Emery Bay Campground
4.16111 reviewsEAST SIDE RESERVOIR RD #38, MARTIN CITY, MT 59926, USA
Emery Bay Campground
$22.00 - $300.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$22.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$300.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual site reservations are $22 per camper unit per night. Group sites range from $175 to $300 per night depending on group size. An additional vehicle charge of $5 per night applies for a second vehicle.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Hungry Horse Reservoir, Emery Bay Campground beckons adventurers to experience the raw beauty of Montana's Rocky Mountains. Towering peaks frame this waterfront haven, where both reservable and walk-up sites offer front-row seats to nature's grandest theater. Cast a line into crystal-clear waters, launch your boat for a day of exploration, or set off on trails that wind through untamed wilderness. Visitors consistently rave about the immaculate facilities and the warm welcome from camp hosts who ensure every stay feels like a homecoming to the mountains.
Emery Bay Campground caters to a range of camping preferences, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. It does not offer cabin lodging or glamping options.
Historical SignificanceRising from the waters of Hungry Horse Reservoir stands a testament to American engineering prowess – the nation's 10th highest dam. This massive concrete arch wasn't just built to tame the South Fork Flathead River; it was designed to power communities and protect valleys from devastating floods. Today, this marvel of mid-20th century ambition has created one of Montana's most spectacular recreational playgrounds, where history and nature converge.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Emery Bay into a sun-drenched paradise where moderate temperatures and azure skies create perfect conditions for outdoor adventures. As one visitor noted, it's 'dry camping at its best,' though the unpaved roads can kick up dust clouds that add an authentic frontier feel to your journey. When winter arrives, the landscape shifts to a serene wonderland dusted with snow, where freezing temperatures and gentle snowfall create a peaceful retreat for those seeking solitude among the peaks.
ElevationPerched at mountain elevation, the campground offers that crisp, clean air that makes every breath feel rejuvenating and every sunrise more spectacular.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to ethereal morning mist dancing across mirror-like waters, with jagged mountain silhouettes emerging from the dawn light – this is the daily magic at Emery Bay. The reservoir's famously clear waters reflect the surrounding peaks like nature's own looking glass, creating double the visual splendor. As one awestruck camper shared, watching 'the fog over the sparkling water with the mountains in the background was truly priceless.' This is a place where every view feels like a postcard, and every moment connects you deeper with the untamed spirit of the Rockies.
Geological RegionHigh in the heart of the Rocky Mountains, Emery Bay sits in a geological wonderland carved by ancient glaciers and tectonic forces. Less than 30 miles from the Continental Divide – North America's great watershed spine – the campground occupies a dramatic landscape where massive peaks thrust skyward and valleys plunge deep. The reservoir itself fills a canyon once carved by nature, now transformed into a 34-mile-long aquatic jewel that generates clean power while creating an outdoor recreation paradise of epic proportions.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets and campsites are available.
Sites SizeCampsites are generally roomy, with some exceptions noted for tent campers. User reviews mention challenges with tent placements: 'The tent sites were too small and unlevel.'
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers a mix of private and clustered sites. Many reviewers highlight the privacy of the sites: 'Sites are far enough apart from each other.'
Total Campsites26 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for sites closer to the lake for better views. Avoid sites near the boat ramp if seeking quiet. User review: 'Site #3 was near the busy boat ramp and day-use area and noisy.'
Best CampsitesSite #4 is highly praised for its location near the boat ramp with excellent lake views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
- 16 consecutive days
- 32 nights total per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Two motorized vehicles per site
- additional guests not specified.
Groups
The group sites can accommodate up to 75 guests on each separate loop, making them suitable for large gatherings and events.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout26 campsites divided into reservable and walk-up. Includes two group sites. Sites vary in privacy and size.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16 - September 21, 2025. Drinking water available after June 15.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in Availability10 walk-up sites; user reviews mention these sites being hard to obtain during peak season.
Cancellation PolicyLate cancellations for individual sites incur a $10 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fee. Group facilities require cancellations at least 14 days before arrival, or the first night's fee is forfeited. No-shows incur a $20 fee and total forfeiture of the first night's fee.
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
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Emery Bay Campground provides a variety of recreational activities, including boating, fishing, swimming, hiking, and wildlife viewing. It is a popular spot for accessing Hungry Horse Reservoir and is located close to Glacier National Park.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available within the vicinity of the campground and nearby Glacier National Park.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with anglers able to catch cutthroat trout and other varieties in Hungry Horse Reservoir.Swimming
Swimming is available in the reservoir, with several reviewers noting the calm and beautiful waters: 'We swam every morning and evening in the bay.'Biking
Biking is possible, though there are no specific trails mentioned. The campground's dirt roads may serve as biking paths.Boating
A boat ramp for smaller watercraft is provided, and boating is a popular activity on the 27,750-acre Hungry Horse Reservoir.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant, with bears being a frequent sighting according to user reviews: 'Lots of bears and mosquitos camp at your own risk.'Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are possible due to the reservoir access.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted unless a ban is in effect. Propane grills are allowed during fire bans.
- Quiet hours are enforced, but group sites may cause disruptions. User review: 'A wedding in the group site had loud music until around 11:30 PM.'
Hazards
General hazardsPotholes and washboard gravel roads are frequently mentioned hazards. Wildlife like bears and mosquitoes require precautions. User review: 'Lots of bears and mosquitoes; camp at your own risk.'
Weather forecast
68
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 28%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.1 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
Emergency services are not explicitly stated, but Martin City is the nearest town for basic needs. West Glacier and Columbia Falls may offer additional services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16, 2025 - September 21, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, though one user review noted that trash was not cleared during their stay: 'There was trash everywhere. In my camp spot and in the one next to me.'
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Hungry Horse Reservoir. Many sites offer immediate access to the water. User review: 'Beautiful, private sites with excellent access to the reservoir.'
Common complaintsCommon complaints include unlevel tent sites, dusty roads, noisy neighbors, and day-use visitors affecting the tranquility. User review: 'The tent sites were too small and unlevel.'
HostOn-site hosts are frequently praised for their helpfulness and friendliness. User review: 'The camp hosts were just the kindest people! Very quiet campground.'
Campground Map
EAST SIDE RESERVOIR RD #38, MARTIN CITY, MT 59926, USA
Driving directionsFrom Martin City, Montana, turn off Highway 2 and continue on the main road through the town heading south. This road becomes East Side Reservoir Road. Continue for about 6 miles into the campground.
The road to the campground, East Side Reservoir Road, is gravel and features severe potholes, which can make driving challenging, particularly for RVs. User reviews frequently mention the difficulty of the drive, stating, 'Holy potholes. They should raise the rates of camping and use the money to repair the road.'Nearby places
Martin City (6 miles, approximately 15-minute drive). West Glacier (15 miles, approximately 25-minute drive). Columbia Falls (distance unspecified).
Nearby supplies
Martin City (6 miles away) provides limited supplies. Columbia Falls is frequently mentioned in reviews as a spot for groceries and other essentials. User review: 'We enjoyed our shopping/dining trips to Columbia Falls.'
Camper Reviews
4.2
111 reviews
Emery Bay Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
The overall sentiment for Emery Bay Campground is positive, with an average rating of 3.97 for campground-specific reviews. Reviewers praise the stunning scenery, clean facilities, and helpful hosts, while complaints include challenges with unlevel tent sites, road conditions, and noisy neighbors.
Review Summaries
Based on 111 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciated the clean vault toilets, helpful camp hosts, and proximity to Hungry Horse Reservoir and Glacier National Park: 'Absolutely stunning campground. Waking up to the fog over the...
Based on 111 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Frequent issues mentioned include unlevel tent sites, potholes on the access road, and noise from day-use visitors and neighbors: 'The road to the camp was HORRIBLE. There were potholes that will...
Based on 111 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray and bear spray. Fill your RV water tank before arrival. Reviewers recommend reserving sites ahead of time and selecting sites with access to the water: 'Definitely bring bug spray and...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer is the most favorable season but may attract rowdy crowds during holidays like Memorial Day Weekend. Seasonal challenges include dry, dusty conditions and a lack of cell service.
Based on 111 reviewsCamper Quotes
'The facilities were very clean and the campsites were in good order.' 'We swam every morning and evening in the bay. Calm, beautiful deep green/blue waters.' 'Hosts were great. Would definitely camp...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #8 is praised for its incredible views of the water, while Site #3 is noted for its proximity to the lake but criticized for noise. Group sites are often highlighted as ideal for large...
Based on 111 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets and campsites are available. Reviewers note that the hosts are accommodating and helpful.
Based on 111 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and several users mentioned bringing dogs to the campground. 'Our dog had a blast diving off the rocks.'
Based on 111 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025