Glamping near Canyon Creek, Montana offers access to multiple recreation areas with well-maintained facilities. Most sites are situated at elevations between 3,500-4,000 feet, creating moderate temperature shifts between day and night even in summer months. The camping season typically runs from late May through September, with limited off-season accommodations available in specific locations.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Log Gulch Recreation Site features 4 miles of hiking paths with multiple trailheads. "Two trail heads are at the campground, one at each end which connect to 4 miles of hiking trails," notes a reviewer who appreciated the connectivity of the trail system. The paths range from flat riverside routes to more challenging hillside climbs.
Fishing opportunities: Holter Lake Rec. Site offers productive fishing spots directly from shore or via boat access. According to a camper, "Awesome night fishing" is available below the dam area. The marina is particularly popular for trout fishing, with regular catches reported throughout the summer months.
Water activities: Pelican Point Fishing Access Site provides multiple water access options including a boat ramp and swimming areas. One visitor mentioned, "Great for kids. Love the Pelican point pond," highlighting the family-friendly water features. The site includes "a small beach for swimming, fishing and for dogs to play" according to another review.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Canyon Ferry Lake KOA maintains exceptional bathroom facilities. A reviewer stated, "Cleanest and nicest bathrooms I've seen in a long time!" Another noted the campground has "Clean and well maintained bathrooms and campsite." The KOA store stocks rotating food items weekly for camper convenience.
Shaded camping spots: While many area campgrounds have limited tree coverage, Vigilante Campground offers sites with natural shade. According to a visitor, there is "plenty of shade with lots of fir trees in the campground." This makes a significant difference during hot summer days when temperatures can reach 90+ degrees.
Waterfront locations: Many campers appreciate the proximity to water at area campgrounds. At Pelican Point, one review highlighted the "nice RV spots" with "boat launch ramp and small beach for swimming." Another camper noted the site offers "level and right by the water" spots with "Big mature trees" providing "evening shade" for most sites.
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: The area experiences significant wind, particularly at certain campgrounds. At Silos Campground, a reviewer warned of an "open and windy campground with no tree cover" where "all the trees are along the lake and provide little to no releaf from the sun or constant winds." Summer temperatures can exceed 100°F, making water access valuable.
Limited services: Many campgrounds offer basic amenities only. "No hookups, great fire pit and picnic tables" is how one visitor described Pelican Point, adding there's only a "pit toilet if you need it." Several sites lack trash service, requiring pack-in, pack-out practices.
Reservation requirements: The popularity of these sites means planning ahead is essential. During peak season (July-August), most campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. A Holter Lake visitor observed it was "Usually pretty well filled up most last spring and summer weekends. Not so busy during weekdays."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: For families with children, Vigilante Campground provides hiking opportunities suited to various skill levels. A reviewer mentioned two trails: "the fairly flat Trout Creek trail runs through the canyon a 6 miles round trip" and "Hanging Valley trail, 11+ mile round trip, lots of climbing." This variety allows families to choose appropriate difficulty levels.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The area offers chances to spot native wildlife. One camper at Holter Lake advised to "Keep an eye out on the surrounding hills around the campground for Big Horn Sheep. While staying at the campground we saw 5 sheep on the hill next to the campground entrance."
Swimming areas: Several locations offer designated swimming spots for children. A visitor to Pelican Point noted there's a "pit toilet" and "large parking area" with "easy access from 15" making it convenient for families. However, at Holter Lake, be aware that "No pets on the fairly small swim beach" is enforced at some locations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: At Helena North KOA, the site layout creates privacy challenges. A reviewer explained, "All gravel roads and sites throughout the park. Very close together," adding that "The luxury sites don't have that problem. They are at the end of each row and only have a neighbor on the drivers side."
Accessibility issues: Some campgrounds present mobility challenges. Helena North KOA was described as "Not ADA friendly. Very hard for someone with a walker to get around because of gravel roads/sites. Someone with a wheel chair near impossible."
Utility limitations: Electric vehicle owners should note restrictions at certain parks. At Helena North KOA, "There is a $250 fine and eviction if you plug in your car" because "EVs overload the outdated system and cause a fire."
