Camping near Lewistown, Montana offers diverse options ranging from lakeside sites to mountain retreats. Located in the geographic center of Montana at approximately 4,000 feet elevation, Lewistown experiences warm summer days with cool evenings. Fall camping typically ends by mid-October when overnight temperatures regularly drop below freezing.
What to do
Fishing access at reservoir sites: Ackley Lake State Park Campground provides shoreline fishing directly from campsites. "All of the campsites are right on the water," notes Samantha H., who found the lake randomly while passing through.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Crystal Lake Campground offers excellent wildlife encounters. "We had abundant wildlife sightings with multiple deer right at our campsite," reports Jessica B., who appreciated the natural environment despite the less manicured grounds.
Hiking trail exploration: Crystal Lake Group Campsite offers access to challenging but rewarding hiking trails. "The hike to the ice caves, while difficult, is SO worth it," says Megan B., who considers it one of her favorite boondocking locations.
Lake activities and water sports: ED McGivern Memorial Park Campground sits on the west shore of East Fork 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," explains one camper about this small reservoir with a no-wake rule.
What campers like
Affordability and donation-based sites: Kiwanis Park runs on voluntary contributions. "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," advises Sarah G.
Proximity to supplies: Lewistown camping locations offer convenience to necessities. "Grocery store across the road very handy," notes Jane M. about Kiwanis Park, which serves as both a campground and highway rest area.
Weather protection amenities: Ackley Lake sites include windbreak structures. "Most sites offered a sheltered picnic table, which makes me think it might get very hot or very windy," observed Nicole C., who found the lake "a welcome sight on a cross country road trip."
Clean facilities: Mountain Acres RV Park and Campground maintains good facilities despite limited staff. "They have laundry, showers, bathrooms, WiFi and sites have full hookups. Most people staying were only there for a night or two passing through," reports Katy R.
What you should know
Road conditions to remote sites: Access to Crystal Lake Campground requires navigating challenging roads. "There is a lot of gravel and one lane roads going in with a few sketchy spots where you are looking straight down off the side," explains Jessica B.
Tree removal at some locations: Crystal Lake has changed significantly in recent years. "This would have been a 5 star review, but most of the trees that made this area magical have had to be cut down due to beetle infestation," mentions Connie H., while another camper notes, "Not much privacy now as every camp site can be watched by all the other campers."
Limited amenities at state parks: Ackley Lake State Park Campground offers minimal facilities. "The campground has two vault toilets, but no running water or trash service," according to one review, with another camper adding, "Vault toilets, no water. No trees and the other campsites are very close."
Donation-based camping rules: Kiwanis Park limits stays to 10 nights. "Camping is limited to 10 nights. The airport is small so you will have very little aircraft noise, most noise will be from State Hwy 200/U.S. Hwy 87," explains a camper.
Tips for camping with families
Waterfront campsites for activities: Ackley Lake provides water access for family swimming and boating. "Good spot for camping, fishing, swimming, kayaking!" comments Scott B., making it suitable for families wanting water recreation.
Wildlife viewing with children: Crystal Lake offers nature education opportunities. "We saw a few fish being pulled out of the lake, lots of hikers heading up the trails and a few deer passing through the meadow," reports a visitor, creating memorable wildlife experiences for children.
Sheltered picnic tables: Ackley Lake features wind protection structures helpful for family meals. "There are lean-to's with picnic table and fire ring," notes Tarrah C., providing shelter during variable weather conditions.
Proximity to town amenities: Fergus County Fairgrounds offers easy access to Lewistown services. "Full hookups for $38. Sites are average size... But for an overnight stop it works great. Easy in and out," says Christine, making it convenient for families needing supplies.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing considerations: Fergus County Fairgrounds requires planning for larger rigs. "I have a 38-ft travel trailer and I had to unhook to fit in the space. The sites are not incredibly level," advises Christine.
Seasonal availability: Mountain Acres RV Park operates seasonally. "Park has good sites. Only a few trees though. Facilities are good. Management is good," reports Lance T. about this park that operates from May through October.
Hookup options in town: Kiwanis Park offers limited hookups but convenient location. "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," shares Sherry.
Big rig accessibility: Some remote locations have challenging access for large RVs. "To get to [Crystal Lake] 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."
