Pintler Campground and Picnic Area

For Montanans yearning for a true escape into the vast and unspoiled wilderness, Pintler Campground and Picnic Area offers a perfect, unassuming haven. Tucked away in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest near Wise River, this Forest Service campground is a cherished secret for those who appreciate peace, quiet, and the raw beauty of Montana's outdoors without the fuss of commercialized facilities or the burden of fees. It's a place where the sounds of nature prevail, and the simple pleasures of camping truly shine.

Pintler Campground and Picnic Area isn't about luxury or extensive amenities; it's about authentic, primitive camping. This fee-free site provides the bare essentials, encouraging visitors to embrace self-sufficiency and fully immerse themselves in the surrounding natural environment. It's an ideal spot for tent campers, or those with smaller RVs or trailers, who are seeking solitude and direct access to outdoor activities like fishing and hiking in a stunning mountainous setting.

With its emphasis on being "out of the way," Pintler Campground promises a tranquil retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. It’s a place to reconnect with nature, enjoy good fishing in Pintler Lake, and discover nearby trails that lead into the vast Pintler Wilderness. If you're a local looking for an unadulterated Montana camping experience, where the stars shine bright and the air is crisp, Pintler Campground and Picnic Area awaits your discovery.

Pintler Campground and Picnic Area is located on N Fork Rd, Wise River, MT 59762, USA, deep within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. To reach this serene spot from Wise River, you'll need to take Highway 43 West for approximately 30 miles. From there, turn onto Forest Road 185 and continue north for about 12 miles. The campground sits at an elevation of 6,300 feet, surrounded by mountainous terrain and forested areas, offering a truly immersive wilderness experience.

The journey to Pintler Campground is part of its charm, leading you further away from civilization and deeper into the quietude of the forest. The access road (Forest Road 185) is described as mostly gravel, and while it might have some washboard sections, it is generally passable. However, due to the nature of the road and the limited space at the campsites, it is generally recommended for trailers no longer than 18-20 feet. This helps maintain the campground's quiet, secluded atmosphere and ensures that larger vehicles do not encounter difficulty navigating or parking.

Its remote location means that cell phone coverage is typically non-existent in the area, providing a true opportunity to unplug. This contributes to the peaceful ambiance that many visitors seek. Pintler Campground's out-of-the-way nature makes it a perfect destination for those who appreciate being off the beaten path, away from the crowds often found in more accessible campgrounds.

Pintler Campground and Picnic Area offers a rustic camping experience with essential services that cater to self-sufficient outdoor enthusiasts. While it lacks modern conveniences, its fundamental offerings ensure a comfortable stay for those embracing the wilderness.

• Campsites: The campground typically features a small number of campsites, often listed as 3 units, though some sources may indicate a few more. These sites are shaded by surrounding trees, providing natural cover and a sense of privacy. Each site generally includes a picnic table and an established fire pit, perfect for cooking over an open flame or enjoying a campfire under the stars. The maximum recommended trailer length for these sites is around 18-20 feet, making it ideal for tents and smaller RVs/trailers.
• Toilets: Pit toilets (vault toilets) are available on-site. While basic, they are typically maintained to be clean, providing a necessary convenience in this primitive setting.
• Water: It is crucial to note that there is no potable (drinking) water available at Pintler Campground. While a creek runs near the campground, and Pintler Lake is adjacent, visitors must bring their own supply of drinking water for all their needs or have a reliable method for filtering and treating natural water sources.
• Fee-Free Camping: A significant highlight of Pintler Campground is that there are no camping fees required for its use. This makes it an incredibly appealing and economical option for locals looking to enjoy the Montana wilderness.
• Pet-Friendly: Pets are allowed at the campground, provided they are kept on leashes. This allows Montanans to bring their furry companions along on their outdoor adventures.
• No Garbage Service: Following Leave No Trace principles, there is no garbage service at the campground. Visitors are expected to pack out everything they pack in, helping to preserve the pristine natural environment.
• First-Come, First-Served: Campsites at Pintler Campground operate on a first-come, first-served basis, meaning reservations are not accepted. It's advisable to arrive early, especially during peak seasons, to secure a spot.

Pintler Campground and Picnic Area, despite its simplicity, boasts several key features and highlights that draw Montanans seeking an authentic outdoor experience:

• Quiet and Remote Setting: One of the most praised aspects of Pintler Campground is its quiet, out-of-the-way nature. It offers a genuine escape from noise and crowds, allowing visitors to truly enjoy the serenity of the Montana wilderness. This peaceful atmosphere is a significant draw for those looking to disconnect.
• Excellent Fishing Opportunities: Pintler Lake, a small, non-motorized lake, is adjacent to the campground, providing good fishing opportunities. Reviews specifically mention that fishing can be "good" in Pintler Lake, making it a prime spot for anglers to try their luck.
• Proximity to Pintler Falls: Pintler Falls is located only one-and-a-half miles from the campground, offering a relatively easy hike to a beautiful natural feature. This makes for a great short excursion directly from your campsite.
• Access to Pintler Wilderness: The campground serves as an excellent gateway to the vast Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness area. This offers extensive opportunities for hiking, backpacking, and exploring the rugged mountain scenery, providing a truly immersive wilderness experience.
• Free Camping: As a fee-free Forest Service campground, Pintler offers an incredibly accessible and economical option for enjoying the outdoors. This makes it a popular choice for budget-conscious campers and those who value public land access.
• Stunning Natural Surroundings: The campground is nestled in a beautiful forested area with mountainous terrain, offering picturesque views and a refreshing natural environment. Wildlife viewing is also a possibility in this wild setting.
• Primitive Charm: For those who appreciate camping in its most basic and unadulterated form, Pintler Campground's primitive nature is a highlight. It encourages self-reliance and fosters a deeper connection with the natural world, away from modern distractions.

Pintler Campground and Picnic Area is managed by the U.S. Forest Service as part of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. For general inquiries about the campground, current conditions, or forest regulations, you can contact the relevant Ranger District.

Address: N Fork Rd, Wise River, MT 59762, USA

Phone: (406) 832-3178 (This number is associated with the Pintler Ranger District or a general forest service line. While this number is provided for the campground, direct contact for this specific primitive site may route to a broader district office.)

Mobile Phone: +1 406-832-3178 (This is the same number, often listed as a mobile contact for the district.)

For more detailed or specific information, it is often best to contact the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest Headquarters or the local Ranger District that oversees the Wise River area. The Wise River Ranger District is the most relevant contact for this specific campground.

Wisdom Ranger District (often responsible for parts of the area, though Wise River Ranger District is more direct for Pintler Campground):

Address: 300 Forest Service Rd, Wisdom, MT 59761

Phone: (406) 689-3243

It is always recommended to check the official U.S. Forest Service website for the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest for the most up-to-date information on operating seasons, road conditions, fire restrictions, and any alerts relevant to Pintler Campground and Picnic Area, as conditions can change. Since it’s a first-come, first-served campground, calling ahead can help confirm general access but not site availability.

For Montanans, Pintler Campground and Picnic Area embodies the very essence of what makes living in this state so special: vast, accessible wilderness that offers genuine escape and unparalleled natural beauty. Its fee-free status is a significant draw, allowing local residents to enjoy high-quality outdoor recreation without financial barriers, making it a sustainable option for regular retreats. The "out of the way" location and primitive nature appeal directly to the Montana spirit of self-reliance and appreciation for unspoiled environments, providing a true break from the demands of modern life. This isn't a place for those seeking glamping or resort-style amenities; it’s for those who want to hear the rustle of leaves, the quiet lapping of water on Pintler Lake, and the distant calls of wildlife.

The excellent fishing opportunities, combined with direct access to hiking trails into the majestic Pintler Wilderness, make it a perfect base for authentic Montana adventures. Whether it’s a weekend fishing trip, a quiet family camping outing, or a starting point for a backcountry trek, Pintler Campground offers a genuine connection to the land. Its small size ensures a more intimate and less crowded experience, fostering the sense of peace and privacy that many Montanans cherish in their outdoor pursuits. In essence, Pintler Campground and Picnic Area is a testament to Montana’s commitment to preserving its wild spaces, offering locals a beloved spot to unwind, explore, and truly live the "Last Best Place" experience.

Pintler Campground and Picnic Area

N Fork Rd, Wise River, MT 59762, USA