Situated within Montana's Bitterroot Mountains, De Borgia sits at approximately 3,200 feet elevation along the St. Regis River. The area experiences warm summer days with cool evenings, while winter brings significant snowfall averaging over 100 inches annually. Local campgrounds often remain open from late May through early October, with limited services available during shoulder seasons.
What to do
Water recreation: Clark Fork River access: The Sloway Campground provides direct river access with a small boat launch perfect for anglers and paddlers. A visitor noted, "I have camped @ Sloway for many years. The setting on the Clark Fork River is fantastic, especially for the 4-5 campsites that have river frontage."
Gold panning: Historical mining activity: The Crystal Gold Mine offers a unique 40-minute tour where visitors can try their hand at panning. "Don't count on striking it rich with gold but you will certainly leave entertained and with a great bit of mining education!" reports one camper.
Dark sky viewing: Minimal light pollution: Logan State Park provides excellent stargazing conditions with minimal light pollution. A camper observed, "Dark skies. Peaceful, except a little road noise. But hey, unless you want to backpack into the backcountry, most places will have some road noise."
What campers like
Forest shade: Natural cooling: At Whitefish-Kalispell North KOA, campers appreciate the tree coverage. "This unassuming park was a delight. Lots of trees, quiet, lovely hosts. Sights 17-20 are the gem of the bunch, particularly 19," mentions one reviewer.
Private sites: Well-spaced areas: The Cascade Campground offers spacious sites that provide privacy. "The sites are large and private with large areas for tables and fire rings," notes one visitor who appreciated the layout.
Morning activities: Free breakfast option: Some glamping sites near De Borgia provide unexpected morning amenities. One KOA visitor mentioned, "Free breakfast in the morning was a great touch. We were able to get laundry done and take a shower before heading to Glacier."
What you should know
Train noise: Proximity to tracks: Many campgrounds in the St. Regis River valley sit between highways and active rail lines. One Sloway camper warned, "The noise from the trains was no joke. Woke us up about 5 times overnight, fortunately toddler slept through it."
Late arrival options: Self-check systems: Several campgrounds accommodate after-hours arrivals. A visitor to Trout Creek Motel & RV Park shared, "The host made late check in for us easy. Had full hookups. Nice level gravel site."
Cell service limitations: Connectivity gaps: Many camping areas have limited or no cell reception. A Logan State Park visitor reported, "No AT&T for us and no wifi. Extra boat parking available. Some hiking in the area."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Entertainment options: The Whitefish KOA offers numerous children's activities. One parent shared, "This campground has it all. Lots of fun for the kids with mini golf, bikes, paddle boats, and arcade games."
Budget considerations: Free options available: Finley Flats provides no-cost camping with basic amenities. "This campsite is perfect for a simple and free camping spot. Doesn't have any hook ups but is right on the water and you can park your boat," notes a recent visitor.
Bathroom facilities: Cleanliness varies: Facility maintenance differs between locations. A Logan State Park visitor observed, "The bathrooms are SUPER clean and heated when it's chilly out. $18 for a Montana resident and $26 for out of staters."
Tips from RVers
Site dimensions: Varied parking options: While some glamping in De Borgia, Montana offers spacious RV sites, others have tight access roads. One RVer at Trout Creek Motel shared, "Long, pull through RV sites that are over 80 feet long. Tenting sites. The prices are well below the competition."
Leveling requirements: Terrain preparation: RVers should bring leveling equipment as many sites require adjustment. A visitor to the Whitefish KOA noted, "Most sites will need work to level campers."
Highway proximity: Noise considerations: Interstate noise affects certain glamping locations near De Borgia. At Crystal Gold Mine, a camper observed, "You can't beat access from I-90. It's so close you will listen to traffic your whole stay. That does not bother us at night, but kind of spoils the peaceful day."
