Pettengill Campground

Star0
5 reviews
300 Forest Service Rd Wisdom, MT 59761

Quick Facts

6,250 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

3 campsites

Season

Mid-May through Sept...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Wisdom Ranger District site

Official Website
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Pettengill Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$15 per night fee with an additional $5 fee per extra vehicle.
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

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Provider
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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 5 reviews

3 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quiet

"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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

300 Forest Service Rd Wisdom, MT 59761

Pettengill Campground

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.

Best Time to Camp at Pettengill Campground

From 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.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Open mid-May–Sept; summer is the prime season with comfortable, dry days.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Open into September; early fall likely pleasant though the season window is short.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Opens mid-May; late spring use available but early spring is closed by seasonality.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed mid-May through September; winter season is not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: Mid-May through September. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Mid-May through September
  • Current Alerts: No active alerts listed.

About Pettengill 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.
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Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Operational hours are 24/7.
Check-out
Operational hours are 24/7.
Stay Limit
No explicit stay limit stated.

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.
FishingFishing opportunities are available in the nearby Wise River and Pettengill Creek. Specific types of fish or fishing conditions are not detailed.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsPotential theft was mentioned in user reviews. Wildlife around creek environments may present risks, although not explicitly stated.
Active AlertsNo active alerts listed.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

Weather at Pettengill Campground

Reviews

0.0
5 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited 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 5 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 5 reviews

Common 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...
Show more
Based on 5 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers are advised to secure their belongings, as theft has been reported.
Based on 5 reviews

Seasonal 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 5 reviews

Camper 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 5 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No site-specific reviews are provided.
Based on 5 reviews

Accessibility Features

There are no user reviews specifically addressing the campground's accessibility features.
Based on 5 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews discuss pet-related policies or experiences.
Based on 5 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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