and it could have been up to 14 nights – all for FREE…
After 10 months of Full hookup RV camping at Anaconda’s Copper Court, I was ready to return to “primitive” camping in Clark Canyon Reservoir.
I NEEDED this! Dry camping on my own for a few nights – just me and my resources to live “off the grid.” Here’s the background…
Clark Canyon Reservoir is a relatively large body of water situated about 20 miles south of Dillon, Montana. It is operated by the Bureau of Reclamation. With the exception of the Lewis and Clark camping area which has full service campsites, all the other designated camping areas are free for up to a 14 night stay. All the campgrounds have waterfront sites, though the water in late summer is relatively low. The reservoir serves the region’s agricultural needs.
Full Service RV Camping IS available at Clark Canyon Reservoir as well…
The Lewis and Clark campsites (again full hookups) are $30 per night. If you have the $80. (lifetime) America the Beautiful pass, you’ll pay $15. In my case, I stayed water front in the Horse Prairie (dry camping) and for most of my time there, I was the ONLY person in the entire campsite! Again – the nightly rate where I camped was $0.
Dry Camping (for FREE) is abundant here and NO reservation needed!
Yes, it was “only” a boondocking site, but I had all the equipment I needed and the sun cooperated to “feed” my solar panels keeping my batteries very happy and healthy. Each campground around the reservoir is easy access and not far from interstate I-15.
One camping area is actually right along side the interstate. If you read the reviews from campgroundreviews.com, you’ll find those who stay there complaining about noise from the interstate. To solve that issue, I chose to travel about 3 miles off the highway (on great roads) to get a bit farther from the interstate.
Reasonable cell service
Verizon worked and ATT was fine as well. Both were supported by my cell signal booster. There were times when I was kayaking (naturally away from the signal booster) when I did lose the cell signal – but that’s roughing it American style these days!
A rich history in this region
Lewis and Clark passed through here. I can see the attraction (to them) of this canyon. Gentle slopes, wide open, perhaps a natural water body at that time, and good views 360 degrees. It is said that this site is where Sacagawea was reunited with her tribe.
Dillon is about 90 miles south of Butte – and if you peruse my website, there’s MANY recent posts about Butte and its history. A couple of my best include the Butte Historical Tour post, and this post exploring Butte and Anaconda.
Dillon itself has a small university along with a few good eateries. I swam in the pool at the local YMCA. Their daily fee is $8. (even for seniors!) Beyond that, there wasn’t too much in Dillon.
RV Travel: Moving right along…
Following three nights at this idyllic location, I needed to resume my journey. My next stop? Idaho Falls, well actually Shelley, Idaho. In my next stop, I will talk a bit about staying in an RV in the “IF” region. Things have changed markedly in the past year or two and YOU (if you’re an RV’er) need to know!
Need RV Accessories – Here’s some of my most recommended “stuff”
Winter is Coming – Need an RV Skirt?
I’ve used mine for nearly every winter since 2017 and its still performing! If you’re anywhere near Boise, Idaho, Dave is THE MAN! Check his work HERE. If you’re not, he can even send you material to “do your own.” Contact me for a price quote for your needs.
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