Campgrounds near Neihart, Montana offer dispersed camping in Lewis and Clark National Forest at elevations between 4,800 and 8,000 feet. The area experiences cool summer nights with temperatures dropping into the 40s even in July and August. Most campgrounds operate seasonally from late spring through fall, with winter conditions making access difficult from November through April.
What to do
Hiking to Memorial Falls: Access this popular trail from Aspen Campground, located just minutes from the trailhead. "This campground was close to Memorial Falls which we wanted to hike the next day. The setting is wooded and right off scenic Highway 89," notes Judy T.
Fishing in mountain streams: Belt Creek runs through the region providing fishing opportunities. "Aspen campground is great if you are planning on hiking the sluice boxes the next day. The creek does a good job worth background noise," says Mackenzie F.
Stargazing at high elevations: The night skies are exceptionally dark due to minimal light pollution. "We set up camp and fell asleep under the light of a million stars. The star gazing is great here because it's right in the middle of the Little Bely mountains so there is no light pollution," reports Ruby Y.
What campers like
Private, tiered campsites: Many Pines Campground features unique site designs. "Our 5th-wheel is 28 feet long and fit nicely in the space. All campsites have fire pits and picnic tables and are somewhat private. Many are on a two-tier level and actually have steps with railings to go down or up to the picnic table and fire pit," explains Melody M.
Complete digital disconnection: Several campgrounds have no cellular coverage. "This campground is in the mountains. No phone service so you can really get away from everyday life. It is in the lewis and clark national forest so help isn't too far away," reports Judy K.
Clean facilities: Most campgrounds maintain their restrooms well. "The one out house is nice and clean. No bear boxes so put food in vehicles," advises Christopher G. at Aspen Campground.
What you should know
Pack-in, pack-out required: Kings Hill Campground and others have no trash service. "The campground has water and vault toilets but no trash service so be prepared to pack out everything you bring in," notes Dexter I.
Wildlife encounters: Bears and other wildlife frequent the area. "Wildlife frequently wanders through these campgrounds, so keeping pets leashed is essential for their safety," states a local forest ranger.
Variable weather conditions: At higher elevations like Kings Hill (8,000 feet), weather can change rapidly. "Campground sits at around 8000 feet in elevation," explains Dexter I., making it prone to sudden temperature drops and storms even in summer.
Tips for camping with families
Creek access for children: Logging Creek Campground offers water play opportunities. "There is water for kids to play in. There is a camp host. And several toilets. Endless trail," reports Jean L.
Educational opportunities: "If you do some research in that area there is a place where there are some caves to explore, and another with fossils," mentions Jean L. about activities near Logging Creek.
Legend
