Is James Kipp Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

James Kipp Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Arrive early, especially on weekends and holidays, to secure a spot.

What is the best time to visit James Kipp Campground?

James Kipp Campground is open Open annually from April 1 to December 1.. 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 James Kipp Campground?

James Kipp Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does James Kipp Campground have?

James Kipp Campground has 34 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at James Kipp Campground?

Pets are not allowed at James Kipp Campground. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at James Kipp Campground?

James Kipp Campground offers: Restrooms, Dump Station. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at James Kipp Campground?

Popular activities at James Kipp Campground include Fishing, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

James Kipp Campground

4.12

34 reviews

920 Northeast Main, Lewistown, MT, 59457, USA

Featured in:Boating Camping Montana

Quick Facts

2,277 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

34 campsites

Season

Open annually from A...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Bureau of Land Management (BLM)Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,277 ft

Price

Varies

Booking

Walk-in Only

Sites

34 campsites

Season

Open annually from A...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Book on Bureau of Land Management (BLM)Official Website

Get Directions

James Kipp Campground

No fees available

Campsite Fees

Standard Site Fee$12.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

1(406) 538-1900BLM_MT_Central_DO@blm.gov

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

920 Northeast Main, Lewistown, MT, 59457, USA

James Kipp Campground

920 Northeast Main, Lewistown, MT, 59457, USA

Nearby places

Lewistown, MT (null miles, travel time not specified)

Weather at James Kipp Campground

Best Time to Camp at James Kipp Campground

Best season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable weather (daytime highs typically 75–95°F, nights 50–60°F) and the fullest range of river activities — boating, fishing, and extended wildlife-viewing windows — with long daylight hours and shady campsites under cottonwoods. River flows are usually stable and water recreation is at its peak, though weekend and holiday nights can be busy since sites are first-come, first-serve. Bring sun protection and plenty of water; be aware fire restrictions can occur,但 Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: December, January, February, March

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer (Apr–Dec open) is best for boating, fishing and reliable warm weather.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Open annually from April 1 to December 1.

About James Kipp Campground

James Kipp Campground sits on the Missouri River in Montana's foothills, operated by the Bureau of Land Management. Shaded by cottonwoods, it serves anglers and boaters with vault toilets, a dump station, and a 14-day stay limit. The campground offers tent, RV, and primitive sites with no hookups or potable water, and reviewers prize the dark skies and river access despite the lack of cell service.

The campground offers basic amenities and is geared towards primitive camping, RV camping, and tent camping.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the warmest, most reliable weather (daytime highs typically 75–95°F, nights 50–60°F) and the fullest range of river activities — boating, fishing, and extended wildlife-viewing windows — with long daylight hours and shady campsites under cottonwoods. River flows are usually stable and water recreation is at its peak, though weekend and holiday nights can be busy since sites are first-come, first-serve. Bring sun protection and plenty of water; be aware fire restrictions can occur,但 Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: December, January, February, March

Elevation2277 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a protected valley where cottonwoods and willows shade most sites. The Missouri River flows past the campsites, with eroded badlands and sandstone cliffs rising from the water's edge. This is one of the last free-flowing sections of the Missouri, a river valley ecosystem that looks much as it did centuries ago. After dark, the lack of light pollution reveals pristine night skies. Reviewers mention the stars and Milky Way as standout features. The river provides a constant, quiet soundtrack.

Lodging & AccommodationsNo details provided about lodging or accommodations beyond standard campsites.

Programs & ActivitiesNo mention of cultural or educational programs.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

14-day limit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Information unavailable.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Reservation PlatformsNo reservation platforms as sites are first-come, first-serve.

Site SizeSites can accommodate trailers or RVs up to 40 feet in length.

PrivacyThe campground is described as protected and secluded, situated in a valley next to the river. One review mentioned: "Nice protected campground in the valley next to the river.

Total Campsites34 campsites

Recommended SitesSites closer to the river provide better access to amenities like the boat ramp. Shade is available in most spaces.

Best CampsitesReviewers prefer shaded sites close to the river with easy access to the boat ramp, though no specific site numbers are mentioned in the feedback.

Amenities available

James Kipp Campground offers a range of basic amenities. It features 34 campsites equipped with fire rings and picnic tables. The sites can accommodate trailers or RVs up to 40 feet in length, but there are no water, sewer, or electricity hookups. The campground provides vault toilets, trash dumpsters, and an RV waste dump. However, the potable water system is currently shut down, and water for the RV dump is seasonal, typically available after May 15.

Dump station

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The campground provides opportunities for outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and enjoying pristine dark skies for stargazing.

Fishing

Boating

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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.

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.

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

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

34 reviews

Satisfactory

James Kipp Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, James Kipp Campground receives positive reviews for its cleanliness, secluded and scenic location, and suitability for fishing and stargazing. However, the lack of cell phone service and potable water were noted as drawbacks.

Review Summaries

Based on 34 reviews

What Campers Love

Users highlighted the campground’s pristine dark skies, clean facilities, proximity to the Missouri River, and suitability for fishing and boating.

Based on 34 reviews

Common Concerns

The lack of cell phone service and potable water were common drawbacks mentioned in user reviews.

Based on 34 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

No specific campsite numbers were reviewed in detail.

Based on 34 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors are advised to plan for the absence of cell service and potable water. Bring your own drinking water, and prepare for a primitive camping experience.

Based on 34 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The campground is open seasonally from April 1 to December 1. Fishing and boating are popular in warmer months, and the dark skies are a year-round attraction. Water for the RV dump typically becomes...

Based on 34 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "The campground was clean and so were the bathrooms." 2. "No hookups, but trees in most spaces. It is close to the river and there are vault toilets." 3. "Most users of the campsite are in the...

Based on 34 reviews