Camping options near Havre, Montana extend from established RV parks with full hookups to dispersed lakeside areas. Situated along the Hi-Line region at around 2,500 feet elevation, the area experiences significant temperature fluctuations with winter lows reaching -20°F and summer highs sometimes exceeding 100°F. The camping season typically runs from April through October, with limited winter availability at some locations.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Hansen Family Campground & Storage, visitors can interact with farm animals. "They have chickens and ducks and geese, goats, and donkeys. You can feed them and visit with them," writes Melody C. The campground also features a male peacock that displays impressive feathering, which one camper notes is called "train rattling."
Explore local history: Fort Assinniboine is located 10 miles outside Havre. "We toured Fort Assinniboine located 10 miles out of town. More great history and testament to how tough is was on the wild frontier," reports Love4travel T., who stayed at Havre RV Park and Travel Plaza.
Hiking trails: Zurich Park offers nearby hiking opportunities. "A nice hike up over the hill to a nice pond," writes Lisa M. The park's location about a mile off Highway 2 provides easy access to surrounding trails and outdoor activities.
What campers like
Peaceful setting with shade: Despite the lack of shade at some campgrounds, Evergreen Campground offers cooling tree cover. "There are trees and bushes all around the border, giving it a cozy, private feel," notes Bjorn S. in his review of Evergreen Campground.
Spectacular water views: At Kiehns Bay on Fresno Reservoir, campers appreciate the water scenery. "We found a beautiful site overlooking the reservoir. Would definitely come back," writes Nancy B. Another camper, Brad J., mentions "Spectacular views from a few campsites on top of the walls, well spread out areas."
Family-friendly amenities: Community parks offer playgrounds and additional features. One reviewer at Zurich Park mentioned, "Beautiful park with mature Cottonwood trees. Large area with playgrounds for the kids. Horseshoe pits, vaulted toilets, 6 30 amp spots, water available."
What you should know
Ground conditions can be problematic: Some campsites have soft ground that affects rig stability. At Zurich Park, camper Melody C. reported, "Our fifth wheel jacks (regardless of having blocks and Snap Pads) sunk about 8 inches into the dirt, and we couldn't get level. So we had to leave and go back down the highway to get to a nicer RV park."
Water quality varies: Natural minerals affect water taste at some locations. "When I talked to an employee about the water tasting bad (I believe it was something like sulfur), she explained it was natural and not unhealthy, which was confirmed by a local friend," writes one camper about Evergreen Campground.
Road access considerations: Some camping areas require navigation on unpaved routes. For Kiehns Bay, Nancy B. notes, "The road in and out is hilly and has a bit of washboarding, we made it in and out without any problems."
Tips for camping with families
Animal attractions for children: Consider Hansen Family Campground & Storage for its mini farm experience. "This was a fun, unexpected stop. Unfortunately it's a bit in the middle of no where, Montana, but we were delighted none the less," writes Melody C., noting how her family enjoyed the animals.
Look for playground facilities: Some campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. As JPMC A. notes about Zurich Park, "Very nice clean and convenient campsite off Hwy 2 in Montana... Oh, and a nice playground for the kids!"
Prepare for temperature extremes: Summer temperatures can reach 100 degrees, requiring extra water and shade planning for families. At Hansen Family Campground, Amanda L. noted the lack of shade "kinda stunk when it was 100 degrees out," suggesting the importance of bringing portable shade options for hot days.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: At some campgrounds, proximity to neighbors can be an issue. Jessica B. describes Evergreen Campground: "Camp sites very, very close together. Walk out camper door into next sites plug ins and sewer hose. Very limited space between campers."
Hook-up positioning challenges: Sewer connections may require special arrangements. At Havre RV Park, Patty F. notes, "Water and power easy hook up, but sewer has to be run under RV." Another camper at Hansen Family mentioned, "Most of the sewer connections are extended well out of the ground, so you will have to get your sewer hose up so that gravity flows at least level."
Dog friendly campgrounds near Havre offer varying pet amenities. Hansen Family Campground features "a small dog park" according to Mychaela, making it a good option for pet owners seeking dedicated dog exercise areas. Most campgrounds in the region maintain standard leash policies with varying degrees of pet-specific facilities.