Canyon Ferry Lake sits at an elevation of 3,800 feet in central Montana and spans 76 miles of shoreline. The reservoir covers 35,200 acres with summer temperatures typically ranging from 75-90°F during peak camping season. Strong afternoon winds are common across the open lake areas, creating challenges for tent campers who don't secure their sites properly.
What to do
Hike Trout Creek Canyon: Located near Vigilante Campground, this trail runs through the canyon for a 6-mile round trip hike. "A trail head in camp for Hanging Valley trail, 11+ mile round trip, lots of climbing to get to a hole in the wall that lets you look straight down into the canyon," notes a visitor to Vigilante Campground.
Fish multiple waterways: The Canyon Ferry Lake region offers exceptional fishing access with several options beyond the main lake. "If you like to fish you are in luck, you have four rivers to choose from, all with great fishing opportunities," shares a camper from Missouri Headwaters State Park Campground.
Experience local history: Visit sites where Lewis and Clark once traveled. "Experience Camping near where Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and the Corps of Discovery camped at the headwaters of the Missouri river in 1805," explains a reviewer at Missouri Headwaters State Park Campground.
Primitive camping adventures: For those seeking a more rugged experience away from developed sites, Duck Creek offers a primitive option. "This is primitive camping, all you are going to find here is a flat grassy area to camp with rock fire rings. No facilities, no water, no trash, no outhouse so come prepared," cautions a camper at Duck Creek Primitive Campground.
What campers like
Open space with mountain views: Many campsites around Canyon Ferry Lake feature panoramic landscapes. "Nice area above shoreline with some shade trees for tents and enough flat area to pull a camper in. Good for day trips, group gatherings too," notes a visitor at Duck Creek Primitive Campground.
Clean facilities: Even in more rustic settings, campers appreciate the maintenance. "Vault toilets are very clean. There is a playground if you have kids. Decent hiking, unfortunately the caves themselves were closed during our stay," shares a camper from Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park.
Lakeside recreation: Direct water access makes Canyon Ferry Lake camping popular. "Quite and right in the lake. You can fish from the bank. Gets windy during the afternoon," mentions a Duck Creek visitor, highlighting both the benefits and challenges.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking alternatives to traditional camping, Helena North KOA offers unique structures. "Great spot near Glacier National Park, quick to get to! Dog friendly, cabins and fun little round (yurt-like) metal buildings to stay in too," explains a camper who stayed at Helena North KOA.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Open sites around Canyon Ferry Lake experience significant wind. "A lot of the area is in the open with out trees and windy. You can find trees for a wind break in several spots in the camping area," advises a Duck Creek camper.
Mosquito preparation: Insects can be problematic at certain sites, especially near water. "When the sun sets in June and July the mosquitos will come out. They are quite nasty but an hour after sunset they are gone, having a campfire going helps too," warns a camper from Missouri Headwaters State Park.
Primitive amenities: Many sites lack hookups or running water. "The campground does not have a store, but the KOA does have one. If you don't fell like cooking you have two options just outside of the campground," explains a camper from Silos Campground.
Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak season. "Make reservations well in advance if you can. This KOA is the best game in town and is mostly sold out in summer," advises a Helena North KOA visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. "Great Playground, close to tent sites. Nice staff and great coffee and beautiful setting!" shares a visitor from Canyon Ferry Lake KOA.
Educational opportunities: Turn camping into learning experiences at historical sites. "Did you know you can print out a packet for your little ones to become Cub Rangers at this State Park?" asks a Lewis & Clark Caverns visitor.
Highway proximity concerns: Some campgrounds require extra vigilance with children. "Cozy forest service cabin, wood stove for heat. Close to highway, so there's road noise but creek and cliffs make it relaxing to sit outside. (Families with small children beware of Proximity to highway)," warns a Rillway Cabin visitor.
Child-friendly yurt camping: The yurt camping at Canyon Ferry Lake provides families a comfortable alternative. "We camped here with a group of families and the playground was nice for the kids. There aren't many trees and the land is flat but we were able to really keep a decent eye of the kids running around," notes a Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park camper.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some sites require additional equipment. "Had to use all our jack stands to combat the slope of our site (P007). Others looked much more level," shares a Lewis & Clark Caverns visitor.
RV size limitations: Not all campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "Small secluded campsite, easy to get to. Road was totally fine with my Subaru Impreza! Went in the off-season so almost no one there," notes a Vigilante Campground visitor, suggesting larger vehicles might struggle.
Hookup details: Understand exactly what services are available. "We booked a pavilion spot with 50A service. Other pavilions have 20A or 30A. Non group sites are dry camping only. There is a water spigot nearby for filling tanks," explains a Silos Campground visitor.
Electric vehicle restrictions: Some campgrounds have policies against charging. "Not EV car friendly. There is a $250 fine and eviction if you plug in your car. The person at the front desk told me the $250 fine and eviction is because EVs overload the outdated system and cause a fire," warns a Helena North KOA camper.
