Camping sites near Big Sandy, Montana primarily center around river corridors and reservoirs. Most sites sit at elevations between 2,400-3,000 feet with dramatic temperature variations between seasons. Summer daytime temperatures regularly exceed 90°F while winters bring sub-zero conditions, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping periods for those without specialized gear or shelter.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: At Eagle Creek Developed Boat Camp, visitors can explore unique geological formations. As one camper notes, "There are two hiking opportunities here. The first is the awesome Neat Coulee Canyon where it's a short hike with small climbing (and bigger climbing opportunities; pretty risky)." The same camper mentions historical elements: "There are also pictographs in the opposite direction of the campsite to the canyon."
Fishing access: The Fresno Reservoir provides multiple fishing spots with walleye being the primary catch. A visitor to Kiehns Bay mentioned, "Beautiful spot on the water, there were several dispersed camping spots to choose from around the lake." Anglers typically have best success during early morning or evening hours.
River floating: The Upper Missouri River corridor serves as the main recreational focus. According to a review at Coal Banks Landing, "This site is used almost entirely for people floating the wild and scenic Missouri River past the White Cliffs and the Hole-in-the-Wall." The reviewer adds practical advice: "Bugs can get horrendous here in late summer. It's in the open with few trees, but it is what it is."
What campers like
Shade availability: Summer heat makes tree cover valuable. At Lone Tree Campground, campers appreciate the natural cover: "This is a very nice camp location at around mile 48.8 of the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument. Site is in a grove of large cottonwoods."
Historical connections: The region contains significant historical sites. A camper at Eagle Creek noted its historical importance: "Lewis and Clark camped near here on the other side of Eagle Creek on May 31, 1805." These historical connections add educational value to camping trips.
Solitude options: Some areas provide quieter alternatives to busier campgrounds. A visitor to Wood Bottom Recreation Area advised, "The campground is okay, but the disbursed spots along the river are awesome! Some of the best spots you can find!" This suggests seeking areas beyond designated sites.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many camping areas require preparation for difficult approaches. At Wood Bottom, a camper warned: "Warning, google doesn't have this site on the map. Put Decision Point for the destination & drive past it 1/4 mile downhill to the Loma Missouri bridge... The road past the campground is really rutted & is almost impossible to turn around with a travel trailer. Check it out before you drive it!"
Local traffic patterns: Weekends bring different usage patterns. At Kiehns Bay, one camper observed: "Only reason for 4 stars is because the locals have no respect for campers, they just drive right up and spend the afternoon drinking and carrying on right in front of our spot." Another mentioned: "around 2am some locals rolled through in louder trucks right past our spot."
Connectivity considerations: Cell coverage varies widely. A Wood Bottom camper reported: "One bar Verizon Cell, works well with a booster," indicating signal boosters may be necessary for reliable communication in more remote areas.
Tips for camping with families
Educational options: For families with children, the area offers learning experiences. At Hole-in-the-Wall Boat Camp, a visitor recommended the geological features: "The hiking up to the Hole-in-The-Wall is AWESOME! Though you will have to do some easy rock climbing so be prepared." Parents should note the safety warning: "It's also really easy to fall hundreds of feet as well."
Multi-use park options: For extensive family camping with varied activities, county parks provide comprehensive facilities. A reviewer described Hill County Beaver Creek Park: "This isn't one campground, its dozens. Beaver Creek is the largest county park in the nation... Perfect for picnics, camping by RV or tent, hiking, fishing and bon fires."
Wildlife awareness: Cattle grazing occurs throughout the area, requiring proper gate management. A visitor to Hole-in-the-Wall noted: "Since you will take boats there, cows can walk to the landing sites, but remember to keep all your gates shut."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: For RVs, some areas offer better options than others. At Kiehns Bay, a camper advised: "Spectacular views from a few campsites on top of the walls, well spread out areas and definitely big rig friendly spots." This contrasts with more limited options elsewhere.
Road conditions: Access roads may present challenges for larger rigs. One RVer at Kiehns Bay noted: "The road in and out is hilly and has a bit of washboarding, we made it in and out without any problems." Planning routes carefully and potentially scouting ahead can prevent accessibility issues.
Seasonal timing: Mid-week camping during shoulder seasons provides the best experience. A camper at Kiehns Bay reported: "Stopped here on our way to Glacier NP. Pulled in on a Sunday and there was only 1 other camper in the area. We found a beautiful site overlooking the reservoir."
