Camping options around Colstrip, Montana span a 60-mile radius across the eastern prairie landscape. The region sits at approximately 3,200 feet elevation with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F during July and August. Wind is a constant factor across these open plains, especially during spring months when gusts can reach 30-40 mph, affecting tent setup and campfire safety.
What to do
Local fishing access: Far West Fishing Access Site offers excellent opportunities for anglers. Located near Rosebud, it provides direct access to the Yellowstone River with "hiking trail to the river" and "a pond, where I have seen people swimming," according to regular visitor Ellen D. The site includes "flat camping sites, mostly pull thru, with fire rings, picnic tables" making it convenient for overnight stays.
Battlefield exploration: 7th Ranch RV Park serves as an ideal base for visiting Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument, just 15 minutes away. One camper notes, "Custer actually rested his troops at this site just prior to starting the battle." The campground features scenic walking paths where visitors can "see the American flag or the cross" on self-guided trails through the surrounding pasture.
Evening entertainment: Small towns near camping areas offer unexpected activities. In Forsyth, just 30 minutes from Colstrip, you'll find "a one room movie theater, completely restored with lounge chairs" and "a bowling alley," as mentioned by a camper staying at Far West. Miles City, about 60 miles northeast, provides more extensive dining and shopping options within walking distance of camping.
What campers like
Shade availability: Red Shale Campground offers pine tree coverage that campers particularly appreciate during hot summer months. As one reviewer noted, "Pine trees provide some shade so pick the right place," while another mentioned, "Each site has a mix of sun and shade…so if you're focused on solar, there are 'good, better, best' sites to choose from." This natural shade makes a significant difference when temperatures climb.
River access: Rosebud East Fishing Access Site provides direct access to the Yellowstone River, which campers consistently highlight in reviews. One visitor shared it's "right on the river. Fun for swimming, fishing, and rock collecting." Another noted the "cool access to Yellowstone River" as a primary attraction, making this a popular spot despite some railway noise.
Wildlife viewing: The campgrounds around Colstrip offer opportunities to observe native wildlife. The Far West site features "walking trail, several spots available" where visitors can spot waterfowl around the adjacent pond. One camper at Red Shale mentioned the area is perfect for "enough space to explore for kids" while being mindful of occasional wildlife warnings.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Railway lines run near many camping areas in the region. At Rosebud East, campers report that "the train passes by about 5 times throughout the night. It's about 6 blocks away- but still very noticeable." Another reviewer recommended, "bring some earplugs and you'll have a better night's sleep." This is a common factor at multiple sites along the Yellowstone River corridor.
Conservation license requirement: For Montana fishing access sites, an overnight stay requires purchasing a Montana Conservation License. One camper at Far West noted, "I did need to purchase my conservation license for Montana. I didn't know it was 'a thing.' $10....worth it!!!" This permit is mandatory for all fishing access sites but not required at Forest Service campgrounds like Red Shale.
Limited services: Wagon Wheel Campground in Forsyth offers more amenities than most sites in the area. A recent visitor noted it provides "full hook ups, Wi-Fi, pull through site which was level so it didn't take much to set up camp," making it a good option for those needing more services. Most other camping areas have minimal facilities.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Miles City KOA offers family-friendly amenities including "a nice heated pool, playground and dog park." One camper mentioned, "a community patio and grille was available too if you were interested," providing gathering spaces for families. Another reviewer noted there's "a nice playground for kids" making it suitable for longer stays with children.
Bug preparation: Insect activity can be significant, especially near water. A camper at Far West Fishing Access reported their family "had a horrible amount of gnats, flies and mosquitoes" during their summer visit. The Miles City KOA visitor advised to "bring bug spray as there are quite a few mosquitoes," particularly during early summer months when standing water is present.
Safety considerations: When camping with children near the Yellowstone River, be aware of water conditions. At Rosebud East, the "sound of the river" can mask other noises, including approaching trains. One camper noted the site features a "forested area" with some privacy but recommended supervision near the water where the current can be swift.
Tips from RVers
Level site selection: Grandview Campground in Hardin offers practical advantages for RVers. A visitor mentioned, "Level gravel parking pads" and "wide roads on both loops" that accommodate larger vehicles. Another camper advised, "All sites back in, but probably 5 of the 15ish sites could accommodate a 45' RV or a 35ish' fifth wheel," helping RVers select appropriate spots.
Hookup variations: Electrical options vary significantly between campsites near Colstrip. At Rosebud East, a camper with a large fifth wheel noted, "We had the choice of electric hookup spots or not.. $5 extra for the power, totally worth it!" Meanwhile, at Red Shale Campground, there are "no hookups at all (could be a plus or minus depending on how you camp)" according to a recent visitor.
Road access alerts: Some access roads require careful navigation. A 7th Ranch RV Park visitor cautioned, "the last mile or so is a dirt road that is very rough, so go slow!" Another noted at Far West, "It is a quarter mile drive down a well managed dirt road to arrive to the site," which can be important information for those with larger rigs or during wet conditions.
