Camping sites near Moore, Montana range from small reservoir campgrounds to forest service areas in the Lewis and Clark National Forest. Located in central Montana at an elevation of approximately 4,200 feet, the region experiences warm summer days and cool nights with occasional summer thunderstorms. Most campgrounds in the area remain snow-free from late May through September, with limited services available outside this window.
What to do
Fishing at East Fork Reservoir: ED McGivern Memorial Park Campground sits directly on the reservoir with easy shore access. "This is a small nice 10 site campground right on the reservoir. Each site has a picnic table, metal fire ring and BBQ grill... Easy access to the reservoir all along the campground for those wishing to fish. A boat launch can be found at the beginning of the day use area. This is a small reservoir and their entire reservoir is a no wake area," reports Dexter I.
Hiking to Ice Caves: Crystal Lake Group Campsite offers access to challenging but rewarding hiking trails. "Beautiful views, the lake is amazing, and the hike to the ice caves, while difficult, is SO worth it," notes Megan B. The ice caves maintain year-round ice formations even during summer months.
Lake activities: Ackley Lake State Park Campground provides water recreation opportunities with shoreline camping. "There's a boat ramp that would make anyone from the novice fisherman to the pro water skier happy, but the grounds are small and the price is a little steep for non MT residents," explains Daniel B. The lake offers swimming, boating, and kayaking options throughout summer.
What campers like
Free camping with facilities: Kiwanis Park in Lewistown operates on donations only. "The Lewistown Kiwanis provide a rest area and free campground to travels on the west end of town next to the airport. This camping area has no fee (they will take your donation to help with upkeep of the site), but does have restrooms with running water, several frost-frees are in the camping area to provide water, and trash cans are found at the restrooms," describes Dexter I.
Waterfront camping spots: Several campers value the direct lake access at Ackley Lake. "All of the campsites are right on the water. I would stay there again for sure. No hook ups. only $24 a night for out of state residents. Well worth it to me for the beauty," writes Samantha H.
Small town amenities: Chief Joseph City Park in Harlowton provides urban convenience with outdoor access. "Quiet small town with a grocery store. Sites are pull through. Pond with fish. Nice playground. Ball fields. Seems fairly new and unutilized. Easy access," reports Pam G. The campground is conveniently located near town services.
What you should know
Limited shade: Many camping areas near Moore have few trees. "Nice area, refreshing swim.. Could be more shade. Limited fire pits but lots of space," notes Gail W. about Ackley Lake. At Crystal Lake, another camper explains: "This would have been a 5 star review, but most of the trees that made this area magical have had to be cut down due to beetle infestation."
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires caution on gravel roads. "Crystal Lake is a nice area. To get there it's a mix of about 20 miles of gravel and 1 lane paved roads. The gravel roads are well maintained. The 1 lane paved roads are a little iffy if you're pulling a trailer and its a busy travel day," warns Brandon N.
Seasonal operation: Most camping sites near Moore operate within a limited season. Crystal Lake Cabin and the surrounding campground only operate "June 15 to Labor Day" according to forest service information. Check local conditions before traveling during shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and facilities: Chief Joseph City Park offers excellent family amenities. "This is one of the nicest small town parks I have ever experienced. The play area for children is five star. Rodeo grounds, volleyball net, soccer field are just a short walk from the campsites," shares Denise W.
Swimming opportunities: Ackley Lake provides family-friendly water activities. "The shoreline was rocky at our site, so it was easy to get in and out of the water," notes Heidi B., making it suitable for families with children who want to swim during hot summer days.
Wildlife viewing: The area around Crystal Lake offers chances to spot wildlife. "We saw a few fish being pulled out of the lake, lots of hikers heading up the trails and a few deer passing through the meadow," reports Brandon N. Early mornings and evenings provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Hookup options: Mountain Acres RV Park and Campground in Lewistown provides full services. "They have laundry, showers, bathrooms, WiFi and sites have full hookups. Most people staying were only there for a night or two passing through. They allow dogs and do have a pet area with bags to pick up after your pet," explains Katy R.
Level sites: Chief Joseph City Park offers well-maintained RV spaces. "Level, asphalt pads are all pull-through and long enough for my truck and 32 foot 5th wheel. 50/30 amp hook ups," notes Bradley H. This makes it particularly suitable for larger rigs.
City camping convenience: Fergus County Fairgrounds provides practical in-town RV options. "Full hookups for $38. Sites are average size. I have a 38-ft travel trailer and I had to unhook to fit in the space. The sites are not incredibly level. But for an overnight stop it works great. Easy in and out," reports Christine.
