Camping near Essex, Montana centers around mountain terrain at elevations of 3,000-5,000 feet, with typical summer temperatures ranging from 45-80°F. The Continental Divide creates weather patterns that can change rapidly, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Horse-friendly sites in this area provide direct access to both mountain and valley trails.
What to do
Explore Bowman Lake: Located in the less-visited North Fork area of Glacier National Park, this destination requires navigating "miles and miles of dirt roads" but rewards visitors with spectacular views. "The lake is simply stunning, especially in the early morning, when the sun comes up over the mountains. There are trailheads right next to the lake shore, with varying distances and difficulties to choose from," notes Lora C. from Bowman Lake Campground.
River activities: The Middle Fork Flathead River offers multiple access points for fishing, rafting, and swimming. At Glacier Rim River Access, "River was very deep and a beautiful swim! However it's a heavily travelled road and the boat ramp was being used quite often," reports Sumner C. This area provides both quiet camping opportunities and water recreation within a short drive of Essex.
Night sky viewing: The minimal light pollution around Essex creates exceptional stargazing conditions. "Incredible night sky. Only other place I've seen so many stars/the Milky Way was Death Valley," writes Stephanie T. about her experience in the region. Most campsites in national forest areas have sufficient clearing for night sky observation.
What campers like
Proximity to West Glacier entrance: Campgrounds on the western side provide convenient park access without the crowds of more developed areas. "This campground is about a mile away from the main entrance to Glacier Park (West Entrance)," notes Marcus K. from Glacier Campground, highlighting the strategic location that balances accessibility with a more secluded feel.
Trail accessibility: Multiple campgrounds connect directly to trail systems. At Summit Trailhead Horse Camp, visitors appreciate the immediate access to backcountry paths, though facilities are limited. "We found a nice spot close to the challenge cabin up in Summit that was close to the creek. The area was big enough for multiple people to camp in," reports Chloe B.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The Essex area provides chances to observe native species in their habitat. "Saw multiple deer, various birds, a grizzly on way in," writes Max K. about his experience camping in the region, emphasizing the importance of proper food storage and wildlife awareness measures.
What you should know
Weather preparedness: The mountain terrain creates variable conditions even in summer. "You'll be a high elevation so be ready for cooler nights. I used my 0-degree sleeping bag, and that worked great," advises GoWhereYouAreDraw N. Pack layers and appropriate gear regardless of season.
Road conditions: Many horse-friendly campgrounds near Essex require traveling unpaved routes. "Be prepared for a dusty, bumpy, narrow, pot-holed drive in on the road," warns one reviewer about accessing remote sites. Some roads become impassable during wet conditions.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from mid-May through September. Red Eagle Campground offers an extended season option, with one visitor noting, "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. It is operated by members of the Blackfeet Tribe on their ancestral land and the hosts were friendly and welcoming."
Tips for camping with families
Bug management: The Essex area experiences significant insect activity, particularly in early summer. "The mosquitos will about drive you nuts, and they're the reason I can't give this campground five stars. Bring bug spray (but not citronella; that attracts bears)," advises Lora C. Timing visits for late summer can reduce mosquito encounters.
Wildlife safety education: Use camping trips as opportunities to teach proper wildlife safety protocols. "Deer frequent the campsites, sniffing around the fire pits, searching for food, and they're not scared of people. They'll come right up to your tent. It's crazy," reports one camper, emphasizing the importance of proper food storage and wildlife distance maintenance.
Facility expectations: Moose Creek RV Resort provides more amenities for families needing consistent facilities. "The store was nicely stocked and the bathrooms were typical. There were games for the kids and a sauna for the adults," shares James W., though noting proximity to highway noise can be a factor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Many RV sites in the Essex area have specific limitations. "Not super accessible to bigger rigs, small sites," notes Dutchess S. about one location. Call ahead to verify site dimensions accommodate your specific vehicle length and slide requirements.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited in this region. Some campgrounds like Johnson's "have Electric, and water hookups. Some have sewage as well," but many require self-contained operation. Research dump station locations in advance if staying at primitive sites.
Road navigation challenges: RVers should research access routes carefully before committing to remote horse campgrounds. "The road leading to the campground is narrow and trailers are restricted from use," cautions one reviewer about Bowman Lake access roads, highlighting the importance of advance planning for those traveling with horse trailers.
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