South Van Houten Campground
01 reviewSouth Van Houten Campground, Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, MT
South Van Houten Campground
$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
This campground does not require any fees; it is free to use.
About this campground
Tucked away in the pristine wilderness of Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, South Van Houten Campground offers an authentic backcountry experience without the price tag. This hidden gem operates on a first-come, first-served basis, providing free camping beneath towering lodgepole pines. While amenities are purposefully basic—featuring ADA-accessible facilities, sturdy picnic tables, and excellent fishing access—the true luxury here is the unspoiled natural setting. Visitors should note that water requires treatment before drinking, and campers must pack out all trash, embracing the leave-no-trace ethos that keeps this spot pristine.
The campground is suited for trailer camping (up to 30 feet), although detailed descriptions of other types, such as group sites or tent camping, are not provided.
Weather and SeasonsFrom June through September, South Van Houten transforms into a high-country paradise where crisp mountain air greets each morning. Summer days bring brilliant sunshine and comfortable temperatures in the 60s, perfect for outdoor adventures, while evenings cool to refreshing 40s—ideal for campfire gatherings. As autumn approaches, the brief season serves as a reminder of nature's cycles, with harsh winters bringing deep snow and bitter cold that seal off this mountain retreat until the following summer.
ElevationPerched at 6,700 feet above sea level, the campground offers that sweet spot of mountain elevation where the air is noticeably thinner and cleaner. This altitude brings delightfully cool nights even during summer's peak, making sleeping bags essential and morning coffee especially rewarding as steam rises in the crisp mountain air.
Natural Features and SceneryA cathedral of lodgepole pines creates a natural sanctuary around each campsite, their straight trunks reaching skyward like nature's own pillars. The nearby lake serves as both a mirror for the surrounding forest and a thriving ecosystem where elegant cranes wade through shallow waters, while ducks and geese create a constantly changing tableau of wildlife. Early risers and patient observers are often rewarded with intimate wildlife encounters that remind visitors why these wild places remain so precious.
Geological RegionSet within the vast expanse of Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, the campground showcases the region's signature landscape of dense lodgepole pine forests that have adapted to thrive in this mountain environment. The nearby lake, carved by ancient geological forces, adds a shimmering focal point to the forested terrain, creating a diverse ecosystem where water meets woodland in perfect harmony.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has ADA-accessible toilets, but no further details about other accessibility features are available.
Sites SizeThe maximum recommended trailer length for the area is 30 feet.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Open and Closed SeasonJune through September
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations are required. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability. No reservation system in place.
Amenities available
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
South Van Houten Campground offers a range of recreational activities including fishing (both ice and lake/pond fishing), picnicking, non-motorized boating, snowmobiling, wildlife viewing, and enjoying scenic views. No information about organized programs or other recreational facilities is provided.
Fishing
Fishing is available, including ice fishing and lake/pond fishing. Specific details about fish species or fishing conditions are not provided.Boating
Non-motorized boating activities are supported at the campground. No further details about docking facilities or specific boating conditions are available.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities include cranes, ducks, and geese, as noted by a user review.Winter Activities
Snowmobiling is listed as a recreational opportunity.Water Sports
Non-motorized boating is the primary water sport activity mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsThe long and bumpy road to the campground can be challenging for larger vehicles or trailers. Additionally, there is no potable water, so campers must bring their own.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.5 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
Nearest emergency services are available at Wisdom Ranger District. Address: 300 Forest Service Rd, Wisdom, MT 59761. Phone: 406-689-3243. Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. (closed on federal holidays).
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage service at the site; visitors must pack out all trash.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located near a lake, providing opportunities for fishing and wildlife viewing.
Common complaintsThe lack of garbage service and potable water were noted as concerns. The road leading to the campground is also described as long and bumpy.
Campground Map
South Van Houten Campground, Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, MT
Driving directionsFrom Jackson travel 1.5 miles south on Highway 278 and take Forest Road 181. Continue for 10.5 miles to the campground.
The road to the campground includes a long, bumpy drive, as noted by user Jonathan Nelson. Forest Road 181 is unpaved, which may pose challenges for RVs or trailers.Nearby places
Jackson (approximately 12 miles, 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies would likely be available in Jackson, MT, approximately 12 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
South Van Houten Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews suggest that South Van Houten Campground offers a relaxing experience with opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and scenic enjoyment. However, the remote location, lack of cell service, and bumpy access road may be drawbacks for some visitors.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the relaxing atmosphere and the presence of wildlife such as cranes, ducks, and geese.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
The road to the campground is described as long and bumpy, which could be challenging for RVs.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend being prepared for the lack of cell service and bringing all necessary supplies due to the absence of water and garbage service.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is operational from June through September. Seasonal trends in user reviews are not explicitly mentioned.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
User review by Jonathan Nelson: 'Long bumpy drive out with an RV, but relaxing campground with cranes, ducks, and geese. Two areas, north shore with a dock, and south shore with difficult lake front...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025