Price Creek Campground

For Montanans who cherish the raw beauty of our state and seek an authentic, no-frills camping experience, Price Creek Campground in Polaris is a hidden gem. Nestled within the vast Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, this campground offers a serene escape into tall pines and provides convenient access to some of Montana's unique natural attractions, most notably Crystal Park. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the great outdoors, making it an ideal destination for families, rockhounders, and anyone looking for a peaceful retreat.

Price Creek Campground is known for its well-maintained, rustic charm and friendly atmosphere, embodying the spirit of a true national forest campground. While it offers essential amenities, it encourages self-sufficiency and a deeper appreciation for the natural environment. This guide will provide an in-depth look at what makes Price Creek Campground a highly suitable choice for Montanans planning their next adventure, from its unique layout to the helpfulness of its camp hosts and its proximity to a truly special destination.

Price Creek Campground is located near Polaris, MT 59746, USA, within the expansive Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. Situated at an elevation of 7,873 feet, it is surrounded by a dense forest of Lodgepole pines, offering ample shade and natural beauty. This location places it perfectly for exploring the Pioneer Mountains area of southwest Montana.

The campground is nestled along the picturesque Pioneer Mountain Scenic Byway, a 49-mile-long drive that travels the length of the Pioneer Mountain range. Access to the campground is via paved roads, making it relatively easy to reach for both tents and trailers up to 30 feet in length.

Driving directions involve a scenic route: From Dillon, travel 3 miles south on I-15 and take exit 59 to MT HWY 278. Continue west on 278 for 22 miles to the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway turnoff (Road 73). Proceed north for approximately 16 miles on the Scenic Byway, then turn right onto FS Road 2406 for about 0.25 miles to the campground entrance. From Butte, travel approximately 20 miles south on I-15 and take exit 102 to MT HWY 43. Travel east on 43 for 12 miles to Wise River, MT. From Wise River, turn south onto the Pioneer Mountain Scenic Byway (HWY 73) and proceed approximately 28 miles; the campground will be on your left (FS road 2406).

A significant highlight of its location is its extremely close proximity to Crystal Park, being "only a few minutes drive" (specifically, about 1.5 miles north). This makes Price Creek an ideal base for those planning to spend time digging for quartz crystals. It's also within a reasonable drive of communities like Dillon (approximately 46 miles southeast) and Butte (65 miles northeast) for larger supply runs, and Wise River (28 miles north) for a post office and convenience store/gas station.

Price Creek Campground provides a range of essential services for a comfortable, yet rustic, camping experience:

• Campsites: The campground offers 21 individual "first come first serve" sites and one extra-large reservable group site that can accommodate up to six trailers. The layout includes both "back in" sites on the outer loop and "pull through" sites on the inner loop, providing flexibility for different vehicle types.
• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each individual campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires (always check for current fire restrictions). The group site has a large fire pit in the middle and multiple picnic tables.
• Vault Toilets: Accessible vault toilets are provided throughout the campground, described as well-maintained, though one review noted a broken latch on one, with a friendly warning.
• Drinking Water: Potable drinking water is available from hand pumps throughout the campground, typically from late May through mid-September, dependent on weather conditions. Campers should always confirm water availability, especially later in the season.
• Bear-Resistant Food Storage: Bear-resistant food storage bins are available on-site, a crucial feature given that the area is in bear country. Following food storage orders is mandatory for safety.
• Friendly Camp Hosts: A notable service is the presence of dedicated and friendly camp hosts, who are often the first point of contact upon arrival. They are attentive, helpful, and conduct regular rounds to ensure safety and cleanliness, as praised by visitors.
• No Garbage Service: A key point for all campers is the "pack it in, pack it out" policy. There are no trash cans or dumpsters, requiring visitors to haul out all their trash, promoting environmental responsibility.

Price Creek Campground offers several compelling features and highlights that draw campers to this beautiful Montana location:

• Rustic Mountain Setting: Situated at 7,873 feet amidst Lodgepole pines and wildflowers, the campground offers a beautiful, shaded, and authentic high-mountain forest experience. Meadows on both sides of the campground enhance the scenic beauty and provide opportunities for wildlife viewing.
• Proximity to Crystal Park: This is arguably the biggest draw. Crystal Park, a unique 30-acre area, is just 1.5 miles away and is open to the public for digging for quartz crystals (including smoky quartz and amethyst) using hand tools. This provides a fun, educational, and often rewarding activity for all ages.
• Friendly and Attentive Camp Hosts: Multiple reviews rave about the camp hosts, describing them as "very friendly," "super sweet and helpful," and attentive to both new arrivals and ongoing visitor well-being. Their regular rounds and willingness to provide local information (like bear sightings) significantly enhance the sense of safety and welcome.
• Variety of Site Types: With both back-in and pull-through sites, the campground accommodates various RV sizes (up to 30 feet) and tent setups, offering flexibility for different camping preferences.
• Affordable Camping: At $8 per night ($4 with an America the Beautiful Pass discount), it offers an extremely budget-friendly option for accessing prime recreational areas. The group site is $50/night.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The presence of meadows means opportunities to spot local wildlife such as deer, elk, moose, and occasionally black bears, adding to the wilderness experience.
• Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway: The campground's location on this byway provides access to a beautiful drive with interpretive sites, including the Coolidge Ghost Town and the Grand Vista Overlook, as well as numerous hiking and riding trails.
• Nearby Hot Springs: After a day of exploring or digging for crystals, Elkhorn Hot Springs Resort is "down the road," offering a relaxing natural dip.
• No Cell Phone Coverage: For those truly looking to unplug and escape digital distractions, the lack of cell phone coverage at the site is a significant highlight, fostering a deeper connection with nature and companions.
• First-Come, First-Served Availability: While it can be a concern for some, the reviewer's experience on a Monday afternoon showed "plenty of open spots," suggesting good availability, particularly outside of peak weekend arrival times.

For more information, current conditions, or specific inquiries about Price Creek Campground, you can contact the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest - Dillon Ranger District, which manages this campground:

Phone: (406) 683-3900

Mobile Phone: +1 406-683-3900

Address: Polaris, MT 59746, USA (for the campground itself)

For the Dillon Ranger District office, the mailing address is 420 Barrett St, Dillon, MT 59725. Their hours are typically Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed on federal holidays).

It is always recommended to call ahead, especially to inquire about current conditions, fire restrictions, water availability (as hand pumps can be seasonal), and any recent wildlife activity. While individual sites are mostly first-come, first-served, confirming general conditions and potential group site reservations is always a good idea.

For Montanans, Price Creek Campground is an ideal and authentic outdoor destination that perfectly encapsulates the spirit of Big Sky Country. Its location within the vast Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest provides immediate access to stunning natural beauty, from towering pines to open meadows frequented by wildlife. The high elevation offers crisp air and a true sense of escape from warmer valley temperatures.

The core appeal for locals lies in its rustic yet well-managed environment. It’s not about luxury, but about genuine outdoor experience. The availability of both back-in and pull-through sites, along with clean vault toilets and potable water (seasonally), provides essential comfort for both RV and tent campers. The incredibly friendly and diligent camp hosts are a standout feature, providing a welcoming presence and a sense of security that is invaluable in a more remote setting. Their proactive communication, such as mentioning bear sightings, demonstrates a commitment to visitor safety that truly resonates with Montanans who are accustomed to recreating in wildlife country.

The most significant highlight for many Montanans, especially families, is the short drive to Crystal Park. The opportunity to dig for your own quartz crystals adds a unique and engaging dimension to the camping trip, creating hands-on memories that will last a lifetime. This, combined with opportunities for hiking, fishing, and simply enjoying the tranquility of the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway, makes Price Creek Campground a multifaceted destination. The lack of cell phone service, while a "downside" for some, is a clear benefit for those truly seeking to unplug and reconnect with nature and their companions. It encourages a return to simpler pleasures and undivided attention to the beauty surrounding them. Price Creek Campground offers an affordable, authentic, and memorable Montana adventure that keeps locals coming back year after year.

Price Creek Campground

Polaris, MT 59746, USA