Tent camping near Hot Springs, Montana provides access to secluded sites in both forested settings and around alpine waters. The region sits at the convergence of the Cabinet Mountains and the Lolo National Forest, with elevations ranging from 2,700 to 4,500 feet across popular camping areas. Summer temperatures typically reach 85°F during day and drop to 50°F at night, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Fishing at stocked ponds: Mere's Magic Trout Pond offers a peaceful fishing experience with canoe access included in your stay. A camper noted, "There is potable well water and a canoe if you wanted to row in the pond" at this small private campground that maintains six tent sites.
Hiking mountain trails: Multiple trails access the Cabinet Mountains from campgrounds west of Hot Springs. Near Kreis Pond Campground, campers can access the Sleeping Woman trail, which one visitor described as "a heavy incline to the top so be prepared with lots of water and an awesome view at the end. 360 view of the Missoula Valley, Bitteroot Mountain Range, Flathead in the distance and Mission Mountains as well."
Wildlife viewing: The area around Thompson Falls, approximately 45 minutes from Hot Springs, offers excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. At Gold Rush Campground, one camper mentioned it has a "great trail for hiking and exploring. This camp is not heavily used so you could possibly get the place to yourself."
What campers like
Secluded camping spots: The best tent camping near Hot Springs includes several under-utilized campgrounds. At Gold Rush Campground, campers appreciate that it's "not heavily used so you could possibly get the place to yourself. Lots of shade great place to go get away."
Clean facilities: Despite primitive conditions at many sites, campers frequently note the maintenance of facilities. At Mere's Magic Trout Pond, one visitor was particularly impressed with the facilities, stating "The porta potty was the cleanest one I've ever been to. You have to fill up your own water for the shower."
Swimming opportunities: Flathead Lake provides excellent swimming conditions with clear water and rocky bottoms. At Yellow Bay State Park Campground, a reviewer noted "The bay itself is relatively shallow, protected a bit from the wind and the bottom is smooth mid sized rocks, all making for an excellent place to swim."
What you should know
Permit requirements: Several campgrounds in the region require special permissions. When visiting North Crow Creek, one camper warned: "Campers should know that it is on Tribal land and permits are required for use."
Road conditions: Many of the best tent camping areas near Hot Springs require travel on rough forest roads. Kreis Pond Campground visitors should "be prepared for several miles of dusty, gravel, washboard road."
GPS limitations: Some camping areas aren't properly mapped on navigation systems. One camper attempting to visit Kreis Pond reported, "I never made it to this campsite because my GPS couldn't figure out how to get me there without going on private property."
Tips for camping with families
Look for pond-side camping: Smaller bodies of water provide safer swimming for children than larger lakes. Kreis Pond features "7 well spaced campsites all around the pond" that create a contained environment for families.
Check seasonal conditions: Algae blooms affect some ponds during summer months. One experienced camper noted that Kreis Pond is "small and prone to very dense algae blooms" which can limit swimming opportunities later in summer.
Consider glamping options: For families new to tent camping, Off The Beaten Path Glampground offers a compromise with "nice large tent sites. They also have a geodesic dome you can rent" according to a recent visitor who rated their experience highly.
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most campgrounds near Hot Springs accommodate smaller RVs only. At Mission Meadows RV Campground, a camper observed that "there are a few spots with hookups, but the ground is very uneven. The best spots are W&E, and the dumpstation is at the Cenex in Ronan."
Elevation changes: Forest roads leading to remote sites often include steep sections. Arrive with full water tanks and empty waste tanks, as one camper at Mission Meadows noted the nearest dump station requires a trip to town.
Consider camping locations carefully: Many RV sites in the area have permanent residents. A visitor to Mission Meadows noted there are "many full-time residents" which can affect the camping experience and availability.
