Pettengill Campground
01 review300 Forest Service Rd Wisdom, MT 59761
Pettengill Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
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
$15 per night fee with an additional $5 fee per extra vehicle.
About this campground
Perched at the confluence where the crystalline waters of Wise River merge with Pettengill Creek, this mountain retreat honors the legacy of George Pettingill, the legendary 'Wild Man of the Mountains.' Modern adventurers will find thoughtfully designed ADA-compliant facilities nestled within this historic site, though the rustic experience is preserved with no water or garbage services—encouraging a true leave-no-trace wilderness experience.
Pettengill Campground focuses on primitive camping with basic facilities. It accommodates both tent and small RV camping, and includes three camping units.
Historical SignificanceStep into the footsteps of frontier legend George Pettingill, an early homesteader whose larger-than-life persona earned him the moniker 'Wild Man of the Mountains.' This enigmatic figure's final resting place lies nearby, adding a touch of Old West mystique to your camping experience. His story echoes through these mountains, where wilderness and human determination once collided in the American frontier.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-May through September, the campground awakens from its winter slumber to welcome visitors during the prime camping season. Summer brings gloriously dry days with comfortable temperatures perfect for outdoor adventures, while shoulder seasons remind campers of the high country's wild nature with possible snow flurries and crisp, freezing nights. Outside these operational months, winter's grip transforms the landscape into a frozen wonderland.
ElevationAt 6,250 feet above sea level, this high-altitude sanctuary offers the crisp, thin air that mountain enthusiasts crave. The elevation creates a natural air conditioning system during summer months while providing that distinctive alpine atmosphere where stars seem close enough to touch and morning air carries the pure essence of mountain wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryWhere two mountain waterways converge in a symphony of rushing water, the campground unveils breathtaking stream-side ecosystems framed by towering peaks. The dramatic meeting point of Wise River and Pettengill Creek creates a natural amphitheater of sound and scenery, while panoramic mountain vistas stretch in every direction, offering photographers and nature lovers endless inspiration.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast wilderness tapestry of Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, this campground occupies a special geological crossroads where ancient river systems have carved their signatures into the mountainous landscape. The confluence of Wise River and Pettengill Creek showcases millions of years of geological artistry, creating diverse riparian habitats amid the rugged mountain terrain that defines this corner of Montana's Continental Divide ecosystem.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes ADA accessible vault toilets, but additional accessibility amenities are not specified.
Sites SizeEach campsite is designed to accommodate trailers up to 24 feet in length.
Sites PrivacyDetails about the level of privacy at campsites are not provided.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesNo recommendations for specific sites.
Best CampsitesSpecific site numbers or rankings are not provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Operational hours are 24/7.
Check-out
Operational hours are 24/7.
Stay Limit
No explicit stay limit stated.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No explicit guest limits stated.
Groups
Group camping is not available at this campground.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutComprised of 3 individual campsites.
Open and Closed SeasonMid-May through September
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms listed.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground has only 3 units, so walk-up availability may fill quickly.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy provided.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities at Pettengill Campground include fishing in nearby rivers and streams, and taking scenic drives along the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway. The primitive nature of the campground encourages visitors to enjoy the natural surroundings.
Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the nearby Wise River and Pettengill Creek. Specific types of fish or fishing conditions are not detailed.Winter Activities
No details about winter activities are provided.Water Sports
There is no mention of non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No specific fire policies provided.
- Quiet hours are No quiet hours are stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential theft was mentioned in user reviews. Wildlife around creek environments may present risks, although not explicitly stated.
Active alertsNo active alerts listed.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 13%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.4 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
Wisdom Ranger District is the listed emergency contact. Closest hospital and police services are unavailable in the data.
Good to know
Peak season datesMid-May through September
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage service at the campground. Campers are required to practice 'pack it in, pack it out' principles.
Proximity to water featuresLocated at the confluence of Wise River and Pettengill Creek.
Common complaintsUser reviews mentioned theft of personal items such as firewood and camping gear.
HostNo campground host details provided.
Campground Map
300 Forest Service Rd Wisdom, MT 59761
Driving directionsFrom the intersection of Montana HWY 43 and the Pioneer Mountains Scenic Byway (FS Road 73), proceed south on 73 for approximately 10 miles to the campground.
Access is via FS Road 73, with the maximum recommended trailer length being 24 feet. Roads may require careful navigation due to their mountainous and rural nature.Nearby places
Wisdom, MT (approximately 10 miles)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies likely available in Wisdom, MT, approximately 10 miles away
specific availability is not detailed.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Pettengill Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the primitive and serene nature of Pettengill Campground but also note concerns about theft. One reviewer mentioned having their firewood, hammock, sleeping bag, and other gear stolen.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
The campground is appreciated for its secluded, natural setting and proximity to the Wise River and Pettengill Creek. It is ideal for those seeking a quiet, primitive camping experience.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some campers have reported theft at the site. One user specifically mentioned, 'Got my firewood stolen one day and a few days later someone robbed my hammocks sleeping bag, pad, and some other...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to secure their belongings, as theft has been reported.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
No reviews address seasonal variations, but the campground is open from mid-May through September, suggesting it is best suited for warmer months.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Nice spot but got my firewood stolen one day and a few days later someone robbed my hammocks sleeping bag, pad, and some other clothes/gear stashed in the hammock."
Based on 1 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
No site-specific reviews are provided.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no user reviews specifically addressing the campground's accessibility features.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No reviews discuss pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025