Jimmy Joe Campground
03 reviewsJimmy Joe Campground, East Rosebud Creek, East Rosebud drainage
Jimmy Joe 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
The campground does not charge any fees for usage. Managed on a first-come, first-serve basis.
About this campground
Tucked away in the breathtaking East Rosebud drainage of the Beartooth Mountains, Jimmy Joe Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience without the price tag. This hidden gem provides 12 first-come, first-served sites where adventurers can pitch their tents for free alongside the melodic waters of East Rosebud Creek. Here, morning mist dances above the water as hikers set off on nearby trails, and evenings bring the gentle symphony of rushing water and rustling pines—a true basecamp for those seeking Montana's raw mountain beauty.
Jimmy Joe Campground is a primitive camping facility that caters to tent and RV campers but does not provide modern amenities like hookups.
Historical SignificanceThe Beartooth Mountains have long captivated explorers, from Native American tribes who first traversed these peaks to modern-day adventurers drawn by their rugged allure. This region stands as a testament to nature's artistic prowess, where ancient geological forces sculpted dramatic peaks and valleys that continue to inspire visitors. The area's rich ecological tapestry supports diverse wildlife and rare alpine plants, making every visit a journey through both natural history and living wilderness.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Jimmy Joe into a vibrant outdoor paradise, with warm days perfect for creek-side relaxation and cool nights ideal for campfire stories under star-studded skies. While shoulder seasons bring their own dramatic beauty—spring wildflowers and autumn's golden aspens—visitors should come prepared for mountain weather's quick-changing moods. Winter and early spring can deliver snow and challenging conditions, making summer through early fall the sweet spot for most campers.
ElevationPerched at the perfect mid-mountain elevation characteristic of the Beartooth region, Jimmy Joe Campground offers the best of both worlds—accessible enough for comfortable camping yet high enough to immerse visitors in true mountain air. This sweet-spot altitude provides cooler temperatures than the valleys below while avoiding the harsh conditions of the highest peaks, creating an ideal environment for both relaxation and exploration.
Natural Features and SceneryEast Rosebud Creek serves as the campground's liquid lifeline, its crystal-clear waters carving through ancient granite and providing a constant soundtrack to your stay. The surrounding Beartooth drainage unfolds like nature's amphitheater, where towering peaks frame intimate meadows and hidden waterfalls reward those who explore. Adventure beckons from every direction, with the Spread Creek Trail (#13) and Phantom Creek Trail (#17) offering gateways to alpine lakes and panoramic vistas that will leave you breathless.
Geological RegionJimmy Joe Campground sits at the heart of the East Rosebud drainage, a geological wonderland within the greater Beartooth Mountains ecosystem. This dramatic landscape tells a story written in stone—ancient granite peaks thrust skyward, carved by glaciers and polished by time. The popular East Rosebud Trail (#15) serves as your personal geology lesson, winding through formations that showcase millions of years of Earth's creative forces while leading to some of Montana's most spectacular backcountry destinations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityVault toilets are available, but there is limited information about other specific accessibility features.
Sites SizeIndividual camp sites vary in size, accommodating trailers up to 30 feet in length.
Sites PrivacyThe privacy level of the campsites is not specified.
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early during summer weekends to secure a site near the creek.
Best CampsitesNot specifically identified.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Arrive early afternoon.
Check-out
Not specified.
Stay Limit
16 days
Guests Allowed Per Site
Information not specified, suitable for tents and trailers up to 30 ft.
Groups
The campground does not offer group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSites are dispersed along the creek with limited accessibility for larger trailers.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round; peak season demand during summer months.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platform; managed on-site.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable year-round; early afternoon arrival recommended for summer weekends.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservation system; arrival-based camping with no cancellation rules.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground is a base for exploring the scenic Beartooths and offers various recreational activities, including hiking and fishing. It is located near the East Rosebud Trail (#15), Spread Creek Trail (#13), and Phantom Creek Trail (#17).
Hiking
Multiple trails such as the East Rosebud Trail, Spread Creek Trail, and Phantom Creek Trail are accessible nearby, providing options for varied hiking experiences.Fishing
Fishing is possible in the East Rosebud Creek, which runs directly by the campground.Winter Activities
No winter-specific recreation is mentioned.Water Sports
There is no mention of non-motorized water sports like kayaking or paddleboarding.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No firewood is provided; campfires are permitted within designated fire rings.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity noted; campers advised to use lockers and follow food storage rules.
Active alertsRoad closure reported at some points, particularly during adverse weather.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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
Beartooth Ranger District, 6811 US Hwy 212, Red Lodge, MT 59068; Contact: (406) 446-2103
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer months; campground may fill up during weekends and holidays.
Trash and recyclingTrash pickup services are not available at the campground. Campers are expected to pack out all their waste.
Proximity to water featuresLocated adjacent to East Rosebud Creek.
Common complaintsRoad closures and poor access during adverse weather conditions.
HostNo host available on-site.
Campground Map
Jimmy Joe Campground, East Rosebud Creek, East Rosebud drainage
Driving directionsDrive north on US Hwy 212 for 2.1 miles. Turn left (west) onto MT-78 and drive 19.7 miles. Turn left (south) onto Roscoe Rd. Drive 2.3 miles, cross the bridge and turn right (south) onto East Rosebud Rd. Drive 6.5 miles and until the campground, on your right.
Road access includes paved roads initially, transitioning to gravel roads as you approach East Rosebud Rd. Campground access is subject to seasonal challenges, and road conditions can vary based on weather.Nearby places
Red Lodge, MT (approx. 31 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be acquired in Red Lodge, MT, approximately 31 miles away. Includes groceries and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Jimmy Joe Campground has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the campground's scenic location along East Rosebud Creek, its proximity to hiking trails, and the free access. However, issues such as road access problems and lack of water facilities are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Campers praised the scenic beauty of the surroundings, the roomy campsites with picnic tables, and the abundance of hiking trails nearby. A reviewer said, 'The campground is right on the river. It is...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some visitors noted the lack of amenities like trash pickup and water access. A reviewer commented on the pump for water lacking a handle, making it necessary to drive elsewhere for water. Another...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own water supply and toilet paper as the pump lacks a handle, and the vault toilets may have limited toilet paper. Plan to arrive early to secure a campsite, especially during weekends and...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground may fill up quickly during summer weekends, and there are reports of road access issues, especially after heavy rains.
Based on 3 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful...free...Campground. The campsites were very roomy with room for a couple of tents and a trailer.' (Joy Jones) 2. 'The road is closed and partially washed out a mile before you get...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Individual campsite reviews are not provided; however, users note that the entire area is scenic and well-suited for outdoor activities.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility seems limited—vault toilets are listed, but no other specific details are provided.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There is no specific mention of pet policies or experiences from pet owners.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025