Helena National Forest camping offers elevated outdoor experiences at altitudes ranging from 4,500 to 6,000 feet with dramatic temperature swings even in summer months. Sites near Canyon Ferry Lake provide water recreation access while forest campgrounds offer more shade and protection from the region's frequent afternoon winds. Montana's glamping options blend wilderness immersion with strategic amenities throughout the greater Helena region.
What to do
**Creek exploration: Walk the Trout Creek Canyon trail at Vigilante Campground for an accessible 6-mile round trip hike. "Small secluded campsite, easy to get to. Road was totally fine with my Subaru Impreza! Went in the off-season so almost no one there. Would recommend hiking Trout Creek Canyon. Stunning!" notes Emma G.
**Wildlife viewing: Watch for bighorn sheep on the hills surrounding Holter Dam Rec. Site Campground. "Keep an eye out on the surrounding hills around the campground for Big Horn Sheep. While staying at the campground we saw 5 sheep on the hill next to the campground entrance," reports Dexter I.
**Fossil hunting and cave exploration: Research locations near Logging Creek for geological discoveries. "If you do some research in that area there is a place where there are some caves to explore, and another with fossils," advises Jean L., adding value to your Helena National Forest glamping adventure.
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: Log Gulch Recreation Site offers 72 total sites between two campgrounds with hiking trail access. "The campground features a ranger station, two vault toilets, running water, trash service and a Ramada located at the top of the campground," explains Dexter I.
Clean facilities: Canyon Ferry Lake KOA maintains exceptional bathrooms that enhance the glamping Helena National Forest experience. "Cleanest and nicest bathrooms I've seen in a long time!! We stayed in tent spaces which they were working to update with water and electricity, both of which worked for us!" shares Betsy T.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple access points around Canyon Ferry Lake and the Missouri River provide anglers with productive fishing spots. At Pelican Point Fishing Access Site, Tonya R. notes: "Spent the day fishing here. A beautiful and quite relaxing day," making it suitable for anglers seeking Helena National Forest glamping locations with water access.
What you should know
Wind conditions: Many lakeside campgrounds experience significant wind, particularly in afternoon hours. At Silos Campground, Dexter I. warns: "Silos campground is a large open and windy campground with no tree cover. All the trees are along the lake and provide little to no relief from the sun or constant winds that blow through the area."
Bear safety: Follow proper food storage and bear safety protocols in forest campgrounds. At Vigilante Campground, Harry H. notes: "Pretty sure a bear came through camp one night so make sure to follow all the bear guidelines."
Road conditions: Access to some camping areas requires navigating unpaved or rougher roads. At Vigilante Campground, Carla S. mentions: "Road to this is pretty rough in spots. No accessible water, bathrooms, firewood must be found or brought in."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water access: Look for safer swimming areas with beach access. At Pelican Point, Michael B. shares: "Boat launch ramp and small beach for swimming, fishing and for dogs to play. A sweet gem!"
Playground availability: Several campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. "Canyon Ferry Lake KOA has a great playground, close to tent sites. Nice staff and great coffee and beautiful setting!" reports Desiree D.
Wading spots: Smaller streams provide safer water play for young children. At Logging Creek, Jeff E. recommends: "Great little pool on the far side of the campsite is great for kids."
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Many forest campgrounds lack water and electric connections. Bring sufficient resources for your stay. Nancy C. from Holter Dam notes: "4 star rating is only due to no services and vault toilets (spotless). We had great AT&T cell service."
Site selection: Arrive early at popular destinations, especially during summer months. "This KOA is the best game in town and is mostly sold out in summer," according to Kenyon at Helena North KOA.
Boat access: Many campgrounds offer direct lake access for watercraft. At Holter Lake, Z S. observed: "A lot of water stations. The boat dock parking area allowed camping along the perimeter. A few paved walking paths near the beach area."
