Montana's southcentral region near Big Timber offers glamping opportunities set against the backdrop of the Crazy Mountains, with elevations ranging from 4,000 to 6,500 feet. The area experiences warm summer days with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cooler nights dropping into the 50s. Campsites along the Yellowstone and Stillwater Rivers provide water recreation access with seasonal closures typically occurring after Labor Day.
What to do
River recreation: Fish, swim, or float the Yellowstone River at Grey Bear Fishing Access Area. Located 6 miles from Big Timber, this site offers direct river access. "Great fishing access site. There are trains close by but that didn't bother too much. If you stay with kids there are spots where the river current is quite strong close to shore," notes camper Rick H.
Wildlife viewing: Observe native animals at East Rosebud Campground. The drive in often yields wildlife sightings. "We saw some turkeys, an elk, and a moose on our drive in!" shares camper Dallin W. The campground provides access to multiple hiking trails and serves as a basecamp for exploring the surrounding wilderness.
Mountain hiking: Access alpine terrain from Forest Service cabins. The Ibex Cabin offers both privacy and trail access. "Huge, open space, great views, hiking, and privacy," reports René M. The cabin sits in a meadow with wildflower displays during summer months and connects to nearby trail systems.
What campers like
Riverside camping: Sites with water access. "Camping and fishing on the Yellowstone river. Fun for the kids and only a few miles from town to get supplies," says Taylor L. about Grey Bear Fishing Access Area. The cottonwood shade keeps sites cooler during hot summer days.
Private glamping accommodations: Rustic cabins with modern touches at Fourmile Cabin. "Great location off main road. Has refrigerator that works and power. Main trail off the cabin and has an outhouse," notes Cortnee S. The cabin's electric amenities provide comfort while maintaining a remote feel.
Campground amenities: Recreational facilities for families. The Big Timber-Greycliff KOA offers organized activities and play areas. "Lots of kids having a blast at the pool, riding their bikes and playing in the creek that borders the campground. Dog park is adequate though small," reports Maggie C. The campground includes a jumping pillow and creek access.
What you should know
Road conditions: Several glamping sites require travel on rough roads. "The road to get to the trailhead and campground was slow going and really just a logging route- would recommend something with good clearance and ideally 4WD," advises Anthony B. about Fairy Lake Campground. Plan extra travel time when accessing remote locations.
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds have limited operating seasons. Big Timber-Greycliff KOA operates from May 15 to September 7, while East Rosebud Campground runs from May 26 to September 8. Fairy Lake Campground has the shortest season, typically only open July 1 to September 15.
Noise considerations: Highway and railway proximity affects some sites. "Typical KOA with those amenities. Sites are close together as usual at a KOA. Giving 3 stars due to the proximity of the highway (you can definitely hear the traffic) and train tracks (no train overnight though)," notes Maggie C. about Big Timber-Greycliff KOA.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water access: Look for safe swimming areas. Castle Rock Fishing Access Site offers kid-friendly water features. "There's also a creek - great for fly-fishing- that leads to the falls. Enjoy the beautiful scenery while hiking down to Yellowstone river," mentions Luis S. The site includes an elevated cement lookout area for fishing.
Activity options: Choose campgrounds with built-in entertainment. "There was a nice playground, pool, enormous jumping pillow (I had never seen one before - this was definitely a treat, even for adults!) and a small dog run area," shares Melissa H. about Big Timber-Greycliff KOA.
Wildlife education: Create learning opportunities. "Be sure to stop by at Prairie Dog Town State Park (walkable distance from campground). It's simple but a cute place to watch prairie dogs and check out the local flora," recommends Melissa H. This walkable side trip from the KOA provides wildlife viewing without requiring additional driving.
Tips from RVers
Site width considerations: Check pad dimensions before booking. "Pads are gravel and super narrow," cautions Maggie C. about Big Timber-Greycliff KOA. Larger rigs should request specific sites that can accommodate slide-outs.
Dispersed options: Consider fishing access sites for self-contained units. "Two vault toilets, picnic tables and Fire pits, spaces to Camp or put your RV feet away from the river, good for rigs up to 40 ft total," explains Steve M. about Grey Bear Fishing Access Area.
Utility access: Full hookup availability varies by location. "Right on the Yellowstone river, nice playground and covered pool, dog friendly, nice little store, a nice pavilion, nice helpful staff, Wi-Fi good until after dinner. The road coming into the park is HORRIBLE!! The sites are a bit too close but there's room for your slide outs," advises Kelly N. about the Livingston/Paradise Valley KOA.
