Grasshopper Campground and Picnic Area

Hello, fellow Montanans! If you're seeking a true escape into the heart of our stunning natural landscapes, where the air is fresh, the sounds of a babbling creek lull you to sleep, and the sense of peace is palpable, look no further than Grasshopper Campground and Picnic Area. Tucked away along the scenic Pioneer Mountains Scenic By-Way, this gem within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest offers a quintessential Montana camping experience that comes highly recommended by those who’ve discovered its charm.

This article is specifically designed for you, the local Montana user, to provide a clear, engaging, and informative overview of Grasshopper Campground. We’ll explore its serene location, detail the essential services it provides, and highlight the unique features that make it a cherished spot among its visitors. Our goal is to equip you with all the factual information needed to plan your next peaceful outdoor adventure, whether you're looking for a relaxing picnic spot, a comfortable base for hiking, or simply a tranquil place to reconnect with Montana's wild beauty.

What truly sets Grasshopper Campground apart, as consistently praised by its guests, is its exceptional upkeep and the welcoming presence of its camp hosts. Visitors rave about the cleanliness of the facilities and the attentive, kind nature of the hosts, which significantly enhances the camping experience. Imagine waking up to the gentle sounds of Grasshopper Creek, surrounded by mossy trees and plenty of shade – that's the experience awaiting you here.

This isn't a bustling resort-style campground; instead, it offers a more authentic, well-maintained Forest Service experience. It strikes a perfect balance between providing necessary amenities and preserving the natural integrity of its beautiful surroundings, making it an ideal choice for Montanans seeking genuine outdoor tranquility.

Grasshopper Campground and Picnic Area is located on the Pioneer Mountains Scenic By-Way, near Wise River, MT 59762, USA. It sits at an elevation of approximately 6,900 feet within the expansive Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, which is Montana's largest national forest. The campground is nestled in a steep canyon, adjacent to the picturesque Grasshopper Creek.

Access to Grasshopper Campground is generally straightforward for Montana locals. From Dillon, you can travel south on Interstate 15 for about 3 miles, then take Highway 278 exit. Drive west on Highway 278 for approximately 22 miles, then turn north onto Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway (Forest Road 73) for about 13 miles to reach the campground. The Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway itself is a 49-mile long paved road, offering stunning views and several interpretive sites along the way, including Coolidge Ghost Town and the Grand Vista Overlook, making the journey to the campground part of the adventure. While it's located in a serene natural setting, it remains within reasonable driving distance of communities like Dillon (approximately 42 miles southeast) and Wise River (a small rural community 32 miles north with a post office and small convenience store/gas station), ensuring some level of convenience for supplies.

• 24 designated campsites, accommodating both tents and RVs/trailers up to 25-30 feet in length.
• Each campsite includes a picnic table and an established fire ring with a grate.
• Potable drinking water is available from hand pumps during the open season (typically June through September, weather dependent).
• Well-maintained, ADA-accessible vault toilets (outhouses) are provided. As per reviews, these are notably clean and well-stocked with toilet paper.
• A day-use picnic area is available for visitors not staying overnight.
• Bear-resistant food storage boxes are available to ensure food safety in an area with wildlife.
• Firewood is available for purchase from the camp host.
• Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash.
• This is a "pack it in, pack it out" campsite, meaning no garbage services are provided. Campers are responsible for packing out all their waste.
• A group site is available for larger gatherings, which can accommodate two to three trailers.

• Beautiful creekside setting with the soothing sounds of Grasshopper Creek, providing a tranquil backdrop for your stay.
• Abundant shade from Lodgepole pines and mossy trees, offering a cool and comfortable camping environment.
• Exceptionally clean and well-maintained campground and facilities, frequently praised by visitors.
• Attentive and kind camp hosts who contribute significantly to a positive and welcoming experience.
• Close proximity to numerous hiking trails, with some starting directly from the campground, offering access to a larger network for outdoor enthusiasts.
• Opportunities for wildlife viewing, including deer, elk, moose, and even chipmunks (which can be quite entertaining!).
• Ideal location for fishing in Grasshopper Creek for various trout species.
• Access to the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway, a beautiful drive offering additional recreational and interpretive sites.
• Nearby attractions include Crystal Park (a 30-acre area open to the public for digging for quartz crystal) and Elkhorn Hot Springs Resort for a relaxing soak after a day of activities.
• Provides a peaceful and quiet atmosphere, making it perfect for relaxation and disconnecting.
• A maximum stay limit of 16 days, allowing for extended enjoyment of the area.

Address: Pioneer Mountains Scenic By-Way, Wise River, MT 59762, USA

Phone: (406) 683-3900 (This is the general Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest Supervisor's Office. For more direct campground inquiries, the Dillon Ranger District office, which manages this area, might be more specific: (406) 683-3900).

Mobile Phone: +1 406-683-3900 (Same as above).

Note: Cell phone service is generally NOT available at this site, as per information from the Forest Service. This can be a highlight for those looking to truly unplug, but a consideration for others.

For Montana locals seeking an authentic, peaceful, and impeccably maintained forest camping experience, Grasshopper Campground and Picnic Area is an outstanding choice. It truly embodies the spirit of our state's wild beauty, offering a serene escape that feels both remote and welcoming. The consistent praise for its cleanliness and the dedication of its camp hosts speaks volumes, ensuring a pleasant and hassle-free visit every time.

Its location along the Pioneer Mountains Scenic By-Way means that the journey itself is part of the adventure, leading you through some of Montana's most captivating landscapes. Once there, the easy access to hiking trails, the opportunities for fishing in Grasshopper Creek, and the overall tranquil atmosphere make it perfect for unwinding and enjoying nature's simple pleasures. The plentiful shade and the soothing sounds of the creek create an ideal environment for relaxation, meditation, or simply reading a good book.

While cell service may be limited or non-existent, for many Montanans, this is a feature, not a bug – an invitation to truly disconnect and immerse oneself in the moment. The proximity to unique attractions like Crystal Park and Elkhorn Hot Springs adds further appeal, providing diverse recreational options for a longer stay. Whether you're planning a day picnic, a weekend tent trip, or an RV adventure up to 30 feet, Grasshopper Campground offers a pristine and friendly setting that is deeply suitable for locals looking to experience the best of Montana's Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.

Grasshopper Campground and Picnic Area

Pioneer Mountains Scenic By-Way, Wise River, MT 59762, USA