Cabin camping near Fort Peck Project centers around the massive reservoir created by the largest hydraulically filled dam in the United States. The landscape features rolling prairie with mature cottonwood groves and connects to the Missouri River system. Most cabin accommodations cluster around the dam itself and in nearby Glasgow with availability typically running from May through October when temperatures range from 80-90°F daytime to 40-60°F overnight.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Fort Peck area offers multiple designated fishing spots including stocked ponds within the Downstream (MT) area. "There are miles of relatively flat, paved, walkways, including to fishing ponds. The showers and facilities are handicap accessible, and one shower is specifically set up for folks in wheelchairs," notes Clayton B.
Interpretive center visits: The interpretive center provides educational displays on dam construction and local wildlife. "It's a short walk to a really wonderful interpretive center - definitely worthwhile to visit! And there's a great trail system to walk on and enjoy the views," reports camper Mimi.
Equipment borrowing: Recreational equipment is available for camper use. "Great park like seeing with playground, volleyball net, basketball court and horseshoe pits. They even lend out the equipment you need!" writes a Downstream visitor.
What campers like
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location allows for good night sky viewing in certain areas. "Night time and clear skies bring out great star gazing," observes Clayton B. at Cottonwood Inn and RV Park, though another camper notes, "Only con is I wish they would move to more dark sky lighting standards, there are a lot of bright lights around the park that make it difficult to see the night skies."
Wildlife viewing: The natural setting supports diverse wildlife observation opportunities. "Wildlife sightings were abundant!" according to Jessica S. who visits the area annually.
Trail network: Extensive paved paths connect campground areas to attractions. "There are tons of shade trees, many different types of camping spots, fishing ponds, walking/running trails all around the campground, and great shower facilities," shares Samantha L.
What you should know
Reservation system requirements: Fort Peck camping requires advance planning. "This is not a campground one can just show up at and get in. Being a Federal facility, it is, of course, a Federal process to 'check in'. One must, without exception, set up an account with the website recreation.gov," explains a reviewer at Downstream (MT).
Weather considerations: The high prairie location experiences significant temperature fluctuations. "This campground is on the high prairie... it can be very windy, and storms come in fast. In the summer, it can be very hot and dry, mid 90's are not unusual. Night time lows are usually in the low 60's on down. If you are there in the fall, it may well get into the lower 30's / upper 20's," warns one camper.
Limited water hookups: While yurt camping at Fort Peck Project offers electrical connections, water access differs. "There is no water at the sites, however, spigots are scattered throughout the camp, if one has 50 feet of hose they can probably get to a spigot to 'top off the tank'," notes Clayton B.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Children benefit from designated play areas within the campground. "Great park like seeing with playground, volleyball net, basketball court and horseshoe pits," explains Mimi about the family amenities at Downstream (MT).
Spacing between sites: Family groups appreciate the generous site configuration. "Sites were level and paved and had lots of space. Spacing between sites was very generous and campground was clean and well maintained," according to Dave K.
Budget considerations: Senior discounts reduce camping costs substantially. "Army Corps of Engineers so less than $20. Half price for seniors," reports Cat T. about the financial advantages for older visitors.
Tips from RVers
Electrical connections: RVers should note the specific amperage options. "Most electrical hookups are 30A; roughly 1/3 are 50A," explains an experienced RVer at Downstream (MT). This affects which cabin or yurt camping options at Fort Peck Project will accommodate larger power needs.
Campground layout: The arrangement suits larger rigs well. "The campground easily accommodates the largest rigs, with spaces large enough to handle 45' Coaches / Toads / and Boats all together," notes Clayton B.
Dump station location: RVers need to plan for waste disposal. "There is a dump station on the road into the camp, there are no full service sites. The dump station is at most a mile away, and easy to get to if your teenager takes a twenty minute shower and fills the tank," advises a visitor.
