Horse camping opportunities near Stryker, Montana provide direct access to the Kootenai National Forest trail system. Located in northwestern Montana at an elevation of approximately 3,100 feet, the area experiences warm summer days with cool nights and moderate winter snowfall. Several campgrounds in this region cater specifically to equestrian campers with dedicated facilities for horses and riders.
What to do
Trail riding from camp: Multiple trailheads directly connect from Tuchuck to forest trails. "The road from Polebridge is a little tough for RVs. Much better road eastbound from Eureka side. Nice camp for a tent camp or camper. Creek close. Beautiful mountains getting there from Eureka," notes one camper.
Day trips to Bowman Lake: From equestrian facilities near Stryker, Bowman Lake in Glacier National Park makes a worthwhile day trip at about 35 miles away. A visitor to Bowman Lake Campground shares, "Bowman Lake has to be one of my most favorite locations in Glacier Park. Bowman Lake has a wonderful hiking trail (26.2 mile round trip) located here."
Backcountry exploration: The Fairview Ranger Station area offers additional trails for experienced riders. "My family and I stayed here for a week, if you're looking to get away from it all, this is definitely the place. We can't wait for our next vacation!" explains a visitor to Fairview Ranger Station.
What campers like
Accessible river locations: Horse camping sites near Stryker offer proximity to water sources. At Glacier Rim River Access, a camper reports, "River was very deep and a beautiful swim! However it's a heavily travelled road and the boat ramp was being used quite often."
Quiet camping atmosphere: Many equestrian campers appreciate the peaceful setting away from busier tourist areas. One visitor to Mountain View RV Park shared, "Great place to stay. Big grassy area in the middle of the RV park with picnic tables, great for walking dogs or just relaxing in the grass."
Night skies for stargazing: The limited light pollution creates excellent stargazing opportunities. A camper at Tuchuck mentioned, "This is a great campsite. The pit toilet is clean and it is set up as a horse camp. Ramps for loading horses and trough for feeding. Plenty of space for tents and small campers."
What you should know
Forest service road conditions: Roads accessing horse campgrounds around Stryker vary in quality. A Tuchuck visitor warns, "Rough road going west from Polebridge not suitable for RVs. Much better road eastbound from Eureka side."
Limited cell service: Most equestrian camping areas have minimal or no cell coverage. Plan communications accordingly and download maps before departure.
Bear safety protocols: This region has active bear populations requiring proper food storage. A visitor to Bowman Lake Campground noted, "There is drinking water, pit toilets, fire rings, picnic tables, plus some bear-proof storage boxes. Highly recommend taking the time to explore and camp at this location."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some horse-friendly campgrounds offer activities beyond trail riding. At Heritage Cabin Property, a camper reports, "Located with Kootenai National Forest all around and GNP West entrance just an hour and a half drive, Heritage Cabin and Heritage Park Campground has been the chosen jumping off point for many explorers."
Budget for supplies: Stock up on essentials before arrival as remote horse camps have limited services. Bring sufficient water for both people and horses.
Bug protection: Summer months bring mosquitoes to equestrian camping areas. One visitor to Bowman Lake Campground warns, "We experienced more mosquito bites here than at any other spot in Montana. Bring your repellant!"
Tips from RVers
RV length limitations: Many equestrian campgrounds near Stryker accommodate smaller rigs only. A visitor at Moose Creek RV Resort advises, "We loved this campground. The staff were helpful and they had a variety of sites. We had an asphalt pad, but some were gravel. There were tent spaces as well."
Generator restrictions: Check generator policies at your chosen horse camp as many enforce quiet hours or limit generator use.
Dump station access: Plan ahead for waste disposal as equestrian campgrounds may lack dump stations. A Moose Creek visitor noted, "The store was nicely stocked and the bathrooms were typical. There were games for the kids and a sauna for the adults. It's very close to the West entrance to Glacier National Park."