Camping options near Helena National Forest include several privately operated RV parks situated between 3,000-4,000 feet elevation across Lewis and Clark County. Weather in this region features significant seasonal temperature swings, with summer daytime temperatures often exceeding 90°F while winter conditions can drop well below freezing. Many sites require advance planning due to limited availability during peak summer months.
What to do
Fishing access points: Devil's Elbow Campground provides direct access to Hauser Lake with a boat launch area and convenient proximity to prime fishing spots. "There are a small network of paved and unpaved trails with amazing views of the 'lake'. There are places to swim and put a boat in," notes one visitor about the Devil's Elbow Campground.
Geocaching opportunities: Several established geocaches can be found throughout the area, particularly near water recreation sites. "A paved trail goes around most of the campground and trails lead to the nearby Clark's Bay recreation area which has a large swim area and volleyball courts and shelters. A trail also leads to Two Camp Vista with plenty of information on the Lewis and Clark journey through the area. If you like to geocache, several are available in the area," reports a camper at Devil's Elbow.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse wildlife populations including deer and bighorn sheep. One visitor to Prewett Creek RV Park noted, "We spotted deer casually strolling through the campground and bighorn sheep doing their thing up on the rocks."
What campers like
Campground cleanliness: Well-maintained facilities receive consistent positive feedback across multiple locations. According to a camper at Conestoga Campground & RV Park, "Bathrooms and showers were very clean. Owners were very welcoming and accommodating. The view was amazing."
Quiet evening atmosphere: Several parks enforce quiet hours and attract campers seeking peaceful environments. "The park is spacious, beautifully laid out, and refreshingly quiet—most folks are out fishing during the day and resting easy at night. No playground means fewer kids, so if you're looking for tranquility, this is your spot," mentions a visitor to Prewett Creek RV Park.
Proximity to services: Many campgrounds provide convenient access to nearby towns for supplies. One camper at 7R Guest Ranch Motel & RV Park noted, "The lodge and rooms are nice," while another camper commented on the nearby 486 Market in Cascade being "surprisingly well-stocked with reasonable prices. It also has a gas station with diesel, offers 20 lb propane cylinder exchanges, and fills propane tanks."
What you should know
Bridge clearance concerns: Some access roads have height restrictions that affect larger RVs. One camper at Prewett Creek RV Park explained, "We got a super helpful email with everything we needed—directions, campground info, Wi-Fi password, rules, and even a bridge clearance warning at Exit 244 ('Canyon Access'). Since our rig stands tall at 13' 6", we played it safe and took the Hardy exit instead."
RV park maintenance varies significantly: Facility upkeep differs dramatically between parks in the area. A visitor to Kim's Marina & RV Resort observed, "The grounds? Picture a campground that moonlights as a junkyard. Dog poop was everywhere. It was like a minefield from the moment you stepped out of your camper to the joke they call a 'beach.'"
Site spacing differences: Some RV parks feature tightly packed sites while others offer more room. "Camp is clean. Very nice host. All pull through. No shade at all," commented a Conestoga Campground visitor, while another camper noted about a different location, "All gravel roads and sites throughout the park. Very close together. Some sites have a very narrow strip of grass."
Tips for camping with families
Water recreation options: Multiple lake and river access points provide swimming opportunities. "There is a small swimming beach (for kids mostly) and a free 24 slip boat dock," reports a visitor to Devil's Elbow Campground.
Playground availability: Only select campgrounds offer dedicated play areas for children. A camper at Helena North KOA mentioned, "Cool playground for kids and large mostly gravel dog run," and "Plus over sized lawn chess!"
Non-traditional accommodation: Some parks offer cabin options for families without camping equipment. "Some cool looking cabins but I never looked inside one," noted one Helena North KOA visitor, while another mentioned, "Dog friendly, cabins and fun little round (yurt-like) metal buildings to stay in too!"
Tips from RVers
Site leveling requirements: Some parks require additional equipment for proper RV positioning. A Fort Harrison RV Park visitor shared, "This site's gravel pad was not level, so we had to use our leveler blocks."
Connectivity considerations: Internet and cell service vary widely across the region. According to one Helena North KOA camper, "AT&T has 5G and three bars. KOA has wifi but slow slow slow I got 3MPS so instead of KOA wifi I used my iPhone Personal Hotspot that worked great."
Utility placement factors: Location of hookups affects parking position and comfort. A Prewett Creek RV Park visitor detailed, "The site was nice and long, with room to park across, and hookups were well placed—electric toward the back, water and sewer mid-site."
