Equestrian camping near Plains, Montana sits within the mountainous western region of the state at approximately 2,500 feet elevation where the Clark Fork River creates broad valleys between forested mountain ranges. Summers bring warm days with cool nights while spring and fall require layered clothing for temperature fluctuations. The area's dispersed camping opportunities extend beyond the Lolo National Forest with several sites offering river access for both people and horses.
What to do
Riverside fishing access: The dispersed camping at Lolo National Forest Recreation Area offers excellent fishing opportunities with easy water access. As one camper noted, "Absolutely beautiful river, beautiful spot. Great for fishing, swimming, etc." Private sites along the water provide space to set up gear while maintaining distance from other campers.
Trail exploration: Fish Lake Trailhead provides access to backcountry routes ideal for day hikes or overnight treks. A visitor mentioned, "Great backcountry airstrip. Easy to catch cutthroat and solitude." The area features toilet facilities but requires packing in all other supplies.
Horse camping preparation: When bringing horses to Pleasant Valley Campground, utilize the designated equine areas in the back section. A camper observed these spots are "a little more open but looked to be in really good condition" and noted the area is "great for horses with fence, etc." This makes it one of the few dedicated horse camping options in the region.
What campers like
Private riverside sites: Many visitors appreciate the seclusion at Lolo National Forest Recreation Area where sites are "very private and spacious overlooking river" with "minimal road noise." The riverside locations offer natural sound barriers with one camper noting they "found an amazing site next to the river which drowned out all surrounding noise."
Affordable accommodations: 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground provides free camping with electrical hookups for horse trailers and RVs. A visitor commented, "Several spaces available behind the restaurant/bar and casino - Tucked into the woods but road close - you can walk over for a meal, snack, coffee etc." The combination of amenities and cost makes this location popular with equestrians on a budget.
Seasonal stargazing: Fall and winter camping at Pleasant Valley Campground offers exceptional night sky viewing when crowds thin out. One October visitor reported, "Stayed early October and only 1 other camper... Beautiful stars at night!" The lack of light pollution creates ideal conditions for astronomy enthusiasts and photographers.
What you should know
Train noise considerations: Sloway Campground sits between Interstate 90 and railroad tracks which can disturb horses unaccustomed to loud noises. A camper warned, "The bigger noise maker is the train that runs on the other side of the Clark Fork River. There are two road crossings across from the campground, and the trains are required to blow their horns when approaching these crossings."
Access road conditions: Some forest service roads require careful navigation for larger horse trailers. At Lolo National Forest Recreation Area, "Main dirt road is well maintained but narrow and curves up the mountain. Lots of spots if you keep on going, but some offshoots are steep and rocky." Scout ahead before committing to routes with horse trailers.
Seasonal availability: Many equestrian camping areas have limited seasons. A visitor to Pleasant Valley noted, "information is limited and most areas close Sept 15th or Oct 1 and close gates for access." Check with forest service offices for current closure dates before planning fall trips.
Tips for camping with families
River safety protocols: When camping with children at riverside sites, establish clear boundaries. At Lolo National Forest Recreation Area, one camper mentioned the "small steep slope to the water" which requires supervision for younger children. Bring personal flotation devices for all water activities.
Alternative accommodations: Out Post Campground provides a middle ground between dispersed camping and full amenities. A visitor explained, "We tried to get an AirBnb in this area but it was crazy expensive... They were kinda expensive but it totally beat paying the local costs for lodging." The established facilities provide comfort for families with young children.
Wildlife awareness: Teach children proper food storage techniques in bear country. A Lolo National Forest Recreation Area camper mentioned seeing "signs to be aware of bear country but took precautions." Store all scented items in vehicles or bear-proof containers, especially when camping with horses and their feed.
Tips from RVers
Overnight convenience stops: Plains/Thompson Falls Area offers basic hookups for horse trailers with living quarters. One RVer described it as a "Small campground in Plains MT with partial hookup (water & electric) and large bathhouse." The central location provides a good base for exploring multiple trail systems.
Site selection for horse trailers: When traveling with horses, prioritize level sites with room for portable corrals. At Sloway Campground, several spots are pull-through design which accommodate larger rigs, though campers report the sites closer to the river have "one nighter" potential for horse trailers due to space limitations.
Utility management: For extended stays with horses, conservation is essential. At 50,000 Silver Dollar Campground, there's "no water, cable, or dumping station, but again, FREE. The snow was hitting hard and having electricity was a lifesaver." Bring water containers for both human and equine needs as most dispersed sites lack reliable water sources.
