Dispersed camping near Heart Butte, Montana offers unique access to the Lewis and Clark National Forest at elevations between 4,500-7,000 feet. The area experiences heavy snowfall in winter months with late summer bringing temperatures in the 70-80°F range. Camping sites typically open from June through September, with some primitive areas remaining unplowed until mid-June.
What to do
Horseback riding trails: The Summit Trailhead Horse Camp provides direct trail access for equestrians. As reviewer Chloe B. notes, "We found a nice spot close to the challenge cabin up in Summit that was close to the creek. The area was big enough for multiple people to camp in."
Fishing spots: Bear Creek River Access provides excellent fishing opportunities along with boat launching facilities. According to Cody L., this is a "Great spot for launching rafts. Also very good choice for relaxing and getting away for a few hours to a day."
Swimming access: Chewing Blackbones Campground offers lake swimming during summer months. One camper noted, "Great places to swim," while another mentioned "Available canoes and kayaks for rent. Water is cold but doable for swimming if you can get acclimated."
Wildlife viewing: The area around Heart Butte contains habitat for moose, bears, and smaller mammals. Nicholas H. at Johnson's Campground & RV Park reported, "Wildlife passes through frequently, and we were able to see a moose walking through the woods right next to our site."
What campers like
Proximity to Glacier National Park: Campers appreciate the location for exploring Glacier. Anthony D. at Red Eagle Campground stated, "This campground is right outside the Two Medicine entrance to Glacier National Park, just as you turn off of Highway 49 onto Two Medicine Rd."
Quieter alternatives to park campgrounds: When park campgrounds fill up, nearby options provide relief. Bill P. noted at Red Eagle Campground, "Great in crowded campground 90+ sites and only maybe a dozen filled. Glacier NP was full."
Creek-side campsites: Water access ranks highly among camper preferences. As Chloe B. mentioned about Summit Trailhead Horse Camp, "We found a nice spot close to the challenge cabin up in Summit that was close to the creek."
Cultural experiences: The Blackfeet Reservation offers authentic cultural opportunities. One camper at Chewing Blackbones Campground shared, "The whole complex was clean, well manicured and cool to see authentic native American culture."
What you should know
Limited facilities at dispersed sites: Most dispersed camping locations near Heart Butte have minimal amenities. Jon S. reviewed Summit Trailhead Horse Camp noting, "Just gravel lot for the trailhead, no camping signs posted."
Seasonal operation: Most campgrounds in the area operate seasonally. Chewing Blackbones Campground runs from "Jun 1 - Sep 30" according to their listing.
Bathroom conditions vary: Facility quality differs significantly between campgrounds. Aaron L. reported about Chewing Blackbones, "We loved this campground and believe this could be a 5 star but the bathrooms are just horrible specifically the showers."
Reservation challenges: During peak season, finding campsites requires planning. Kennedy F. at Red Eagle Campground advised, "This campground was amazing! very chill and friendly staff. Repairs on electric mentioned in previous reviews is finished! $25 for non electric sites and $45 for electric."
Tips for camping with families
Mosquito protection required: Insects can be problematic, especially near water. Chloe B. warned about Summit Trailhead Horse Camp: "Just watch out for the mosquitos they get really bad in the evening hours so bring bug spray for you and any pets."
Check lake temperature before swimming: Mountain lakes remain cold even in summer. Aaron L. noted at Chewing Blackbones Campground: "Water is cold but doable for swimming if you can get acclimated."
Pack additional water: Many sites lack reliable water sources. Tee C. mentioned about Summit Trailhead Horse Camp: "Right off highway 2, this campsite is a dirt lot with a pit toilet next to the road and train tracks. Minimal shade, no service."
Plan for weather changes: Mountain conditions can shift rapidly. Phil P. at Bear Creek River Access Boating Site shared: "Late August I was the only one there overnight. Starlink works great but no cell service."
Tips from RVers
Road conditions check: Access roads may be rough for larger rigs. Nancy C. advised about Red Eagle Campground: "PSA: The road into the campground is rough and the bridge you have to cross is equally as rough. S.L.O.W."
Limited electrical hookups: Not all sites offer reliable power connections. Jim M. noted at Red Eagle: "The owners are working to get all the hookups repaired. 93 sites lots of different types of sites. All the workers are very nice Electrical sites are 48$ non are 28."
Site spacing concerns: Some RV parks position units closely together. Chris Y. warned about Johnson's Campground: "Sites are TIGHT! Can't even open canopy without hitting next door unit."
Wind exposure: Some campgrounds have weather vulnerabilities. Bill P. mentioned about Red Eagle Campground: "They have 95 spots, all lot of shade but also some sunny options if you have solar panels and require recharging."
