Three Forks, Montana offers accessible equestrian camping options within a day's drive from town. Located at the junction of the Madison, Jefferson, and Gallatin Rivers at 4,075 feet elevation, this area provides diverse terrain for trail riding throughout the camping season. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Fishing excursions: Visit Lake Shore Lodge on Ennis Lake, which offers a boat launch ramp for anglers. "The campground is situated right on the northern shore of Ennis Lake and has a boat launch ramp for those looking to fish," notes Evan S.
Mountain biking: Access trails from Spanish Creek area, approximately 38 miles from Three Forks. At Spanish Creek Picnic Area, "Head down the canyon trail a little bit to view some stunning meadows. All around a great spot if you're looking to hit the trails early the next day!" says Ruby W.
Backpacking to alpine lakes: Hike 9.5 miles from Spanish Creek to reach high-mountain camping. At Spanish Lakes, "The first 4.5 miles are super chill and flat. You'll cruise through those. You cross over some beautiful bridges over roaring streams. Couple streams didn't have bridges so we had to lose our boots for those crossings," describes Lucille W.
What campers like
Creek-side camping: Sites along water provide natural sound barriers from road noise. At Langohr Campground, "Depending on which site you get you can camp on a hillside above the river or right next to the river," explains Evan H. Mai K. adds, "Each site does have a picnic table and fire ring, and electrical sites are available. Some are drive-in or back into sites, and a few are literally next to Hyalite Creek which is an added bonus."
Wildlife viewing: Early morning hikes offer best opportunities for animal sightings. When staying at Windy Pass Cabin, Shawn S. recommends, "Get up early and hike up to the ridge and good chance you'll see some mountain goats!" Angie B. from Spanish Creek Picnic Area shares, "I had a bison run after my car on the way in...that was exciting!"
Winter cabin options: Some cabins remain accessible for cold-weather camping. At Spanish Creek Cabin, Amy H. reports, "Creek was running in winter, can hear it at night with the window open a crack. 4 mile ski in from the gate with some gentle up and down grades, traveling on an unplowed road."
What you should know
Highway and railroad noise: Sound carries throughout valley areas. At VangoBoon, Scott B. warns, "Biggest negative is that you can hear all the highway noise and trucks like to jake-break in this area. On the other side of the highway there were railroad tracks. The train blew its horn through this area frequently and when it stopped you could hear all the train cars smashing together."
Bear safety precautions: Food storage requirements strictly enforced in most areas. Mai K. notes at Langohr Campground, "Pets are allowed but must be on a leash as wildlife such as bears, deers, moose, and elk frequent the area. Bear lockers should be used for food storage or properly stored in vehicles."
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds close by mid-September. Langohr Campground operates "May 15 to September 15," while Dexter I. adds, "Our October visit was after the mid-September shutting down of the campground, but we could still gain access as their was not a closed gate."
Tips for camping with families
Creek play opportunities: Children enjoy simple water activities. Davis A. observes at Langohr Campground, "Kids play in creek and build rock dams. Nice walk around campground."
Educational programs: Some areas host youth outdoor skills programs. Davis A. also mentions, "Got to camp next to Alpen Girls outdoor youth camp, which was cool to see youngsters learning outdoors skills."
Off-season camping considerations: Prepare for snow even in spring. Mai K. shares, "A heavy snowfall occurred a week before and remnants of it were scattered along the campground. Good thing I brought a snow scraper to clear the picnic table of snow."
Tips from RVers
Site selection crucial for larger units: Some campgrounds have limited space. At Lake Shore Lodge, Evan S. explains, "We were able to fit our 39ft toy hauler in with almost no issues."
Alternative equestrian camping options: Sites with horse trailer parking available beyond Antelope Mountain View. Winter camping at VangoBoon can accommodate vehicles with rooftop tents as Ted A. notes, "Site was plowed and I had plenty of room for my pickup with GFC camper to fit. Site was easy to find and despite all the snow was plowed for me."
Reservations essential: Popular horse campgrounds near Three Forks book quickly. "This is bear territory so all food must be locked in a car or the provided bear proof lockers provided," advises Dexter I., while Abby M. warns about Langohr, "Must reserve like 6 months ahead."
