Horse campgrounds near Milltown, Montana offer opportunities for equestrians to ride through scenic mountain terrain. Located in the Bitterroot Valley with elevations ranging from 3,200-7,000 feet, this area features a mix of forest service trails and established camping areas. Seasonal availability typically runs May through October, with some campgrounds closing earlier depending on snowfall.
What to do
Trail riding access: Holland Lake Campground provides direct access to the Bob Marshall Wilderness with horse-friendly trails. One visitor notes, "You are right at the mouth of the Bob Marshall Wilderness for hiking exploring needs! Holland Lake is beautiful year round!" The trailhead connects to miles of backcountry routes.
Fishing spots: Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground offers creek access for anglers. "Camping is tight by fly fishing is very good. Freindly people with great food. Beautiful country," mentions Jack T. The nearby Rock Creek is known for trout fishing.
Waterfall hikes: Take horses on the trail to Holland Falls. "The hike to Holland Falls is short but totally worth it! Clean lake perfect for swimming and paddleboarding," shares Talia H. The trail is rocky near the falls, so proper horse handling is required.
Wildlife viewing: Lake Elsina - Dispersed camping area provides chances to see wildlife. "Absolutely gorgeous undeveloped area! If you can stand the hordes of mosquitos and constant trail of hikers coming through the area hiking to Lake Dinah," reports BriAnne M. Bring bear spray and practice proper food storage.
What campers like
Riverside camping: At Bearmouth RV Park, the location along Clark Fork River appeals to many riders. "This is a great location along the Clark Fork river. Staff was very friendly. Sites were well maintained and sufficient," shares Tadd B. The river provides water access for horses.
Mountain scenery: Charles Waters Campground features mountain views and peaceful surroundings. "Clean,quiet,beautiful. Traveling south in Montana and found this lovely little place. Trees, meadows and solitude. Just the way I like it," writes Jen F. The meadow areas are suitable for grazing.
Private campsites: Campers appreciate the spacing between sites. "Sites are close-ish together but very private because of the tree cover. The creekside sites are especially lovely," reports Jess W. This privacy helps when camping with horses that might be bothered by activity.
Natural sounds: The sound of running water enhances the camping experience. "We love the fact that you can hear the cascading water at the sites, peaceful," mentions MT Nesters 4. This natural white noise can help calm horses after a day on the trails.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Both black and grizzly bears frequent this area. "My last stay was only 2 nights, and I ran into two bears, one that strolled right by my trailer," warns Carmen H. at Holland Lake Campground. Proper food storage is essential when camping with horses.
Seasonal variations: Many campgrounds have limited seasons. According to LeRoy U., "Trees for shade, clean vaulted toilets. Nice camp sites and camp ground. I gave it 4 star only due to campers with generators." Most equestrian-friendly campgrounds open May through November.
Reservation status: Not all sites can be reserved. "Very nice campground all sites paved but the sites can't be reserved whole campground is a first come first served basis so if it is a planned stop try to get there by noon," advises Robert T. This is especially important when traveling with horses and trailers.
Highway noise: Some campgrounds are near roads. "Interstate noise and the occasional train whistle would keep me from using the facility for nothing more than an overnight stop," cautions Tadd B. Consider this when choosing sites for skittish horses.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Bearmouth RV Park offers facilities that work well for families with horses. "There is a big field next to the river that was great for kids to run around in," notes hanaa. These open areas are useful for both children and horses.
Swimming options: Many sites offer water recreation. "Great place for families...clean, quiet, right by the lake. The hike to the Holland Falls is short but totally worth it! Clean lake perfect for swimming and paddleboarding," shares Talia H. Children can swim while horses rest at camp.
Playground availability: Some campgrounds have play areas. "There is a sweet playground, really cute buildings, and a little walk down to Rock Creek," mentions Andrea B. These facilities keep children entertained between trail rides.
Hiking difficulty levels: Choose trails appropriate for children. "The campground has a lot amenities and the Holland Lake Lodge is also there if your in need of something a little extra! Don't miss out!" recommends Sara C. Trails vary from beginner-friendly to challenging.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling: Many horse-friendly campgrounds have uneven spots. "Paves roads, large sites, (sloped, not level) very friendly hosts, water spigots throughout, pit toilets, cement picnic tables," notes MT Nesters 4. Bring leveling blocks for horse trailers with living quarters.
Accessibility factors: Out Post Campground offers easy access for larger rigs. "The grounds were very close to the highway and easy to access," states Megan K. This is important when hauling horse trailers.
Dump station availability: Plan ahead for waste disposal. "They offer a 'honey pot' mobile dump station where they come pump your sewage, sometimes offering a free dump for stays of a week or longer," explains Reames C. This service is valuable for extended stays with horses.
Camping with horses in wet conditions: Be prepared for mud. "The only down side was the the trash services weren't ready yet, so make sure to pack it out if you're there in early may," advises Thomas C. Spring conditions can affect horse camping areas.
