Camping options around Harrison, Montana range from primitive lakeside sites to full-service RV parks within a 30-mile radius. The area sits in a high-elevation valley surrounded by mountain ranges including the Tobacco Roots and Bridger Mountains. Summer daytime temperatures typically reach 75-85°F with cool nights dropping to 45-55°F, while early spring and late fall campers should prepare for overnight temperatures that can dip below freezing.
What to do
Hot springs soaking access: Norris Hot Springs provides campers easy access to natural mineral pools. "The hot spring are really great with a bar and food on offer fresh from their garden. Bathrooms are nice private rooms with showers and modern," notes camper Alyssa L. at Norris Hot Springs.
Historical education: Visit Missouri Headwaters State Park where three rivers combine to form the Missouri River. Camper Dexter I. reports, "Experience camping near where Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and the Corps of Discovery camped at the headwaters of the Missouri river in 1805... Historical signs about the the Corps of Discovers stay at the headwaters of the Missouri and their journey are located through out the park."
Cavern exploration: Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park offers guided underground tours from May through September. "The cave tours not included in camp fee," explains Mark F., and it's "a 2mi hike uphill from the campground if you don't want to drive your RV up the caves!"
Fishing opportunities: Multiple waterways provide varied fishing experiences, though conditions fluctuate seasonally. At Harrison Lake Campground, Aaron H. notes, "The lake is really hurting for water this year, I would say that about only 25% of the lake volume was left on my visit, so this lake and all of Montana could really do with some rain."
What campers like
Spacious campsites: Campers consistently value the generous spacing between sites at primitive locations. At Harrison Lake, Kaite G. shares that sites are "Very spread out and very private. Definitely not fancy, very bare bones which is what we like. Toilets are available and the lake is nice."
Swimming and soaking: Access to water activities ranks high among visitor preferences. At Bozeman Hot Springs Campground, Kristin S. explains, "The indoor and outdoor pools vary in temperature from 106-56 degrees, with most comfortable temps. We had inclement weather for most of our 4-night stay and visited the hot springs at least once/day."
Children's amenities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated facilities for families. At Three Forks KOA Journey, Jamie K. values the "Very family friendly" atmosphere with a "Park for children" and "Great walking paths."
Entertainment options: Some campgrounds provide evening entertainment. Jennifer H. at Bozeman Hot Springs Campground notes, "We went in the evening and the hot springs vibe at night is so cool. Propane flames and soft music are all around. It's amazing."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many campgrounds require navigating unpaved roads with varying degrees of difficulty. At Revenue Flats, Alyssa L. advises, "It's a rocky gravel road headed in. We had our van in 2-wheel the whole time and had no issue. After about 15 minutes of climbing we we're rewarded with picturesque spots nestled in the rocks."
Reservation requirements: Booking practices vary significantly. Missouri Headwaters State Park camper Crystal V. recommends, "Make reservations online as they fill fast and are busy on weekends."
Seasonal limitations: Access and facilities change throughout the season. At Red Mountain, Kelly S. reports that there are "two big loops for campers (one first-come first-serve, one for reservations)."
Weather preparedness: Wind exposure affects many campgrounds in the area. Mark F. at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park warns, "Check weather report, strong winds and we had thunderstorms."
Tips for camping with families
Educational programs: Some parks offer structured learning activities for children. At Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, Sierra V. shares, "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."
Swimming safety: When using natural water bodies, be aware of changing conditions. Dexter I. at Harrison Lake Campground cautions, "The big down point for this campground is that everything is in the open, the site has no trees so you are at the mercy of the sun and wind."
Morning activities: Time your activities with children appropriately. At Norris Hot Springs, Kierra B. advises, "If you have kids, mornings are best for space to play and less alcohol about."
Budget planning: Admission fees for attractions add to camping costs. For hot springs access at Bozeman Hot Springs Campground, Jenifer K. notes, "We were given wrist bands for the entire week of our stay."
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV-specific sites vary greatly in size, level, and accessibility. At Missouri Headwaters State Park, the camp host helped Kelly S. by "pointing out the best spots to accommodate our 36-ft fifth-wheel."
Hookup availability: Water and electric options differ widely across campgrounds. At Cardwell General Store and Campground, Aaron W. shares, "I did not realize that I booked partial hookups! So for the price of $75 per night I do find it on the pricey side. They do have a dump station on site though."
Weather considerations: Temperature fluctuations require planning. Michael B. at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park notes, "Had to use all our jack stands to combat the slope of our site (P007). Others looked much more level."
Campground amenities: Facilities like laundry can be crucial for longer trips. Scott W. found Cardwell General Store and Campground to be "A pleasant surprise, it is up in high price bracket but it has cheap fuel & a free laundry."
