RV camping options near Stanford, Montana include several secluded campgrounds within an hour's drive. The region sits at elevations between 4,000-5,000 feet with seasonal temperature fluctuations that can exceed 30°F between day and night. Many campgrounds close during winter months when snow makes access difficult, though a few remain open year-round for hardy campers.
What to do
Hiking trails access: Thain Creek campground connects to Trail #431 with multiple routes through meadows and forests. "The trailhead for #431 is on the campgrounds and there are multiple routes you can take once you start. The path I followed for about 40 minutes opened into an incredible meadow with wildflowers," notes one visitor at Thain Creek.
Fishing opportunities: Nearby creeks and Ackley Lake provide fishing access with various species. "Good spot for camping, fishing, swimming, kayaking!" reports a camper at Ackley Lake State Park Campground.
Wildlife viewing: The area supports diverse wildlife including deer, elk, and numerous bird species. "Deer wandered into the campground throughout the night and morning. You can hear logging creek moving from no matter where you are," mentions a visitor to Logging Creek campground.
What campers like
Affordability: Most campgrounds in the area charge minimal fees, with some free options available. "The Lewistown Kiwanis provide a rest area and free campground to travels on the west end of town next to the airport. This camping area has no fee(they will take your donation to help with upkeep of the site)," explains a camper at Kiwanis Park.
Quiet atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the peaceful settings away from urban noise. "We were shocked this campground wasn't full, it's only an hour from Great Falls and the road is your typical gravel, a few larger potholes but completely doable in any car. The partiers stay down below on the road so it was super quiet and had some nice wildlife in the area," reports a visitor to Thain Creek.
Lake access: Ackley Lake offers water recreation opportunities. "So beautiful. Found it randomly passing through, just looking for a place to stay for the night. So much wildlife on our drive to it, in the fieds that surround the lake. They only have 26 spots, first come first serve. And all of the campsites are right on the water."
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires travel on unpaved roads. "Great place if you want a very secluded campground. Be aware that this is a long rough gravel road of at least 12 miles to get there. I would not suggest trying to haul a large rig into it," advises a camper about Thain Creek.
Limited services: Most campgrounds have basic amenities only. "No thrills good place to stop, However there are may options in the area that never come up in searches," notes a visitor to Mountain Acres RV Park and Campground.
Weather preparation: Weather changes rapidly in the mountains. "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 a camper at Spring Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options: Several lakes and creeks offer swimming opportunities. "Ackley Lake State Park campground has no camping fees for Montana residents, for nonresidents the cost is $24 per night. The campground has two vault toilets, but no running water or trash service. The state park also has 2 boat ramps and a seasonal boat dock," describes a visitor at Ackley Lake State Park.
Safety awareness: Wildlife encounters require proper preparation. "Like bears, then your in luck, bears may frequent the area so a mandatory food storage order is in affect. You'll need to keep all food in approved containers or stored in your vehicle as no food lockers are available," warns a camper at Spring Creek Campground.
Kid-friendly areas: Some campgrounds offer specific features appealing to children. "Great place if you want to get away from Great Falls for a night or two. Each campsite has a fire pit, picnic table and a decent amount of trees. Great little pool on the far side of the campsite is great for kids," mentions a visitor to Logging Creek.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: RV sites near Stanford, Montana vary in size limitations. "Camped for one night between White Sulphur Springs and Glasgow MT. Clean park with plenty of room to space out. Just pull in and pick your spot. It is all dry camping with water and restrooms available. Small municipal airport is next door."
Hookup availability: Most campgrounds offer limited or no hookups. "Full hookups for $38. Sites are average size. I have a 38-ft travel trailer and I had to unhook to fit in the space. The sites are not incredibly level. But for an overnight stop it works great. Easy in and out," reports a visitor to Fergus County Fairgrounds.
Length restrictions: Larger RVs may struggle at some campgrounds. "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. The fee for our site #6 was $5 plus $5 for extra vehicle. We were able to fit a small SUV and our pop up truck camper."
