Glamping in Ovando, Montana provides a distinctive camping experience in the heart of the Blackfoot River Valley at an elevation of approximately 4,100 feet. The region experiences cool summer evenings with temperatures often dropping into the 40s, even during July and August. Most glamping sites close by late October due to early snowfall and freezing temperatures that typically begin in November.
What to do
Fishing at Rock Creek: Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground offers excellent access to fishing opportunities. One visitor noted, "Camping is tight but fly fishing is very good. Friendly people with great food."
Basketball and volleyball courts: Several campgrounds provide recreational facilities beyond water activities. At Ekstrom's Stage Station, one camper mentioned, "There is a basketball court, sand volleyball court, horse shoes and a playground."
Laundry facilities: When camping for extended periods, access to laundry becomes important. According to a camper at Missoula KOA Holiday, "The facilities are well-maintained and very clean. I'd like the cypher locks on the bathrooms/showers for safety."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Beyond typical recreation, the region offers chances to spot various animals. A visitor to Beavertail Hill State Park observed, "We were able to watch a group of cow/calf elk on Beavertail Hill from our camping spot."
What campers like
Creek access: Jocko Hollow Campground provides sites near moving water. One camper shared, "I was by a lovely gurgling creek. Only drawback was highway traffic. But convenient from 93."
Rock collecting: The geological features make this activity popular in certain areas. A camper at Jocko Hollow noted, "The rocks are the most beautiful and rock collectors' dream!"
Nature trails: Walking paths enhance the camping experience. At Beavertail Hill State Park Campground, a visitor commented, "Nature trail was fun and bathrooms were excellent. Very clean. Camp host was friendly as well."
Affordable pricing options: Budget-friendly camping exists in the region. One reviewer of Town of Drummond Campground stated, "Best $10 campsites imaginable. I have always enjoyed able to roll up and there was an available site."
What you should know
Train noise: Railroad tracks affect some campgrounds in the area. A camper at Beavertail Hill State Park Campground reported, "The train mentioned in another review is a pretty big deal breaker though honestly. The tracks are right next to the wall in spaces. And during my visit on a weekday it was about every 2 hours."
Water advisories: Temporary water quality issues can occur. At Ekstrom's, a visitor noted, "Staff provided jugs of water due to the water boil notice, but we would have preferred a discount from the $53 charge for our no water / no electric site."
Seasonal closures: Many luxurious Ovando glamping options shut down outside summer months. A visitor to Mizner Memorial Campsite shared this experience finding alternative camping: "We were looking for Lakeside campground, it was closed. Found Lake Inez and it's closed for camping."
Varying shower conditions: Bathroom quality differs between sites. One camper at Ekstrom's observed, "Showers and bathrooms looked like they had been cleaned, but overall were in need of a deep cleaning."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Children need recreation options at camp. A visitor to Missoula KOA Holiday shared, "Playground, pool, mini golf, clean showers, restrooms and laundry! It was great!"
Kid-friendly sites: Not all glamping near Ovando suits families equally. A parent at Missoula KOA explained, "This place is on my shortlist for favorites for my week long getaway with my daughter who is 5... From the bike rental to the playground, putt putt golf, swimming pool."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Animal sightings create memorable family experiences. A camper at Town of Drummond mentioned, "Quiet and enjoyable. Payment is a cash box. It's only $10 per night or 25 if you want to use the hook up."
Spacing between sites: Privacy matters when camping with children. At Ekstrom's Stage Station, a visitor observed, "No privacy between the spots. That said, it's a very beautiful setting with big trees, and very quiet. Nice playground for the kids."
Tips from RVers
Site width constraints: RV slide-outs require adequate space. One RVer at Missoula KOA reported, "We paid for a deluxe extra wide site. We have a 27ft Class C with a drivers side slide... I was nonetheless asked to move. So I did. And here we are with the slide 4 inches from going out all the way."
Hidden RV sites: Some campgrounds have less visible options. A visitor to Mizner Memorial Campsite noted, "6 sites. Picnic tables and fire rings. Small sign stating it was a memorial campground. 1 and 2 are tent sites, and we parked our Class C at site 3. Didn't see the other 3 sites until we left."
Full hookup availability: Utility access varies between glamping locations near Ovando. At Town of Drummond Campground, a visitor mentioned, "Good for trailers up to 23ft and even has water and power sites."
