Camping spots near Black Eagle, Montana span across a variety of environments from riverside locations to forested mountain settings. The region sits at elevations ranging from 3,300 feet in the Missouri River valley to over 5,000 feet in the nearby mountain ranges. Summer temperatures typically reach the 80s-90s while winter camping requires preparation for temperatures well below freezing, with nighttime lows often dropping below zero degrees.
What to do
Hiking in diverse terrain: Thain Creek offers access to multiple trail routes including Windy Mountain loop. "The trailhead for #431 is on the campgrounds and there are multiple routes you can take once you start. The path I followed for about 40 minutes opened into an incredible meadow with wildflowers," notes a visitor at Thain Creek.
Water activities and fishing: Fort Benton's campground provides river access for various activities. "There is a small boat ramp/river access. But otherwise the river access is a little steeper. My 7yr old enjoyed catching soft shell turtles," reports a camper at Chouteau County Fairgrounds & Canoe Launch Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings and evenings offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Deer wandered into the campground throughout the night and morning. You can hear logging creek moving from no matter where you are," mentions a camper at Logging Creek.
What campers like
Secluded woodland camping: Many campers appreciate the forested sites that provide shade and privacy. "The campsites are beautiful, secluded, and shaded. There is water for kids to play in. There is a camp host. And several toilets. Endless trail," writes a reviewer about Logging Creek.
Tent villages at KOAs: Unique camping setups with communal facilities. "Our site was in what they call a tent village, which is a nice roundabout of tent sites. There are walls separating the sites for privacy, but the area is big enough for your vehicle and a large tent, or multiple smaller tents," explains a visitor at Great Falls KOA.
Natural swimming areas: Several campgrounds feature natural water features for swimming. "Great little pool on the far side of the campsite is great for kids," reports a visitor about Logging Creek, highlighting natural water features that families enjoy.
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require travel on unpaved roads of varying quality. "The road was a lil rough with the washed out gullies in the road with the cattle guards. But I overall loved it," notes a camper at Logging Creek.
Variable facilities: Bathroom and shower quality varies significantly between locations. "The bathrooms could use some updating. They are nice single occupancy toilet/shower combos but some had damage on the tile, missing soap dispenser, non-functional paper towel dispensers," reports a visitor to Great Falls KOA.
Seasonal closures: Most remote campgrounds close during winter months. "Be aware that this is a long rough gravel road of at least 12 miles to get there. I would not suggest trying to haul a large rig into it," warns a camper at Thain Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Check for kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer extensive recreational facilities. "KOA has everything you need. An outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, tent, cabin and RV spots. Outside kitchens. Shower area, small store, playground, and wifi," explains a visitor about Great Falls KOA.
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds experience more noise than others. "The ATV and dirt bikes everywhere! The campground itself is nice but the 4th of July crowd was mostly there for motorized recreation. This, combined with peoples general disregard for how loud they are, was annoying," notes a visitor to Logging Creek.
Look for water access: Campgrounds with safe water access provide entertainment for children. "This is a cute spot if your feeling like camping but want to stay in cell service and have electricity and water access. Down by the river. Bring bug spray," advises a camper at Chouteau County Fairgrounds.
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. "You have to drive through part of Great Falls, Montana to get to this campground, but once you are in it, you forget all about the city," explains a visitor to Great Falls KOA, noting the urban access route that accommodates larger vehicles.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment for leveling RVs. "The concrete pads are mostly level...nothing is absolutely level. Water, sewer and electric are provided," mentions a visitor at Military Park Malmstrom AFB Gateway FamCamp.
Hookup availability: Electric, water, and sewer connections vary by location. "They say there are full-hookups but really there is only 1 site with both electric and water. The others only have electric," warns a camper at Chouteau County Fairgrounds, highlighting the importance of verifying specific utility availability.
