The Dixon area sits at approximately 2,500 feet elevation where the Flathead and Jocko Rivers meet in western Montana. Seasonal temperature variations are significant with summer highs reaching the 90s and winter lows dropping below freezing. Campers encounter a mix of riverside sites and forested terrain with easy access to hot springs, making this location popular for upscale camping experiences.
What to Do
Hot springs exploration: Near Wild Horse Hot Springs, visitors can soak in various natural pools with different temperatures. "They have a huge variety of separate pools to choose from. $35 for tent spot and $14 per person to soak in their hot spring pools. Beautiful views all around," notes camper Melita B.
River activities: The Clark Fork River provides fishing and floating options at Sloway Campground. "While my hubby flyfishes, I float on the Clark Fork. You can put in right from your campsite, the beach by the pullthru sites, Dry Creek or Superior, then float to your campsite/beach, St Regis, or 14 Mile/Ferry Landing," recommends Lisa C.
Day trips to Flathead Lake: From Dixon, campers can access Big Arm State Park within a 90-minute drive. "This park is gorgeous, most of the sites are along the water, and there's a boat launch and hiking trails too. Staff is very friendly and the views of the lake and Wild Horse Island are incredible!" shares Juliana H.
What Campers Like
Private, wooded sites: The Missoula KOA Holiday offers secluded camping spaces. "They have several very creative approaches to tent sites. The one that I am staying at has a tent circle, five sites in the round, facing outward, fenced on each side with a picnic table, stand up barbecue, fire pit that is grated, picnic table, running water, electricity, and nice grass," explains Craig L.
Natural amenities: Glamping in Dixon, Montana provides access to unique natural features. "Nice little lake, was there in fall so not busy. Wooded and sites are along the lake, but views aren't fantastic. Saw bear prints, definitely lock up foods. Bring water treatment methods," advises Harry H. about Kreis Pond Campground.
Dark skies: The minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. Sarah from Wild Horse Hot Springs notes, "Clean, quiet, comfortable, relaxing, and beautiful views. Almost no light pollution at night, I've never seen the Milky Way like this before!"
What You Should Know
Train noise considerations: Several campgrounds near Dixon experience train noise. At Sloway Campground, "The I-90 highway runs fairly close to the campground & the noise can be distracting at times. The bigger noise maker is the train that runs on the other side of the Clark Fork River. There are two road crossings across from the campground, and the trains are required to blow their horns when approaching these crossings," warns Kenneth F.
Seasonal access: Most campgrounds in the area operate from May through September. "Water was turned off when I was there, but there is a pit toilet and lots of Firewood. Close to highway," reports Will M. about Lee Creek Campground.
Cleanliness standards: Forest Service facilities maintain high standards. "The pit toilets were some of the cleanest I've encountered. The Lolo has some of the cleanest toilets in the system," shares Kelly about Lee Creek Campground.
Tips for Camping with Families
Activity-focused sites: Choose locations with built-in entertainment. "This is a really fun spot a little ways off busy Hwy. 93. You got your mini golf, outdoor go carts, paddle boats, arcade, donkey petting, pizza and all level of camp sites," suggests Bjorn S. about Whitefish-Kalispell North KOA.
Water recreation options: Big Arm State Unit offers family-friendly water activities. "Had a great time here in may despite the water still being cold it didn't stop my kids from plunging in. The reservable sites have lake access and views. The camp hosts are great and fun people," mentions Jed D.
Budget considerations: Glamping near Dixon, Montana varies in price. "This campground is nice and small and has plenty of room for exploration. The tent site was spacious and had outdoor lighting. Definitely had a lot more amenities than we are generally used to!" shares Vanessa M.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: At Kreis Pond Campground, "Great secret camping spot. There's only about 5 spots and summer will be crowded when it's hot and awesome weather! Bring tubes to float around the water and hammock to hang around," advises Kirsten R.
Campsite accessibility: Consider access challenges when planning your route. "Honestly I never made it to this campsite because my GPS couldn't figure out how to get me there without going on private property," cautions Kristin H. about Kreis Pond Campground.
Seasonal timing: For luxury camping experiences near Dixon, plan ahead during peak months. "Take a stroll on the Lewis and Clark trail and then relax at the hot springs before strolling back into camp this is a fee site but well worth it love this campground," recommends Christopher R. about Lee Creek Campground.
