Outdoor enthusiasts seeking RV camping near Nashua, Montana will find several options within an easy drive of this Missouri River town. Situated in Valley County at an elevation of 2,060 feet, the area experiences hot summers with temperatures often reaching the mid-90s and cold winters dropping well below freezing. The camping season typically runs from May through October, with many sites closing during winter months due to harsh conditions.
What to do
Fishing access points: Fort Peck Lake offers multiple fishing spots with Nelson Creek Recreation Area providing convenient boat access. "Huge area!! Several toilets and one group site. Boat ramp with a wee dock. Well maintained gravel road to the area," notes a visitor to Nelson Creek Recreation Area.
Walking trails: The Downstream Campground features an extensive network of paved paths. "There are tons of shade trees, many different types of camping spots, fishing ponds, walking/running trails all around the campground, and great shower facilities," according to a camper at Downstream Campground.
Water recreation: During summer months, Flat Lake Recreation Area provides access for boating and swimming. "Right on the lake, gorgeous and spacious. Pit toilet. Full Verizon service," reports one camper at Flat Lake Recreation Area.
What campers like
Wide, spacious sites: The sites at Downstream Campground accommodate large rigs with room to spare. "Fort Peck Downstream Campground is a real gem. Well paved roads, wide spaces, lots of room between spaces, laid out logically and well, and plenty of power," writes one reviewer.
Clean facilities: The maintenance standards at campgrounds near Nashua receive consistent praise. "This RV park was very accommodating and easy to find. Perfect for a quick stop overnight. They had clean bathrooms, laundry rooms, and grounds," notes a visitor to Shady Rest RV Park.
Accessibility features: Several campgrounds offer amenities for visitors with mobility challenges. "My son is a quad and uses a power chair. For those who are in a wheelchair, this campground is a real treat. There are miles of relatively flat, paved, walkways, including to fishing ponds. The showers and facilities are handicap accessible."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Some campgrounds require advance booking through specific systems. "This is not a campground one can just show up at and get in. Being a Federal facility, it is, of course, a Federal process to 'check in'. One must, without exception, set up an account with the website recreation.gov."
Water availability: Not all campgrounds provide water hookups at individual sites. "There is no water at the sites, however, spigots are scattered throughout the camp. If one has 50 feet of hose they can probably get to a spigot to 'top off the tank'."
Wind conditions: The high prairie location means campgrounds can experience significant wind. "This campground is on the high prairie... it can be very windy, and storms come in fast. If mountains and lots of pine trees are what you are looking for, this isn't it."
GPS navigation challenges: Road access requires careful planning. "Our RV GPS and Waze wanted us to turn on 6th St in Glasgow, which has a 12' 2" bridge under the railroad tracks. We went two blocks further to 4th St. which is the truck route that took us to MT-24," reports a camper at Fort Peck Marina Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Recreational equipment: Some campgrounds provide sporting equipment for guest use. "Great park like seeing with playground, volleyball net, basketball court and horseshoe pits. They even lend out the equipment you need!" notes one family who stayed at Downstream Campground.
Educational opportunities: The Fort Peck Interpretive Center offers learning activities for children. "It's a short walk to a really wonderful interpretive center - definitely worthwhile to visit! And there's a great trail system to walk on and enjoy the views."
Boondocking options: For families seeking more primitive camping experiences, Roundhouse Point provides free sites with basic amenities. "This site was fantastic! It is a free site and we couldn't find a donation box. There are places to put in and paddle board. There are 12 official sites but SO much space!" reports a visitor to Roundhouse Point Campground.
Tips from RVers
Direct booking benefits: Calling campgrounds directly can save money and ensure availability. "Call instead of booking online. The owner Cody is wearing many hats and doesn't have a chance to check internet. Plus, she's way nicer to talk to and it saved $5 platform fee from the reservation company."
Utility cord length: Pack extra-long water and electric cords for some campgrounds. "The electric and water are at the back of the site, so we needed 25 feet of electric cord and water hose to reach the utilities."
Dump station locations: Plan for waste disposal as options are limited. "The sign as you enter the marina states the nearest dump station is 3.5 miles, which is at Downstream COE CG. The man at the bait shop stated there's a nice dump station in Glasgow at Scottie's Express Car Wash."