Camping opportunities near Fort Benton, Montana range from riverfront sites to prairie campgrounds across an elevation of 2,630 feet. The area experiences significant seasonal temperature variations with summer highs frequently reaching the 90s and winter temperatures dropping well below freezing. The region features distinctive sandstone cliffs along the Missouri River that provide a scenic backdrop for many campsites.
What to do
Explore historical sites: Fort Benton offers camping near several Lewis and Clark Trail landmarks. "This is a great place to land for a night or a week or more. Lots to see, explore and experience in the area," notes one Chouteau County Fairgrounds & Canoe Launch Campground visitor.
Float the Missouri River: The Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument provides prime boating opportunities. A camper at Wood Bottom Recreation Area advises, "Warning, google doesn't have this site on the map. Put Decision Point for the destination & drive past it 1/4 mile downhill to the Loma Missouri bridge."
Stargazing: The rural setting creates excellent night sky viewing conditions. "No light pollution also made for an incredible evening of star gazing," reports a camper at Tiber Marina Campground, located about an hour north of Fort Benton.
What campers like
Spacious riverside camping: Many sites provide direct water access. "A nice campground with both tent and RV sites. Nicely separated from the RV sites so that I wasn't breathing in the RV exhaust. The cliff on the other side of the river was a gorgeous view when the sun was setting," writes one camper about Chouteau County Fairgrounds.
Clean facilities: "The campground is well kept but basic. Camping near the water is permitted in some area but you have to arrive early as those spots are usually taken," notes a reviewer at Tiber Marina Campground.
Family-friendly amenities: Great Falls KOA, located 45 minutes from Fort Benton, offers numerous activities. "KOA has everything you need. An outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, tent, cabin and rv spots. Outside kitchens. Shower area, small store, playground, and wifi. A lot of room to move around and have fun," explains one camper.
What you should know
Weather considerations: The region experiences extreme temperature changes and high winds. "Great Falls is the windiest city in America so be prepared for that," warns a visitor to Military Park Malmstrom AFB Gateway FamCamp.
Wildlife awareness: Beyond the snakes mentioned in the existing description, other wildlife may affect camping experiences. "My 7yr old enjoyed catching soft shell turtles," notes one Chouteau County Fairgrounds camper.
Limited amenities at remote sites: Some campgrounds offer minimal services. "I stayed here a few nights. Had the place to my self. Parked on top of hill over looking the lake. Huge lake saw no one else entire time. Vault toilet. No water or dump," reports a camper at Willow Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose developed campgrounds: For families with young children, campgrounds with facilities provide easier experiences. "The camp areas are just fire rings along the edge of a parking area. Does have a outhouse," notes a Wood Bottom Recreation Area reviewer.
Plan for town visits: Many campgrounds provide convenient access to nearby communities. "You're far enough out you feel like you are camping but you are right in Fort Benton. I highly recommend checking this adorable little town out," suggests a family camping at Chouteau County Fairgrounds.
Consider seasonal activities: "Also check to see when their rodeo is. The campground is right by the arena. If that isn't your thing you might get dusted out," advises a parent who camped at Chouteau County Fairgrounds with children.
Tips from RVers
Level sites available: Several campgrounds offer suitable parking for larger rigs. "The concrete pads are mostly level... nothing is absolutely level. Water, sewer and electric are provided. There is a great walking trail just on the edge of the camp," explains a Military Park Malmstrom AFB Gateway FamCamp visitor.
Pet-friendly camping options: Most campgrounds near Fort Benton welcome pets with varying accommodations. Great Falls KOA features "a decent-sized area to walk dogs" according to visitors, making it suitable for RVers traveling with pets.
Advance planning for hookups: "They say there are full-hookups but really there is only 1 site with both electric and water. The others only have electric," notes a camper at Chouteau County Fairgrounds, highlighting the importance of confirming utility connections when bringing an RV.
