Equestrian camping near Melville, Montana offers access to the Crazy Mountains and forested wilderness areas with elevations ranging from 5,000 to 11,000 feet. Most horse-friendly camping options operate seasonally from late May through October, with some trails impassable until July due to snowpack. Area campgrounds vary from primitive sites to established facilities with corrals and water access.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Halfmoon Campground serves as a starting point for multiple trails, including the 6-mile route to twin mountain lakes. "The dozen campsites are spread amongst the tall pine forest; each accommodated with a picnic table, fire ring and ample flat spaces for tents. There is also a toilet facility and minimal cellular service," reports Aspen K. of Halfmoon Campground.
Fishing access points: Multiple water access sites exist throughout the area for anglers. Near Livingston, Pig Farm Fishing Access provides riverside camping. One visitor notes, "Just a couple of miles from town, and only about half a mile on gravel road which can be handled by any sedan, one side is the Yellowstone River and the other side are the mountains" according to Steve M. of Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp.
Multi-day horse trips: For serious equestrians, plan extended rides between cabins. At Meyers Creek Cabin, trails connect to expansive public lands. "The trails into the forest service are endless in a couple different directions. There is also a vault toilet for day travelers. The cabin has electricity and running water a fire ring and it's also close to a creek," reports Kathi F. of Meyers Creek Cabin.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Many remote sites maintain unexpectedly clean restrooms. At West Boulder, campers appreciate the upkeep despite primitive conditions. "The pit toilet is right at the entrance and the toilet was very clean. The campground has been bush hogged and the sites are mowed so to speak," reports N I. at West Boulder Trailhead and Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Morning and evening offer prime wildlife watching opportunities. "Saw tons of wildlife" reports Zeta S. about their experience at Richardson Campground, which features just three primitive sites along a small creek.
Mountain hiking: Multiple trails provide access to alpine terrain with waterfalls and lakes. "I hiked to Granite Lake (4mi) and it was hard but worth the effort for sure," notes Brodie B. about trails near Halfmoon Campground, adding that the "bathrooms were immaculately clean."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access roads to many sites deteriorate significantly in the final miles. "The gravel road in is very long and the last several miles the road narrows and it is rather bumpy," warns N I. about West Boulder Trailhead. Similarly, at Halfmoon Campground, "Road in is gravel for about 16 miles with the last 4 having vehicle crawl. If you go more than 10 miles an hour in this section you will probably pop a tire."
Weather variability: Mountain weather changes rapidly, especially at higher elevations. One camper at Halfmoon Campground reported: "We woke up to the craziest wind storm around 1am!!! Our tent took quite a beating, we are estimating that winds were above 50mph!!!"
Camping capacity: Most sites fill quickly during summer weekends. "I arrived around 1pm on a Friday and there were only two spots remaining," reports a Halfmoon Campground visitor. Small campgrounds like Richardson have limited space with "three sites" total and limited turnaround space.
Tips for camping with families
Plan for insects: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near water sources. At Pig Farm Fishing Access, one visitor noted it was "very buggy" near the water. Bring appropriate repellent and protective clothing.
Consider cabin options: For families wanting more comfort, reserve well in advance. "This cabin has plenty of room to sleep 6," notes a visitor to Meyers Creek Cabin, though reservations "go really fast every year" according to Kathi F.
Pack for temperature swings: Even summer nights can be cold at elevation. At West Bridger Cabin, one visitor shared: "It was quite cold when we arrived, and we started a fire pretty quickly... The cabin is quite drafty and we struggled to keep it warm. We pinned a sheet up in the doorway to keep the heat contained in the sleeping area."
Tips from RVers
Size restrictions: Most forest roads near Melville have tight turns unsuitable for larger rigs. "I wasn't sure if I could turn around my 20' travel trailer down by the water," notes Edward R. at Pig Farm Fishing Access. Similarly, another camper advises "I would not recommend anything much over 30 feet" for West Bridger Cabin access.
Primitive amenities: Come prepared with water and waste management plans. Richardson Campground features "a single Outhouse, not a vault toilet, this is a small wooden outhouse" and is a "Pack-in, Pack-out campground with no water."
Train noise: Several camping areas have nearby train tracks with regular traffic. At Pig Farm Fishing Access, campers report "Train whistles woke us up four times" and another noted "trains every half hour is why I have it 4/5 stars."
