Fourth of July Campground and Picnic Area

For Montanans with a deep appreciation for their state's breathtaking natural beauty and a desire for a peaceful, accessible camping experience, the Fourth of July Campground and Picnic Area is an exceptional find. Nestled along the picturesque Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway, between the charming communities of Wise River and Polaris, this campground is consistently lauded by locals as a top-tier destination. It’s a place where the grandeur of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest provides a stunning backdrop for outdoor recreation and quiet relaxation.

More than just a spot to pitch a tent or park an RV, Fourth of July Campground offers a truly immersive Montana experience. While there are "no pull thru sites," this detail often highlights its more intimate and natural layout, which many campers prefer. It’s known for its clean sites, the soothing presence of the Wise River flowing nearby, and fresh water from a hand pump – small details that contribute significantly to a comfortable stay. Despite the potential for a "lack of trees which means very limited shade," its many pros, including its quiet atmosphere and excellent access to activities, firmly establish it as a favorite among those who know the area well. Whether you're a seasoned angler, a family seeking a serene base for adventures, or simply passing through and needing a refreshing break, Fourth of July Campground embodies the best of Montana's outdoor offerings.

Fourth of July Campground and Picnic Area is strategically located in a highly scenic part of Montana, specifically near Wise River, MT 59762, USA. Its prime position is along the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway (Forest Service Road 73), a renowned route offering spectacular views and access to various recreational sites. To reach the campground, travelers from the intersection of Montana Highway 43 and the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway (FS Road 73) simply proceed south on FS Road 73 for approximately 12 miles. It's nestled about 12 miles south of Wise River, providing a convenient balance between secluded nature and proximity to basic amenities.

The campground’s location on a paved scenic byway generally ensures good accessibility for various vehicle types, including RVs and trailers (with a maximum recommended length of 30 feet for trailers). While there are "no pull thru sites," the compacted gravel sites and paved interior access trails make maneuvering relatively easy. Its setting along the Wise River, which flows along its east side, adds to its accessibility for fishing and water-related activities. For Montanans, this combination of scenic drive, straightforward access, and relative closeness to the small town of Wise River (where you can even find someone else to do the cooking if you wish!) makes it an ideal and practical choice for outdoor getaways.

Fourth of July Campground provides essential services designed to enhance a comfortable yet authentic outdoor experience. As a Forest Service campground, it offers fundamental amenities while maintaining a natural and less developed feel.

• Campsites: The campground features 6 individual campsites. Sites 1-2 are combined, making them ideal for groups or larger RVs/Toy Haulers (suitable for single large 5th Wheels/ToyHaulers/RVs, up to 30 feet recommended trailer length). The remaining sites are single spots. The sites are made of compacted gravel with paved interior access trails.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite, including the combined group site, is equipped with picnic tables (two for the combined site, one for singles). There are also a few dedicated day-use picnic sites available.
• Fire Rings: All campsites feature metal fire rings with grills, allowing for traditional campfires and outdoor cooking.
• Fresh Water: Potable water is available via a hand pump, typically from June 1st through September 15th. Visitors are advised to give "FULL pumps on the water pump" as it takes "10" pumps to get water flowing.
• Restrooms: The campground provides 2 newer, updated, and ADA-accessible vault outhouses, ensuring basic, clean restroom facilities.
• No Garbage Service: Campers are required to "pack it in, pack it out," meaning all trash and waste must be carried out of the campground.
• First-Come, First-Served: All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not typically accepted. This means planning ahead for popular times like holiday weekends is crucial.
• Stay Limit: There is a 16-day camping limit for all sites.
• Fees: A modest fee of $15 per night is charged to stay, with an additional fee of $5 for extra vehicles. No fees or water are available in the off-season, though vault toilets remain stocked if accessible.

Fourth of July Campground’s appeal lies in its distinctive features and the serene yet adventurous environment it offers, making it a favorite among Montanans seeking diverse outdoor activities and tranquility.

• Quiet and Low Thru Traffic: A major highlight, consistently praised by visitors, is the campground's quiet atmosphere and low through traffic. This ensures a peaceful and relaxing camping experience, ideal for unwinding.
• Riverside Location: The Wise River flows directly along the east side of the campground, providing pleasant ambient sounds and easy access for fishing and enjoying the water.
• Decent Fishing: The Wise River is known for its fishing opportunities, offering campers the chance to catch various fish species, making it a popular spot for anglers.
• Clean Sites: Visitors frequently commend the cleanliness of the campsites, contributing to a pleasant and enjoyable stay.
• Group-Friendly Sites: Sites 1-2 are combined to create a larger, versatile space, "great for groups or single large 5th Wheels/ToyHaulers/RVs," offering flexibility for different camping needs.
• Proximity to Local Amenities: The campground is "close enough to the town of Wise River if you want to let someone else do the cooking," providing convenient access to basic services and dining options.
• Access to High Altitude Mountain Lakes: The campground serves as a launching point for accessing several stunning high altitude mountain lakes via nearby trailheads, such as Lacey Creek or Odell Trailheads, offering challenging and rewarding hikes.
• Proximity to Historical Sites and Attractions:
  • Coolidge Ghost Town: A fascinating historical site for exploration.
  • Crystal Park: A unique opportunity to dig for quartz crystals, providing a fun and interactive activity for all ages.
• Floating/Fishing the Big Hole River: The beautiful Big Hole River, renowned for its fly-fishing, is easily accessible from the campground, offering another excellent option for water-based recreation.
• Paved Interior Trails: The paved interior access trails and paved parking pads contribute to the overall neatness and ease of navigation within the campground.
• Stargazing: With limited light pollution, the open nature of the campground (due to a "lack of trees") can offer excellent opportunities for stargazing on clear nights.

Fourth of July Campground and Picnic Area is managed by the U.S. Forest Service, specifically within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. For the most current and accurate information, it's best to contact the relevant Forest Service office.

Address: Wise River, MT 59762, USA (Located along the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway)

Phone: (406) 533-7600 (This number likely connects to the Wise River Ranger District or a general information line for the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.)

Mobile Phone: +1 406-533-7600 (Same as above)

For inquiries about current conditions, fire restrictions, site availability (as sites are first-come, first-served), or any specific regulations, it is highly recommended to call the provided phone number or visit the official USDA Forest Service website for the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.

For Montanans, Fourth of July Campground and Picnic Area stands out as an exceptionally suitable and highly cherished outdoor destination. Its blend of affordability, natural beauty, and strategic location along the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway makes it an ideal spot for a wide range of local outdoor enthusiasts. The modest $15 per night fee, especially appealing for budget-conscious families, encourages more frequent and longer stays, allowing locals to truly immerse themselves in the surrounding wilderness.

The campground's quiet ambiance and low traffic are significant draws, providing the peaceful retreat that many Montanans seek when escaping city life. Its well-maintained, clean sites, complete with picnic tables, fire rings, and fresh water from a hand pump, offer essential comforts without detracting from the authentic camping experience. While the limited shade might be a consideration, it's often outweighed by the overall positive features and the incredible access to diverse activities.

From the excellent fishing opportunities in the Wise River and nearby Big Hole River to the challenging yet rewarding hikes to high-altitude mountain lakes, and the unique historical explorations at Coolidge Ghost Town and Crystal Park, Fourth of July Campground serves as a fantastic basecamp for quintessential Montana adventures. Its popularity, particularly on holiday weekends (a testament to its appeal among locals), underscores its suitability. This campground truly embodies the spirit of accessible wilderness, offering Montanans a beloved spot to relax, explore, and create lasting memories in the heart of their magnificent state.

Fourth of July Campground and Picnic Area

Wise River, MT 59762, USA