How much does camping cost at Painted Rocks State Park?

Camping fees at Painted Rocks State Park range from $15-$30/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Painted Rocks State Park first-come first-served or reservation?

Painted Rocks State Park accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Painted Rocks State Park before I book?

Yes! Painted Rocks State Park has 14 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Painted Rocks State Park?

Painted Rocks State Park is open Peak season dates are not explicitly provided.. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Painted Rocks State Park?

Painted Rocks State Park does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Painted Rocks State Park?

Fire policies at Painted Rocks State Park: Campfires are allowed in designated areas only.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Painted Rocks State Park have?

Painted Rocks State Park has 23 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Painted Rocks State Park?

Yes, pets are allowed at Painted Rocks State Park. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Painted Rocks State Park?

Painted Rocks State Park offers: Restrooms, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Painted Rocks State Park?

Popular activities at Painted Rocks State Park include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Painted Rocks State Park

3.65

17 reviews

6717 Highway 12 West, Lolo, Montana, 59847, United States

Summer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping Montana

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,718 ft

Price

$15 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

23 campsites

Season

There are 6 reservab...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Direct Line Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,718 ft

Price

$15 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

23 campsites

Season

There are 6 reservab...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Direct Line Official Website

Get Directions

Painted Rocks State Park

$15.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Campsite fees range from $4-$34 per night, depending on season and available amenities.

No paid fee categories listed.

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Reserve America

Provider

4062734253

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Painted Rocks State Park

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Campground Map

6717 Highway 12 West, Lolo, Montana, 59847, United States

Painted Rocks State Park

6717 Highway 12 West, Lolo, Montana, 59847, United States

Nearby places

Hamilton (17 miles, approximately 25 minutes)

Lolo (40 miles, approximately 1 hour)

Nearby supplies

Supplies are likely available in Hamilton, 17 miles away, which has grocery stores, fuel stations, and camping supplies.

Weather at Painted Rocks State Park

Current alerts(2)

Beginning Aug. 1, 2025
Due to dropping levels in Painted Rocks Reservoir, it is recommended that the boat ramp at Painted Rocks State Park be utilized for hand launching only (no trailers or motor boats). Damage to equipment may occur.

Best Time to Camp at Painted Rocks State Park

Summer delivers the most reliable conditions, with daytime highs in the mid-70s to low-80s and cool nights in the 40s to 50s. The reservoir stays accessible for boating and swimming, and hiking trails dry out completely. July and August bring the biggest crowds on weekends. Occasional smoke from wildfires can roll in, and fire restrictions sometimes close the grills. Winter turns the park into a quieter destination blanketed in snow.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Summer most reliable: highs in 70s–80s and reservoir open for boating/swimming.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season dates are not explicitly provided.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: There are 6 reservable campsites, available for reservation from Memorial Day through Labor Day, Thursday-Sunday only. The rest of the sites are first come, first served.

About Painted Rocks State Park

Painted Rocks State Park sits at 4,718 feet in the Bitterroot Mountains near Hamilton, where a reservoir nestles among pine-covered slopes. The campground has 23 sites for tents, RVs, and primitive camping, with nightly fees ranging from $15 to $30. Vault toilets, bear lockers, and a helpful campground host keep things functional.

Painted Rocks State Park accommodates primitive camping, tent camping, and RV camping. Sites are not equipped with water, sewer, or electricity hookups.

Weather and SeasonsSummer delivers the most reliable conditions, with daytime highs in the mid-70s to low-80s and cool nights in the 40s to 50s. The reservoir stays accessible for boating and swimming, and hiking trails dry out completely. July and August bring the biggest crowds on weekends. Occasional smoke from wildfires can roll in, and fire restrictions sometimes close the grills. Winter turns the park into a quieter destination blanketed in snow.

ElevationElevation details are not provided.

Natural Features and SceneryThe Bitterroot Mountains rise around a reservoir that dominates the park's core. Dense coniferous forests cover the slopes, dropping down to rocky shores warmed by afternoon sun. The geology here creates distinct microclimates: shaded forest pockets stay cool while open shoreline areas heat up quickly. Pine forests give way to the water's edge, where views stretch across the reservoir to distant peaks.

Geological RegionThe majestic Bitterroot Mountains provide a spectacular backdrop for outdoor adventures, where millions of years of geological forces have sculpted a landscape of rugged beauty. This pine-forested haven sits cradled among ancient peaks, with the reservoir serving as a liquid jewel in the mountain crown. The unique geology of the Bitterroots creates diverse ecosystems and microclimates, from dense coniferous forests to sun-warmed rocky shores, offering visitors a chance to explore one of Montana's most treasured mountain ranges.

Scenic ViewsThe scenic surroundings include views of the Bitterroot Mountains and the reservoir.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not appear to feature hotel-style accommodations based on the provided information.

Programs & ActivitiesNo information on cultural or educational programs was available.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

1:00 PM

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit is 14 consecutive nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum capacity at each campsite is eight (8) people.

Groups

No group camping details were available.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutTwenty-three sites accommodate single camping units with a maximum of eight people per site.

Reservation PlatformsReservation platforms are not explicitly described.

Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not explicitly described, but the campground hosts are present on-site.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation fees apply for non-compliance with ADA regulations and other site-specific rules.

AccessibilityADA-designated campsites are available but require proof of disability upon arrival. The eligible party member must be present during the entire reserved period.

Site SizeSites can accommodate a single camping unit, including tents, RVs, or other sleeping devices. Maximum occupancy is eight people per site.

Total Campsites23 campsites

Recommended SitesSites may be chosen based on proximity to the lake and amenities provided. Individual site recommendations are not detailed.

Need help booking Painted Rocks State Park?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

ReserveAmerica Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

There is no potable water available.

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Campers can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, including fishing, swimming, hiking, boating, and wildlife viewing in the scenic Bitterroot Mountains.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsThis is bear country, and food storage rules apply. Snow in winter may also be a hazard for accessibility.

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Flush ToiletsThe campground does not have flush toilet facilities; vault toilets are available instead.

Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers are available for visitors traveling without hard-sided vehicles to store food and other bear attractants.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed in designated areas only.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are enforced from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesFor emergencies, visitors are advised to dial 911. The park staff can also be contacted for non-emergency assistance. The nearest hospital and emergency services are likely in Hamilton, 17 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingBear-resistant garbage dumpsters are located throughout the campground. These must be used to ensure compliance with bear country regulations.

Water FeaturesThe campground is adjacent to a reservoir, making it ideal for water-based recreation like boating and fishing.

Camp HostCampground hosts are present and noted to be helpful and wonderful by multiple reviewers.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

From Booking Sources

3.7

17 reviews

Mixed Reviews

Painted Rocks State Park has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, highlighting the scenic beauty, recreational opportunities, and the helpfulness of campground hosts.

Review Summaries

Based on 17 reviews

What Campers Love

Users praised the scenic setting, variety of activities like fishing and boating, and the friendliness of campground hosts. 'Beautiful park, great facilities, and good fishing to boot,' said one...

Based on 17 reviews

Common Concerns

No specific complaints were raised in the reviews.

Based on 17 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Sites are consistently described as spacious enough for tents and RVs alike. Specific site numbers were not singled out in user reviews.

Based on 17 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Carry equipment for outdoor activities such as boating and fishing. Bring high-temperature gloves and cooking pans for the fire grill.

Based on 17 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The park seems to be a popular summer destination for outdoor recreation; one user visited during snowy conditions and still had a positive experience.

Based on 17 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Great place to relax with the family.' 2. 'Camp Hosts are wonderful.' 3. 'Wildlife abound and amazing scenery make this a perfect getaway.'

Based on 17 reviews

Accessibility Features

ADA-designated sites are available, but no feedback from users with disabilities was provided.

Based on 17 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and no issues were raised in the reviews.

Based on 17 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Anglers, paddlers, and families who want a mountain reservoir base camp in summer. Trout fishing gets consistent praise, the boat ramp and dock are right there, and the campground host earns genuine compliments from nearly every reviewer.

Skip if

No potable water on-site is a real logistics issue, and as of August 2025 the reservoir levels have dropped enough that trailer boat launches are out, kayaks and hand-launch craft only until conditions change.

Nearby Campgrounds

Less Visited

0.0

(5)

Slate Creek Campground

6735 West Fork Road, Darby, MT 59829

Slate Creek Campground sits along Painted Rocks Lake in Montana's Bitterroot National Forest, offering 13 sites split between a year-round front loop (4 sites) and a seasonal back loop (9 sites, open June 1–September 30). Sites accommodate RVs and trailers up to 25 feet and run $5–10 per night. The campground provides vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, but no potable water.