South Van Houten Campground

Star0
5 reviews
South Van Houten Campground, Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, MT

Quick Facts

6,700 ft

Price

Free

Booking

First-Come

Sites

Varies

Season

June through Septemb...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

Opens Wisdom Ranger District site

Official Website
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South Van Houten Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
This campground does not require any fees; it is free to use.
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

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Provider
406-689-3243
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What Campers Say

N/A

Limited Reviews

Based on 5 reviews

2 Google 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."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

South Van Houten Campground, Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, MT

South Van Houten Campground

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.

Best Time to Camp at South Van Houten Campground

From 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.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5

Campground operates June–September; summer described as high-country paradise with comfortable days.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
3.0 / 5

Open into September; fall may offer pleasant conditions but seasonal notes are limited.

Spring(Mar-May)
Not recommended

Site is closed before June; spring season not applicable for camping here.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground listed open June–September; winter visitation/operations not supported.

Planning Tips
  • Operating Season: June through September

About South Van Houten 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.
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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.
FishingFishing is available, including ice fishing and lake/pond fishing. Specific details about fish species or fishing conditions are not provided.
BoatingNon-motorized boating activities are supported at the campground. No further details about docking facilities or specific boating conditions are available.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing opportunities include cranes, ducks, and geese, as noted by a user review.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThe 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.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at South Van Houten Campground

Reviews

0.0
5 reviews
Limited Reviews
Limited 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 5 reviews

What Campers Love

Users appreciated the relaxing atmosphere and the presence of wildlife such as cranes, ducks, and geese.
Based on 5 reviews

Common Concerns

The road to the campground is described as long and bumpy, which could be challenging for RVs.
Based on 5 reviews

Pro 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 5 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is operational from June through September. Seasonal trends in user reviews are not explicitly mentioned.
Based on 5 reviews

Camper 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...
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Based on 5 reviews

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Last updated January 5, 2026
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