Tent camping near Lloyd, Montana offers primitive experiences surrounded by the Little Rocky Mountains and Missouri River Breaks region. The area sits at approximately 2,700 feet elevation with dramatic topography changes from river bottoms to mountain peaks. Summer temperatures often exceed 90°F while nights cool significantly, requiring campers to prepare for temperature swings even during peak season.
What to do
Slot canyon hiking: Eagle Creek Developed Boat Camp provides access to impressive slot canyons with minor climbing opportunities. "There are two hiking opportunities here. The first is the awesome Neat Coulee Canyon where it's a short hike with small climbing (and bigger climbing opportunities; pretty risky)," notes Sterling C.
Historical exploration: View Native American pictographs near Eagle Creek camp. "There are also pictographs in the opposite direction of the campsite to the canyon. It is kinda hard to find, but look for reddish rock near a juniper," advises a reviewer who provided location guidance.
Fishing access: Fresno Tailwater offers good fishing opportunities below the dam. "This is a great place to catch Pike, Walleye and Crappie," notes Lindsay B., though they recommend fishing rather than camping at this specific location.
Nature trails: Mount Otis in Beaver Creek Park features well-maintained hiking trails. The park also includes a 3-mile nature trail suitable for casual hikers of all abilities, providing access to native prairie and woodland habitats.
What campers like
Shade from mature trees: Montana Gulch Campground receives praise for its natural shade. "Campground offers lots of shade with creek running by it. Bathroom was clean and nice tables by fire rings," reports Thomas F.
Water features: Creeks and streams enhance many camping areas. "Fun place to explore with the kids. Nothing beats flowing water," states Kelli D. about Montana Gulch, highlighting the recreational value of flowing water for families.
Reservoir views: Kiehns Bay at Fresno Reservoir offers scenic vantage points. "Spectacular views from a few campsites on top of the walls, well spread out areas and definitely big rig friendly spots," notes Brad J., though he mentions local traffic as a drawback.
Basic amenities: Many sites maintain clean facilities despite remote locations. "The bathroom was clean and nice tables by fire rings," observed one camper at Montana Gulch, appreciating the basic but well-maintained facilities.
What you should know
Water availability: Most tent sites require bringing your own water. "Be aware that there isn't any portable water (at least from what I saw). Because of how primitive this campsite is, this is what gives it, its charm," states Nick P. about Montana Gulch.
Access challenges: McGarry Bar Primitive Boat Camp can be difficult to locate from the water. "The location can be a challenge to find as the sign can't be seen from the river, small take out location," warns Dexter I., advising boaters to watch carefully for the landing.
Road conditions: Some access roads become rough during certain seasons. "The dirt road is a little washboard but no big potholes," notes Thomas B. about the 2.5-mile access road to Fresno Tailwater from Highway 2.
Local traffic: Kiehns Bay experiences local visitors during peak times. "The locals have no respect for campers, they just drive right up and spend the afternoon drinking and carrying on," one camper noted, suggesting weekdays might provide more solitude.
Tips for camping with families
Creek exploration: Hole-in-the-Wall Boat Camp offers unique geological features for older children. "The hiking up to the Hole-in-The-Wall is AWESOME! Though you will have to do some easy rock climbing so be prepared," advises Sterling C., noting safety considerations for families with young children.
Fishing opportunities: Multiple locations offer shore fishing for families. "It's a good place to put in for fishing," notes a reviewer about Bearpaw Lake, making it suitable for families who enjoy fishing together.
Sheltered areas: Some sites provide constructed shade shelters. "Site has two vault toilets and four metal fire ring, no tables but several benches. Shelters provide the only shade for the camp," notes Dexter I. about the Hole-in-the-Wall camp, useful information for families needing relief from summer heat.
Wildlife watching: Montana Gulch provides wildlife viewing opportunities. "We saw a bear and her cubs in the distance on one of the hikes we went on. It was incredible to see, but we were definitely pretty cautious," shares a camper, reminding families to maintain safe wildlife practices.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Lone Tree Campground offers larger spaces for camping units. "Site is in a grove of large cottonwoods. One fire ring and one outhouse at the site," notes Dexter I., indicating the natural spacing provided by mature trees.
Leveling challenges: Many sites feature natural, uneven surfaces. "There are several choices, including some with shade under the cottonwood trees you so often find near rivers. There's also a flat concrete pad that would work well for a big RV," advises Thomas B. about Fresno Tailwater.
Access road assessment: Check road conditions before attempting access with larger rigs. "The road in and out is hilly and has a bit of washboarding, we made it in and out without any problems," shares Nancy B. about their experience at Kiehns Bay.
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