Horse camping near Butte, Montana offers riders access to mountainous terrain with elevations ranging from 5,500 to 8,000 feet. The Continental Divide region provides multiple equestrian-friendly sites with varying levels of amenities. Summer temperatures typically reach the mid-80s during day hours but drop significantly at night, even in July and August.
What to do
Trail riding at Continental Divide: Cromwell Dixon Campground provides excellent access to the Continental Divide Trail with routes suitable for day trips. As Sean H. notes, "If you're staying multiple days, take advantage of the miles of trails that will bring you to different creeks and mountain lakes!"
Fishing opportunities: Many horse camps offer dual recreation options. At Lost Creek State Park Campground, riders can enjoy creek access. According to Judy T., "Lost Creek State Park has a beautiful canyon setting and a pretty waterfall just a very short hike from your campsite. We could hear the waterfall from there."
Wildlife viewing: The elevated terrain and varied ecosystems support diverse wildlife. Campers at Kading Cabin can access the Little Blackfoot river area where Dexter I. reports, "A five mile hike leads to Blackfoot meadows a popular fly fishing location."
What campers like
Natural water features: Horses and riders appreciate the water access at many sites. Ruby Y. describes Lost Creek as "well maintained and tucked away between beautiful rock formations, a rushing creek, and aspens. Our spot was perfect, with a little picnic table that was chained but able to be moved slightly and a fire pit with a metal grill."
Private campsites: Horse campers often prefer separation from other campers. At Cromwell Dixon Campground, Victor E. observed, "Sites have good separation. Potable water taps and vault bathrooms are very clean. Higher elevation for cooler Summer evenings."
Cooler temperatures: The elevation provides relief during summer heat. Will M. confirms, "I stayed there for a few weeks when the temperature is down in the valley started to get into the upper 90s and near 100. It was a good 10° cooler at this campsite than down in the valleys."
What you should know
Limited amenities: Most horse campgrounds require self-sufficiency. At Cromwell Dixon, Steve V. explains, "This is a small, no frills site just outside of Helena, MT. No hookups for RVs; Vault toilets, which were very clean. Pack in/Pack out as there are no trash receptacles."
Seasonal access: Many horse camping areas close during winter months. Lost Creek operates from "May 1 to November 30" while Cromwell Dixon is available "Memorial Day to September."
Cell coverage varies: Unlike many remote locations, some sites offer connectivity. Will M. notes about Cromwell Dixon, "The other big plus is that there is a cell phone tower right above the campground so you have excellent cell phone service."
Wilderness regulations: When accessing East Fork Group Area and surrounding wilderness, follow posted guidelines. Nick T. advises, "To get this this portion of camp sites, as soon as you get to the dam you take a very hard right. It's 180 degree turn to the right."
Tips for camping with families
Waterfall access: Children enjoy natural water features accessible from camp. Erik B. recommends Lost Creek stating, "A nice hundred yard path that is paved to the waterfall for anyone with mobility issues. A longer hike up to the bridge is nice and wooded."
Berry picking opportunities: Seasonal fruits provide family activities. Jen notes at Lost Creek, "Thimbleberries were ripe during our stay and plentiful. Clean facilities. Water at a pump but not at individual sites."
Educational opportunities: The Continental Divide offers learning experiences about watersheds and ecosystems. Camp Comet describes Cromwell Dixon: "The rocky sloped landscape had a lot of wildflowers and made for a pleasant overnight stop with no expectations."
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RV horse campers should research site dimensions carefully. Lisa K. advises about Lost Creek, "The sites are large and private and somewhat level but many will require leveling. Many of the sites are short, officially 23ft max, but there were several there would easily accommodate our 28 foot rig."
Water access points: RVers need to plan for water fill-ups. Dexter I. explains at Kading Campground, "Water is available at Kading Cabin located across the road from the campground entrance. A small public corral is located across the road from the campground, and there are two horse watering troughs in the campground."
Temperature considerations: RVers should prepare for significant temperature swings. Lisa K. notes, "It got very cold (27°) and flurried while we were there! Super surprised that we had some tmobile service!"
