Glamping options near Glen, Montana concentrate within a 45-minute drive of the town. The region sits at elevations between 5,000-6,000 feet with dramatic temperature shifts between day and night even in summer months. Most glamping sites operate seasonally from late May through September due to heavy winter snowfall that makes access difficult during colder months.
What to do
Ghost town exploration: Visit the historic buildings at Bannack State Park's Vigilante Campground. "This town holds quite a lot of history. It's open to exploration by the public. Every building is a slowly fading time capsule of a long forgotten time. I enjoyed trekking up and down the single street - investigating at my leisure," reports Lindsey A.
Fishing: Cast a line in Grasshopper Creek at Bannack State Park. "Awesome little campground next to Grasshopper Creek. Caught a few fish on the fly too. Mosquitos were bad, no surprise there with the creek close by," notes Jeff W.
Gold panning: Try your luck at finding gold in streams near historic mining areas. "Bannack lies in a remote corner of Montana, but there is much to see and do at the Bannack State Park. The Bannack ghost town is extensive and well-preserved. They offer tours, gold panning and more," shares Lindsay B.
Junior Ranger program: Children can participate in educational activities at the state park. "The Campground has 16 sites, one site is just for those arriving by bike. Kids visiting the park can work on a Jr. Ranger program. Great time to visit is when they have volunteers dressed in period clothing," advises Dexter I.
What campers like
Historical immersion: Visitors appreciate the authentic ghost town atmosphere at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park. "Did you know you can print out a packet for your little ones to become Cub Rangers at this State Park? There are great amenities for both camping and RV'S with a child's playground located on the camp," writes Sierra V.
Creek-side camping: Sites positioned along waterways provide both scenery and recreation. "Campgrounds are right by the creek, awesome 100+ year old buildings. Check out Bannack Days!" recommends Megan B.
Mountain views: The surrounding peaks create dramatic backdrops for campsites. At Clark Canyon Recreation Area, "The back drop of the snow capped mountains across the reservoir was spectacular. Prepare for wind. Very clean and well kept spot for boondocking," advises Sue Y.
Wildlife watching: Many glamping sites offer opportunities to spot local fauna. "Deer visited camp at night! Check weather report, strong winds and we had thunderstorms," reports Mark F. at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Many glamping sites close during winter months. At Ruby Valley Campground and RV Park, "My wife and I were looking for an affordable spot to spend the night in our teardrop (Li'l Blue) and the Ruby Valley Campground fit the bill! With no need for hookups, we paid a mere $28 for a roomu site adjacent to the water," says Richard P.
Booking requirements: Reservations are recommended during peak summer months. "Vigilante campsites can be reserved. The other campground is Road Agent Campground. Road Agent has 8 sites. Both sites have Vault Toilets, water and trash bins," explains Dexter I.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change rapidly. "We got snow on Labor Day weekend (still Summer!), so check the forecast," warns Mitch G. from Grasshopper Campground.
Limited connectivity: Cell service varies throughout the region. At Delmoe Lake, "Some have 3 bars of 4G Verizon, others none. Peaceful spot," shares Bryce B.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park offers "a child's playground located on the camp. With a short walk up and into the mountain you can tour the caverns," mentions Sierra V.
Educational opportunities: Historical sites provide learning experiences. "Bannack is a ghost town that has been designated as a MT State Park. The 1860s mining town's buildings have been stabilized but not restored. It's fascinating," explains Gretchen B.
Swimming spots: Look for designated swimming areas during hot summer days. At Fairmont RV Resort, "The proximity to Fairmont hot springs is great and we took advantage of the pools," notes Chris D.
Bug protection: Bring insect repellent, particularly for sites near water. "Beautiful small camp with a creek flowing around it. Heavily shaded. Bring bug spray because the mosquitos are out of control!" recommends Sasha W. from Lodgepole Campground.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are limited but available at select locations. "Fairmont RV Resort has nice level gravel site. Sites are close to each other. There were no picnic tables and wood fires are not allowed so no fire rings. Frost free spigots were good especially since the weather at night was below freezing," shares Chris D.
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal needs. "Just empty your tanks and fill up on water, food and supplies in Dillon," advises Richard M. who stayed at Bannack State Park.
Generator etiquette: Be mindful of noise in quieter campgrounds. "Bring a generator to charge you bank, though I felt bad about running them because of the disruption in the serenity," notes Richard M.
Site selection: Choose locations based on shade and level ground. "Watch carefully as not all sites have a level place to put a tent," cautions Annie C. from Lodgepole Campground.
