Camping areas near Wolf Creek, Montana cluster along the Missouri River between Helena and Great Falls. Situated at 3,700 feet elevation in a narrow canyon, these riverside campsites experience summer temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F. The dramatic limestone cliffs provide a scenic backdrop for campgrounds that often serve as launching points for fishing and boating activities on Holter Lake and the Missouri River.
What to Do
Fishing access points: Craig Fishing Access Site provides a major put-in location for float fishing the Missouri River. "Small state FAS campground on the Missouri River. This is a major put in location for float fishing or canoing the Missouri river. Very busy during the summer," reports a Craig FAS camper.
Hiking nearby trails: Several paths connect campgrounds along the river. "Trails connect it to other points of interest nearby," mentions a reviewer at Log Gulch Recreation Site. Another camper adds, "There are cool 'mountains' (basically steep hills with some rocks) you can climb or hike, that give you a great view of the area."
Water recreation: Swimming and boating opportunities abound in summer. "The narrow paved roads made life interesting," notes a camper at Holter Lake Rec Site. Access points typically feature concrete boat ramps, and some locations have beach areas designated for swimming.
What Campers Like
Riverside camping spots: Mid-Canon Fishing Access Site offers peaceful riverside camping. A reviewer states, "Beautiful spot! Right by the river! We got the last spot down by the river and the pit toilet. $18 for non residents... Just beautiful views! By far my favorite spot this trip!" according to a Mid-Canon Fishing Access Site visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Beyond the Big Horn Sheep often seen at Holter Dam, other wildlife sightings are common. "Seen wildlife within the first 30 min of setting up," mentions a reviewer at Holter Lake Rec Site.
Quiet weekday camping: Most sites get crowded on weekends but remain relatively peaceful midweek. "Great week day but packed on weekend," notes a reviewer about Holter Dam Rec. Site Campground. Another camper adds, "Our Saturday departure was delayed by FWP boat inspection at the entrance and a long line was inbound to Holter Lake."
What You Should Know
Limited cell coverage: Connectivity varies significantly between sites. "Can do fair amount of walking since railroad is no longer used. But constant traffic noise from I-15 can be a real drawback unless one is deaf," warns a reviewer at Prickly Pear Fishing Access Site.
Site accessibility challenges: Many campgrounds have limitations for larger vehicles. "All good except for wooden rails lining the road make it difficult to back in some spots," notes a Holter Lake camper. Another mentions, "Not for RVs unless you like backing up from the main road."
Heat management: Summer temperatures regularly reach 90-105°F with limited shade. "Was a pretty decent campground to camp at... however it may have been too hot to tent camp. There was only a few places to find shade to set up a tent," reports a Holter Lake visitor.
Tips for Camping with Families
Best dog friendly campgrounds near Wolf Creek: Several pet-welcoming sites offer kid-friendly features too. "Clean. Had outhouses. Pet and family friendly drive to accessible. Tent and camper parking. Right on the water," shares a reviewer about Holter Lake Rec Site.
Swimming access points: Some locations offer designated swim areas. "Nice swim area. Clean bathrooms... Sites are very close together, but you're here to play on the water anyhow!" explains a camper at Black Sandy State Park Campground.
Bathroom facilities: Most sites feature vault toilets. "For scouts we had a huge campout here (like we do every year) and it still is one of my most memorable campground. The area is super clean... The bathrooms are pretty clean and not too smelly as well," reports a young camper at Log Gulch.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Choose carefully as many sites have limitations. "Sites 1-13 are best suited for RV's," explains a camper at Little Log Campground. The reviewer adds, "After sites 1-13 all the other sites are very nice large sites with plenty of room for tents, however finding a flat place may be challenging as the campground is built on a hill."
Boat-friendly locations: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Wolf Creek offer RV spaces with adjacent boat access. "If you happen to have a boat, you can park it next to your campsite and take it onto the lake during the day," explains a Log Gulch camper.
Seasonal availability: Many sites are open year-round but facilities change seasonally. "Came after the season ended so it was not hosted and very quiet. I still paid the fee but not sure why. Everything was closed," reports a Log Gulch visitor from the off-season.
