Essex, Montana sits at approximately 3,880 feet elevation in Glacier County, nestled along the southern edge of Glacier National Park. Winter temperatures regularly drop below zero, with heavy snowfall creating challenging camping conditions from October through April. The area's Continental Divide location creates distinct weather patterns that affect camping options throughout the season.
What to do
Hiking the Big River Trail: Bear Creek River Access Boating Site provides access to the Big River Trail, a 40+ mile trail system. "Late August I was the only one there overnight. Lots of people pull off to look but few stay," notes Phil P., highlighting the solitude available.
Swimming in glacier-fed waters: Rocky Mountain Hi Campground offers a dedicated swimming area in a creek, perfect for cooling off on hot summer days. "The kids could play all day in the great park with a whole western town set up and swimming hole in the creek," reports Jennifer H.
Relaxation by small ponds: Swan Lake Trading Post & Campground features tent camping around a small pond with ample seating. "The tent camping area was located around a small pond/lake. The site has picnic tables and fire rings as well as plenty of chairs available for sitting around the fire or along the little lake," says Dexter I.
Wildlife watching with safety measures: Some campgrounds implement protective barriers to reduce wildlife encounters. "My wife really enjoyed the fact that it had an electric fence around the perimeter to try and preclude wildlife from entering the park area. It keeps everything out, so you won't see deer walking through your campsite," explains Andrew at West Glacier KOA Resort.
What campers like
Tent-friendly platforms: For those seeking elevated glamping experiences near Essex, Montana, several campgrounds provide dedicated structures for tents. "A few of the tent/car sites have wooden structures to keep rain/snow off," mentions Nancy C. at Sundance Campground & RV Park.
Proximity to Two Medicine area: Red Eagle Campground offers an alternative to crowded park accommodations. "This campground is right outside the Two Medicine entrance to Glacier National Park, just as you turn off of Highway 49 onto Two Medicine Rd. When we stayed there, all the campgrounds in the park were overflowing and there were long lines at 6:30 am for first-come sites, but this campground was basically empty," reports Anthony D.
Evening entertainment options: Communal activities create memorable glamping experiences. "There was live music with an available each night in a very open inviting area that looks out at the mountains," shares Andrew about West Glacier KOA, adding an unexpected luxury to camping near Essex.
Honesty-based services: North American RV Park & Yurt Village establishes trust with campers through its management approach. "Loved how they use honesty policy during closed hours where you can pick up firewood or ice and pay the next morning," writes Danielle F.
What you should know
Road conditions to remote sites: Murray Bay Campground offers secluded camping but requires preparation. "The road to get there was so rough that we were afraid we were going to pop a tire getting there, so we ended up cutting our stay short. If you have a Jeep or 4WD vehicle, it would probably be a more comfortable drive," cautions Jessica N.
Site spacing variations: Glacier Campground provides more seclusion than other options. "There are lots of trees which made it feel private, at least in the spot we had," notes Heidi C., contrasting with comments about crowded conditions at other locations.
Noise considerations: Train activity affects some campgrounds near Essex. "Through all the sites, you will hear train noise. Closer to the front you don't hear it as much, but the trade off is the highway noise," explains Nancy C. about Sundance Campground.
Seasonal variations in service: Some campgrounds reduce amenities during shoulder seasons. "There were no services. There was a sign posted saying there were no services," reports Nancy C. about Red Eagle Campground in late summer, indicating potential limitations for fall glampers.
Tips for camping with families
Playground features: Moose Creek RV Resort offers dedicated areas for children. "There was a dog park and a little playground for kids," describes Danielle F., noting amenities beyond standard camping facilities.
Kid-friendly swimming options: Separate swimming areas accommodate different needs. "They have 2 pools (which, though heated, is super cold), a hot tub (but it's adult only, so if you have kids that cannot be alone, it's a no go)," explains Sterling C. about West Glacier KOA.
Space considerations: Families need adequate room for setup. "Make sure to reserve one suitable for your needs (e.g., if you have a vehicle and a tent, you should specify that in your booking. Many spaces are too small to accommodate both)," advises Leland about Glacier Campground.
Recreation variety: Multiple activities keep children engaged. "There is a volleyball net and paved roads to scooter and roller blade," mentions Jennifer H. about Rocky Mountain Hi Campground, highlighting infrastructure for varied activities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup considerations: Glacier Campground offers partial connections. "There is water and electricity, but not full hookups. They do have a dump station though," points out Heidi C.
Road clearance issues: Access roads present challenges for larger vehicles. "The road into the campground is rough and the bridge you have to cross is equally as rough. S.L.O.W," cautions Nancy C. about Red Eagle Campground.
Extension cord needs: Electrical connections may require additional equipment. "Make sure you bring an extension cord to hook up your electric just in case you have a short standard cord on your camper," advises Marcus K. about Glacier Campground.
