Dispersed camping options near Clancy, Montana provide alternatives to established campgrounds with elevation ranges from 4,100 to 6,000 feet depending on location. The area experiences significant temperature variations with summer days reaching 90°F while dropping to the 40s at night. Winter camping requires preparation for snow conditions at higher elevations from October through May.
What to do
Water activities at Canyon Ferry Lake: Visitors can enjoy paddleboarding, kayaking, and swimming at Canyon Ferry Lake KOA where the water stays relatively calm for beginners. "Super easy to book a spot here through the KOA website. Found the store stocked with some pretty good food that rotates weekly," notes Madison T.
Cave exploration near Whitehall: The Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park offers guided tours through limestone caves with formations 15 minutes from camp. "For small children it's quite a hike for them, they do get fatigued on the way, there are pit stops along the hill with shade for rest," writes Carla S.
Hiking in Helena National Forest: Trout Creek Canyon trail provides a 6-mile round trip hike from Vigilante Campground with minimal elevation gain suitable for most fitness levels. "A nice little campground. Two nice hiking trails, the fairly flat Trout Creek trail runs through the canyon a 6 miles round trip," explains Dexter I.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently mention the well-maintained bathrooms at campgrounds in the Clancy area. "Well-maintained KOA restrooms. Not much shade. Pretty mount and lake views. Playground and store. $5 for showers if you are not staying," reports Adelia at Canyon Ferry Lake KOA.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The hills surrounding Holter Dam Rec. Site Campground provide excellent chances to spot bighorn sheep visible from campsites. "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," notes a visitor.
Historical experiences: Visitors appreciate camping where Lewis and Clark once stayed at Missouri Headwaters State Park. "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," mentions a history enthusiast.
What you should know
Electrical restrictions: Helena North KOA prohibits electric vehicle charging with steep penalties. "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," warns Kenyon.
Reservation requirements: Weekend slots fill quickly at most established sites from June through August, often booking 3-4 months in advance. "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 regular visitor.
Insect conditions: Mosquitoes can be problematic at Missouri Headwaters State Park, particularly at dusk. "The most amount of mosquitoes I've ever seen at a campsite due to the marshy environment around the sites but, still beautiful. Make sure you have lots of bug spray," suggests Haley N.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and games: Delmoe Lake offers safe swimming areas with gentle slopes for children and rock formations to explore. "Lots of rock formations in the area to climb and explore. There's a few trail heads to get to the peaks and get an amazing view of the lake and surrounding valley," notes Nick T.
Educational programs: Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park runs a Cub Rangers program where children complete activities to earn badges. "Did you know you can print out a packet for your little ones to become Cub Rangers at this State Park? There are great amenities for both camping and RV'S with a child's playground located on the camp," explains Sierra V.
Yurt options for first-timers: Families new to yurt camping near Clancy, Montana can try the structures at Helena North KOA which provide solid protection from weather changes. "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! Plus over sized lawn chess!" shares Carrie.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for privacy: Book end-of-row sites at Helena North KOA for better spacing between neighbors. "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. I think well worth the extra 17 bucks," suggests a frequent visitor.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds require extensive leveling equipment due to uneven terrain. "Had to use all our jack stands to combat the slope of our site (P007). Others looked much more level," reports Michael B. about Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park.
Utility access: Water and electric connections vary significantly between campgrounds. "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," notes Joseph H. about primitive camping options.
