Tent campsites near Choteau, Montana are concentrated in the Rocky Mountain Front region at elevations between 4,000 and 5,000 feet. The area experiences significant temperature fluctuations, with summer days reaching 80°F while nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F even in July. Several camping options remain accessible from early spring through late fall, though mountain snow can affect higher-elevation access until late June.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Eureka Reservoir offers calm water access ideal for anglers. "The gem is the reservoir access. Especially if it is earlier in the year and the rivers are high. You can go here to get your feet wet earlier in the season," notes camper Jean L. at Eureka Reservoir.
Explore nearby towns: The small communities surrounding tent camping areas provide necessary services. "Chateau is a cute little town with a grocery store, laundry mat, and some places to eat," according to one camper who visited Eureka Reservoir.
Hiking access: From Mill Falls Campground, visitors can access Front Range trails. A camper at Mill Falls mentions: "The nearby hike to 'Our Lake' is about 1.5hrs (roundtrip) from the trailhead at the end of the road. This was one of our favorite hikes in the area. It's relatively flat for the first 1 hour and then gets steeper, along good switchbacks, for the final 30 mins."
What campers like
Privacy and seclusion: Even during peak season, many camping areas remain uncrowded. "We were the only campers on a Thursday night. Quiet, safe, no amenities besides a vault toilet, and no cell service," reports Meghan B. about her stay at Mill Falls Campground.
Stream access: Several campgrounds provide water features that enhance the camping experience. At Lowry Bridge Access Site, campers appreciate the combination of natural features and basic amenities. One visitor noted the site offers "picnic table, fire ring, pit toilet, gravel pad. 5-6 sites mostly level."
Shade availability: Tree cover at several campgrounds provides relief during summer heat. A visitor to Mill Falls appreciated that their site offered "great shade for hot summer days, the cooling brook nearby, and no mosquitoes!!"
What you should know
Limited facilities: Most tent sites in the area provide minimal amenities. At Lowry Bridge Access Site, camper Marilyn K. described it as "Quiet, Clean, no services" and noted it's "4 miles off route 200, Left on MT-21, Right on Lowry Road, over bridge."
Site availability: Some campgrounds have limited capacity but offer overflow options. At Mill Falls, there are "4 sites (a couple overflow just before the entrance) and just a couple dispersed sites right off the main road if full."
Reservoir construction: Visitors to Eureka Reservoir should be aware of potential site improvements. A recent visitor observed: "Looks like there will be nice new sites next spring. They are working on leveling campsites? There is a nominal fee at this campground."
Tips for camping with families
Choose road-accessible sites: For families with young children or lots of gear, some campgrounds offer better vehicle access. "Small campground with 4 sites (a couple overflow just before the entrance) and just a couple dispersed sites right off the main road if full," notes a Mill Falls camper.
Check campsite spacing: Some sites offer more room for families than others. At Lowry Bridge, campsites are described as "mostly level" with approximately "5-6 sites" available, making it suitable for families who need defined spaces.
Water collection options: No potable water exists at most sites, but some offer natural sources. One visitor to Mill Falls noted that "While there was no potable water available, you can collect washing water from the fast-running stream."
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Access roads vary in quality throughout the region. At Lowry Bridge Access Site, Susan A. observed, "Nice, quiet, clean campground. About 5 level sites. Good for small RVs. Road to the campground is decent."
Size restrictions: Most campgrounds in the area accommodate only smaller recreational vehicles. A July visitor noted that Lowry Bridge Access Site had "2 tenters and 2 rv/campers" during their stay, indicating the site can accommodate both types of camping setups.
Seasonal timing: For RV campers, spring access can provide unique opportunities. Jean L. mentioned that Eureka Reservoir is "convenient if you are on your way to Glacier" and noted "the view here never gets old."
