The Little Rockies mountain range surrounds Zortman, Montana, providing a remote camping experience in north-central Montana's high plains. Most campgrounds sit at elevations between 3,500-5,000 feet, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during day and 45-55°F at night. The region's isolation creates excellent stargazing conditions with minimal light pollution.
What to do
Trail exploration: Camp Creek Campground offers extensive multi-use trails accessible directly from camp. A camper noted, "There's tons of trails to ride side by sides. The campground is clean and the sites have plenty of space for our 28ft toy hauler."
Wildlife viewing: James Kipp Campground attracts wildlife enthusiasts, especially in fall. According to one visitor: "In late October, hundreds of elk congregate in the Slippery Ann area of the park. Dozens of cars also come to watch the herd. It's a very fun time, and an amazing spectacle."
Water recreation: During warmer months, the Missouri River offers boating opportunities. A camper at James Kipp Campground advised: "In the summer, you'll want to bring or rent a boat of some kind to explore the river; there are many local outfitters."
Prairie hiking: Antelope Creek features a 2-mile hiking loop with prairie views. A visitor reported: "They have a 2 mile loop that allows you to see some amazing views. Worth doing.... Would definitely take the detour to stay here again."
What campers like
Remote location: The isolation appeals to campers seeking quiet. At Buffalo Camp, a visitor experienced: "It seems to be a relatively unknown place and we were the only people in the campground for the night (there are 6 tent sites and 7 RV)."
Wildlife encounters: Native wildlife regularly visits campgrounds. A Buffalo Camp reviewer shared: "A buffalo herd roamed the area and even through the campground at night and in the morning. Prairie dog towns were all over."
Clean facilities: Edgewater Inn and RV Park maintains quality amenities. One camper noted: "The new owners are extremely friendly, and the grounds/bathhouse was clean and well maintained."
Recreation amenities: Some parks offer unexpected features. A camper at Edgewater Inn reported: "The highlight for us was spending the evening in the pool and hot tub."
What you should know
Water quality concerns: Mineral content affects water at some sites. An Antelope Creek visitor recommended: "One recommendation would be to bring your own drinking water as the camp water has a high and noticeable mineral content."
Road conditions: Unpaved access roads require planning. At Buffalo Camp, a camper shared: "It was about 40 miles of high-quality gravel road to get here."
Weather preparedness: Wind events occur frequently. A Buffalo Camp visitor warned: "We had a big windstorm come through during the night, so lash down carefully!"
Insect activity: Bugs can be problematic seasonally. As one James Kipp Campground visitor experienced: "Only downside was a swarm of horseflies that were not deterred by bug spray or a bug light!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Trafton City Park offers extensive play areas. A visitor observed: "There is all sorts of playground equipment here that kids would enjoy and lots of horses next door at the rodeo grounds."
Budget-friendly options: Some campgrounds offer affordable rates. A Trafton City Park camper noted: "This place isn't fancy but it's only $5 to camp for the night."
Educational opportunities: Wildlife viewing provides learning experiences. A Buffalo Camp visitor shared: "It was a fantastic experience for the kids. A buffalo herd roamed the area and even through the campground at night and in the morning."
Hiking adaptations: Select appropriate trails for children. A James Kipp visitor recommended: "We did one hike that was 8 miles round trip, 4 miles round trip, and 6 miles roundtrip. All were amazing!"
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: RV camping near Zortman, Montana requires careful space assessment. At Camp Creek, a camper advised: "And while there are several good sized spaces, I wouldn't try bringing in anything longer than 36' (mine is 33)."
Tree clearance: Vegetation management varies between parks. As noted by a Camp Creek visitor: "Those with very wide RV's (mine is 92") or high (mine is 13') will find branches to be bothersome at best."
Emergency preparation: Limited services require self-sufficiency. A Camp Creek reviewer warned: "If you have a problem you are a long way from help, and there is no cell service."
Seasonal considerations: Weather affects accessibility. According to a Camp Creek camper: "If one gets caught in the rain this area is well known for its gumbo roads… they can be very miserable."
