Camping sites near Lloyd, Montana occupy the northern plains at approximately 2,500 feet elevation where the Bear Paw Mountains create a transition zone between prairie flatlands and rolling foothills. Winter temperatures often drop well below zero with significant snowfall from November through March, while summer days can reach into the 90s. Most dispersed camping areas near Lloyd have minimal protection from strong winds that regularly sweep across this region.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Fresno Reservoir provides multiple fishing access points with Kiehns Bay offering good walleye fishing. According to a visitor, "Tons of people love to camp by Fresno in the summer. It's typically a boating/rv spot - some park their RV all summer at Fresno. It's a huge reservoir with great walleye fishing" (Lindsay B.).
Hiking trails: Montana Gulch Campground offers several maintained trails for day hiking. A camper mentioned, "There are some trails to explore which were well maintained but I believe backpacking through Glacier spoiled me" (James D.). Another visitor adds, "One thing I love about Montana Gulch is the vast views of the mountains. The mountains surround you everywhere you look" (Skylar M.).
Historic tours: The region has significant historical sites within driving distance of most camping areas. One visitor shared their experience: "We toured Fort Assinniboine located 10 miles out of town. More great history and testament to how tough is was on the wild frontier" (Love4travel T.).
Wildlife viewing: Several camping areas offer opportunities to observe local wildlife in natural settings. One camper at Kiehns Bay noted, "Beautiful spot on the water, there were several dispersed camping spots to choose from around the lake" (Nathan B.), making it ideal for wildlife observation along the shoreline.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Campers appreciate the roominess at certain campgrounds in the area. At Hansen Family Campground & Storage, a visitor noted, "The sites are huge. No big trees, and right by the highway and train tracks. But it was peaceful and restful" (Melody C.).
Farm animal interactions: Several campgrounds feature small farms with animals that provide unique camping experiences. A camper described, "They have chickens and ducks and geese, goats, and donkeys. You can feed them and visit with them" (Melody C.). Another visitor mentioned, "There's a small dog park, donkeys, chickens, ducks, and the place is nestled between the hills of Northern Montana" (Mychaela).
County park options: Hill County Beaver Creek Park provides numerous camping locations within a single recreational area. A visitor explained, "This isn't one campground, its dozens. Beaver Creek is the largest county park in the nation... There are two lakes with decent fishing in the park and a lovely stream" (Lindsay B.).
Affordable community camping: Local community parks offer economical camping options with surprising amenities. One camper at Zurich Park shared, "About a mile off the main road. A beautiful little park with about 10-12 electric 30 and 50 amp. It's free to camp if you don't have electric and $30 for electric" (Lisa M.).
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Several campgrounds in the region have water with high mineral content. A visitor to Hansen Family Campground noted, "Water pressure was good at about 50 psi but we got some sulfur smell and taste even with our three way filter system" (MickandKarla W.).
Train noise: The railway corridor parallels Highway 2 and affects many camping locations. A camper mentioned, "A few trains but we didn't really notice them" (Scott K.), while others find the noise more disruptive, particularly at night.
Insect prevalence: Mosquitoes can be problematic during summer months at many camping sites near Lloyd. One camper reported, "Mosquitos, mosquitos, mosquitos. Like you would try to walk your dogs and would be covered in them" (Kathy L.).
Reservation practices: While many sites are first-come, first-served, some community parks have informal reservation systems. A camper at Zurich Park shared their experience: "As a Community Park, it's supposed to be 'first come first served.' We arrived around 4:15, only to be met by other guests letting us know that they reserved 8 of the spots with hookups" (Melody C.).
Tips for camping with families
Playground facilities: Several community parks feature well-maintained playgrounds. A visitor to Zurich Park mentioned, "Very nice clean and convenient campsite off Hwy 2 in Montana... Oh, and a nice playground for the kids!" (JPMC A.).
Educational opportunities: Consider incorporating local history into your trip. One visitor to Havre shared, "Beneath the street historical tour was a blast back to the past and how the town survived a devastating fire" (Love4travel T.).
Farm animal experiences: Children often enjoy the animal encounters available at certain campgrounds. A visitor to Hansen Family Campground wrote, "We had a wonderful time! Horses, mules, goats, chickens, alligator's;), ducks & geese. Kids had a great time!" (eugenia W.).
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations can be extreme, requiring proper planning. Families should pack clothing for both hot days and cool nights even in summer, as temperatures can drop significantly after sunset in this northern climate region.
Tips from RVers
Site conditions: Some campgrounds have uneven or soft ground that can cause problems for RV leveling. A camper at Zurich Park reported, "Our fifth wheel jacks (regardless of having blocks and Snap Pads) sunk about 8 inches into the dirt, and we couldn't get anything level" (Melody C.).
Hookup placement: Note the location of hookups when selecting sites. At Hansen Family Campground & Storage, a camper observed, "The utilities are near the middle of the very-long gravel and soft dirt pad... Most of the sewer connections are extended well out of the ground, so you will have to get your sewer hose up so that gravity flows at least level" (MickandKarla W.).
Navigation challenges: GPS systems sometimes provide incorrect directions to campgrounds in this area. One RVer shared, "We followed our GPS into Havre(pronounced Hav-er). When we got to US-2 coming in from the south on US-87, the GPS wanted us to go left where in actuality, you need to turn right and go through Havre" (MickandKarla W.).
Cell service variations: Connectivity can vary significantly between camping locations. Campers report good Verizon service at some locations: "Nice little campground with good view of the surrounding hill sides. Good Verizon wifi" (Scott K.), while others note limited or no service in more remote areas.
