Summit Trailhead Horse Camp sits at the eastern edge of Montana's Rocky Mountains where Highway 2 passes through at approximately 5,213 feet elevation. This primitive camping area serves as an access point to wilderness trails, though it offers limited facilities with just vault toilets and a gravel parking lot. The area experiences significant temperature variations with cool evenings even during summer months.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Equestrian enthusiasts can access trails directly from Bear Creek River Access Boating Site, which connects to longer routes. "Great spot for launching rafts. Also very good choice for relaxing and getting away for a few hours to a day," mentions Cody L., highlighting its usefulness as a starting point for outdoor adventures.
Explore eastern Glacier areas: The eastern approach to Glacier National Park offers less crowded alternatives accessible from horse camping spots near Browning. At Red Eagle Campground, "Options outside of Glacier...They have 95 spots, all lot of shade but also some sunny options if you have solar panels and require recharging," notes Bill P., describing alternatives to park accommodations.
Visit Two Medicine Lake: The Two Medicine area provides scenic views and additional trail access. Anthony D. describes Red Eagle Campground as "right outside the Two Medicine entrance to Glacier National Park, just as you turn off of Highway 49 onto Two Medicine Rd."
What campers like
Affordable alternatives: When Glacier's campgrounds fill up, budget-conscious travelers appreciate nearby options. Kevin O. noted that Red Eagle has "Small dispersed sites, half primitive half with electric. Clean porta potties available. Only 25$ a night, 50$ with electric."
Cultural connections: The Blackfeet Nation operates several campgrounds in the area, providing unique cultural context. Anthony D. notes that Red Eagle Campground "is operated by members of the Blackfeet Tribe on their ancestral land and the hosts were friendly and welcoming."
Solitude opportunities: For those seeking quieter spots away from crowds, Chloe B. recommends areas near Summit Trailhead Horse Camp: "We found a nice spot close to the challenge cabin up in Summit that was close to the creek. The area was big enough for multiple people to camp in. It didn't get much traffic which was perfect for us."
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: The camping season near Browning is relatively short, typically running May through September. Chewing Blackbones Campground operates "Jun 1 - Sep 30" according to its listing, while other facilities may close even earlier.
Variable facilities: Campground amenities vary widely in this region. At Johnson's Campground, "Sites are TIGHT! Can't even open canopy without hitting next door unit. Showers are on token base, 1 token for 6 minutes," reports Chris Y., highlighting infrastructure limitations.
Wildlife awareness: Bear activity requires proper food storage and caution. Anthony D. mentions, "While we didn't see any wildlife while we were there, (old) bear scat was near our site. It is bear country, after all, so make sure to keep your food in your car."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity varies dramatically between sites. Phil P. notes at Bear Creek River Access, "Starlink works great but no cell service."
Tips for camping with families
Bug preparation: Evening mosquitoes can be overwhelming without protection. Chloe B. warns about Summit Trailhead Horse Camp: "Just watch out for the mosquitos they get really bad in the evening hours so bring bug spray for you and any pets."
Breakfast options: For family meals, explore nearby dining options. Kennedy F. recommends: "please visit 2medicine grill just down the road on the way there for THE BEST breakfast ever!!!"
Alternative lodging: If tent camping proves challenging, Timber Wolf Resort offers cabin options. Sandra&Dunn reports, "We stayed in a little hut one night and camped the second," though they noted cabins can be "crazy expensive for October."
Playground access: Some facilities offer recreational areas for children. Nancy C. notes Timber Wolf Resort has "a pavilion with gas grills and playground."
Tips from RVers
Limited large-rig options: RV sites with hookups are scarce near Browning. For better options, consider Moose Creek RV Resort near West Glacier. James W. reports, "We had an asphalt pad, but some were gravel. There were tent spaces as well."
Road conditions: Access roads can present challenges for larger vehicles. Nancy C. advises about Red Eagle Campground: "The road into the campground is rough and the bridge you have to cross is equally as rough. S.L.O.W."
Seasonal hookup variations: Utility availability fluctuates throughout the season. Kennedy F. explains at Red Eagle: "Repairs on electric mentioned in previous reviews is finished! $25 for non electric sites and $45 for electric. still no water or bathrooms but clean porta potty's provided."
Non-level sites: Be prepared with leveling blocks. Sandra&Dunn notes at Timber Wolf Resort: "Only a couple tent sites are truly flat, just FYI."
