Basin Canyon Campground And Picnic Area
00 review1820 Meadowlark Butte, MT 59701
Basin Canyon Campground And Picnic Area
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
No fees are required for this site. Camping is free.
About this campground
Tucked away in the Boulder River Valley, this intimate wilderness retreat offers two secluded camping units for those seeking an authentic backcountry experience. While the campground remains refreshingly undeveloped—perfect for adventurers who prefer their nature unfiltered—day visitors can enjoy peaceful picnic areas alongside the rushing waters. Come prepared with your own water supply, as this rustic haven keeps modern amenities to a minimum, allowing the natural world to take center stage.
The campground is undeveloped with basic facilities, offering two camping units for trailers up to 16 feet, ideal for tent camping or small RVs.
Historical SignificanceWhile the Boulder River Valley may not boast ancient ruins or historic battlefields, the towering presence of Indian Head Rock serves as a natural monument to the region's geological past. This distinctive formation has watched over the valley for millennia, offering modern visitors a tangible connection to the powerful forces that shaped this rugged landscape long before the first tent was ever pitched here.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here writes its own rules, shifting from warm summer afternoons to crisp, star-filled nights that might require an extra layer in your sleeping bag. Even during the camping season, Mother Nature occasionally dusts the landscape with unexpected snow, reminding visitors they're truly in the high country. Pack layers and prepare for nature's delightful unpredictability—those surprise snowflakes in June make for unforgettable camping stories.
ElevationNestled in the mountain valleys where the air carries that distinctive high-country crispness, this campground sits at an elevation that reminds you you're well above the everyday world below.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Boulder River commands attention here, its crystalline waters carving a melodious path through the valley while providing a stunning backdrop for your wilderness escape. Dominating the skyline, Indian Head Rock stands as a geological masterpiece—its weathered face telling stories written in stone over countless centuries. This dramatic landscape offers photographers endless inspiration and provides hikers with natural landmarks that make every trek an adventure.
Geological RegionSet within the spectacular Boulder River Valley, this campground places you at the heart of a geological wonderland. The star attraction, Indian Head Rock, showcases nature's artistic prowess through fascinating rock formations that reveal millions of years of Earth's history. The surrounding valley walls and river-carved terrain create a natural amphitheater where every sunrise and sunset becomes a private show performed by light and stone.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo information about accessibility features for campers with disabilities is provided.
Sites SizeCampground only accommodates trailers up to 16 feet in length.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is not explicitly mentioned, but the campground has only two camping units, suggesting limited clustering.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to secure one of the two units; trailer size capped at 16 feet.
Best CampsitesTwo available camping units.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum recommended stay dictated by seasonal access.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Camping units limited to small groups.
Groups
No group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutTwo camping units along Boulder River; undeveloped site.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from Memorial Day to mid-September.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platform available; walk-in only.
Walk-in AvailabilityOnly two camping units available; first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservation required; walk-in site.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy fishing in the Boulder River, picnicking in designated areas, and exploring nearby geological features such as Indian Head Rock.
Fishing
"Fishing - River/Stream" opportunities are available at the Boulder River. Specific details about types of fish or quality are not provided.Winter Activities
No information on winter recreational options is provided.Water Sports
No details on non-motorized water sports are available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire policies provided; assume basic safety precautions.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsNo potable water; limited trailer length; avoid unsafe stream crossing or wildlife risk.
Active alertsNo active alerts noted.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 14%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Butte Ranger District - 1820 Meadowlark Butte, MT 59701 (406-494-2147); nearest hospital in Butte.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day through mid-September.
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities is provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Boulder River.
Common complaintsLimited amenities, no potable water, and undeveloped facilities.
HostManaged by the Butte Ranger District (406-494-2147).
Campground Map
1820 Meadowlark Butte, MT 59701
Driving directionsFrom I-15 take exit #156 to Basin. Take Forest Road 1723/Basin Creek Road North for approximately 3 miles to the campground.
Limited accessibility due to undeveloped roads; maximum trailer length is 16 feet.Nearby places
Basin - 3 miles (approx. 10 minutes)
Butte - 30 miles (approx. 40 minutes)
Helena - 50 miles (approx. 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Supplies available in Basin (minimal options) or Butte (larger stores and camping supplies).
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Basin Canyon Campground And Picnic Area has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
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Review Summaries
What Campers Love
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Common Concerns
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
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Seasonal Insights
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Camper Quotes
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Site-Specific Reviews
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Accessibility Features
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Pet-Friendly Features
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Last updated August 10, 2025