Camping areas near Great Falls, Montana sit at elevations ranging from 3,300 feet along the Missouri River to over 4,000 feet in surrounding foothills. The region experiences distinct seasonal changes with summer daytime temperatures averaging 80-85°F and winter lows frequently dropping below zero. Wind conditions persist year-round, with gusts regularly exceeding 30 mph even during summer camping months.
What to do
Hiking accessible trails: Thain Creek Campground offers the trailhead for route #431 directly on the grounds. "The path I followed for about 40 minutes opened into an incredible meadow with wildflowers," notes one visitor at Thain Creek. Multiple routes branch from this primary trail, allowing for varied hiking difficulties.
River and lake activities: Campsites along the Missouri River provide water recreation options within minutes of downtown. "Pelican Point pond is great for kids," reports a camper at Pelican Point Fishing Access Site. The site features "a boat launch ramp and small beach for swimming, fishing and for dogs to play. A sweet gem!"
Animal encounters: Several campgrounds maintain small petting zoos and animal areas for children. According to a visitor at Great Falls KOA, the site offers "everthing you could possibly want or need in a campground! Waterslides, Petting Zoo, Swimming Pool. Clean facilities, friendly operators."
What campers like
Shaded camping areas: Despite the open terrain around Great Falls, several campgrounds maintain established tree cover. Visitors to Thain Creek appreciate the "lots of shaded spots" and note the campground has "super clean facilities, and a very helpful camp host." Sites feature "a huge picnic table and fire pit" according to reviewers.
Water access: Many campers prioritize proximity to the Missouri River and connected waterways. One visitor to Pelican Point mentions, "Big mature trees. pit toilet if you need it" with sites that are "level and right by the water. All the spots have evening shade."
Playground amenities: Multiple campgrounds offer developed play areas for children. At Atkinson Park, facilities include "shelter for eating, tennis courts, play area, easily accessible." Another camper notes it's the "best park in great falls" with amenities that make it suitable for family outings.
What you should know
Wind conditions: The persistent wind requires proper tent staking and secure storage of lightweight items. A longtime visitor to Malmstrom Gateway Famcamp confirms, "Great Falls is the windiest city in America so be prepared for that. There is a lot of water nearby to enjoy on the Missouri river."
Road access limitations: Some campgrounds require navigating unpaved roads. For Thain Creek Campground, "the last 30 miles or so are dirt roads and I wouldn't want to try it in most sedans (or an RV)." Another camper notes, "Lots of potholes drive with care."
Seasonal availability: Weather patterns affect campground operations. Most developed sites open from Memorial Day through September, though weather can extend or shorten these periods. Many campsites don't accept advance reservations, operating on a first-come basis during peak summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several campsites offer dedicated swimming areas for children. At Logging Creek, one camper mentions "a great little pool on the far side of the campsite is great for kids" while the creek itself provides additional water play areas.
Tent village setups: Some campgrounds create family-friendly clusters of tent sites. At Great Falls KOA, "tent villages" feature "walls separating the sites for privacy, but the area is big enough for your vehicle and a large tent, or multiple smaller tents."
Off-peak timing: For quieter family camping experiences, weekdays offer significantly reduced crowds. One visitor to Thain Creek noted, "We were shocked this campground wasn't full, it's only an hour from Great Falls and the road is your typical gravel, a few larger potholes but completely doable in any car."
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Free dump stations exist at several locations including Atkinson Park. "Pulled into town for gas and came across the park, it's free and there is a dump station as well," reports one RV traveler.
Site leveling needs: Several RV sites require significant leveling. Reviewers note many Great Falls area campsites "need to be cleaned up and re-leveled" and recommend bringing leveling blocks even at developed campgrounds.
Military options: Active and retired military personnel have additional camping options. The Gateway Military Malmstrom AFB campground provides "concrete pads are mostly level" with "water, sewer and electric." One visitor notes "there is a great walking trail just on the edge of the camp" and laundry facilities at the entrance.
