Glamping accommodations near Missoula, Montana span diverse settings from riverside locations to mountain foothills at elevations ranging from 3,200 to 4,500 feet. The region experiences warm summer days with temperatures typically between 75-90°F and cool nights dropping to 45-55°F. Most luxury camping options operate seasonally from May through September, though some locations offer heated structures for shoulder season stays.
What to do
Explore hot springs nearby: Lolo Hot Springs RV Park & Campground offers convenient access to natural mineral pools across the street. "Great little campground across the road from the hot spring pools. The lady who answered the phone and ran the check in desk was really nice and helpful!" notes Michael B. The hot springs feature both a 106-degree enclosed mineral bath and an 86-degree outdoor pool.
Visit the National Bison Range: Located about 40 minutes from Jocko Hollow Campground, this wildlife refuge offers opportunities to see bison in their natural habitat. Douglas M. describes the campground as "nice and small and tucked away so that you can explore the woods and wilderness around it."
Go fishing in Rock Creek: Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground provides access to Rock Creek, known for excellent fishing. Jack T. confirms the fishing quality: "Camping is tight but fly fishing is very good. Friendly people with great food. Beautiful country."
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Powell Campground just over the Montana border, campers appreciate the spacious layout. Julian P. notes, "The campground has 30+ sites, but they are well separated and it feels very private. The first loop has electricity, the second doesn't."
Clean facilities: Lee Creek Campground maintains exceptionally clean facilities. "Smaller forest service campground has water spigots but no flushing toilets. But the pit toilets were some of the cleanest I've encountered. The Lolo has some of the cleanest toilets in the system," reports Kelly.
Kid-friendly amenities: Families appreciate dedicated play areas at several glamping locations. At Missoula KOA Holiday, Desiree D. shares, "Playground, pool, mini golf, clean showers, restrooms and laundry! It was great!"
What you should know
Train noise affects some campgrounds: At Beavertail Hill State Park Campground, train traffic can disrupt sleep. David H. warns, "The train mentioned in another review is a pretty big deal breaker though honestly. The tracks are right next to the wall in spaces. And during my visit on a weekday it was about every 2 hours."
Seasonal availability and facilities: Most luxury camping options close between October and April. At Lee Creek Campground, Will M. notes, "The water was turned off when I was there, but there is a pit toilet and lots of Firewood. Close to highway."
Pricing varies significantly: Expect to pay premium rates during peak season. Jennifer H. observes, "Kids are $10 extra per night?!? On top of the already $130 campsite fee" at the Missoula KOA, while Douglas M. describes Jocko Hollow as "a great value for the price."
Tips for camping with families
Look for glamping sites with activities: Whitefish-Kalispell North KOA provides numerous entertainment options. "This campground has it all. Lots of fun for the kids with mini golf, bikes, paddle boats, and arcade games. Lots of spaces. Free breakfast in the morning was a great touch," shares Chad L.
Consider tent village arrangements: Some campgrounds offer dedicated tent sections with strategic layouts. At Missoula KOA, Boondocks H. describes, "Stayed one quick night in the 'Tent Village' where each site gets a pie shaped section of an octogon. Everything was fine."
Check for water play options: Sites near water features provide natural entertainment. At Lolo Hot Springs RV Park & Campground, Joshua C. shares, "Site seven also seemed really large compared to others as there was a large tree between the next site where we tied up a hammock. This was perfect for our golden retriever as we could tie her on a long lead and she could swim her heart out."
Tips from RVers
Reserve electric sites in advance: Powell Campground offers a rare amenity for forest service locations. Greg G. notes, "Great sites next to river. Bathroom and water had already been closed for season. We had site 18" with electricity.
Expect variable site widths: At Missoula KOA, Jennifer H. cautions, "We paid for a deluxe extra wide site. We have a 27ft Class C with a drivers side slide. Not a tiny RV but by no means large. When being directed to our site I was asked to move over so our tires weren't near the grass... I'm in now in excess of $160 for one night for an uneven gravel site."
