Camping sites around Neihart, Montana range in elevation from 5,000 to 7,000 feet in the Little Belt Mountains. The area features dense pine forests intersected by mountain streams and remains significantly cooler than surrounding lowlands, with nighttime temperatures often dropping below 50°F even during summer months. Most campgrounds near Neihart operate seasonally, typically closing after the first significant snowfall in late October.
What to do
Hiking near Memorial Falls: Access this popular trail system from Aspen Campground, located just off Highway 89. "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., who appreciated the campground's proximity to trails. The trailhead is less than 1 mile from the campsite, offering moderate hiking suitable for most skill levels.
Fishing Belt Creek: Many fishing spots accessible from Many Pines Campground along Highway 89. "Campsites are large and each has a picnic table and fire ring, a few have a BBQ grill or extra picnic table as well," mentions Dexter I., who found the setup ideal for day trips to fishing spots. Belt Creek offers trout fishing within walking distance of the campground.
ATV trail exploration: The mountains surrounding Neihart contain extensive off-road trail systems. "We took ATVs and rode them to a trailhead that starts just across the highway from the campsite. Beautiful trails and a lot of them!" reports Heidi B., who stayed at Hellgate Campground and found it ideal for accessing nearby trails.
What campers like
Digital disconnection: The mountain location limits connectivity, which many visitors appreciate. "No phone service so you can really get away from everyday life," explains Jonathan L. about Many Pines Campground. The lack of connectivity extends throughout most forest service campgrounds in the Little Belt Mountains.
Privacy between sites: Campers frequently mention the separation between sites at Logging Creek campground. "The campsites are beautiful, secluded, and shaded. There is water for kids to play in," reports Jean L., who found the privacy exceptional compared to other public campgrounds. Sites are typically separated by mature trees and natural terrain features.
Night sky viewing: The absence of light pollution makes stargazing exceptional throughout the area. "We arrived in the middle of the night but were delighted to find a small, virtually empty campground. The star gazing is great here because it's right in the middle of the Little Belt mountains so there is no light pollution," describes Ruby Y., who visited Aspen Campground during late summer.
What you should know
Limited services: The mountain location means few nearby amenities. "You are surrounded by several mountain ranges. The town offers fuel and groceries with numerous dining options," notes Gregg C. about Conestoga Campground & RV Park, one of the few facilities offering full hookups in the broader region.
Weather variability: Mountain conditions change rapidly with temperature swings of 30+ degrees possible within 24 hours. "The campground sits is a small canyon making this a potentially good campground to avoid the summer heat, which also means a colder camp in the spring and fall," explains Dexter I. regarding Spring Creek Campground in Lewis and Clark National Forest.
Reservation limitations: Most forest service campgrounds operate on first-come, first-served basis. "We stayed here for 4 nights over 4th of July weekend. The camp hosts make rounds quite often, so rules are followed pretty closely," shares Heidi B. about weekend occupancy at Hellgate Campground. Holiday weekends typically fill by Thursday afternoon.
Tips for camping with families
Creek access spots: Kids enjoy water play opportunities at several campgrounds. "Great little pool on the far side of the campsite is great for kids," notes Jeff E. about Logging Creek campground, where shallow water areas offer safer swimming for younger children. Water remains cold even in summer, rarely exceeding 60°F.
Playground availability: Great Falls KOA offers developed recreational facilities about 45 minutes from Neihart. "KOA has everything you need. An outdoor swimming pool and hot tub, tent, cabin and rv spots. Outside kitchens. Shower area, small store, playground, and wifi," reports Judy K., highlighting amenities lacking at wilderness sites closer to Neihart.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many campgrounds offer wildlife spotting opportunities. "Deer wandered into the campground throughout the night and morning. You can hear logging creek moving from no matter where you are," describes Tara T., who visited Logging Creek for stargazing and enjoyed unexpected wildlife encounters.
Tips from RVers
Gravel roads and access: Road conditions can challenge larger RVs approaching Neihart. "The road was a bit rough with the washed out gullies in the road with the cattle guards," warns Tara T. about access to Logging Creek. Most forest service roads require careful navigation with vehicles over 30 feet.
Pull-through site availability: Several campgrounds offer sites designed for easier RV access. "All pull through. No shade at all," notes Rick J. about Conestoga Campground & RV Park, one of the few RV parks near Neihart with pull-through options. Most sites accommodate RVs under 30 feet in length.
Water access planning: Limited water hookups require strategic planning. "The campground has two vault toilets, but no running water or trash service," explains Dexter I. about Ackley Lake State Park Campground. RVers should arrive with full tanks when staying at forest service campgrounds, as potable water is typically limited to pump stations.
