor interests, all within a short distance. The proximity to Divide Creek allows for fishing, while extensive hiking and motorized trails in the Fleecer Mountain Range, including access to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, provide endless exploration possibilities. For families, the "lots of area to explore nearby" ensures that children have plenty of space for adventure. And for those who cherish wildlife, the frequent "wild visitors to camp," from deer to the possibility of bears (highlighting the need for proper food storage), enhance the authentic Montana experience.

Finally, the well-maintained facilities, including "clean bathrooms" and available "drinking water," ensure a comfortable stay, even within a rustic forest setting. The affordable $15 fee per night makes it an economical choice for extended stays. For Montana locals, Beaverdam Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent; it's a cherished retreat where they can relax, reconnect with nature, observe incredible wildlife, and create lasting memories in the heart of our beautiful state. It's a testament to the quiet, wild beauty that Montana offers, solidifying its place as a perfect local destination for outdoor enthusiasts.

Beaverdam Campground and Picnic Area

Butte, MT 59701, USA