Equestrian camping near Bigfork, Montana offers access to both mountain and valley trail systems within riding distance. The area sits at approximately 3,000 feet elevation with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak season from June through September. Winter brings significant snowfall, making most camping options seasonal with closures typically beginning in October.
What to do
Trail riding to Holland Falls: Located approximately 30 miles from Bigfork, Holland Lake Campground provides access to waterfall hikes. "The hike to Holland Falls is suitable for beginners and children, but be aware that it's rocky when you reach the falls, and dogs and children should be supervised in that area," notes Carmen H. in her Holland Lake Campground review.
Visit Glacier National Park: The park entrance is about an hour's drive from Bigfork. "This campground is right outside the Two Medicine entrance to Glacier National Park, just as you turn off of Highway 49 onto Two Medicine Rd," writes Anthony D. about Red Eagle Campground.
River swimming and fishing: The Flathead River system offers swimming holes and fishing opportunities. "River was very deep and a beautiful swim!" reports Sumner C. about Glacier Rim River Access, which is approximately 45 minutes from Bigfork.
What campers like
Access to multiple destinations: The strategic location allows riders to reach different trail systems. "We chose to see if Two Medicine has any sites. Thankfully, we found a beautiful one on the lake," reports Nancy C. about camping options near Red Eagle Campground.
Private campsites with natural spacing: Many sites offer separation from neighbors. "The sites are not on the same level as your neighbors, but are close," notes Nancy C. about Timber Wolf Resort. This terrain feature provides natural privacy despite proximity.
Minimal insects in evening hours: Unlike many Montana camping areas, some locations report fewer bugs. "Bugs were not bad at all," mentions Tee C. about her Glacier Rim experience, though this varies by season with July typically having more mosquito activity than August or September.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds fill quickly during summer. "We were staying at Two Medicine and found this campground. We drove through to see if it would be an option to not stress about jumping through the horrific reservation process to stay at Glacier," explains Bill P. about Red Eagle Campground.
Cell service variability: Coverage varies significantly by location. "I had one bar of Verizon service, so I could send and receive messages, but pics sent very slowly," reports Tee C. about Glacier Rim River Access.
Water access seasonality: Water availability changes throughout the season. "The closest cell service is just outside of Seeley Lake," notes Sara D. about Holland Lake, highlighting the isolation of some camping areas.
Tips for camping with families
Safety around water features: Many campsites have nearby water access requiring supervision. "There's a short hike up to the waterfall and a longer hike to upper waterfalls. The water on the lake is crystal clear, and while motor boats are allowed, people appreciate the quiet a bit more," writes Anna B. about Holland Lake Campground.
Wildlife awareness: The area has active bear populations. "There are both black and grizzly bears that frequent this area daily, so be very careful with your food, and bear aware when hiking. My last stay was only 2 nights, and I ran into two bears, one that strolled right by my trailer," warns Carmen H. about Holland Lake.
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated recreation areas. "There is a terrific indoor-outdoor cafe on site, and a central gathering area with playground and group picnic shelters," notes Janet R. about Glacier Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: Many sites require leveling equipment. "Our site is one of the better ones. We have a separate fire pit area, with kind of a split level effect," reports Nat E. about Glacier Campground.
Hookup availability: Electric options vary between campgrounds. "All the camp sites have Electric, and water hookups. Some have sewage as well. There is a dump station, and propane fill up on site. It's $25 to dump," explains Marcus K. about Glacier Campground.
Access road conditions: Some campgrounds have challenging approaches. "PSA: The road into the campground is rough and the bridge you have to cross is equally as rough. S.L.O.W.," warns Nancy C. about Red Eagle Campground, important information for those with larger horse trailers.
