Bannack State Park sits at 5,800 feet elevation in southwest Montana's high desert, providing glamping options with distinct seasonal considerations. Visitors experience temperature swings common to this region, with summer days reaching 80°F but cooling significantly at night. The area follows a semi-arid climate pattern with most precipitation falling as snow during winter months.
What to do
Gold panning experiences: Try your hand at panning for gold in Grasshopper Creek where Montana's first major gold discovery occurred. According to one visitor at Clark Canyon Recreation Area, "Beautiful lake! Perfect for boating and kayaking. There is a designated camping area that looked to have electric hook ups, further into the canyon are more dispersed sites."
Ghost town exploration: Take self-guided tours through preserved 1860s buildings with interpretive signs explaining the town's mining history. A visitor at Cottonwood described the area as a "Woodsy, beautiful area" with dispersed camping options that provide access to historical sites.
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line in nearby waterways for trout species. One camper at Vigilante Campground shared, "Awesome little campground next to Grasshopper Creek. There aren't many sites here but we were lucky enough to get two. Each space has plenty of room for the kids to run around and play. Caught a few fish on the fly too."
What campers like
Covered picnic areas: Many sites feature sheltered tables providing protection from sun and occasional rain. As noted by one camper at Clark Canyon Recreation Area, "Everyone gets there own picnic table under a shelter and a firepit. The sites are far apart and flat."
Creek-side camping: Several sites position campers within earshot of running water, adding natural ambiance. A visitor mentioned, "The sites are large and level with vault toilets. There were multiple loops you could choose from. The mosquitos were out of control so be sure to bring bug spray and netting."
Historical immersion: Glamping close to Lima, Montana allows for easy access to preserved historical structures. One camper at East Creek Campground said, "Nice place. Not sure that should count as a toilet. I feel more comfortable in the bushes. But other than that loved it."
What you should know
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate from May through October, with limited winter access. A reviewer at Price Creek Campground advised, "Use caution on the curvy mountain road cause it is open range. No cell phone service with Verizon but very close to lots of great parks and trails."
Mosquito preparation: Due to proximity to creeks and reservoirs, insect repellent is essential during summer months. A camper noted, "The bugs were pretty aggressive in the afternoon but improved after a small storm passed."
Temperature fluctuations: Pack layers even in summer due to significant day-night temperature differences. One visitor described conditions as "Beautiful settings" but warned about dramatic temperature changes throughout the day and night.
Tips for camping with families
Junior Ranger programs: Children can participate in educational activities at state parks to earn badges. A visitor shared, "Kids visiting the park can work on a Jr. Ranger program. Great time to visit is when they have volunteers dressed in period clothing."
Creek exploration: Shallow water access points allow for safe wading and nature observation. According to a camper at Hap Hawkins Campground, "This campground is one of several that are for free along this reservoir. This one definitely was the least packed during the week."
Playground access: Some campgrounds feature play equipment for children. A visitor noted, "Nice playground if you have kids. Trees are nice in high summer," when describing facilities for families.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Most glamping close to Lima offers primitive camping with few full-service sites. A reviewer at Beaver Head RV Park mentioned, "It is in a nice location with old growth trees all around. Bathrooms are good, clean but slow working toilets."
Level site considerations: Many campgrounds feature reasonably flat parking areas suitable for medium-sized RVs. One camper reported, "Plenty of room for our 30' trailer and truck. Just empty your tanks and fill up on water, food and supplies in Dillon."
Generator etiquette: Due to the quiet nature of these historical areas, minimize generator usage. A visitor advised, "Bring a generator to charge you bank, though I felt bad about running them because of the disruption in the serenity."
