The Crazy Mountains offer excellent trail access for horseback riders looking for scenic views near Greycliff, Montana. Located about 70 miles northwest of Greycliff, the National Forest lands provide extensive riding opportunities with elevations ranging from 4,500 to 7,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically reach 70-85°F during riding season, with cooler evenings dropping to the 40s, making layers essential for equestrian camping trips.
What to do
Fishing access points: At Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp, multiple spots along the Yellowstone River provide prime fishing locations. "There's also a great ramp for launching boats or kayaks or fishing from. Yellowstone on one side and beautiful mountains on the other and it's free!" notes Steve M.
Mountain trail hiking: The trails near Halfmoon Campground offer stunning waterfall views within moderate hiking distance. "I hiked to Granite Lake (4mi) and it was hard but worth the effort for sure," shares Brodie B. The trailhead starts directly from the campground, making it accessible for day hikes.
Paddleboarding on alpine lakes: Emerald Lake provides calm, shallow waters perfect for beginners learning paddleboarding. "We still got to try out our new paddle boards on the lake and it was such a nice place to try them out for the first time. The lake isn't very deep so it's great for paddle boards, kayaks and fishing," reports Danae P.
What campers like
Creek-adjacent camping: Many sites near Emerald Lake Campground offer proximity to flowing water. "Situated between emerald lake and west rosebud lake with a creek going next to half the camp spots," explains Steven K., highlighting the water access from multiple sites.
Clean facilities: West Boulder Trailhead and Campground maintains surprisingly good amenities for a remote location. "The pit toilet is right at the entrance and the toilet was very clean," notes reviewer N I., adding that "The campground has been bush hogged and the sites are mowed."
Wide-open camping areas: Free dispersed camping near the river offers flexibility for different vehicle types. "Just a couple of miles from town, and only about half a mile on gravel road which can be handled by any sedan, one side is the Yellowstone River and the other side are the mountains," describes Steve M. about Pig Farm Fishing Access.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: When camping at river access points, be prepared for passing trains. "Beautiful spot by the Yellowstone River. Train whistles woke us up four times," warns Prudence T. Other campers note trains passing "every couple of hours" but mention they "just fell back asleep after each time."
Road conditions: Access to Halfmoon Campground requires navigating rough terrain. "Road in is gravel for about 16 miles with the last 4 having vehicle crawl. If you go more than 10 miles an hour in this section you will probably pop a tire and should definitely have 4x4 and high clearance," cautions Callie B.
Weather variability: Mountain camping brings unpredictable conditions. "We were able to easily find a private site and set up camp and have a peaceful evening under the stars... We woke up to the craziest wind storm around 1am!!! Our tent took quite a beating, we are estimating that winds were above 50mph!!!" recalls Rachel S.
Tips for camping with families
Lake activities for children: Emerald Lake offers family-friendly water recreation. "The lake isn't very deep so it's great for paddle boards, kayaks and fishing. The campground was clean. The spots were really nice," reports Danae P., noting its suitability for beginners and children.
Timing your visit: For Emerald Lake Campground, weekday arrivals are recommended during summer. "We got to the campground on a Thursday, by Friday evening all the RV spots seemed to be taken. It cleared out almost completely by Sunday," advises Danae P., suggesting a Thursday arrival for best site selection.
Bug preparedness: Pack insect repellent, especially near water sources. Several campgrounds report mosquito activity, particularly in early summer months when snowmelt increases standing water areas.
Tips from RVers
Site availability timing: For peak season camping at established campgrounds, arrive early. "Lots of campsites most in the woods with only a few next to the creek between the two lakes. I got there on Saturday at 3pm and there were only 2 spots open. With the final gone within 30 minutes," reports Callie B. about Emerald Lake.
Size limitations: Many horse-friendly campgrounds have limited turning radius for larger rigs. "I wasn't sure if I could turn around my 20' travel trailer down by the water," notes Edward R. about Pig Farm access areas, suggesting smaller trailers work better at water-adjacent sites.
Level parking options: At dispersed camping locations, finding flat spots is easier than expected. "I found it easy enough to find a level spot where I could leave my little camper connected to the TV. Plenty of space," states Steven L., though he adds that "the road is a bit rough, not well maintained but I'm sure you could drive a big rig in here just take it slow."
