Connie H.
Ranger
RangerRound Meadow Trails Camp
There is no actual campground or “camping spots” located here. No overnight camping allowed in the parking lot. There is a vault toilet available here and was actually very clean when we stopped.
Camping near Essex, MT
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Camping areas near Essex, Montana center around Glacier National Park, with options ranging from developed campgrounds to dispersed sites. Two Medicine Campground in the eastern section of Glacier National Park accommodates tent and RV camping with drive-in, hike-in, and walk-in access. The Middle Fork Flathead River area provides dispersed camping opportunities outside the park boundaries, while several established campgrounds like Fish Creek and Apgar offer more amenities within the park.
Road conditions and seasonal closures significantly impact camping access throughout the region. Many campgrounds operate only from late May through early September due to Montana's mountain weather patterns. "Whether you've arrived on foot, by car or by rail, Apgar places you in an excellent position to take advantage of what Glacier has to offer," noted one visitor about the strategic location of certain campgrounds. Travelers should check current conditions before arrival, as mountain roads can be affected by snow even in early summer. Cell service varies widely, with better coverage near West Glacier and limited or no service in more remote camping areas. Campgrounds within Glacier National Park typically fill quickly during peak season, making advance reservations essential for developed sites.
Campers consistently mention the spectacular mountain views and wildlife viewing opportunities as highlights of the Essex area. Several visitors reported deer walking through their campsites, particularly at Fish Creek and Apgar campgrounds. According to one camper, "We had a deer walk through our site early morning, so wildlife is definitely near by." The proximity to Glacier National Park's hiking trails and lakes represents a major draw for most visitors. Tent and RV sites at campgrounds like Two Medicine provide drinking water and toilets, while dispersed camping areas along the Middle Fork Flathead River offer more primitive experiences with fewer amenities but greater solitude. Bear safety remains an important consideration throughout the region, with most established campgrounds providing bear-proof food storage boxes and regular ranger patrols.
Best Campgrounds near Essex (260)
1. West Glacier KOA Resort
"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. "
2. Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park
"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."
from $90 / night
Check Availability3. Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
"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)."
from $45 - $90 / night
Check Availability4. Glacier Campground
"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."
from $45 - $120 / night
Check Availability5. Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
"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."
from $30 / night
Check Availability6. Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
"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!"
"Perfect spot for camping outside the west entrance, about 25 minutes away. That road is a little rough coming in but it’s short and manageable, even saw a little Mazda make it in."
7. Devil Creek Campground
"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."
from $22 / night
Check Availability8. Skyland Rd Dispersed Camping
"We love being way off the beaten path van camping where you see close to no one and have beautiful nature and this for sure did that."
"This was the perfect spot for us to rest after Glacier before driving to the Tetons. We had beautiful views and a very peaceful night. No bears or signs of bears!"
9. Emery Bay Campground
"Surrounded by large conifers with a large fiberglass topped picnic table that is easy to clean and fire pit. The vault toilets are within a short walking distance."
"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."
from $22 - $300 / night
Check Availability10. Lid Creek Campground
"We ended up at Lid Creek after the first few campgrounds along the lake were full. Sites are on the small side, and most are not very flat."
"The lake, Salish Mountains and Montana’s big sky are all front and center here. Lid Creek is 15 miles off U.S. 2 on a very winding but paved road."
from $18 / night
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Drive Time
- 2 hrs 25 min from Great Falls, MT
- 2 hrs 44 min from Missoula, MT
- 3 hrs 38 min from Helena, MT
- 4 hrs 14 min from Coeur d'Alene, ID
Recent Camping Photos near Essex, MT
398 Photos of 260 Essex Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Recent Reviews near Essex, MT
1461 Reviews of 260 Essex Campgrounds
Hayley F.
TravelerApgar Campground — Glacier National Park
Perfect spot for RV camping in Glacier
We camped in October so there was no access to water. No electricity for the campsites, but for $20 by Glacier it was perfect. 5 min from the visitor center. Sites are pull thru but pretty un-level so bring lots of stuff to level. We camped with our 27ft. travel trailer and was perfect.
Aaron S.RangerMoose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast
The Ultimate West Glacier Basecamp (With Starlink & Scenic Loop Tips)
Reviewed by: The Crew at Hitched4fun.com
If you are planning an epic trip to explore Glacier National Park, your choice of home base can make or break your trip logistics. We stayed four nights at Moose Creek RV Resort in West Glacier, Montana, and it served as the ultimate launchpad for exploring every corner of this iconic national park.
Location & West Glacier Access
When visiting Glacier, proximity to the park gates is everything. Moose Creek is super close and remarkably convenient to the West Glacier entrance, allowing you to beat the morning rush onto Going-to-the-Sun Road without spending hours in transit beforehand. (Still arrive early at park entrance!)
Campground Vibe, Grounds & Amenities
The park has that authentic, rustic Montana feel while providing all the modern comforts you need after long days on the trail:
- The Setting: The resort is tucked into a dense forest of tall pine trees on all sides, offering a serene, quiet, and shaded environment that feels completely immersed in nature.
- Facilities & Resupply: The campground is spotless and well-maintained. The laundry facilities were very clean and a huge help halfway through a long road trip.
- Camp Store & Morning Perks: Having a solid on-site convenience store stocked with essentials was great, and having hot breakfast options available right on the property made fueling up for early morning park excursions effortless.
- Staff: The team here was exceptionally friendly, welcoming, and knowledgeable about the surrounding area.
Starlink Performance Under the Pines
For RVers who work remotely or rely on satellite internet like we do, camping under heavy pine canopies can often be a connectivity nightmare. However, even with dense pine trees surrounding our site, our Starlink dish locked onto signal and worked reliably throughout our entire four-night stay—a massive plus for staying connected in the Montana backcountry.
Glacier Park Routes & A Must-Do Tow-Vehicle Loop
During our four days, we were able to make the jaw-dropping drive across the Going-to-the-Sun Road twice round-trip, plus an additional one-way trek on our final day.
For your tow vehicle or passenger car, here is a scenic driving loop you should not miss:
- The Route: Take Going-to-the-Sun Road all the way east to Saint Mary. Head south along Highway 89 to Kiowa, then cut onto Montana Highway 49 up and over the pass down to Highway 2. From there, take Highway 2 west along the southern boundary of the park all the way back to West Glacier.
- CRITICAL Big-Rig Warning: Do NOT attempt Highway 49 in a motorhome, fifth wheel, or large trailer. It is extremely steep, narrow, and winding. It is strictly meant for your unhitched tow vehicle or car.
- The Payoff: With your truck or car, it is an unforgettable drive. There are virtually no crowds, the panoramic mountain vistas are stunning, and we even spotted a bear hanging out right along the side of the road!
The Hitched4fun Verdict
Moose Creek RV Resort is everything a national park gateway camp should be: clean, quiet, scenic, and packed with practical amenities that make traveling easy. Whether you are looking for reliable Starlink connectivity under the pines or quick access to the best drives in North America, this park delivers. We highly recommend it to anyone heading into Big Sky Country!
Rating: 5 out of 5 Stars— Highly Recommended by the Hitched4fun.com crew!
- Barb T.
GuideWest Glacier KOA Resort
Not a fan of KOAs but this one is the cleanest
We usually use KOAs for full hook ups, showers and laundry this KOA is probably the nicest and cleanest one I have been in. There are trees which most are in flat fields. I think 4 or 5 pools which are heated because it is now October and kids were in the pool. It has a nice store. The ice cream shop and restaurant are closed. The thing I like is it has grass between sites so my dogs can pee. It also has 2 dog runs a walking path it is outstanding if you like clamping to the fullest. It also has many cottages. Some sites also have their own patio and gas grills. The ladies in the office are the nicest people. I would stay again.
- KKarin G.Guide
Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
One of the best places for access to Glacier NP
We stayed in site A27 for 5 nights. The site was great other than the auto headlights as we were across from the only 2 showers in the campground. There was plenty of room for our 17’ trailer and truck and a large tent area and sitting area. Deer came through often and the squirrels were entertaining. We could walk to the visitor center and village. The time of year was great. GoingToTheSun road was fine warning but we had to arrive at Logan Pass at 7 pm to get parking. Great paths all attorneys and access to the lake. It was a good first experience.
- Barb T.Guide
Whitefish Lake State Park Campground
Very small campground
You won't fit a full sized camper in there. Mostly for small travel trailers and tents. Also its kind of in town not my idea of camping.
- Barb T.Guide
Lake Mary Ronan State Park Campground
Here in October so the water is shut off. Pit toilets are open and pretty clean just a little smelly. This is the first state park I have been in and all the sites are paved. It's very nice nothing like Montana in the fall. Plenty of room between sites. It's pretty empty and nice and quiet. I love it. There is a hiking trail around the grounds, nothing long but enough for the dogs to get some exercise.
Nice and quiet in October. .ite been 80+ degrees this fall we will have a few more days of this then back to cold and rainy. We were so lucky.
TexasRed (.GuideFlathead River Camp
Quiet hidden spot
I checked out a few other spots along the river but they were all pretty busy being a Saturday. I stumbled upon this spot and there was 1 other car camper. Beautiful views and quiet, there were maybe 4 separate sites or rather fire rings. 2 were right next to each other. Was close to the river and tucked right below huckleberry mountain with a view of the lookout tower.
- TexasRed (.Guide
Swift Creek Dirt Road
Dirt road indeed
It is in fact a dirt road. There was a few lil pull out spots along the road, I didn’t go far and settled on the shooting range spot. The roads fine, the spot was uneven and littered with shells and clay pigeons. Sign said shootin was not allowed so keep that in mind.
Guide to Essex
Camping sites near Essex, Montana range from primitive dispersed spots to accessible campgrounds with basic amenities. Located within Flathead National Forest at elevations between 3,500 and 5,000 feet, the area experiences significant temperature fluctuations with cool nights even in summer. Most camping options require self-sufficiency with limited potable water access, especially at dispersed sites along the Middle Fork Flathead River.
What to do
Hiking from campgrounds: Two Medicine Campground offers direct trail access to mountain landscapes. "This is one of my favorite parts of the Park due to its quietness. It's less visited than the other parts leaving a wonderful place to hike and a great place to see wild life," notes David B. about Two Medicine Campground.
Water recreation: Rent boats or paddleboards at Lake McDonald near Apgar. "A short stroll between sites 19 and 21 is a mini trail that leads to a staircase to the Southwest Side of Lake McDonald where kids and adults can take a dip in the water," shares Mai K. about Fish Creek Campground.
Stargazing: Some areas offer exceptional night skies with minimal light pollution. "The dark night skies here were excellent for star gazing," reports Tree V. about their experience at Devil Creek Campground.
What campers like
Secluded waterfront sites: Murray Bay Campground provides lake access despite remote location. "Sites on the water had paths right down to the bay, but there was also a common use path and boat dock," shares Anna P. about Murray Bay Campground.
Wildlife encounters: Many campers report seeing deer and other animals. "We had a deer walk through our site early morning, so wildlife is definitely near by," notes Elizabeth N. about Lid Creek Campground.
Evening programs: Some campgrounds offer ranger-led talks and activities. "Nice shaded sites (we stayed in B loop). Close bathrooms. Enjoyed the nightly ranger programs," writes Tyler W. about Lid Creek Campground.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to remote campgrounds can be challenging. "We stayed in site 23. No water, no electric, generators allowed and at least 6 were going in the morning. Vault toilets but VERY clean. Hosts very helpful and available," reports Darrin R. about Lid Creek Campground.
Limited amenities: Many sites lack services like water. "There is NO WATER available at the campground so bring your own or you'll be frustrated," warns Bob R. about Lid Creek Campground.
Tent site quality: Ground conditions vary by campground. "Bring your mallets for the pads- the ground is rock hard and was a little tough to get stakes into," advises Jen G. about Fish Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly facilities: Some campgrounds cater to families with designated areas. "There is a central gathering area with playground and group picnic shelters," explains Janet R. about Glacier Campground.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds offer water access. "Lake access is a just short walk down a trail. There is a great rock beach with plenty of room for kids to play and splash," notes Elizabeth N. about Lid Creek Campground.
Entertainment beyond hiking: West Glacier KOA provides organized activities. "Cool activities for kids and adults," mentions Megan B. about this family-friendly West Glacier KOA Resort.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Choose carefully based on vehicle size. "Not all sites are big rig friendly, even if you technically fit... if you're in an rv and flatness is important to you, I'd try and get a site along the edges. Those sites were flatter and wider than the sites in the center of the campground," advises Laura M. about Two Medicine Campground.
Access roads: Large rigs may need alternative routes. "Heads up: when we were on 89, there was a sign at the entrance to 49 saying that vehicles over 21 ft not advisable. We looked at google maps and decided that 49 between 89 and the campground did look pretty winding and decided to add the 15 miles to our trip by going out to Browning, down 2, then back up 49 from the south," explains Laura M. about approaching Two Medicine.
Hookup limitations: Plan for boondocking at most national park sites. "There is a dump station and potable water fill at the entrance to the campground," notes Laura M. about Two Medicine Campground.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find camping near Essex?
Where can I find camping near Essex?
Essex is ideally positioned near several excellent camping options in the Glacier National Park region. Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park offers an excellent location for first-time visitors with regular access to park amenities. For a more secluded experience, Bowman Lake Campground — Glacier National Park provides spectacular lakeside camping, though it requires traveling on dirt roads. Other nearby options include Two Medicine Campground on the east side and various RV parks in the West Glacier area, all providing convenient access to the park's stunning natural attractions.
Are there any campgrounds with amenities near Essex?
Are there any campgrounds with amenities near Essex?
Yes, several campgrounds near Essex offer excellent amenities. North American RV Park & Yurt Village is just 5 minutes from West Glacier entrance with full hookups and is close to attractions like zip lines and adventure parks. Mountain View RV Park provides convenient access to Hungry Horse Dam, local distilleries, and breweries. For those seeking lakeside amenities, Rollins RV Park on Flathead Lake offers beautiful waterfront facilities with tent sites and cabins available alongside RV spots. Most amenity-rich options are within 30-45 minutes of Essex.
What is the best time of year to go camping near Essex?
What is the best time of year to go camping near Essex?
The prime camping season near Essex runs from late June through early September when weather conditions are most favorable and all facilities are fully operational. Tally Lake Campground is excellent during summer months, offering fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities with clean facilities and hiking trails. Yellow Bay State Park Campground on Flathead Lake provides beautiful mountain views and crystal-clear water during the warmer months. Consider that higher elevation sites may have snow into June, and September can bring cooler temperatures with fewer crowds. Always check road conditions and campground schedules before traveling, as some facilities begin closing in early September.
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