Camping options near Malmstrom AFB exist across Montana's varied terrain from 3,300 to 5,000 feet elevation. The region experiences significant seasonal variation with winter temperatures commonly falling below 0°F and summer highs reaching 90°F. Wind conditions can be substantial year-round, affecting campsite selection and tent stability throughout the area.
What to do
Hiking trails access: The Thain Creek area offers multiple trail options including route #431 which opens into mountain meadows filled with wildflowers. "The trailhead for #431 is on the campgrounds and there are multiple routes you can take once you start. The path I followed for about 40 minutes opened into an incredible meadow with wildflowers," notes one visitor.
Wildlife observation: Early mornings provide opportunities to see deer and various bird species at Logging Creek campground. "Deer wandered into the campground throughout the night and morning. You can hear logging creek moving from no matter where you are," reports a camper who visited during a meteor shower.
River activities: The Missouri River provides opportunities for fishing, floating and turtle catching at several access points. A visitor to the county fairgrounds campground notes, "There is a small boat ramp/river access. But otherwise the river access is a little steeper. My 7yr old enjoyed catching soft shell turtles."
What campers like
Secluded tent camping: Sluice Boxes State Park offers backcountry camping for those willing to hike in their gear. "There is a ton of spots to camp at as long as you walk off the tail a ways you won't even notice hikers during the day nor will they notice you," explains one camper who enjoyed sleeping under the stars.
Shaded campsite layouts: The wooded areas at Great Falls KOA provide privacy between sites in certain sections. "The area we stayed in is for medium sized rigs or smaller. It was wooded and very nice for a KOA. The larger spaces are in a newer and less shady portion of the campground," mentions a 72-year-old visitor traveling with a 27-foot trailer.
On-base convenience: Military personnel appreciate the proximity to base amenities when staying at on-base facilities. "The amenities like commissary, BX, Movie Theatre and Bowling Alley are very close and Outdoor Rec people are and camphosts are very friendly and helpful," notes a visitor to the Malmstrom AFB campsite.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to remote campsites can require navigating rough terrain. "This is a bit of a trek. TOTALLY worth it if you are up for the adventure though," writes a visitor about driving a small motorhome to Logging Creek. Another camper adds, "The road was a lil rough with the washed out gullies in the road with the cattle guards. But I overall loved it."
Facility maintenance varies: Campground cleanliness can fluctuate throughout the season. A Chouteau County Fairgrounds visitor reports, "The bathrooms are clean, updated and have hot showers," while others note issues at different locations during peak season.
Wildlife concerns: Snake activity requires awareness in certain areas. "The island right near the fairgrounds is called snake island. They are everywhere," warns one camper who visited Fort Benton. Mosquitoes also present challenges in riverside locations during summer months.
Tips for camping with families
Pool and playground access: Children enjoy recreational facilities at certain campgrounds. A visitor to Great Falls RV Park mentions, "We stayed one night on our way through the area. It was convenient. The campsites are plentiful and not as close to each other as others. Bathrooms spotless."
Multi-generational activities: Some campsites accommodate various age groups with diverse activities. "KOA has everything you need. An outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, tent, cabin and rv spots. Outside kitchens. Shower area, small store, playground, and wifi. A lot of room to move around and have fun. We really enjoyed camping there and our day trips with the cub scouts."
Noise considerations: Traffic and group activity noise levels vary significantly between locations. A veteran camper notes, "This campground sits along side the interstate so you will have plenty of road noise throughout the night," regarding one location closer to highways.
Tips from RVers
Power availability: Summer temperatures make electrical hookups essential for comfort during hot months. "Thankfully there was power to run the AC. We would've been long gone without it," reports one RVer who experienced extreme heat near the Missouri River.
Concrete pad quality: The Military Park Malmstrom AFB Gateway FamCamp offers level concrete pads with full hookups. "The concrete pads are mostly level...nothing is absolutely level. Water, sewer and electric are provided. There is a great walking trail just on the edge of the camp," explains a former base resident who returns annually.
Site selection strategy: RVers recommend selecting sites based on specific needs rather than general availability. "The wooded camping areas receive positive reviews for their shade and privacy, while the open areas accommodate larger rigs," notes a reviewer comparing different sections of the same campground.
