Peninsula Dispersed Campground And Recreation Area
4.5415 reviewsQuick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
12 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
Price
Free
Booking
First-Come
Sites
12 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsPeninsula Dispersed Campground And Recreation Area
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Peninsula Dispersed Campground has no fees for camping.
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
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USFS
ProviderWhat Campers Say
4.54
Top-Rated
Based on 15 reviews
24 Google reviews
Most mentioned
sceneryprivacypeacefullocation
"The campground has mixed reviews, with highlights on its scenic beauty and peacefulness, counterbalanced by issues such as litter and train noise. Many users appreciate the free camping and river access, while others express concerns about maintenance and safety."
Fees & Passes at Peninsula Dispersed Campground And Recreation Area
Free
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: 16 days
Cancellation: No reservations are taken, as the campground is first-come, first-served.
Prices verified August 10, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Lolo National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Peninsula Dispersed Campground And Recreation Area
Experience the ever-changing moods of Montana's wilderness throughout the year at this all-season destination. Spring awakens the landscape with wildflowers and perfect temperatures, while autumn paints the riverside in golden hues—both seasons earning rave reviews from seasoned campers. Summer brings warm days ideal for river activities, though the heat can create dusty conditions along the access roads. Winter transforms the area into a snow-kissed wonderland, though reaching your riverside retreat may require extra determination when the white stuff piles up. Smart campers check conditions before venturing out during the colder months.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Operating Season: Open year-round, snow dependent.
- Current Alerts: User review dated October 2023 mentions a lingering area restriction notice despite its removal weeks prior.
About Peninsula Dispersed Campground And Recreation Area
Discover a hidden gem where 12 secluded campsites await along the pristine waters of the Clark Fork River. Each site comes equipped with its own fire ring, perfect for evening gatherings under the stars. This back-to-basics camping experience invites adventurers to embrace the simplicity of nature—no running water or trash services means you'll truly disconnect and leave no trace. Whether you're casting a line at dawn, navigating the river's rapids, or cooling off with an afternoon swim, this primitive paradise offers endless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts seeking an authentic wilderness experience.
The Peninsula Dispersed Campground is a primitive camping area with 12 sites. It is free to use and operates on a first-come, first-served basis. The sites are suitable for RVs, tents, and dispersed camping.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the ever-changing moods of Montana's wilderness throughout the year at this all-season destination. Spring awakens the landscape with wildflowers and perfect temperatures, while autumn paints the riverside in golden hues—both seasons earning rave reviews from seasoned campers. Summer brings warm days ideal for river activities, though the heat can create dusty conditions along the access roads. Winter transforms the area into a snow-kissed wonderland, though reaching your riverside retreat may require extra determination when the white stuff piles up. Smart campers check conditions before venturing out during the colder months.
ElevationElevation information is unavailable.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Lolo National Forest, where towering evergreens frame your riverside sanctuary. The Clark Fork River serves as the campground's centerpiece, its crystal-clear waters reflecting the surrounding mountain peaks that visitors can't stop photographing. Wake to misty mornings where the river whispers through the forest, spend afternoons watching eagles soar overhead, and end your days mesmerized by alpenglow painting the mountainsides. This scenic wonderland offers a front-row seat to nature's daily performance.
Geological RegionNestled within the magnificent Lolo National Forest, this riverside retreat showcases the geological wonders of western Montana. The Clark Fork River has carved its path through this landscape over millennia, creating the perfect playground for modern adventurers. The river's dynamic ecosystem supports excellent fishing opportunities, thrilling whitewater sections for rafting enthusiasts, and refreshing swimming holes for those hot summer days. This convergence of forest and river creates a diverse habitat that exemplifies the rugged beauty of the Northern Rockies region.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the authoritative content or reviews.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as dispersed and large enough to accommodate campers. A user notes, "Big enough spaces for Campers."
Sites PrivacyThe level of privacy appears to be decent, with one reviewer mentioning, "Each site provides a decent amount of privacy."
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSites closest to the river are recommended for minimal road noise, though they are affected by train noise.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
16 days
Groups
No designated group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 12 dispersed sites with fire rings. Some sites have picnic tables, but most do not.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round, snow dependent.
Reservation PlatformsNot applicable; no reservations are required.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. User reviews suggest that springtime has fewer visitors.
Cancellation PolicyNo reservations are taken, as the campground is first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
This campground provides access to a range of outdoor activities. Located along the Clark Fork River, it is ideal for fishing, non-motorized boating, and swimming. Hunting opportunities are also mentioned in the authoritative content.
Fishing
Fishing is available along the Clark Fork River, with one user mentioning, "Gone fishing but no bites but they're out there."Swimming
Swimming opportunities are available, although one reviewer highlights potential safety concerns with river access: "There is no safe river access from this area unless you are a mountain goat."Boating
Non-motorized boating opportunities are available, as noted in the authoritative content.Winter Activities
No winter-specific activities are mentioned, although the campground is noted to be open year-round depending on snow conditions.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing might be possible given the river access, but specific details are not provided.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire rings are available at each site, but visitors must adhere to local fire safety regulations.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned; frequent train noise may disrupt quiet periods.
Hazards
General hazardsTrain noise is frequent, as noted by several user reviews. The Clark Fork River is strong and potentially dangerous despite its gentle appearance, as mentioned in a user review.
Active alertsUser review dated October 2023 mentions a lingering area restriction notice despite its removal weeks prior.
Weather at Peninsula Dispersed Campground And Recreation Area
38
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 79%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 5.9 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
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Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not available on-site. Campers must follow Pack It In/Pack It Out principles.
Proximity to water featuresClark Fork River runs along the campground, providing opportunities for fishing, rafting, and swimming.
Common complaintsKey complaints include litter and abandoned items at campsites, as noted in user reviews. Lack of potable water and restrooms are also highlighted.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom I-90 take St. Regis Exit 33, travel approximately 11.5 miles northeast on Highway 135 and turn right and follow the road to the campsites. From Highway 200 turn southwest onto Highway 135 and travel 10.5 miles, passing Ferry Landing, and turn left into the Peninsula area following road signs.
Road noise is minimal for sites closest to the river, as mentioned in user reviews. However, trains run directly on the other side of the river. Snow dependence may limit access during winter months.Nearby places
St. Regis (approx. 11.5 miles northeast), Cascade Creek (location not specified in mileage)
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
15 reviews
Peninsula Dispersed Campground And Recreation Area is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground has mixed reviews, with highlights on its scenic beauty and peacefulness, counterbalanced by issues such as litter and train noise. Many users appreciate the free camping and river access, while others express concerns about maintenance and safety.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Users have praised the scenic location along the Clark Fork River, privacy between sites, and peaceful atmosphere. One reviewer described it as a "Beautiful campsite! Train is loud and active, but...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users reported issues such as littering, with one stating, "Too much litter on the ground, beer cans and D batteries in the fire pit." Train noise is another recurring theme, as noted by several...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing all necessary supplies, including water, due to the lack of amenities. Being mindful of train noise and ensuring proper disposal of trash are also suggested.
Based on 15 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The campground is noted to be open year-round, snow permitting. Some reviewers suggested visiting in late spring or mid-autumn to avoid the heat and dust of summer. Winter visits depend on snow...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- "Free camping along the Clark Fork River with such potential."
- "Perfect spot for a quick getaway. Train is very active! Camp sites are very well maintained."
- "Depending on the time of year you...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers are provided, but users note that some sites are closer to the river and offer more privacy. Sites farther from the river are reportedly less noisy due to train activity.
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are mentioned as being allowed, with one reviewer stating, "Dog friendly."
Based on 15 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated August 10, 2025
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