Camping near Hardin, Montana ranges from established RV parks with full amenities to primitive riverside sites along the Yellowstone River. Located in southeastern Montana at approximately 2,900 feet elevation, the area experiences wide temperature variations with summer highs reaching 90°F and winter bringing freezing conditions. Cell service remains strong at campgrounds near town but diminishes at remote fishing access points.
What to do
Visit Little Bighorn Battlefield: 15 minutes from Hardin KOA. "It was perfect to visit Little Big Horn, only 15 minutes away," notes Diana V. The KOA's convenient location makes it an ideal base for exploring this historic site.
Fishing on the Bighorn River: Access prime fishing spots at Grant Marsh fishing access site. "A beautiful and Serene location" with "only two spots I could find right on the Big Horn river," reports Steve M. The site offers primitive camping with vault toilets but no running water.
Enjoy water activities: Mallards Landing provides river access with a small boat ramp. "Great access to the river with a little boat ramp," writes Kandi. "Multiple sites dispersed around" the area make it suitable for groups wanting riverside recreation.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Campers consistently praise the maintained facilities at 7th Ranch RV Park. "The showers and toilets were spotless! Laundry room, same," reports Cynthia M., who appreciated the "clean, friendly and quiet space." The park offers both RV sites and glamping accommodations.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Captain Clark fishing access provides natural settings with abundant wildlife. "We saw several geese. Heard several wild turkeys but never saw them," Kevin C. mentions. Another camper notes, "LOTS of cool bird activity" at this riverside campground.
Free welcome treats: "The free Huckleberry ice cream sandwich is NOT forgetful," writes Kris D. about 7th Ranch RV Park. This small touch enhances the camping experience, with another visitor mentioning "free ice cream when you arrive" as a highlight.
What you should know
Seasonal operations: Most campgrounds operate from spring to fall. Billings KOA Holiday approximately 35 miles west provides year-round camping with full amenities for those camping outside peak season.
Conservation permits required: Some fishing access sites now require permits. "A Montana State Parks Conservation Permit is now required to camp here," warns Mike C. about Captain Clark fishing access. "The out of state variety that I had to purchase was $10 and is good for an entire year."
Site spacing varies significantly: Campground density differs greatly between locations. "We shared hook ups with the site next to us which kept neighbors close," Joan mentions about Hardin KOA, while at Billings KOA, Art S. found "we were the only ones in the last loop...this gave us a small campground feel."
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Grandview Campground offers activities for children. "They have an ice-cream social every night in their game building," notes one camper, providing evening entertainment options for families.
Swimming options: "Pool was great for afternoon," reports Andrew about Hardin KOA. The pool provides relief during hot summer days when temperatures regularly exceed 85°F.
Fishing access sites for nature exploration: Captain Clark site features interesting natural elements. "You can see where the beavers have been at work felling trees on the way in," observes Mike C. These sites offer educational opportunities for children to learn about local wildlife.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Prepare for gravel pads at most RV parks. "The slots are level with water, electric and sewer," at 7th Ranch according to Charley K., but Richard G. cautions that "our site was not level" at the same location, suggesting variability between sites.
Dump station configurations: Be aware of unusual setups at some locations. "My only issue was the dump hook up at our FHU site. It was about 1ft above ground level and almost made it impossible to dump with an accordion hose," notes Andrew about Hardin KOA.
Easy access stops: Love's RV Stop offers convenient overnight parking. "Very easy stop, flat sites, very exposed," reports Chris A., adding it's "clean, safe feeling, with all the amenities you need on site." Though expensive for what it offers, it provides an easy option for RVers needing a quick stopover.
