Campers visiting Jordan, Montana find multiple RV and tent camping options within driving distance of this central Montana town. Located in Garfield County along Highway 200, the area receives limited annual rainfall and experiences temperature extremes characteristic of prairie environments. The region features badlands topography interspersed with grasslands and Fort Peck Lake's expansive shoreline, creating diverse camping environments with limited natural shade.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Hell Creek Recreation Area, campers can access prime fishing spots. "Lots of fishing, swimming, and boating up Hell Creek!" notes reviewer Hailey L. The area serves as a popular destination for anglers targeting walleye and northern pike.
Star gazing: Nelson Creek offers exceptional night sky viewing due to minimal light pollution. "Breathtaking star gazing...the sunset, sunrise and star gazing surrounded by beautiful lakes is worth it!" reports Julie about her experience at Nelson Creek - Fort Peck Lake.
Boating access: Duck Creek provides multiple boat launch points along its shoreline. "At most of the grassy camping peninsulas you can launch your boat or SUP right into the water!" explains Alan B. The reservoir offers extensive water recreation with numerous coves and inlets to explore.
What campers like
Lakeside camping: Waterfront sites provide direct water access at several locations. "This campground has great lakeside sites and the people at the marina are very friendly!" shares Cozette A. about her experience at Hell Creek Recreation Area.
Spacious campsites: The open layout at many campgrounds allows for flexibility. "Lots of space between campsites. But, being central Montana, there are almost no trees or brush. So, there is no privacy," reports Keith L. about his stay at Duck Creek.
Natural quiet: Several campgrounds offer peaceful settings away from highways. "If you are looking for a quiet getaway with a camping spot on the lake, this is it," writes Bonnie H. about Nelson Creek. Wildlife encounters commonly include coyotes, deer, and various bird species.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads require planning and appropriate vehicles. "Road is rough! Full of washboard so unless he want to ruin your equipment, drive slowly!" warns Jessica B. about Nelson Creek - Fort Peck Lake.
Limited amenities: Most lakeside campgrounds provide basic facilities only. "No services except vault toilets, picnic tables, fire pits and boat launches," notes Bonnie H. about Nelson Creek. Campers should arrive fully supplied with water and provisions.
Weather preparedness: Rapid weather changes affect travel conditions significantly. "It is very hard to get in when it rains if you don't have a 4WD vehicle. Road leading in was absolute mush," reports Stephanie T. about Hell Creek. Summer storms can create challenging situations for unprepared travelers.
Tips for camping with families
Supply planning: The remote location requires thorough preparation. "When they say bring what you need they mean it. There are toilets, fire pits and picnic tables...no wood and no water," shares Julie about camping at Nelson Creek. Families should pack all food, water, and supplies needed for their entire stay.
Group facilities: Some areas provide designated spaces for larger gatherings. "One covered group shelter available but it's hard to get in the summer," mentions Kitty K. about Nelson Creek - Fort Peck Lake. Reserving these spaces requires advance planning during peak season.
Wildlife encounters: Natural areas include wildlife presence that can interest children. "Cows do roam through and coyote sing to you at night," notes Julie about Nelson Creek. Maintaining food storage discipline helps prevent unwanted animal visitors.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Prepare for uneven parking surfaces at most rv parks near Jordan, Montana. "Sites aren't that level, deep gravel," mentions J.P. about Old Dorm RV. Bringing adequate leveling blocks improves setup comfort.
Seasonal availability: RV services vary throughout the year at most facilities. "Great free little campground, very busy on weekends with lots of local traffic," reports Nathan B. about Duck Creek, adding that there's a "Free Dump and fill outside the Downstream campground."
Limited hookups: Self-contained RVs work best at most locations. "Only electricity at our site, very limited shared water source, and the showers were coin operated," explains Elizabeth R. about Hell Creek Recreation Area. Many Jordan, Montana rv parks operate with minimal utility connections outside of town.
