Charles Waters Campground
4.5630 reviewsCharles Waters Campground
$10.00 - $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
Fees range from $15 per night for regular camping to $10 per night for senior pass holders. Costs vary seasonally, with free camping available after September 25th.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of the Bitterroot National Forest, Charles Waters Campground offers a perfect blend of modern amenities and wilderness escape. With 26 thoughtfully designed asphalt-paved sites, this haven welcomes everyone from solo cyclists to families with massive 70-foot RVs. The campground's diverse layout includes four convenient pull-through sites for easy maneuvering, a spacious double site perfect for group gatherings, plus dedicated spots for equestrian adventurers and touring cyclists. Essential comforts like vault toilets, fresh potable water, and waste disposal ensure your stay remains comfortable while you immerse yourself in nature's grandeur.
The campground is versatile, accommodating tent camping, RVs, and specialized users such as bicyclists and equestrians. It also includes a group site associated with the nearby Bass Creek Recreation Area.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living classroom at Bass Creek Recreation Area, where carefully crafted interpretive trails weave stories of fire, forest, and resilience. These educational pathways reveal the fascinating dance between wildfire and regeneration that has shaped this landscape for centuries. Learn how indigenous peoples, early settlers, and modern forest managers have each left their mark on this remarkable ecosystem, creating the diverse and thriving wilderness you see today.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic beauty of Montana's changing seasons at Charles Waters Campground. Summer transforms the forest into a verdant paradise with comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking and exploring. As autumn arrives, crisp air and golden light create magical camping moments. Winter brings a hushed wonderland of snow-draped pines and crystalline mornings, though visitors should prepare for freezing temperatures and pack accordingly for a true mountain adventure.
ElevationPerched within the majestic expanse of the Bitterroot National Forest, Charles Waters Campground offers that perfect mountain atmosphere where the air feels cleaner and the stars shine brighter. While specific elevation details await your GPS discovery, you'll feel the refreshing mountain climate the moment you arrive, with cooler temperatures and that distinctive pine-scented breeze that only comes from camping in Montana's high country.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to the gentle murmur of Bass Creek as it winds through your backyard wilderness. Charles Waters Campground is embraced by towering evergreens that filter golden sunlight by day and frame starlit skies by night. Peaceful meadows dotted with wildflowers provide natural gathering spaces and wildlife viewing opportunities, while the dense forest canopy offers shade and serenity. This pristine setting serves as your gateway to endless outdoor adventures, from quiet morning walks to challenging backcountry expeditions.
Geological RegionCharles Waters Campground sits in one of Montana's most spectacular geological treasures—the Bitterroot National Forest. This rugged landscape of ancient mountains and deep valleys borders the legendary Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness, one of the nation's most pristine protected areas. Millions of years of geological forces have sculpted dramatic peaks, carved pristine valleys, and created the diverse ecosystem that makes this region a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. From your campsite, you're perfectly positioned to explore this remarkable intersection of wilderness and accessibility.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes an accessible site with an electric hook-up and accessible vault toilets.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as spacious. One review noted, 'Large spacious spots and level paved parking for small camper vans or large RVs.'
Sites PrivacyThe campsites offer a degree of privacy. A reviewer mentioned, 'The spaces are big enough to have privacy.'
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for campsites next to Bass Creek for tranquility and scenic beauty. Pull-through sites are ideal for larger RVs.
Best CampsitesCampsite #25 is noted for its creekside location and peaceful ambiance.
Reserving a campsite
Groups
The Larry Creek Group Site is part of the Bass Creek Recreation Area and can be reserved for overnight use. The gate to this site closes on December 1.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground is paved throughout, with a combination of pull-through and standard sites. Cyclist and horse sites available until 6 p.m.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen Memorial Day through Labor Day. Larry Creek Group Site gate closes on December 1.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov for group sites.
Walk-in AvailabilityMost sites are first-come-first-served, including those reserved for cyclists and horse riders after 6 p.m.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made the day before arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
This campground offers a variety of activities including hiking, biking, and horseback riding. It also features access to the Bass Creek Recreation Area, which includes picnic sites, interpretive trails, and a fire ecology trail.
Hiking
The area boasts numerous trailheads leading to hiking routes within the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness. One reviewer shared, 'It has several lovely hikes right from the campground.' Another stated, 'Walking distance to the trailheads.'Fishing
Fishing is possible in Bass Creek, which runs near the campground. However, one review noted, 'The water level is very low' and mentioned that better fishing opportunities exist further upstream near Log Pond.Biking
The campground is suitable for biking, and nearby trails offer additional opportunities for cyclists. A reviewer commented, 'Super clean camp site right off the road easy and excellent mountain biking.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight of this campground, as one reviewer noted, 'Beautiful views and wildlife.' Another stated, 'You will likely hear owls at night.'Cultural and Educational Programs
The associated Bass Creek Recreation Area includes interpretive nature trails and a fire ecology trail, which provide educational value.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities are described in the source materials.Water Sports
No information about non-motorized water sports is provided.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed within designated fire pits.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife and low water levels in Bass Creek.
Active alertsSeasonal closures, including Larry Creek Group Site gate closure after December 1.
Weather forecast
89
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 17%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.3 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 in Stevensville, approximately 5 miles away, including Stevensville Fire Department and Stevensville Police Department. The nearest hospital is in Missoula.
Good to know
Peak season datesMemorial Day through Labor Day
Trash and recyclingTrash cans are available on-site. One user remarked, 'Water and trash cans provided by each toilet building.'
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is next to Bass Creek, although fishing requires hiking upstream due to low water levels.
Common complaintsMixed reviews about campground hosts, with some citing rudeness and poor maintenance while others describe them as friendly.
HostA campground host is available during the peak season (Memorial Day through Labor Day). Mixed reviews from users about host behavior and maintenance.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Stevensville take the Stevi cut-off road to Highway 93. Travel north 3.7 miles and turn west (left) onto Bass Creek Rd. Travel approximately 2 miles to the campground.
The campground is easily accessible via Bass Creek Road, approximately 2 miles west of Highway 93. Roads are paved, suitable for RVs and trailers.Nearby places
Stevensville (approximately 5 miles), Missoula (approximately 25 miles)
Nearby supplies
The closest grocery and camping supplies are available in Stevensville, approximately 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
30 reviews
Charles Waters Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for the Charles Waters Campground are generally positive, with frequent mentions of cleanliness, spacious sites, and the natural beauty of the area. Some users noted issues with the campground host, describing instances of rude behavior.
Review Summaries
Based on 30 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently praised the campground for its cleanliness, spacious and level sites, and proximity to trails. Common sentiments include, 'Very clean campground,' 'Beautiful area - dense forest and...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
The most common complaint was regarding the behavior of the campground host. For example, one user stated, 'The camp host was extremely rude.' Another echoed this sentiment, saying, 'Pretty cool...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from users include arriving early to secure a spot, as the campground fills up quickly, and bringing all necessary supplies since there is no camp store on-site. One user suggested, 'Check it...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground appears popular during the summer and early fall, with users noting the presence of a host between Memorial Day and Labor Day. After September 25, camping becomes free, which some...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'Very clean campground and nice, level asphalt sites and road throughout.' - 'The spaces are big enough to have privacy.' - 'Vault restrooms, trash cans, potable water, no hookups.' - 'Large...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #25 received specific praise for being next to the creek and peaceful. One user wrote, 'We had campsite #25 right next to the creek .. it was gorgeous and so peaceful.'
Based on 30 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground includes an accessible site with electric hook-up and accessible vault toilets. No specific user reviews about accessibility experiences were provided.
Based on 30 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews about pet-related experiences were provided.
Based on 30 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025