Sam Billings Memorial Campground offers equestrian-friendly camping in southwest Montana at an elevation around 5,800 feet. The campground contains dedicated horse sites with separate entrance across from site 12, plus standard sites in the main area. Horse facilities include metal tie structures with multiple chains and horizontal tie-out bars with trailer parking available at the nearby trailhead.
What to do
Waterfall hikes near camp: At Lost Creek State Park Campground, campers access a waterfall via a very short paved trail. "The waterfall is a very easy 100 yard, paved hike," notes Sean H. The park offers longer hiking options too, as Judy T. explains: "There are some trails nearby and a beaver pond along the road in."
Fishing opportunities: Streams and lakes around Wisdom provide multiple fishing spots. The area around Mussigbrod Campground offers lake and stream fishing. "Lovely view you can camp close to the lake down the road or on the lake side streams for fishing 🎣," mentions Jade M. Spring can be productive despite variable weather, as Scott C. reports: "Fishing was slow but we caught fish."
Wildlife viewing: The region provides opportunities to spot various wildlife species. One camper at Hogan Cabin shared their experience: "Saw several deer and elk feeding in the field near the cabin, as well as a moose in the marsh along the creek." Spring camping may increase wildlife sightings, as Scott C. noted at Mussigbrod: "Saw lots of animals even a video of a Grizzly not but 3 miles from the camp grounds."
What campers like
Private, secluded sites: Many campers appreciate the privacy offered at horse campgrounds near Wisdom, Montana. At Lost Creek State Park Campground, Timothy recommends: "Keep driving all the way back to the loop at the end. It has some great sites here." Ruby Y. adds: "This campground is well maintained and tucked away between beautiful rock formations, a rushing creek, and aspens."
Uncrowded camping experience: During weekdays and shoulder seasons, campers find peace at May Creek Campground. "It's peaceful and quiet, and not busy," confirms Chris J. Similarly, Cathy S. describes Mussigbrod Campground as "Beautiful, private and isolated."
Natural ambient sounds: Campers enjoy the natural soundscape of mountain streams. "The river and waterfall are in the campground which made for lovely white noise when falling asleep," shares Jen about Lost Creek. Mackenzie F. notes about Mussigbrod: "All the campsites are pretty isolated from each other by the pine trees so you can't really see your neighbors. The lake is beautiful and not too cold."
What you should know
Seasonal access limitations: Most campgrounds in the Wisdom area operate seasonally. Lost Creek State Park Campground runs from May 1 through November 30, while May Creek and Mussigbrod typically operate from "June 20 to Labor Day." Weather conditions dictate exact opening dates.
Weather preparedness essential: Mountain elevations mean variable conditions, even in summer. Lisa K. reports from Lost Creek: "It got very cold (27°) and flurried while we were there!" Campers should pack layers and prepare for temperature swings.
Bear awareness required: Wildlife activity includes bears. At Countryside RV Park, campers stay in a more developed area but still near wilderness. Rangers at Sam Billings provide important updates about "bear activity" and Sadie P. advises: "Be bear aware in season."
Tips for camping with families
Seek accessible trail options: Families with younger children or members with mobility concerns benefit from Lost Creek's accessible features. "A nice hundred yard path that is paved to the waterfall for anyone with mobility issues," mentions Erik B. For more adventure, "A longer hike up to the bridge is nice and wooded."
Pick spacious group sites: Larger families should target specific sites at Sam Billings. Sadie P. recommends: "Site #2 can easily hold 5 full size trucks side by side, or three medium size trailers/5th wheels with their tow vehicles. It also has 3 large tables, plenty of open ground for tents, and is ideal for large groups and families."
Berry picking opportunities: Seasonal berry picking adds fun for kids. At Lost Creek, Jen notes: "Thimbleberries were ripe during our stay and plentiful." Dexter I. adds: "During our visit the raspberries and thimble berries located along the creek were ripe."
Tips from RVers
Size-appropriate site selection: RVers should choose sites based on their specific vehicle dimensions. At Sam Billings, "Sites #1 & #2 get the most sun, are the largest, and can accommodate any size RV. The remaining sites vary in size," advises Sadie P.
Leveling requirements: Many sites require leveling equipment. Lisa K. notes about Lost Creek: "The sites are large and private and somewhat level but many will require leveling. Many of the sites are short, officially 23ft max, but there were several there would easily accommodate our 28 foot rig."
Easy-access options: For RVers concerned about accessibility, Jennifer H. recommends Countryside RV Park: "Easy on/off, full hookups, beautiful location located just off I-15. Amenities in town just opposite the exit for the rv park." However, she warns: "Potentially Windy."
