Best Camping 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, MT (229)

    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park

    1. Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park

    59 Reviews
    210 Photos
    487 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Overview

    Apgar, Fish Creek, and St. Mary Campground reservations WILL NOT provide access to any vehicle reservation areas (including the west side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and North Fork). To obtain a vehicle reservation, visit Glacier National Park Vehicle Reservations on Recreation.gov. Fish Creek Campground is the second largest campground in Glacier National Park. Glacier National Park, in northwestern Montana, is comprised of pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles (1,125 km) of trails, Glacier is a hiker's paradise for visitors seeking wilderness and solitude. It also provides countless scenic vistas for those wishing to relax and take in its natural beauty. The campground is located on the western side of the park at an elevation of nearly 3,500 feet (1,066 m). This area of the park generally receives the most rainfall. Daytime temperatures can exceed 90 F (32 C), although it is frequently 10 to 15 F cooler at higher elevations. Weather in the mountains can be varied, including snow in summer; visitors should come prepared for anything.

    Recreation

    This facility is conveniently located in the western part of the park, nearby many day hikes, including Rocky Point Trail, which wanders through a burn area from a 2003 wildfire. Explorers of all ages can attend nightly ranger programs at an amphitheater within the facility.

    Natural Features

    Fish Creek is heavily forested with plenty of shade. Some sites have views of Lake McDonald. The park is named for its prominent glacier-carved terrain and remnant glaciers descended from the ice ages almost 10,000 years ago. Its diverse habitats are home to nearly 70 species of mammals including the grizzly bear, wolverine, gray wolf and lynx. Over 270 species of birds visit or reside in the park, including such varied species as harlequin ducks, dippers and golden eagles.

    Nearby Attractions

    One must-see attraction is Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier's sister park across the Canadian-U.S. border. As the other half of Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Waterton Lakes offers great hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the townsite of Waterton. Waterton Lakes National Park

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park

    2. Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park

    55 Reviews
    186 Photos
    501 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Overview

    Apgar, Fish Creek, and St. Mary Campground reservations WILL NOT provide access to any vehicle reservation areas (including the west side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and North Fork). To obtain a vehicle reservation, visit Glacier National Park Vehicle Reservations on Recreation.gov. Apgar Campground is situated on the southern tip of Lake McDonald in beautiful Glacier National Park in northwestern Montana. Pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains and spectacular lakes are found throughout the park. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier is a paradise for hikers seeking wilderness and solitude. It also provides countless scenic vistas for those wishing to relax and take in the natural beauty of the park.

    Recreation

    Lake McDonald provides great opportunities for boating, water skiing, canoeing and fishing in its cold mountain waters. A variety of fish are found in the lake, including cutthroat, rainbow, bull and lake trout, whitefish and Kokanee salmon.The campground is conveniently close to many trailheads for day hikes, including Apgar Lookout Trail, a 3.3-mile (5.3 km) trail leading up to a fire lookout with breathtaking views of Lake McDonald. The Apgar Bike Path, a paved 1.5-mile (2.4 km) trail popular for walking and biking, leads to the nearby Apgar Visitor Center and Village. Horseback ride reservations, boat rentals, shuttle service and Red Bus Tour reservations are available here.One of the most amazing highlights of Glacier National Park is a drive on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which travels past the campground. This engineering marvel spans 50 miles (80 km) through the park's wild interior, winding around mountainsides and treating visitors to some of the best sights in northwest Montana.

    Natural Features

    Apgar is located in a dense forest on the western side of the park at an elevation of nearly 3,500 feet (1067 m). This area of the park generally receives the most rainfall. Daytime temperatures can exceed 90 degrees, although it is frequently 10 to 15 degrees cooler at higher elevations. Weather in the mountains can be varied, including snow in summer. Visitors should come prepared for anything.The park is named for its prominent glacier-carved terrain and remnant glaciers descended from the ice ages almost 10,000 years ago. Its diverse habitats are home to nearly 70 species of mammals including the grizzly bear, wolverine, gray wolf and lynx. Over 270 species of birds visit or reside in the park, including such varied species as Harlequin ducks, Dippers and Golden eagles.

    Nearby Attractions

    One must-see attraction is Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier's sister park across the Canadian-U.S. border. As the other half of Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Canada's Waterton Lakes National Park offers great hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the townsite of Waterton.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort

    3. West Glacier KOA Resort

    46 Reviews
    96 Photos
    219 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Pine-scented campsites here are a mere 2.5 miles from Glacier National Park's west entrance. A short drive of a few minutes brings you to the start of the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road that twists and climbs across the million-acre alpine preserve. Whitefish, Kalispell, and Flathead lake are within driving distance to explore for part of a day with plenty of time left to relax at this KOA. This KOA also offers a heated adult (18+) pool 2 adult (18+) hot tubs and a heated family (all ages) pool. Enjoy our Lazy Bear Breakfast or Dinner restaurants, as well as our Bearstream Bar and Bear Garden. You can treat yourself to huckleberry ice cream at Scoops Ice Cream Shop or head to the state's largest water park in nearby Columbia Falls.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground

    4. Glacier Campground

    49 Reviews
    138 Photos
    430 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Glacier Campground is located just one mile from the west entrance of Glacier National Park and is the closest privately owned campground to the park, known for “the way camping used to be!” Our heavily wooded 40 acre campground is surrounded by the Flathead National Forest. West Glacier Village provides many activities including golf, mini golf, shopping, rafting, horseback rides and helicopter tours. There are also many options for great local dining. Outdoor lovers will love staying at with us

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park

    5. Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park

    34 Reviews
    137 Photos
    212 Saves
    Browning, Montana

    Overview

    Two Medicine is a 100 site campground located in the Two Medicine Valley of Glacier National Park. There is a ranger station and campstore in close proximity, but no other services or accommodations are located in the valley. There is no cell service or wifi. Generators are allowed only in Loops B & C. Generators are prohibited in Loop A.

    Recreation

    Two Medicine Campground is located on the east side of the park, which boasts some of the best trails available for day hiking. Trailheads start at a higher elevation than those on the west side, so less ascent is required to reach scenic vistas.

    Contact Info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (406) 888-7800.

    Nearby Attractions

    One must-see attraction is the sister park across the U.S.-Canadian border, Waterton Lakes National Park . As the other half of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Waterton Lakes offers fantastic hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the Townsite of Waterton. Immediately east of Glacier National Park lies the picturesque Blackfeet Indian Reservation , spanning 1.5 million acres. Visit the Museum of the Plains Indian, in Browning, Montana, for a fascinating introduction to the rich cultural heritage of the largest Indian tribe in Montana.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $90 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park

    7. Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park

    47 Reviews
    193 Photos
    731 Saves
    Siyeh Bend, Montana

    Overview

    The Many Glacier Campground is located on the east side of Glacier National Park, at an elevation of approximately 4,500 feet. The campground is located about 22 miles from the town of St. Mary and the east entrance to Glacier National Park. Babb, Montana, is the closest community to the Many Glacier Campground and is located approximately 12 miles east of the campground. Babb has a general store, gas station, several restaurants and an U.S. Post Office. Cell phone coverage is not available in the campground. However, limited coverage is available in Babb.

    Recreation

    Many Glacier Campground is located on the east side of the Continental Divide, and has excellent trails available for day hiking and overnight backpacking. Trailheads start at a higher elevation than those on the west side of the park, resulting in a shorter ascent to reach scenic vistas. Trails traverse areas frequented by grizzly and black bears, so take these safety precautions -- hike in groups, make lots of noise to avoid surprise encounters and carry bear pepper spray (know how to use it).

    Natural Features

    Many Glacier Campground is situated in a mature Douglas fir, lodgepole pine and quaking aspen forest. Vegetation is dense and provides partial shade for almost all campsites. Occasional strong wind gusts occur, however, with tree cover, most sites have some protection from the weather. Nearby natural features include Swiftcurrent Creek and Lake, and mountain views of Altyn, Henkel, Wilber, Grinnell Point, Allen and Wynn.

    Nearby Attractions

    If you have the time and a current passport, be sure to visit Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada. Waterton Lakes National Park is a sister park to Glacier and both are known collectively as "Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park" -- the first international peace park in the world and designated in 1932. Waterton Lakes National Park offers fantastic hiking, scenic boat cruises and several short drives to view wildlife and access numerous hiking trails. Waterton Lakes National Park is located approximately 45 miles north of the town of Babb, Montana. Take Montana highway # 89 north to the intersection of Highway#17 or the Chief Mountain International Peace Park Highway. Continue north to the Chief Mountain international border crossing, where the road number changes to highway #6 and then highway # 5 into Waterton Lakes National Park.

    Contact Info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (406) 888-7800.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $23 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park

    9. St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park

    39 Reviews
    126 Photos
    72 Saves
    Babb, Montana

    Overview

    Apgar, Fish Creek, and St. Mary Campground reservations WILL NOT provide access to any vehicle reservation areas (including the west side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and North Fork). To obtain a vehicle reservation, visit Glacier National Park Vehicle Reservations on Recreation.gov. The St. Mary Campground is reservation only during the peak season. For information on camping outside the reservation timeframe visit the Glacier NPS website . St. Mary Campground is the largest campground on the east side of Glacier National Park, and is conveniently located approximately a half-mile from the St. Mary Visitor Center. The visitor center offers interpretive programs, shuttle service and Red Bus tours leaving from the center. The campground sits near the entrance of the popular scenic byway, the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Generators are allowed only in Loops B & C. Generators are prohibited in Loop A.

    Recreation

    St. Mary Campground is located on the east side of the park, which boasts some of the best trails available for day hiking. Trailheads start at a higher elevation than those on the west side, so less ascent is required to reach scenic vistas.

    Natural Features

    Though shade is sparse, the aspen trees that grace St. Mary Campground flutter in spring and summer breezes and provide colorful splashes of yellow late in the season. Views of Singleshot, East Flattop and Red Eagle Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to the landscape. St. Mary Lake which, although too cold and occasionally too rough to swim in, provides refreshing scenery on warm days.

    Nearby Attractions

    One must-see attraction is the sister park across the U.S.-Canadian border, Waterton Lakes National Park. As the other half of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Waterton Lakes offers fantastic hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the Townsite of Waterton. Immediately east of Glacier National Park lies the picturesque Blackfeet Indian Reservation, spanning 1.5 million acres. Visit the Museum of the Plains Indian, in Browning, Montana, for a fascinating introduction to the rich cultural heritage of the largest Indian tribe in Montana.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast
    Camper-submitted photo from Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast
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Showing results 1-10 of 229 campgrounds

Pet-friendly camping near Essex

Recent Reviews in Essex

1178 Reviews of 229 Essex Campgrounds


  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Beargrass Lodging & RV Resort
    Oct. 9, 2024

    Beargrass Lodging & RV Resort

    Clean, convenient stop

    We picked this park for convenience while having travel trailer brake issues. Came at close of season, and thankful for a later evening check in. A little disconnect to obtain a bathroom Code. Fortunately we saw camp hosts walking dogs to gain access. Dog friendly, including nice gated area for off leash.

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Oct. 5, 2024

    North fork Flathead River dispersed camping

    Great stay close to West entrance Glacer NP

    I really enjoyed this boondocking site. They have great tent options right beside the river but not too close for flooding. Also they have a hard structured bathroom which was nice. Would stay here again. Also the road was bumpy but I managed it with my Honda Accord.

  • Sarah M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    Huge pot holes and water puddles + crowded

    You can only park on the one side of the river and it’s very crowded. Additionally the road going down to the camping area has huge pot holes and and water so you need high clearance to get down there.

  • Ben H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    Easy and convenient

    Only about 15 minutes away from Glacier National Park Westgate. I was able to stay here for multiple days. Each time was no trouble in finding a place to park. This area is popular for rafting and fishing. The surrounding area is also beautiful. There are outdoor restrooms located nearby. The camping limit for this area is 3 days. I was able to have good Verizon signal. Overall a great spot to camp.

  • hannah W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Rim River Access 10363
    Sep. 17, 2024

    Glacier Rim River Access 10363

    Stopped here but didn’t end up staying the night

    Could’ve been a really cool camping spot but after setting up camp a couple came yelling right by my van. They were part of the homeless camp and I just didn’t feel super comfortable because they were saying really aggressive things.

  • Micheal S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Sep. 15, 2024

    Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park

    Probably one of the campgrounds I would ha e no trouble going back to. Try clean, quiet, and tucked a way i etween two mountains where spotting wildlife on the slopes in the evening and mornings is a favorite pass time.

    The road into Many Glacier campground is a challenge but well worth the agonizing ride in. There is nice spacing between the sites. There are no hookups and there are generator hours that people have no trouble complying with. The hosts are very nice and are willing to help in any way possible. They do a mandatory bear awaretalk for new arrivals. The campsites are predominantly shaded so solar really doesn't work well there. The restrooms are clean and there are utility sinks for emptying gray water waste if you are a tenter. The water and dump station are just out side the entrance between. There is a ranger station just past the dump station. Located on the north side of the campground is a store, lodge, restaurant, laundry, and shower. The laundry is coin operated.

  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 12, 2024

    Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    Mid week stay

    At first it looked crowded but we managed two vans side by side right in the river. Everyone was respectful of each other. Fire rings available. We heard that it can be very loud and crowded on the weekends with groups/parties

  • Kaitlin K.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from GooseHead Camping Area
    Sep. 5, 2024

    GooseHead Camping Area

    Good for the night

    This campsite was very accommodating for our rig (40ft long x 13.5ft tall) and the road in wasn’t too bad either. Plenty of space for lots of rigs and turning around.

    Pros:

    • the reservoir access and sun set views were really neat!

    Cons:

    • there were a few shady characters about with some weird tent set-ups (lawn mowers, abandoned bikes, and tarps) so we didn’t feel entirely safe leaving our stuff alone for a day trip.
  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from 3 Bears Campground and RV Park
    Sep. 1, 2024

    3 Bears Campground and RV Park

    Lots of Noise, Lots of Rowdy Kids

    Needed just a fast stop for the night, in a TT, after getting repairs.

    Lots of noise, loud music, loud motors, cars in and out that obviously didn’t stay there off of the back of camp, and just loud racket until late at night.

    Just a basic setup, but good shade. Connections were appropriate, pull in sites accommodated a standard pickup and 29 ft TT.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from GooseHead Camping Area
    Aug. 24, 2024

    GooseHead Camping Area

    Dispersed site

    Drove in on a Wednesday and found a site right on the water. A number of spots were occupied with campers/tents with no one there. Really peaceful spot in my experience and an unbeatable view. Rented SUPs from in town to enjoy on the reservoir.

    Pit toilet, well maintained, and walkable from all spots in the area.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Big Arm State Unit — Flathead Lake State Park
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Big Arm State Unit — Flathead Lake State Park

    Tent site

    Reserved this deamy site right on the water. Tent 1 is closest to parking but has the most traffic going by to the other sites.

    Pit toilet nearby and a quick drive to flushable toilets. Showers available with tokens from the camphost ($3 for 6 minutes) but camphost weren't around when I was looking so no personal experience here.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Finley Point Unit — Flathead Lake State Park
    Aug. 24, 2024

    Finley Point Unit — Flathead Lake State Park

    Walk in

    Got a walk in site when I showed up in the afternoon. All that was left was an RV site and they let me tent there. Even though I wasn't on the water, still got a water view! Pit toilet bathroom was close by, and sometimes the smell wafted over when the wind changed.

    SUP, kayak rentals on water, reasonably priced. The beach was rocky and perfect!

    In the morning, I spotted a black bear on a hill. Follow bear protocol well.

  • Josh S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispered #2
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Ryan Road Dispered #2

    Quiet solitude near West Glacier

    Got here on a Monday at about 1pm.

    There were about 3-4 sites available, 2 of which could fit a camper. We grabbed one. It could fit a 20-25' camper with vehicle at most.

    The place emptied out pretty well mid week (peak season).

    Pros:

    Many sites Some flat/level sites Some very big sites (2-3 could probably fit a larger 30'+ rig) Very quiet 15 min to west glacier entrance gate Clean Full 5 bar Tmobile

    Cons:

    Not much for turn around space, especially for a larger rig. If sites at end of road are packed you may be up a creek. Weekends it's packed. Still quiet, just nit much availability. No water. The spigot that used to be available outside the park gates are no longer available. Closest water is inside the park at the picnic areas.

    We stayed 6 nights and it was great. Very quiet, and an easy 25 minute drive to Columbia falls for grocery. 15-20 to hungry horse for gas.

  • Elizabeth F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Aug. 20, 2024

    North fork Flathead River dispersed camping

    Nice stay near West Glacier

    This was a nice site for the night. I came around 6pm and all 4 sites were full so we just car camped in one of the parking spots. The four spots look really nice, but they most likely fill up quick, as we came on a Monday night. It’s a very beautiful place to camp and the bathroom is a perk! I definitely recommend if wanting a free place to camp outside of the West Glacier entrance!

  • IThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Highway 89 East Glacier Dispersed
    Aug. 13, 2024

    Highway 89 East Glacier Dispersed

    Tribal land - no camping allowed

    DO NOT CAMP HERE. Got a citation even though there are roads leading here with no signs while others have signs stating camping is prohibited.

  • Charles  H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Chewing Blackbones Campground
    Aug. 13, 2024

    Chewing Blackbones Campground

    TNC: totally nasty camping!

    We checked in and found our site half underwater due to deluge night before. Drove around CG before going back to office and noticed ours was only site like this. "Josie" at front desk supposedly had no other FHU sites, only electric only, so we went back to ours site to figure out how to deal with. Trailer next ours decided to plug into our 1 and only outlet ( a 30 amp) with his 50 amp step down adapter. Called Josie who said this is the 2nd time today people have done this who DID not pay for electric and to unplug the people who weren't around. We did and plugged in, hooked up water, ran swere line, all while standing in 6-8 inches of disgusting water. Found out water pressure was ridiculously low ( 6-8 lbs) and bathrooms had no tp!!!! Lawn also doesn't seem to EVER be mowed. This place needs to step up there game!!!! Drop them God Sam!!!!!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispered #2
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Ryan Road Dispered #2

    Super close to the West Entrance Glacier NP

    Many little sites, some with stone rings for fire, some without. Road is easily doable without 4WD. But has some potholes. You will sleep surrounded by forest in nature and close to the west entrance of the glacier National Park.

  • zack B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Highway 89 East Glacier Dispersed
    Aug. 5, 2024

    Highway 89 East Glacier Dispersed

    Overlooking st. Mary lake and east glacier.

    Absolutly beautiful view of st. Mary lake and glacier park east. Another lake in the background im not sure of right now. Just a dirt road off the highway that nobody comes to and is good to park an rv for the night and let the dogs run around. Anti people camping!!

  • Laura D.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Honey's Place RV Spot
    Jul. 31, 2024

    Honey's Place RV Spot

    Beautiful view

    The view was unbelievably beautiful, our dog had lots of room to run and other dogs to play with. The site was comfortable and the Hosts were so very KIND!


Drive Time


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 229 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 Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park with a 4.5-star rating from 59 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 Flathead National Forest and Glacier National Park.