Equestrian camping near Elliston, Montana offers direct access to the Helena National Forest trail system. Located in Powell County at an elevation of approximately 5,500 feet, this area features a continental climate with cool summer nights and early fall frosts. Beetle kill has affected many forested areas, resulting in more open campsites and improved sightlines throughout campgrounds in the region.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: The Indian Meadows Trailhead serves as the starting point for two wilderness trails: Mainline Trail #481 and Landers Fork Trail #438. "Each trail head has a small parking area, but a very large parking are is between the two to allow for additional parking and for horse trailer parking," notes Dexter I.
Fly fishing excursions: The Little Blackfoot River provides excellent fishing access points. At Cromwell Dixon Campground, campers can use the Continental Divide Trail for hiking and fishing access. "A five mile hike leads to Blackfoot meadows a popular fly fishing location," according to reviewer Dexter I.
Waterfall viewing: Just 45 minutes from Elliston, Lost Creek State Park Campground features an accessible waterfall. "A nice hundred yard path that is paved to the waterfall for anyone with mobility issues. A longer hike up to the bridge is nice and wooded," writes Erik B.
What campers like
Cool summer temperatures: The higher elevation campgrounds provide relief from valley heat. "I stayed there for a few weeks when the temperature is down in the valley started to get into the upper 90s and near 100. It was a good 10° cooler at this campsite than down in the valleys," reports Will M. about Cromwell Dixon Campground.
Private camping spaces: Most horse-friendly sites in the area provide good separation between campsites. At Lost Creek State Park, Leland notes: "Camping spots are nice, but close to one another and the campground is often full. This means, if you do find a spot, you will have to deal with neighbors."
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote camping areas, some sites near Elliston maintain connectivity. Will M. mentions about Cromwell Dixon: "The other big plus is that there is a cell phone tower right above the campground so you have excellent cell phone service."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to wilderness trailheads can be challenging. At Indian Meadows Trailhead, Matt K. warns: "The only downside to this location is the access road being full of potholes, and if pulling up to the site late at night be careful for the narrow, winding roads that have a large drop off."
Seasonal water quality: Some campgrounds have intermittent water issues. At Cromwell Dixon, yvonne K. notes: "Pit toilets and water. Water was rusty. It worked for over night."
Limited amenities: Many equestrian-friendly sites lack modern facilities. "No hookups for RVs; Vault toilets, which were very clean. Pack in/Pack out as there are no trash receptacles," explains Steve V. about Cromwell Dixon Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Waterfall accessibility: Families with children will appreciate the easy waterfall access at certain parks. At Lost Creek State Park, Judy T. shares: "Lost Creek State Park has a beautiful canyon setting and a pretty waterfall just a very short hike from your campsite. We stayed in site #14 where was the closest site. We could hear the waterfall from there."
Berry picking opportunities: Kids can enjoy seasonal foraging activities. "During our visit the raspberries and thimble berries located along the creek were ripe," mentions Dexter I. about Lost Creek State Park.
Secure overnight stops: When traveling with children, safe overnight options are important. At Bearmouth RV Park, Kim K. found: "I needed to find a safe comfortable place to sleep for the night. I arrived at 10:30pm and the two gentlemen that greeted me at this RV park could not have been more helpful or kind."
Tips from RVers
Noise considerations: RVers should be aware of potential noise issues. About Bearmouth RV Park, Tadd B. advises: "Interstate noise and the occasional train whistle would keep me from using the facility for nothing more than an overnight stop."
Trailer-friendly sites: Horse trailer owners need adequate parking. At Cottonwood Creek, Megan B. notes: "Great secluded spot to set up a tent or boondock. Vault toilets. Only a mile or so from holter lake so you can drive back to the lake and play around or go to the store."
Mobile services: Some RV parks offer unique amenities for longer stays. Reames C. shares about Bearmouth: "They offer a 'honey pot' mobile dump station where they come pump your sewage, sometimes offering a free dump for stays of a week or longer."
