Dispersed camping options near Highwood, Montana range from primitive boat-in sites along the Missouri River to forest service campgrounds in the nearby mountains. The Highwood Mountains reach elevations of 7,000 feet, providing significantly cooler camping temperatures compared to the 90+ degree heat common in the surrounding prairie areas during summer months. Campsites in this region typically close by mid-October due to winter conditions at higher elevations.
What to do
Hiking opportunities: 5+ miles of trails at Thain Creek Campground provide access to mountain meadows and summer cattle ranges. "Great almost-primitive site. Truly middle of nowhere, we only knew about it because a friend into fishing took us. Pros: rustic, cheap, good hiking and fishing nearby, wooded, pretty empty, middle of nowhere, wildlife, cowboy history feel," reports Justin S.
River floating: Schedule 2-3 days for a float trip starting at Chouteau County Fairgrounds & Canoe Launch Campground, the official launch point for the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument. "Part of the campground is right on the Missouri River! Nice big spaces, could put two Campers in most of the spaces. Canoe put in for a beautiful float on the river," notes Mimi.
Wildlife observation: Early morning hours offer the best chance to spot wildlife near forest camping areas. "Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, particularly for birdwatchers," with campers at Thain Creek Campground reporting diverse bird species throughout the camping season.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Sites 3-7 at Thain Creek provide the most water access. "We were shocked this campground wasn't full, it's only an hour from Great Falls and the road is your typical gravel, a few larger potholes but completely doable in any car (or towing). Lots of shaded spots, super clean facilities," shares Robin B.
Boat-in camping: Missouri River access points provide unique camping experiences. "The disbursed spots along the river are awesome! Some of the best spots you can find!" reports G H. about Wood Bottom Recreation Area, located at river mile 20.3 on the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument.
Swimming opportunities: River access for cooling off during hot summer days. "Sitting here enjoying the setting sun on the bluffs along the Missouri, enjoying the birds chirping and a laugh floating in and about here and there... it's really nice. 5 minute walk to downtown," explains Mimi about Chouteau County Fairgrounds.
What you should know
Road conditions: Gravel roads with potholes access most forest service campgrounds. "The last 30 miles or so are dirt roads and I wouldn't want to try it in most sedans (or an RV)," warns Justin S. about the route to Thain Creek Campground. Another camper notes it's "a long rough gravel road of at least 12 miles."
Weather extremes: Temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night are common. "Great Falls is the windiest city in America so be prepared for that," advises Vanessa S. about camping at Military Park Malmstrom AFB Gateway FamCamp.
Insects: Mosquito protection essential from June through August. "The island right near the fairgrounds is called snake island. They are everywhere. It's super buggy and extremely hot in the summer. We couldn't even sit outside at night because of the mosquitoes," warns Amy H. about Chouteau County Fairgrounds.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming pool access: Great Falls KOA offers family-friendly amenities. "KOA has everything you need. An outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, tent, cabin and rv spots. Outside kitchens. Shower area, small store, playground, and wifi. A lot of room to move around and have fun," recommends Judy K. about Great Falls KOA.
Safe hiking for children: Multiple trail options with varying difficulty levels. "We did the Windy Mountain loop, so it was a treat to finish the hike and be back at our campsite 100 yards from the end!" notes Robin B. about the family-friendly trail system at Thain Creek Campground.
Primitive camping education: No-trace camping required at backcountry sites. "My husband and I started hiking up here long before we ever camped. If you're up for hauling in your stuff and back out and don't mind not having access to a bathroom or a fire pit... it's a perfect place to try," suggests Chloe B. about Sluice Boxes State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Campsite access limitations: Maximum RV length 30 feet at forest service campgrounds. "Nice place if you want a very secluded campground. They had clean pit toilets, a nice fire ring and picnic table for $10 a night. I would not suggest trying to haul a large rig into it," advises Lisa Z. about Thain Creek.
Hookup availability: Full service sites available in Great Falls and Fort Benton. "We stayed one night on our way through the area. It was convenient. The campsites are plentiful and not as close to each other as others. Bathrooms spotless. After hours check-in was a breeze!" reports Melissa P. about Great Falls RV Park.
Level parking considerations: Most primitive sites require leveling blocks. "The concrete pads are mostly level...nothing is absolutely level. Water, sewer and electric are provided. There is a great walking trail just on the edge of the camp," notes Vanessa S. about Military Park Malmstrom AFB Gateway FamCamp.
