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BLM Camping

Toston Dam Rec Site

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

Nestled along the banks of the Missouri River in southwestern Montana, the Toston Dam Rec Site is one of many natural land areas under the jurisdiction of the federal Bureau of Land Management (BLM). BLM camping is a popular pastime for lovers of outdoor recreation and those who enjoy sleeping underneath the stars. Since so many of the 247.3 million acres of land administered by the BLM feature beautiful campgrounds, those who seek BLM camping opportunities have numerous options to choose from. If you live in the western United States, there's a good chance you can find "BLM camping near me." By checking the BLM website or searching online, you can discover the campsites closest to your home.

Located only a short drive south of Helena National Forest, the Toston Dam Rec Site features two separate camping areas, a calm reservoir, lots of interesting local wildlife, and easy river access. Like most of the sites maintained by the BLM, the area is a popular getaway for outdoor enthusiasts and those looking for a serene camping experience.

What to See and Do

Hiking and Biking

Edith Baldy Basin Trail

The Edith Baldy Basin Trail is a long, somewhat challenging out-and-back trail near the Helena National Forest. Since the trail requires quite a time commitment if you want to traverse its entire length, you may choose to stop and camp at the end, then head back the following day. Although the trail is open all year, the best time to visit is between July and September.

Length: 18.4 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Keating Gulch Loop

Another beautiful trail in the scenic Helena National Forest area is the Keating Gulch Loop. The trail is rocky and features some elevation gain, but the majority of hikers should be able to manage. In addition to hiking, the Keating Gulch Loop is a popular destination for horseback riding. Unfortunately, dogs aren't permitted on the trail.

Length: 7.6 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Skidway Campground Loop

The Skidway Campground Loop lies in a peaceful area in Lewis and Clark National Forest. The trail, which is suitable for children and adults of all ability levels, takes hikers through a quiet forested area with plenty of pretty views. Keep your eyes open for wildlife, as quite a few animals have been known to roam the area. You can bring your pups along, but they'll need to remain leashed at all times.

Length: 4.0 miles

Intensity: Easy

Fishing & Boating

If you're staying at the Toston Dam Rec Site, you'll have opportunities for both fishing and boating within walking distance. The BLM site features two boat ramps: one at the upper campground and one below the dam on the river. Motorized boating is permitted on both the reservoir and the Missouri River. Kayaking, canoeing, rafting, and tubing are also popular pastimes for visitors. If you have a valid Montana fishing license, you can cast your line for rainbow trout, brown trout, walleye, and pike.

Climbing

There aren't too many local climbing opportunities near the Toston Dam Rec Site. However, if you're looking for an impressive peak to summit, you could make the trip to Mount Helena. The mountain stands a majestic 5,468 feet tall, and the climbing is mostly single-pitch with the exception of the Sunset Slab crag. There are five developed crags, and the available climbing routes range from 5.6 to 5.13 in difficulty.

Wildlife Viewing

A number of cool species inhabit the Toston Dam Rec Site area, and quite a few interesting birds have been spotted nearby. Some of the avian species you might glimpse include cormorants, waterfowl, eagles, hawks, and pelicans. Another great destination for wildlife viewing in the area is Helena National Forest. While exploring the forest's lush trails, you'll want to keep your eyes open for moose, elk, bighorn sheep, bears, mule deer, whitetail deer, and Rocky Mountain goats.

Picnicking

If you're hoping to enjoy a relaxing picnic, you're in luck because the Toston Dam Rec Site day-use areas feature plenty of picnic tables and grills. Of course, if you're in search of a bit more solitude, you can't go wrong by taking a blanket down to the water and setting up a personal picnic area. You might even be joined by a friendly deer coming to take a drink from the river!

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping

As long as your RV isn't particularly large, BLM RV camping is doable at the Toston Dam Rec Site. Although there aren't any hookups or dump stations at the site, both campgrounds can accommodate small to medium-size RVs. In addition to the two Bureau of Land Management campgrounds, you'll find several nearby RV parks that do offer hookups and modern amenities. A couple of options only a short drive away are the Roadrunner RV Park and the Townsend / Canyon Ferry Lake KOA Journey.

Free Camping

Bureau of Land Management free camping is the standard at the Toston Dam Rec Site. For both of the on-site campgrounds, sites are available entirely free of charge on a first-come, first-served basis. A total of 10 campsites are available, and you'll have access to clean, well-maintained vault toilets. If you prefer dispersed camping, you can search the area for a suitable clearing to put together a custom campsite. You should be able to locate several pleasant spots near the banks of the Missouri River.

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Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Toston Dam Rec Site BLM trip

If you're planning to camp at the Toston Dam Rec Site, keep in mind that the campgrounds have been known to fill up during weekends in the summer. If you're visiting during a busy season, keep a backup campground in mind. Fortunately, the Fairweather Campground is only a short distance south of the BLM site.

Because of the site's proximity to the river, many guests have reported the presence of mosquitoes and other insects. To keep your stay as comfortable as possible, be sure to pack some insect repellant. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace

The Leave No Trace principles outline the ways you can do your part to preserve our natural lands. During your visit to the Toston Dam Rec Site, plan and prepare for your trip ahead of time. Dispose of all garbage properly or take it with you when you depart. Avoid disturbing anything you find in nature, including local wildlife. Limit your camping to durable land surfaces and keep your campfires as low-impact as possible. Lastly, be respectful of other visitors. By following these guidelines, you can help keep this natural environment clean, thriving, and open to the public for decades to come.