Glamping near Elliston, Montana offers a range of options beyond traditional upscale tent camping. Located in Powell County at an elevation of approximately 5,300 feet, this rural area experiences significant seasonal temperature fluctuations with winter lows regularly dropping below freezing and summer highs reaching the 80s. While many travelers know about the resort accommodations, several smaller campgrounds within 30 miles of Elliston provide both standard camping and alternative glamping setups that aren't widely promoted.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Missouri River and Holter Lake provide prime fishing opportunities near glamping sites. "Great night fishing," notes one visitor to Holter Dam Rec. Site Campground, which offers easy access to the water.
Hot springs soaking: Beyond the main resort, smaller natural thermal areas exist within driving distance of most glamping spots. At 2 Bar Lazy H RV Campground, you can set up a base camp with "level camp sites" that are "adequate and has easy access from I90," according to a reviewer.
Wildlife viewing: Many glamping locations offer opportunities to spot native animals. One visitor at Log Gulch Recreation Site reported, "Wildlife abound and fishing galore. Most sites are big enough for a camper and level enough for tents."
What campers like
Thermal spring proximity: While the main resort offers commercial hot springs, alternative soaking options exist. A visitor to Town of Drummond Campground found it to be "a great little spot if you are passing through. It's located conveniently between glacier and Yellowstone for a halfway stop right off the highway."
Lakeside camping: Waterfront glamping options provide direct lake access. At Philipsburg Bay Campground, campers enjoy sites "right on the shore of Georgetown lake. This 69 site campground sits among large pine trees with campsites nicely spread apart."
Mountain scenery: The elevated terrain offers scenic views from many glamping locations. A camper at Log Gulch noted there are cool "mountains" (basically steep hills with some rocks) you can climb or hike, that give you a great view of the area."
What you should know
Seasonal operation: Most glamping facilities in the area have limited operating seasons. Delmoe Lake operates from "Memorial Day to Labor Day," so plan accordingly if visiting outside peak months.
Weather variability: Despite warm days, nights can be cold even in summer. One camper noted that "the area is popular with OHV's and you will pass multiple staging areas on the drive up as well as many others camping along the way up to the campground."
Reservation requirements: Many glamping sites require advance booking, especially during peak season. At Town of Drummond Campground, a visitor mentioned, "There are plenty of sites here. I don't think it likely fills up completely very often."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Many glamping sites offer swimming and boating opportunities for children. At Butte KOA, "We did partake of the pool, which my toddler thought was fantastic and there was a small older playground next to the pool."
Kid-friendly activities: Look for glamping sites with dedicated children's amenities. A visitor to Helena North KOA mentioned they have a "Cool playground for kids and large mostly gravel dog run."
Safety considerations: Some glamping areas have specific rules for children's safety. One camper advised that at Fairmont RV Resort, "be sure to NEVER drive over 5mph as its the number one rule that is the quickest way to get booted out of there. It's for the children's safety."
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Not all glamping sites offer full RV connections. At Holter Dam Rec. Site Campground, RVers should note that while some hookups are available, the campground has "no services and vault toilets (spotless). We had great AT&T cell service."
Site sizing: Some glamping locations have limited space for larger rigs. At Delmoe Lake, a visitor mentioned, "Camp sites are fairly spread out, there's room for RVs if that's your style. Boat launch available for easy access."
Electrical considerations: Be aware of electrical limitations at some glamping sites. At Helena North KOA, one RVer warned there is "Not EV car friendly. There is a $250 fine and eviction if you plug in your car" because "EVs overload the outdated system and cause a fire."
