Camp Whispering Pines offers spacious accommodation for horse enthusiasts approximately 4 miles from Kalispell in northwestern Montana. The property sits at an elevation of approximately 3,000 feet and experiences moderate summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during peak camping season. Winter conditions can be severe with temperatures dropping well below freezing from November through April.
What to do
Trail riding opportunities: Located just 20 minutes from Flathead National Forest trails, riders can access diverse terrain without lengthy trailer hauls. At Glacier Campground, campers have noted "close to the west entrance of the park. Clean facilities, friendly staff," according to Chad W., making it a strategic base for equestrian day trips.
Explore Flathead River system: The nearby waterways provide scenic float and fishing opportunities within 15-30 minutes of most equestrian campgrounds. At Glacier Rim River Access, one camper described it as having a "beautiful and quiet. Toilets available" with "Very beautiful and quiet river access" that "has a little beach for swimming," according to Tee C.
Attend local equestrian events: Rebecca Farms equestrian venue hosts competitions throughout summer months just 5 minutes from certain horse-friendly accommodations. "5 minutes to Rebecca Farms, 20 minutes to Under The Big Sky Venue, 20 minutes to Flathead and Whitefish Lakes," notes Charles Y. about local equestrian facilities.
What campers like
Spacious sites for horse trailers: Unlike standard campgrounds, equestrian sites provide additional parking and turnaround space. At Moose Creek RV Resort, campers appreciate that "They offer a number of different types of sites. We chose blindly online and was moved to a better site once we got there," according to Marc M.
Horse-friendly facilities: Dedicated corrals, water access, and staging areas make equestrian camping more convenient. The Heritage Cabin Property offers "a single site which can accommodate a group of up to six people and an RV or Travel Trailer up to 24'. Potable water on site in addition to both 30 & 50amp receptacles. There is even an off leash yard for doggos to run," as Emmett S. describes.
Access to regional trail systems: The network of riding trails within 15-45 minutes of most horse campgrounds provides varied terrain options. Campers at Bowman Lake Campground report "We spent a single night here. It was so good. Super quiet. Tons of wildlife (saw multiple deer, various birds, a grizzly on way in)," according to Max K., indicating wildlife viewing opportunities while trail riding.
What you should know
Limited full-service horse campgrounds: Only a few properties near Whitefish offer dedicated equestrian facilities with corrals and staging areas. Camp Whispering Pines stands out with its 20 acres and horse-specific amenities.
Seasonal considerations: Horse camping is generally limited to May through October due to weather constraints. One visitor to Timber Wolf Resort noted "We stayed in a little hut one night and camped the second. It was the first time I had been asked to pay for showers but have since learned it is the trend out West," highlighting seasonal fee structures.
Reservation requirements: Most horse-friendly campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak summer months. "They do rent Jeeps. There is some shade. For the price, we looked for something else," explains Nancy C. about camping options in the area, suggesting price comparison is worthwhile.
Tips for camping with families
Horse-friendly accommodations: When bringing children and horses, look for properties with both equestrian facilities and family amenities. The Heritage Cabin Property received this review: "A place to slowdown and enjoy nature... Park Place in Montana has a great quiet spot to bring your camper, setup a tent, or stay in their cabin and enjoy some time away," from Jake C.
Water activities: Many horse campgrounds near Whitefish are situated close to lakes and rivers for combined equestrian/water recreation. "The lake is simply stunning, especially in the early morning, when the sun comes up over the mountains. There are trailheads right next to the lake shore, with varying distances and difficulties to choose from," writes Lora C. about Bowman Lake.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region offers abundant wildlife spotting opportunities from secure camping areas. "We were able to see a moose walking through the woods right next to our site," reports Nicholas H. about Johnson's Campground.
Tips from RVers
Access considerations: Some horse-friendly campgrounds have limited large rig access due to narrow roads or limited turnaround space. "Not super accessible to bigger rigs, small sites," notes Dutchess S. about certain access points.
Hookup availability: Most horse campgrounds offer partial hookups, with full-service sites being less common. "All the camp sites have Electric, and water hookups. Some have sewage as well. There is a dump station, and propane fill up on site," reports Marcus K. about facilities near the west entrance to Glacier.
Proximity to supplies: Horse owners should note the distance to feed stores, veterinary services, and equestrian supplies when selecting a camping location. Most services are available in Kalispell or Whitefish, typically 10-20 minutes from established horse campgrounds.
