Equestrian camping near Augusta, Montana centers around key access points to the Bob Marshall and Scapegoat Wilderness areas. The region sits along the eastern edge of the Rocky Mountain Front where the mountains meet the plains, typically at elevations between 4,500-5,500 feet. Summer temperatures range from 45-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common, while early and late season camping often encounters overnight freezing temperatures.
What to do
Trail riding adventures: The Indian Meadows Trailhead provides access to multiple wilderness trails including Mainline Trail #481 and Landers Fork Trail #438. "Indian Meadows Trailhead is the trailhead for two trails in to the Helena National Forest Scapegoat Wilderness Area," notes Dexter I., who adds the area features "a very large parking are... to allow for additional parking and for horse trailer parking."
Wilderness hiking: Benchmark Campground connects directly to extensive trail systems. As one camper mentions, "Benchmark campground allows the hiker or horse rider access to two wilderness areas from the adjacent trail head." The trails provide immediate access to pristine wilderness terrain with minimal development.
Fishing opportunities: Several campgrounds sit near productive fishing streams. Cottonwood Creek offers opportunities for anglers with sites "Right next to the creek" according to Megan B., who notes it's "only a mile or so from holter lake so you can drive back to the lake and play around."
What campers like
Well-spaced sites: South Fork Campground receives praise for its layout and natural setting. Dexter I. notes, "Most of the campsites sit under large pine and fir trees. Sites are well spread apart." This arrangement provides privacy even at busier times.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious travelers appreciate no-fee camping areas near wilderness access points. At Indian Meadows Trailhead, Dexter I. points out the camping area comes with "picnic tables and metal fire rings along with a vault toilet" and emphasizes "Cost is FREE!"
Natural setting: Campers consistently mention the natural surroundings as a highlight. Nic F. simply states Benchmark is a "Good place to go for hiking or horses" with "Nice scenery," reflecting the straightforward appeal of the mountain landscape.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful navigation. Indian Meadows Trailhead has access challenges according to Matt K., who warns about "the access road being full of potholes" and cautions about "narrow, winding roads that have a large drop off" for those arriving after dark.
Limited amenities: Most horse camping facilities near Augusta maintain minimal services. While corrals and trailer parking are available, other comforts are basic. Indian Meadows has "No water or trash service is available at the site, but can be obtained at the Copper Creek campground a few miles away," according to Dexter I.
Seasonal accessibility: Many campgrounds operate on limited seasonal schedules due to weather conditions. Benchmark Campground typically opens Memorial Day and closes November 30, though early or late season weather can affect actual usability dates.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection: When camping with children at Cottonwood Creek, choose spots away from the stream for safety. Megan B. describes it as a "Great secluded spot to set up a tent or boondock" with vault toilets available.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children proper food storage and wilderness etiquette as the area has active wildlife populations including bears. All food should be secured when not in use.
Day trip options: From base camps, plan shorter day rides or hikes appropriate for children's abilities. The main wilderness trails often have significant elevation changes that may challenge younger riders or hikers.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Large rigs face challenges on forest roads and in most campgrounds in the Augusta area. Granite Butte Lookout and similar locations are not suitable for big rigs according to feature listings.
Boondocking preparation: No hookups are available at any of these equestrian-focused campgrounds. Megan B. mentions Cottonwood Creek is good for those who want to "boondock" with just vault toilets available.
Trailer parking logistics: When camping with horses and RVs, arrive early to secure sites with appropriate parking. South Fork Campground provides "plenty of room for horse trailer parking" according to Dexter I., making it suitable for those traveling with both living quarters horse trailers and standard RVs.
