Log Gulch Campground
4.1763 reviews2205 Beartooth Road, Wolf Creek, MT 59648
Log Gulch Campground
$25.00 - $100.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$100.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsites cost $25 per night for standard sites. Group sites cost $50 plus $25 per night for the two camping sites reserved, totaling $100 per night. Day-use guests pay $5 per vehicle. Reservation fee is $8 and non-refundable, with cancellation fees of $10.
About this campground
Nestled along the shimmering shores of Holter Lake in west-central Montana, Log Gulch Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of mountain serenity and lakeside adventure. This reservation-only haven invites you to cast your line into crystal-clear waters, explore scenic hiking trails, or launch your boat for a day of aquatic exploration. Each thoughtfully positioned campsite comes equipped with essential comforts—a crackling fire pit for evening storytelling, sturdy picnic tables for memorable meals under Montana's big sky, and fresh potable water to keep you refreshed throughout your stay.
Log Gulch Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV sites, and group camping options. Two campsites are designated tent-only, while others can host RVs and campers.
Historical SignificanceYour camping experience at Log Gulch connects you to centuries of American history, as the mighty Missouri River flowing nearby once carried the legendary Lewis and Clark expedition through these very lands. This historic waterway served as nature's highway for the Corps of Discovery, guiding them through uncharted territory as they mapped the American West. Today, you can still feel the echoes of their journey, imagining the keelboats and canoes that once navigated these waters while Native American tribes watched from the shores that have welcomed travelers for millennia.
Weather and SeasonsMontana's famously mercurial weather keeps every visit to Log Gulch exciting and unique. Summer days can surprise you with their warmth, perfect for swimming and sunbathing by the lake, while evenings often bring a refreshing mountain coolness that makes campfire gatherings irresistible. As seasons change, so does the landscape—autumn paints the hills in gold and amber, while winter transforms the campground into a snow-dusted wonderland. Smart campers pack layers and rain gear, knowing that Montana's weather can shift from sunshine to storm in the span of an afternoon, adding an element of wild unpredictability to every adventure.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery upon your arrival, Log Gulch's position in Montana's varied topography promises that refreshing mountain air and stunning vistas that characterize the region's beloved camping destinations.
Natural Features and SceneryLog Gulch Campground offers a front-row seat to Montana's diverse natural theater. Majestic Holter Lake stretches before you, its waters reflecting the surrounding hills like a massive mirror. Throughout the campground, stately poplar and green ash trees create natural umbrellas of shade, their leaves whispering stories in the mountain breeze. The surrounding landscape showcases nature's artistic palette—golden ponderosa pines stand sentinel among rolling hills dressed in native bunch grasses, while the distinctive shrub-steppe vegetation adds texture and color to the scenic canvas. This harmonious blend of forest, grassland, and water creates an ecosystem that's both visually stunning and ecologically rich.
Geological RegionLog Gulch sits within Montana's captivating shrub-steppe ecosystem, where the drama of geological time unfolds before your eyes. Ancient forces carved these sparsely wooded hills, creating a landscape where hardy ponderosa pines punctuate expanses of native bunch grasses. This unique terrain, shaped by millennia of wind, water, and weather, represents the fascinating transition zone between mountain forest and prairie grassland. The nearby Missouri River continues its age-old work of sculpting the land, while the surrounding hills tell stories of volcanic activity and glacial movements that formed this remarkable corner of the American West.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground has accessible parking spaces, paved trails, and accessible water hydrants. Campsites 47 and 49 are designated accessible with paved parking spurs and pathways leading to picnic shelters. Fire rings and picnic tables in other campsites are positioned on natural and concrete surfaces for wheelchair access.
Sites SizeSites vary from tent-only spots to areas accommodating RVs and large camper trailers. Most sites include gravel parking pads.
Sites PrivacySites are spaced out nicely, offering a quiet camping experience away from noisy areas like the beach and boating zones.
Total Campsites70 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lower campsites for better level ground and shade. Tent-only sites are available at Little Log Gulch but lack water.
Best CampsitesCampsites 47 and 49 in the Upper Loop are noted as accessible with paved parking spurs.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
7nights per visit and 14 nights within 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 2 camping units (RV or tent) per site.
Groups
Group camping is available with a fee structure of $50 plus $25 per night per reserved campsite, totaling $100 per night. Parking is limited, and large gatherings are discouraged.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are organized into loops including Sardine Row, Little Log Gulch, and Upper Loop. Sites vary in size and accessibility.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 - September 30 (reservable). First-come, first-served availability: June 19 - June 20.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited first-come, first-served availability during June 19 - June 20.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made online or via the call center. A $10 service fee applies, and the first night's fees are forfeited for late cancellations. Reservation fees ($8) are non-refundable.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Log Gulch Campground offers a wide array of recreational activities, including camping, motorized and non-motorized boating, fishing, hiking, swimming, wildlife viewing, and bird watching. Additional activities include scenic and wildlife photography, water skiing, jet skiing, paddleboarding, and kayaking.
Hiking
There are trails within the general vicinity of the campground, offering opportunities for exploring the Sleeping Giant Wilderness Study Area and nearby public lands.Fishing
Fishing access points are available throughout the campground and the surrounding area. Common catches include trout, walleye, and perch. User reviews highlight excellent fishing opportunities.Swimming
The campground includes a designated swimming beach with an enclosed area. The swimming area is accessible from Memorial Day to Labor Day and does not have a lifeguard on duty.Boating
Boating is a popular activity at Log Gulch Campground, with motorized and non-motorized options. There are boat docks and launching ramps available.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with species such as deer commonly spotted in the area. Bird watching is also popular, with seagulls, magpies, and other species visible.Beach activities
The campground features a beach accessible from Memorial Day to Labor Day, suitable for sunbathing, swimming, and general relaxation.Winter Activities
Winter activities such as ice fishing are available during the off-season.Water Sports
Opportunities for non-motorized water sports, including paddleboarding, kayaking, and canoeing, are available at the campground.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Each site includes a fire ring with a grill grate. Campers encouraged to exercise caution, particularly in dry conditions.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM - 7:00 AM
Hazards
General hazardsPossible encounters with bears, raccoons, snakes (prairie rattlesnakes, bull snakes), ticks, and black widow spiders. Campers are advised to store food securely and watch for venomous wildlife.
Active alertsSome facilities such as fish cleaning stations remain closed due to COVID-19.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 29%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services located in Wolf Creek or Helena, but specific facilities not listed.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 01 - September 30
Trash and recyclingGarbage dumpsters are available throughout the campground, but recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Holter Lake with access to a concrete boat launch, courtesy docks, and swimming areas.
Common complaintsUneven gravel sites, rude camp hosts, and lack of level camping areas. Some sites are not well-maintained, with weeds and thistle issues reported.
HostCamp hosts are present but opinions on their behavior vary widely among user reviews, from 'helpful' to 'rude.'
Campground Map
2205 Beartooth Road, Wolf Creek, MT 59648
Driving directionsFrom Great Falls, Montana, take Interstate-15 South towards Helena. Take exit 234 to Craig. Turn left heading to Craig and cross the Missouri River. Come to a 'T' and then take a right on Craig Frontage Road. Travel approximately 5 miles. Before crossing the Missouri River/steel bridge, turn left onto Beartooth Road. Go past Holter Lake Campground and continue 4.5 miles to Log Gulch Campground. From Helena, Montana, take Interstate-15 north towards Great Falls. Take exit 226 to Wolf Creek. Turn right towards Recreation Road and cross the railroad track. Turn left onto Recreation Road. After crossing the Missouri River/steel bridge, turn right onto Beartooth Road. Go past Holter Lake Campground and continue 4.5 miles to Log Gulch Campground.
The main access roads involve both paved and small dirt roads. The dirt roads include blind corners and can be 'sketchy' for large vehicles or trailers, as noted in user reviews.Nearby places
Helena (45 miles, ~50 minutes), Great Falls (60 miles, ~1 hour and 10 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Fuel, groceries, and camping supplies available in nearby towns such as Wolf Creek, Craig, or Helena. Exact distances or names of stores are not provided.
Camper Reviews
4.2
63 reviews
Log Gulch Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Log Gulch Campground are mixed but generally highlight the site's quiet atmosphere, great fishing opportunities, and scenic surroundings. Common critiques include maintenance issues, unlevel campsites, and occasional rudeness from camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 63 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive feedback includes clean and well-maintained facilities, excellent fishing opportunities, and a peaceful camping experience away from noisy areas. Many users appreciate the scenic lake views...
Based on 63 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include unlevel campsites, maintenance issues such as overgrown weeds, rude camp hosts, and dissatisfaction with reservation policies. Some users also mention noisy generators and littered...
Based on 63 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing a bear-proof container for food, avoiding certain sites with poor leveling, and preparing for windy conditions. Tent campers may want to choose sites with natural surfaces to...
Based on 63 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews are predominantly positive, as campers enjoy water-based activities and fishing. However, complaints about crowded conditions and maintenance issues are more common during peak season.
Based on 63 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. "Quiet camping spots, spaced out nicely and away from the noisy beach/boating areas." - Cody Anderson
2. "Nice campground, clean, most are compliant with rules/10 pm quiet time." - Anita Frank
3....
Based on 63 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
User reviews highlight specific issues with individual campsites, such as site 18 in Loop B being overgrown with weeds and site 56 in Loop A having loose gravel that makes leveling difficult.
Based on 63 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessible campsites (47 and 49 in the Upper Loop) are praised for their paved parking spurs and accessible amenities. However, concerns about maintenance like uneven trails are noted.
Based on 63 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-friendly policies are appreciated, but users suggest more stations for dog waste bags and emphasize pet owner responsibility for cleaning up after their pets.
Based on 63 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025