Fort Peck Lake encompasses 1,520 miles of shoreline in northeastern Montana, with tent camping options situated around the reservoir at elevations between 2,200-2,400 feet. The area experiences high summer temperatures averaging 85°F in July and August, with late spring and early fall offering milder conditions for tent campers. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline camping locations and boat launch accessibility.
What to do
Fossil viewing opportunities: At Fort Peck Duck Creek, the surrounding Hell Creek Geologic Formation provides unusual recreational options. "This spot is surrounded by the Hell Creek Geologic Formation which has some of the highest concentration of vertebrate fossils in the world! While it is illegal to take any vertebrate fossils you can get cool imprints of leaves and other invertebrate animals that lived right alongside the dinosaurs," notes camper Alan B.
Boating access: Rock Creek Marina provides launch facilities for water recreation. According to Jessica B., the area "offers a marina and services, however area is small and very congested. Fills up fast." Plan weekday visits to avoid weekend crowds during peak summer months.
Swimming locations: Shallow entry points make swimming accessible at most lakeside campgrounds. McGuire Creek has "great fishing and swimming" according to camper reviews, with gradually sloping shorelines providing safer entry points for water activities during summer months when water temperatures reach the mid-70s.
What campers like
Seclusion from crowds: BLM Paulo Reservoir provides quieter alternatives to busier areas. Caleb J.B. describes it as "small and secluded. You can't even find Paulo Reservoir on Google Maps. It's a good place if you like being away from the bustle of Fort Peck."
Wildlife viewing: The varied habitat surrounding these tent sites supports diverse wildlife. At The Pines, Lauren T. notes the area is "great for animals and kids! Fire rings and plenty of sites, fishing access." Mornings and evenings provide optimal wildlife viewing opportunities.
Sandy beaches: Several tent camping areas feature natural sand beaches. "Sandy beaches lining the camping areas" at The Pines make this location popular for shoreline relaxation, according to visitor reviews. Water levels affect beach availability, with late spring typically offering the most expansive shorelines.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Strong winds can develop quickly across Fort Peck Lake. "The lake can get super windy. Not great for non-motorized boats," warns Lindsay B. about conditions at The Pines. Secure tent stakes are essential, with morning hours typically offering calmer conditions for paddling.
Insect activity: Prepare for seasonal insects at many tent sites. Emily T. reports that at Fort Peck Duck Creek, "depending on the time of year, there were a lot of crickets and small little chiggers biting skin." Late spring and early fall camping reduces insect encounters.
Water availability: Most tent camping areas lack reliable drinking water sources. Jessica B. notes that Flat Lake has "vault toilets, boat ramp, beautiful lake. No potable water, no electricity, etc." Pack adequate water supplies of at least one gallon per person per day.
Tips for camping with families
Site selection strategies: Choose campgrounds with established facilities when camping with children. Kitty K. recommends The Pines for families, noting it has "vault toilets, picnic tables, fire pit, boat ramp, one garbage, group shelter house with playground."
Water safety precautions: Fort Peck Lake water levels fluctuate seasonally, creating changing shoreline conditions. McGuire Creek offers "great fishing and swimming" according to Jessica B., but road access requires caution as it's "not the best road going in."
Space considerations: Some tent camping areas have limited defined sites. At BLM Paulo Reservoir, Caleb notes "there are no specified campsites. It would be fairly packed if more than 4 rigs showed up." Arrive early on summer weekends to secure adequate space for family camping.
Tips from RVers
Generator usage rules: Policies vary between campgrounds regarding generator operation. At Fort Peck Duck Creek, Hattie R. mentions "there were generators running all night and some fireworks around 11:30p," indicating inconsistent quiet hours enforcement at some locations.
Road conditions: Access roads to remote tent sites may require careful vehicle assessment. Jessica B. mentions that McGuire Creek has "not the best road going in," suggesting higher clearance vehicles may be preferable, especially after rain events when gravel roads become rutted.
Distance considerations: More remote tent camping areas require additional travel planning. Lauren T. notes that The Pines requires traveling "20 miles down gravel, but highly trafficked still," suggesting adequate fuel and supplies should be packed for these more distant sites.
