Equestrian enthusiasts seeking horse campgrounds near St. Ignatius, Montana can access trails in the Flathead National Forest region. The area sits at approximately 3,100 feet elevation with surrounding mountains rising to 9,800 feet, creating diverse riding terrain. Summer daytime temperatures range from 70-85°F with significantly cooler nights, especially at higher elevations where trail access points begin.
What to do
Waterfall hiking from camp: Holland Lake Campground provides direct access to the Holland Falls trail, a family-friendly 3.5-mile round-trip hike with moderate elevation gain. "The hike to the Holland Falls is short but totally worth it! Clean lake perfect for swimming and paddleboarding," notes camper Talia H.
Creek fishing opportunities: Anglers can access excellent spots directly from Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground where Rock Creek offers trout fishing. "Beautiful country" with "camping is tight by fly fishing is very good," reports Jack T. Bring appropriate licenses and gear for catch-and-release trout fishing.
Backcountry paddling: Several lakes near St. Ignatius permit non-motorized boats with primitive launching areas. Dispersed camping at Lake Elsina allows direct water access. "Absolutely gorgeous undeveloped area! If you can stand the hordes of mosquitos and constant trail of hikers coming through the area hiking to Lake Dinah," writes BriAnne M.
What campers like
Secluded riverfront sites: The Lolo National Forest Recreation Area offers dispersed camping along riverbanks with natural separation between sites. "Spots are very private and spacious overlooking river. Minimal road noise. Only a couple spots taken," reports Brian K. Sites require no reservation but have 6-day stay limits.
Convenient mountain access: Many campers appreciate Out Post Campground's strategic location for exploring the region. "We tried to get a AirBnb in this area but it was crazy expensive... They were kinda expensive but it totally beat paying the local costs for lodging," shares Megan K., noting its value as a staging area.
Free firewood provision: Some campgrounds offer unexpected amenities despite their rustic nature. At Sloway Campground, campers receive wood allocations from hosts. "It offers clean pit toilets, trash receptacles, large private sites, many of which are pull through, RV water filling stations, free firewood (5 pieces or night) provided by the very friendly Hosts," notes Lisa K.
What you should know
Bear awareness essential: Both black and grizzly bears frequent the camping areas around St. Ignatius. At Holland Lake Campground, campers report regular sightings. "Keep an eye out for bears. We saw a black bear across the road from the campground," warns Sara D. Store food properly and carry bear spray when hiking.
Mosquito conditions: July and August bring peak mosquito activity to the area's waterways. "Bring bug spray, the mosquitos are out. They really go nuts when you first pull in but relax after a few minutes," advises Sara D. about Holland Lake. Insect repellent with DEET remains most effective.
Railroad noise impacts: Trains regularly pass through the valley with horns audible at night. "The I-90 highway runs fairly close to the campground & the noise can be distracting at times. The bigger noise maker is the train that runs on the other side of the Clark Fork River," explains Kenneth F. about Sloway Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground offers numerous family-friendly amenities. "There is a basketball court, sand volleyball court, horse shoes and a playground. There's also a beautiful creek running along the campground with beautiful Mountain views," explains mitch, providing structured recreation options for children.
Swimming access considerations: When camping with children, water access becomes important. "Holland Lake is very pretty and the campground is in good shape... The campground is well shaded which kept the temperatures down even on s hot day," reports Carl H., though he cautions about wildlife encounters affecting trail access.
Cell service limitations: Families relying on connectivity should plan accordingly. "The closest cell service is just outside of Seeley Lake," notes Sara D. about Holland Lake Campground. Download offline maps and entertainment before arrival.
Tips from RVers
RV site privacy: For those seeking space between campsites, certain areas offer better separation. "Every single staff member we came across was so friendly. There is a basketball court, sand volleyball court, horse shoes and a playground," notes mitch about Ekstrom's Stage Station, though others mention tight spacing for large rigs.
Big rig accessibility: Roads to horse campgrounds near St. Ignatius, Montana can present challenges. 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," cautions Scott C., noting his Wagoneer managed the terrain.
Water fill stations: RVers requiring water should note locations with available fill stations. Sloway Campground provides "clean pit toilets, trash receptacles, large private sites, many of which are pull through, RV water filling stations," according to Lisa K., making it suitable for RV campers needing to replenish supplies.
