Best Campgrounds near Essex, MT

Essex is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Montana camping has to offer. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Essex, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Essex, Montana (233)

    1. Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park

    34 Reviews
    Browning, MT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 888-7800

    $90 / night

    "I bring my waders and float tube and love to fish in the lake. The campground is at the base of a mountain where bear sightings are not uncommon!"

    "Took my brother to Montana for the first time. We did an epic road trip. 5000 miles all over the west. Stayed in two medicine camp ground for a week. We hit some great trails out there."

    2. West Glacier KOA Resort

    46 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 387-5341

    "This is a big RV resort close to West Glacier town and park entrance. We came with our 25’ RV and reserved a tent pad site to ensure we were up against the edge of the resort."

    "9/13/19 West Glacier, Montana 

    West Glacier KOA Resort

    Most beautiful location of the KOAs I've stayed at. Nestled against the mountains and less than 3 miles to Glacier National Park. "

    3. Glacier Campground

    50 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 387-5689

    $75 / night

    "Montana is absolutely gorgeous! I may be biased because I go to college in Montana, but there is so many great outdoor activities. The mountains and scenery are my favorite."

    "Great place tucked away from the road. Sites are smaller. Place was clear even the showers. Hot water in the morning not so much at night."

    4. Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park

    55 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 888-7800

    $45 - $90 / night

    "Apgar is walking distance from the Apgar Visitor Center and park shuttles, as well as Apgar Village, camp store, equipment rentals, etc."

    "I could see 6 or 7 other camp fires burning while sitting next to mine.

    We stayed three nights and every night heard someone a site or two over as he was talking too loud (and too much)."

    5. Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park

    59 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    25 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 888-7800

    $30 / night

    "We have stayed in Many Glacier and Avalanche Creek but this is our favorite campsite in the park because of its proximity to Lake Mcdonald as well as Apgar village."

    "Now the good: We were really close to Apgar village and other sites along the Road to the Sun road. The rangers were nice and pleasant to interact with."

    6. Devil Creek Campground

    5 Reviews
    Essex, MT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 752-7924

    $22 / night

    "The facility are excellent to Montana cleanliness standards. The hosts are always more than helpful. We have always loved traveling in Montana!!!!!!!!!!!"

    "It’s close access to Glacier NP. We chose a site without trees for the open sky. The dark night skies here were excellent for star gazing."

    7. Summit Campground

    8 Reviews
    Essex, MT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 466-5341

    $10 - $20 / night

    "I even had a moose walk about 30 yards passed my tent which was pretty cool. There are hiking trails nearby if you don’t want to drive to Glacier for hiking."

    "There is a nice monument here if you just want to stop off while driving by and hit a vault toilet. The sites are quite and secluded for their close proximity to the highway."

    8. Murray Bay Campground (MT)

    5 Reviews
    Essex, MT
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 752-7924

    $18 / night

    "Sites on the water had paths right down to the bay, but there was also a common use path and boat dock."

    "Loved staying at this campground as it was right on the water and extremely secluded from all that goes on at Glacier. 20 Miles from anything, located in Flathead National Forest."

    9. Emery Bay Campground

    12 Reviews
    Martin City, MT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 752-7924

    $22 - $300 / night

    "So close to five stars - I'm just picky about having more space between sites and having sites not right next to the campground road.  Call me spoiled, though.  Can't go wrong here."

    "Site 21 was a walk-up and there was no electric, water or a dump station. No internet or TV through antenna. Was able to find an area in the park where I could make a phone call and send text."

    10. Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed

    34 Reviews
    Coram, MT
    25 miles
    Website

    "It’s so close to the National Park entrance and a beautiful place to stay. The road is a bit bumpy getting down here but there’s plenty of room for tent camping and RVs. Be careful though!"

    "TLDR; quick & easy drive (minus a little stretch to drive down to the river), beautiful riverside view, pleasant and generous neighboring campers."

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Showing results 1-10 of 233 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Essex, MT

1142 Reviews of 233 Essex Campgrounds



Guide to Essex

Camping near Essex, Montana, offers a fantastic escape into nature, with stunning views and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventurous getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the breathtaking trails in Glacier National Park. Many campers rave about the scenic hikes, with one reviewer noting, "Glacier provides world-class hiking and scenery."
  • Fishing: The lakes and rivers around the campgrounds are perfect for fishing. One camper mentioned, "The river is very fast for fishing; could maybe get away with fly fishing."
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for bears and other wildlife. A visitor at Many Glacier Campground shared, "There was some bear activity while we were there, and the friendly and diligent Ranger team stayed on-site making us feel safe."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful landscapes. One reviewer at Two Medicine Campground said, "The views are gorgeous! It was a great last-minute choice."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Many appreciate the peaceful environment. A camper at Fish Creek Campground noted, "Relatively cramped but quiet enough."
  • Convenient Locations: Campgrounds like Apgar Campground are close to attractions. One visitor mentioned, "You couldn't get any closer to Apgar visitor center."

What you should know:

  • Bear Country: Always be bear aware. A camper at Fish Creek Campground advised, "This is in bear country, and you should definitely take the precautions seriously."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack showers and other facilities. A visitor at St Mary Campground pointed out, "There were only two showers open for the whole campsite."
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Rising Sun Campground mentioned, "Be ready to come early and wait in line to grab a campsite."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with amenities like playgrounds. A reviewer at Glacier Campground said, "The lawn was great with a communal fire pit and small playground."
  • Plan Activities: Make sure to have a list of fun activities. One family enjoyed the "live music every night during peak season" at West Glacier KOA Resort.
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially in bear country. A camper at Two Medicine Campground warned, "You had to stay within reach of your food to be able to quickly grab it and retreat into your vehicle if the black bear was in camp."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Not all sites accommodate larger RVs. A visitor at Many Glacier Campground noted, "The sites are all these pull-through curves, and some are on these gnarly hills."
  • Plan for Limited Hookups: Many campgrounds don’t have electric hookups. A reviewer at Glacier Campground mentioned, "The campground is about 1 mile from the west entrance of Glacier Park!"
  • Be Prepared for Tight Spaces: Some RV sites can be cramped. A camper at Apgar Campground said, "Sites are extremely tight and unlevel."

Camping near Essex, Montana, is a great way to connect with nature and enjoy the great outdoors. Just remember to plan ahead and be prepared for the unique challenges of this beautiful area!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Essex, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, Essex, MT offers a wide range of camping options, with 233 campgrounds and RV parks near Essex, MT and 28 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Essex, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Essex, MT is Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park with a 4.8-star rating from 34 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Essex, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 28 free dispersed camping spots near Essex, MT.

What parks are near Essex, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 11 parks near Essex, MT that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.