Equestrian camping sites near Canyon Creek, Montana offer direct access to wilderness trails and mountain terrain between 4,500-6,000 feet elevation. Several campgrounds provide specialized facilities for horse trailers and stock animals across the Helena National Forest region. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Hike the Continental Divide Trail: Access points near Cromwell Dixon Campground connect directly to this iconic long-distance trail. "The Continental Divide trail, which we briefly hiked. Beautiful trail. Campsites had tables and plenty of shade," notes Stephanie T., who found the trail access convenient during her stay.
Fly fishing: The upper Little Blackfoot River offers secluded fishing spots for anglers. A five-mile ride from Kading Cabin leads to Blackfoot Meadows, a location frequented by fly fishers. Water levels are typically highest in June with clearer conditions from August through October.
Stargazing: The higher elevation campgrounds provide exceptional night sky viewing opportunities. "Beautiful views and dark skies at night for stargazing," writes Steve V. about his experience at Cromwell Dixon Campground, noting the limited light pollution at this mountain location.
What campers like
Cooler temperatures: The higher elevation provides relief during summer heat waves. "I stayed there for a few weeks when the temperature is down in the valley started to get into the upper 90s and near 100. It was a good 10° cooler at this campsite than down in the valleys," explains Will M. about Cromwell Dixon Campground.
Creek proximity: Several sites offer direct water access. "Great secluded spot to set up a tent or boondock. Vault toilets. Only a mile or so from holter lake so you can drive back to the lake and play around or go to the store," reports Megan B. about her stay at Cottonwood Creek.
Cell service availability: Unlike many remote camping areas, some sites maintain connectivity. Will M. points out the practical benefit at Cromwell Dixon: "The other big plus is that there is a cell phone tower right above the campground so you have excellent cell phone service."
What you should know
Road conditions: Forest service roads leading to horse campgrounds near Canyon Creek, Montana can be challenging. "The only downside to this location is the access road being full of potholes, and if pulling up to the site late at night be careful for the narrow, winding roads that have a large drop off," warns Matt K. about Indian Meadows Trailhead.
Water quality considerations: Some campsites have limited or questionable water sources. At Cromwell Dixon Campground, one camper noted: "It was a clean campground spaces far apart. Pit toilets and water. Water was rusty. It worked for over night." Bringing additional water or filtration systems is advisable.
Seasonal availability: Most horse-friendly campgrounds in this area operate seasonally, typically closing by early October. Cromwell Dixon is "available in the shoulder seasons if snow drifts are not blocking your access to the campground," according to Dexter I.
Tips for camping with families
Consider noise levels: Some campgrounds experience road noise that may affect light sleepers. "You can turn right off the highway and easily access dispersed camping around the site. Only drawback is the highway noise but it dies down when it gets dark," advises Aiden A. about Cromwell Dixon Campground.
Arrival timing: Securing spots at popular campgrounds requires planning. "15 sites available at $15 per night. Showed up at 12:30pm on a Sunday and many still available," reports Brynn V., suggesting mid-day Sunday arrivals might yield better site selection at non-reservation campgrounds.
Pack-in, pack-out requirements: Indian Meadows Trailhead and similar sites require self-sufficient camping. "No water or trash service is available at the site, but can be obtained at the Copper Creek campground a few miles away," explains Dexter I., highlighting the need to plan for waste management.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV campers appreciate adequate separation between sites. "Sites have good separation. Potable water taps and vault bathrooms are very clean. Higher elevation for cooler Summer evenings. No hookups," notes Victor E. about his experience at Cromwell Dixon Campground.
Boondocking options: Several areas provide free dispersed camping for self-contained units. "Great secluded spot to set up a tent or boondock," recommends Megan B. regarding Cottonwood Creek, noting its proximity to facilities at nearby Holter Lake.
Limited amenities: RVers should prepare for primitive conditions. "This is a small, no frills site just outside of Helena, MT. No hookups for RVs; Vault toilets, which were very clean. Pack in/Pack out as there are no trash receptacles," explains Steve V. about camping at Cromwell Dixon.
