Canyon Ferry Lake offers diverse camping sites near Townsend, Montana, with elevations around 3,800 feet and water levels that fluctuate seasonally by up to 12 feet. The region experiences significant temperature variations, with summer days reaching 90°F and nights dropping to 40°F. Most dispersed camping areas enforce a 14-day stay limit and require campers to manage their own waste.
What to do
Fishing access points: York Islands Fishing Access Site provides 10 well-spaced campsites under mature cottonwood trees with good river access. "York Island FAS Campground sits along the upper Missouri River in mature cottonwood trees and features 10 camping sites and a boat launch," notes one camper, adding that costs vary "depending if you have a valid Montana fishing license or not. Discounted camping for those 62 or older."
Paddle sports: Goose Bay Dispersed Camping offers easy water access for paddleboarding and kayaking. A visitor reported: "I recommend loop 3. It was the least packed during the week and has access to 2 clean vault toilets. There's great spots towards the end that have easy water access for a kayak or SUP. I used my SUP in that little bay and it was perfect."
Wildlife observation: Early mornings at campsites offer opportunities to see local wildlife. At Cottonwood Campground, one camper noted: "The birds are rampant and very loud but entertaining to watch. The water is shallow at the moment but full of life and wonder."
What campers like
Free camping options: Confederate Campground offers no-cost camping with basic amenities. "Beautiful clear lake and large beach. Easy to distance yourself from other campers, lots of space. Spent 1 night tent camping, gorgeous sunset, clean beach, camp fire rings, picnic tables, outhouses. No fees, no reservation, 14 day limit, good cell phone reception," shares one visitor.
Sunset views: The west-facing shorelines provide exceptional sunset viewing. At Goose Bay Dispersed Camping, a camper noted: "Absolutely gorgeous spot. Lots of privacy, picnic tables and firepits. Our neighbor went out on the water with his boat every day to fish from sun up to sun down. Noise is super minimal."
Stargazing conditions: Confederate Campground offers clear night skies away from city light pollution. One camper described: "Got here at around 5pm on a Saturday night and there were plenty of options which made me very happy. Very pretty sunset and crystal night sky. Saw plenty of satellites zipping around up there."
What you should know
Wind conditions: Silos Campground experiences significant wind with limited shelter. A reviewer warns: "Silos Campground is a large open and windy campground with no tree cover. All the trees are along the lake and provide little to no releaf from the sun or constant winds that blow through the area."
Insect activity: Mosquitoes are prevalent, particularly in early summer. At Confederate Campground, one camper reported: "The mosquitoes were absolutely blood thirsty and aggressive and after multiple reapplications of bug spray we had to call it quits. The fire barely kept them at bay, but we still got a few bites sitting next to the heat."
Water temperature: Canyon Ferry water is warmer than natural lakes in the area. "The water is stagnant and prevented from flowing due to the dam. The water is swampy, thick and full of algae, I measured surface temperature at 83 degrees. Natural lakes at the same time were around 64."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Canyon Ferry Lake KOA features child-friendly amenities near tent sites. "Great Playground, close to tent sites. Nice staff and great coffee and beautiful setting!" notes a family camper.
Kid-specific fishing pond: Indian Road Campground offers designated fishing for younger visitors. "This is a nice campground just outside of Townsend Montana. A nice fishing pond is available for children 14 and under," explains one reviewer.
Beach areas: White Earth Campground provides water access suitable for families. A visitor mentioned: "Campground is in great location. Right on water just 6 miles off of main highway. Beautiful 360 views. Also pit toilets and water stations."
Tips from RVers
Level sites: White Earth Campground accommodates larger vehicles with minimal leveling needed. "The campground was alright. Nice big campsites giving you plenty of room. Sites had fire pits, picnic tables, and were somewhat level," reports an RV camper.
Road access considerations: Some campgrounds require driving on unpaved roads. "It is a gravel road but super easy (no potholes) & big rig friendly. Sites right on water. Open sky for starlink and decent cell service," notes an RVer at White Earth Campground.
Hookup availability: Most dispersed sites lack utilities, but some developed campgrounds offer limited services. At Silos Campground, "We booked a pavilion spot with 50A service. Other pavilions have 20A or 30A. Non group sites are dry camping only. There is a water spigot nearby for filling tanks."
