Hilger, Montana offers year-round camping opportunities in the heart of Montana's central plains. Located in Fergus County, the area sits at approximately 3,800 feet elevation and experiences semi-arid climate conditions with hot summers and cold winters. Campers will find a mix of prairie grasslands and mountain views with several campgrounds scattered across public lands and recreation areas.
What to do
Fishing at reservoirs: East Fork Reservoir at ED McGivern Memorial Park Campground provides excellent water access with a no-wake policy. "This is a small nice 10 site campground right on the reservoir. Easy access to the reservoir all along the campground for those wishing to fish. A boat launch can be found at the beginning of the day use area," notes a reviewer.
Lake activities: Crystal Lake offers clear waters suitable for swimming, kayaking and hiking. "The lake was so peaceful and clear. The trail around the lake is a nice walk to see all the different views around it. The meadows were full of wildflowers in the summer," reports one camper about Crystal Lake Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife populations visible from campgrounds. "We had abundant wildlife sightings with multiple deer right at our campsite," mentions one Crystal Lake visitor. Campers can also venture to nearby wilderness areas for more wildlife spotting opportunities.
What campers like
Free camping options: Kiwanis Park operates on donations rather than set fees. "This place is great and it runs off of donations, so make sure to drop some cash into their donation box if you can. Clean bathrooms and plenty of spots to park your car and camp, some with picnic tables even," says one reviewer who appreciated the value.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-kept amenities. "Extremely clean restroom. Be aware, Waze directed me to a totally different place but Google Maps pointed me to the exact location," notes a Kiwanis Park visitor who found the facilities exceeding expectations.
Scenic surroundings: Ackley Lake State Park Campground provides waterfront camping in a picturesque setting. "So beautiful. Found it randomly passing through, just looking for a place to stay for the night. All of the campsites are right on the water," a visitor reports about the lakeside locations.
What you should know
Seasonal accessibility: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Crystal Lake Campground typically opens from June 15 to Labor Day, requiring planning for off-season visits. The road conditions can vary seasonally with some access routes becoming difficult in winter months.
Pet restrictions: While most campgrounds allow pets, specific rules apply for each location. Campers should verify current pet policies before arrival and bring waste disposal bags as service may be inconsistent.
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires travel on unpaved roads. "To get there it's a mix of about 20 miles of gravel and 1 lane paved roads. The gravel roads are well maintained. The 1 lane paved roads are a little iffy if you're pulling a trailer and its a busy travel day," warns a visitor about Crystal Lake Group Campsite.
Tips for camping with families
Shallow water access: Several campgrounds offer gentle shorelines for younger swimmers. "The shoreline was rocky at our site, so it was easy to get in and out of the water," notes a visitor to Ackley Lake State Park, making it suitable for families with children.
Covered picnic areas: Kiwanis Park provides shade structures at select sites. "The camping area has no fee, but does have restrooms with running water, several frost-frees are in the camping area to provide water, and trash cans are found at the restrooms. The camping area does not have numbered sites, but there are 12 concrete picnic tables, 6 of those are covered."
No-wake areas: Families appreciate the quieter waters at certain reservoirs. East Fork Reservoir maintains a no-wake policy throughout the lake, creating a safer environment for children exploring the water's edge and reducing noise for those sensitive to loud watercraft.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Fergus County Fairgrounds provides full hookup sites with some limitations. "Full hookups for $38. Sites are average size. I have a 38-ft travel trailer and I had to unhook to fit in the space. The sites are not incredibly level. But for an overnight stop it works great," advises one RVer.
Big rig access points: Some campgrounds accommodate larger vehicles better than others. "We were here on June 17, 2022. It was somewhat crowded but we managed to snag a spot for our 38' fifth wheel. They have a ten day limit on your stay which is free. No electric but they do have some water spigots spaced throughout," reports a Kiwanis Park visitor.
Overnight stops: For RVers passing through, several locations offer convenient overnight parking. "Stopped in for the night. The Ole Mercantile had a cute shop and Conoco gas. People were very friendly and 6 full hookup sites out back. Mostly flat overgrown gravel pad did the job," notes one traveler about accommodations in the area.
