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Best Campgrounds near Lewistown, MT

61 Reviews

Lewistown, Montana provides access to several campgrounds suitable for tent, RV, and cabin camping across different settings. Kiwanis Park offers free camping on the west end of town with picnic tables and restrooms with running water, while Mountain Acres RV Park provides full hookups for RVs from May through October. Crystal Lake Campground, located about 25 miles south in the Lewis and Clark National Forest, features rustic camping with vault toilets in a more remote setting. Ackley Lake State Park Campground, situated approximately 15 miles west of Lewistown, provides lakeside camping with 15 numbered sites along the shore.

Road conditions vary significantly when accessing the more remote campgrounds in the region. Crystal Lake requires traveling approximately 20 miles on a mix of gravel roads and single-lane paved sections that can be challenging for larger vehicles or trailers. Many campgrounds have limited amenities, with vault toilets being common but drinking water often unavailable. The camping season generally runs from late spring through early fall, with some locations like Ackley Lake State Park remaining open year-round but offering minimal winter services. Elevation changes affect accessibility, particularly after rain or snow. As one camper noted about Crystal Lake, "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."

Camping experiences around Lewistown vary widely based on location and proximity to water. Lakeside sites at Ackley Lake State Park and ED McGivern Memorial Park Campground receive positive reviews for their fishing access and waterfront views. The campgrounds closer to town provide convenience but less privacy and natural settings. Several visitors mention wildlife viewing opportunities, particularly at Crystal Lake where deer sightings are common. Campers frequently note the contrast between developed RV parks with full hookups and more primitive sites with basic amenities. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, Ackley Lake stands out for its value: "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." Prairie dogs, traffic noise, and limited shade affect some campgrounds, while others offer more secluded experiences in forested settings.

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Best Camping Sites Near Lewistown, Montana (28)

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61 Reviews of 28 Lewistown Campgrounds

Guide to Lewistown

Camping near Lewistown, Montana, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quick stop or a longer stay, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do:

  • Fishing and swimming: Ackley Lake State Park is a great spot for fishing and swimming. One visitor mentioned, "Good spot for camping, fishing, swimming, kayaking!" This lake is perfect for a weekend getaway.
  • Hiking: Crystal Lake Campground has trails that lead to stunning views. A camper noted, "The lake is gorgeous and crystal clear. Hiking trails to an overlook and the ice cave are marked."
  • Wildlife watching: Many campers enjoy spotting wildlife. One reviewer at Ackley Lake said, "So much wildlife on our drive to it, in the fields that surround the lake."

What campers like:

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms at Kiwanis Park. One reviewer said, "Extremely clean restroom."
  • Quiet atmosphere: Many find the parks peaceful. A visitor at Kiwanis Park mentioned, "Road noise disappears at night."
  • Affordable stays: Campgrounds like Ackley Lake State Park offer reasonable rates. One camper said, "Only $24 a night for out of state residents. Well worth it to me for the beauty."

What you should know:

  • Limited amenities: Some campgrounds, like Crystal Lake Campground, lack drinking water and electric hookups. A camper expressed disappointment, saying, "This used to be the most beautiful campgrounds in Montana... Not much privacy now."
  • First-come, first-served: Many sites are not reservable, especially at Ackley Lake State Park. One visitor noted, "They only have 26 spots, first come first serve."
  • Road access: Some campgrounds may have rough access roads. A reviewer at Crystal Lake Campground mentioned, "There is a lot of gravel and one lane roads going in with a few sketchy spots."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Playgrounds: Look for parks with play areas. At Chief Joseph City Park, one reviewer said, "The play area for children is five star."
  • Picnic tables: Many campgrounds have picnic tables, making it easy to enjoy meals outdoors. A camper at Kiwanis Park appreciated the picnic tables available.
  • Safety: Always check for nearby facilities. A visitor at Mountain Acres RV Park mentioned, "They allow dogs and do have a pet area with bags to pick up after your pet."

Tips from RVers:

  • Space for big rigs: Campgrounds like Mountain Acres RV Park are big rig friendly. One reviewer said, "Sites are big."
  • Full hookups: Look for parks with full hookups for convenience. A camper noted, "They have laundry, showers, bathrooms, WiFi and sites have full hookups."
  • Quiet nights: Many RVers enjoy the peaceful nights at places like Kiwanis Park. A visitor mentioned, "Everything is booked, so this is a great stop on mt200 trying to get to great falls & on to Glacier."

Camping near Lewistown, Montana, has something for everyone, from families to RVers. Just remember to check the amenities and plan accordingly!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there free camping available near Lewistown, MT?

Yes, there are free camping options near Lewistown. Kiwanis Park on the west end of town offers free camping with restrooms, running water, and frost-free hydrants throughout the camping area. Donations are appreciated to help with upkeep. For Montana residents, Ackley Lake State Park Campground is free to camp, while non-residents pay $24 per night. The state park has 26 sites with metal fire rings and picnic tables, plus vault toilets, though no running water or trash service. Both locations operate on a first-come, first-served basis.

Where are the best campgrounds in Lewistown, Montana?

The Lewistown area offers several excellent camping options. Crystal Lake Campground is a standout choice with a peaceful, clear lake and trails offering beautiful views and summer wildflowers. The drive requires navigating about 20 miles of gravel and single-lane paved roads, but they're generally well-maintained. Chief Joseph City Park provides a convenient option with several level pull-through RV sites with electricity, a water hydrant, dumpster, and a large community playground adjacent to the camping area. This small-town campground has a 14-day limit and tends to be quieter during fall months.

What is the best time of year to go camping around Lewistown, Montana?

The prime camping season around Lewistown runs from late spring through early fall. Summer (June-August) offers the most reliable weather and access to areas like ED McGivern Memorial Park Campground when temperatures are ideal for enjoying the reservoir. Late spring (May-June) brings wildflowers, particularly visible at places like Judith Station Day Use Area. Fall camping (September-October) offers fewer crowds and beautiful foliage, though be prepared for cooler nights. Winter camping is possible but challenging due to snow and limited access to many campgrounds. Always check road conditions, especially for higher elevation sites which may be inaccessible until late spring.

What amenities are available at Ed McGivern Memorial Park Campground in Lewistown?

ED McGivern Memorial Park Campground offers 10 well-spaced sites situated on the west shore of East Fork Reservoir, providing privacy for campers. The campground is conveniently located just past the day use area on a loop at the end of the road. Each site offers direct access to the reservoir for water activities. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early during peak season is recommended. While basic, the sites provide enough room for standard camping setups, though specific amenities like hookups, water access points, and restroom facilities appear limited based on available information. The natural setting and reservoir access are the primary draws for this small, scenic campground.

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