Merry Widow Health Mine

Hello fellow Montanans! Are you seeking a truly unique and restorative camping experience that goes beyond the ordinary? Look no further than Merry Widow Health Mine & Campground in Basin. This isn't just another scenic spot to park your RV or pitch your tent; it's a destination that combines the tranquility of a riverside campground with the intriguing allure of a natural health mine. For generations, visitors have flocked here, drawn by both the peaceful atmosphere and the reported health benefits of the mine's unique properties. This article is designed to give you a comprehensive overview of what makes Merry Widow Health Mine & Campground a truly distinctive gem in our great state, helping you discover if this special place is the perfect fit for your next Montana adventure.

Merry Widow Health Mine & Campground stands out as a destination unlike any other in Montana. It masterfully blends the beloved elements of traditional camping – fresh air, serene river views, and starry nights – with an extraordinary natural feature: the health mine. This combination offers a holistic experience, allowing you to not only enjoy the beautiful outdoors but also potentially benefit from the mine's unique environment. It’s a testament to Montana's diverse offerings, providing a space where relaxation and wellness can converge. Whether you're curious about the mine's reported benefits for conditions like arthritis or asthma, or simply desire a peaceful retreat by the Boulder River, Merry Widow promises a stay that is both memorable and potentially transformative. We'll explore the convenient location, the array of services tailored for campers, the unique features that make it special, and ultimately, why this particular spot is gaining a reputation as a must-visit for locals.

Merry Widow Health Mine & Campground enjoys a highly accessible and scenic location, making it a convenient destination for Montanans and visitors alike. Situated at 29 Frontage Road, Basin, MT 59631, USA, the campground is easily reached, typically just off Interstate 15 at Exit 156. This direct access from a major highway is a significant advantage, particularly for those traveling with RVs of any size, as it minimizes complicated routes and ensures a smooth arrival. You won't have to navigate challenging backcountry roads to reach this tranquil spot, which is a common concern for many campers.

The beauty of its location extends beyond mere accessibility. The campground is nestled along the picturesque Boulder River, providing many sites with "a site that backed up to the river" or "a very nice view out the back window of the Boulder River." This riverside setting offers a peaceful ambiance, with the soothing sounds of flowing water as a constant backdrop, perfect for unwinding. While Basin itself is a small town with limited amenities (visitors are advised to "starch up before you come here" as it has "only a great restaurant, no groceries"), its proximity to larger towns like Boulder (about 9 miles away, with a grocery store, gas station, and medical clinic) and even Butte and Helena (roughly 30 minutes away) ensures that essential supplies and services are within a reasonable drive. This balance of secluded natural beauty with convenient access to nearby towns makes Merry Widow Health Mine & Campground a practical and appealing choice for your next Montana getaway.

Merry Widow Health Mine & Campground offers a comprehensive suite of services designed to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay for all its guests, catering to both traditional campers and those visiting for the health mine experience. These amenities reflect a commitment to providing convenience and a welcoming environment.

• Full Hookup RV Sites: The campground offers a variety of RV sites, including those with full hookups (water, electricity, and sewer). This is a highly valued service for RVers, providing all the comforts of home while enjoying the great outdoors. There are also electric-only and no-hookup sites available, catering to different preferences and camping styles.

• Clean Restrooms and Showers: Essential for any comfortable camping experience, Merry Widow provides clean restrooms and showers. While some reviews indicate a coin-operated shower system, their availability is a significant convenience, allowing campers to refresh themselves after a day of exploration or mine visits.

• On-Site Laundry Facilities: For longer stays or just to freshen up your clothes, a coin-operated laundry facility is available in the recreation hall. This service is invaluable, especially for those traveling for extended periods.

• Access to Health Mine Facilities: This is a unique and primary service of the Merry Widow. Campers have convenient access to the Merry Widow Health Mine, allowing them to participate in the radon therapy sessions. The mine offers benches for sitting and areas to soak feet in natural spring water, with staff guiding first-time visitors through the recommended treatment schedule (e.g., 32 one-hour visits over 10-11 days). Spring water from the mine is also available for drinking.

• Dog-Friendly Amenities: The campground is noted for being "Great for your dog too." While dogs are not allowed in the main human-congregating areas of the mine, there is a "Doggie Den" within the mine specifically for pets to experience the radon benefits, highlighting their commitment to accommodating furry family members.

• Recreation Hall: A nice Recreation Hall is available on-site, offering a communal space for campers. This can be a great spot for gathering, relaxing, or escaping inclement weather.

These services ensure that Merry Widow Health Mine & Campground provides a well-rounded and comfortable experience, whether your focus is on traditional camping or exploring the unique health benefits of the mine.

Merry Widow Health Mine & Campground boasts several distinctive features and highlights that set it apart, making it a truly unique destination for those exploring Montana. These elements contribute significantly to the overall positive experience and the reasons why many campers return year after year.

• Riverside Camping: A standout feature is the opportunity for riverside camping. Many sites, such as the often-praised Site 23, "backed up to the river," offering a "Very nice view out the back window of the Boulder River." The ability to "sit out during the day and enjoy the flowing river" provides an exceptionally peaceful and picturesque setting, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature's soundtrack.

• The Health Mine Experience: The Merry Widow Health Mine itself is the most significant highlight. This unique feature offers the potential for therapeutic benefits, with many visitors reporting relief from ailments such as arthritis and asthma after spending time in the mine, breathing the naturally emitted radon gas and soaking in the spring water. This singular offering creates a truly distinct experience not found in conventional campgrounds.

• Wonderful, Helpful Staff: Customer reviews consistently praise the "wonderful, helpful staff." From knowing campers' names after a couple of days to providing tours of the mine, the friendly and attentive service creates a welcoming and personalized atmosphere, making visitors feel valued and cared for.

• Friendly Community of Campers: Beyond the staff, the campground fosters a friendly environment among its visitors. Reviewers note that "Campers were friendly as well," contributing to a pleasant and sociable atmosphere where connections can easily be made.

• Pet-Friendly with Unique Pet Therapy: Not only is the campground generally dog-friendly, but the existence of a "Doggie Den" within the health mine is truly unique. This dedicated space allows pets to also experience the mine's reported benefits, showcasing an exceptional level of accommodation for animal companions.

• Scenic Mountain Setting: Beyond the river, the campground is "nestled in the mountains," providing a beautiful natural backdrop. This mountainous setting, combined with the river, offers a visually appealing environment for outdoor activities and relaxation.

These combined features create a destination that offers both the joys of traditional camping and a one-of-a-kind wellness opportunity, all supported by a welcoming community.

For those interested in experiencing the unique offerings of Merry Widow Health Mine & Campground, reaching out is simple. The staff are known for their helpfulness and can provide information regarding camping availability, mine access, and any other questions you may have before your visit.

• Address: 29 Frontage Road, Basin, MT 59631, USA

• Phone: (406) 225-3220

• Mobile Phone: +1 406-225-3220

It is always a good idea to contact them directly, especially if you plan to utilize the health mine, as treatments may require specific scheduling or package considerations. Their direct phone lines ensure you can get the most accurate and up-to-date information to plan your stay effectively and maximize your experience at this distinctive Montana destination.

For us Montanans, Merry Widow Health Mine & Campground offers a compelling and multi-faceted reason to visit, making it exceptionally suitable for locals seeking both relaxation and unique experiences. Firstly, its prime location just off I-15 near Basin makes it incredibly accessible from various parts of the state, ensuring that a spontaneous weekend getaway or a planned therapeutic retreat is well within reach without extensive travel. The core appeal for many lies in the unparalleled combination of a peaceful, "riverfront" camping experience with the potential health benefits of the Merry Widow Health Mine. As locals, we often deal with the aches and pains that come with an active Montana lifestyle, and the consistent testimonials about relief from conditions like arthritis and asthma offer a hopeful and intriguing reason to visit. It’s an opportunity to explore a natural remedy that has been cherished by many for generations, right in our backyard.

Beyond the health aspects, the campground itself provides a wonderfully relaxing environment. Imagine waking up to the sound of the Boulder River flowing just outside your RV window, enjoying a cup of coffee with a "very nice view out the back window." This serene setting provides the perfect backdrop for unwinding and reconnecting with nature, something we Montanans deeply value. The "awesome place with wonderful, helpful staff" creates a welcoming and friendly atmosphere, where you quickly feel like part of a community, rather than just a transient visitor. This personal touch, where staff "knew our names after a couple days," fosters a sense of belonging that enhances the overall experience. Furthermore, the explicit dog-friendly policy, extending even to a dedicated "Doggie Den" within the mine, means that our beloved canine companions can share in the adventure and potentially benefit from the mine's properties too, which is a huge plus for many Montana families. While Basin itself is small and requires stocking up on groceries beforehand, this minor inconvenience is easily outweighed by the peaceful retreat and potential wellness benefits offered. For Montanans looking for a truly unique and restorative escape that blends outdoor beauty with an intriguing health proposition, Merry Widow Health Mine & Campground is not just suitable – it's an essential destination to consider.

Merry Widow Health Mine

29 Frontage Road, Basin, MT 59631, USA