Campgrounds near Highwood, Montana offer access to diverse terrain with both Little Belt Mountain sites and riverside locations along the Missouri. Elevations range from 3,400 feet in Great Falls to over 7,000 feet in the surrounding mountains. Dry conditions with frequent wind characterize the area, particularly during summer months when temperatures fluctuate between daytime highs near 90°F and nighttime lows in the 50s.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Thain Creek Campground offers direct access to trail #431, which opens into "an incredible meadow with wildflowers" according to one camper. The trailhead starts right in the campground, making it convenient for day hiking.
Water recreation options: At Chouteau County Fairgrounds & Canoe Launch Campground, visitors can access the Missouri River. "Canoe put in for a beautiful float on the river," notes a reviewer. The boat ramp provides easy river access for fishing and floating.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The campgrounds in this region offer chances to spot local wildlife. "Deer wandered into the campground throughout the night and morning," reports one visitor at Logging Creek. Early mornings and evenings provide the best viewing times.
What campers like
Secluded forest camping: Thain Creek receives high marks for its remote setting. "Great almost-primitive site. Truly middle of nowhere," shares one reviewer who appreciates the rustic experience. The campground features 12 permanent sites with fire rings and picnic tables.
Clean facilities: Despite rural locations, many campgrounds maintain good standards. "The bathrooms are very clean," notes a visitor to Benton RV Park. Similarly, at Aspen Campground, a camper mentioned, "There is a composting toilet available and a well with drinkable water."
Stargazing opportunities: The area's limited light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. A camper at Aspen Campground remarked, "We fell asleep under the light of a million stars. The star gazing is great here because it's right in the middle of the Little Belt mountains so there is no light pollution."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many access roads are unpaved and challenging. For Thain Creek, a visitor warned, "The last 30 miles or so are dirt roads and I wouldn't want to try it in most sedans (or an RV)." Plan extra travel time and consider vehicle capabilities.
Weather preparedness: Strong winds frequently affect the region. A reviewer at Malmstrom AFB Gateway FamCamp noted, "Great Falls is the windiest city in America so be prepared for that." Secure tents properly and store loose items.
Insect activity: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near water. "It's super buggy and extremely hot in the summer. We couldn't even sit outside at night because of the mosquitoes," reported a camper at Chouteau County Fairgrounds. Pack repellent and screen shelters.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Great Falls KOA offers family-friendly water features. "KOA has everything you need. An outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, tent, cabin and rv spots," shares one reviewer. The pool provides a welcome relief during hot summer days.
Playground access: Several campgrounds include play areas for children. "Pool and playground are great for young kids," notes a KOA visitor. These amenities help keep younger campers entertained between outdoor adventures.
Educational opportunities: Fort Benton's historic sites offer learning experiences. "You can even winter camp. We really enjoyed camping there and our day trips with the cub scouts," explained a KOA camper, highlighting the potential for educational excursions from base camp.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling considerations: RV campgrounds near Highwood vary in pad quality. At Aspen Campground, "The sites are pretty level and spacious," according to one RVer, though they caution it "is right next to the highway so it can have bad highway noise."
Spacing between sites: Several rv campgrounds in Highwood, Montana's vicinity have tight quarters. "The gravel spaces are close together, mostly back in, and small," notes a visitor to the Malmstrom AFB Annex Campground, suggesting larger rigs may face challenges.
Hookup availability: Most RV parks offer basic utilities, but with limitations. "There is only 1 site with both electric and water. The others only have electric," reported a camper at Chouteau County Fairgrounds, highlighting the importance of confirming specific hookup options before arrival.
