Sunday ยท October 6, 2024
Eagle Creek Campground: A Horse Camping Destination in Montana
Author: Admin
Eagle Creek Campground in Montana | Top Horse Trails

Perched at 6,100 feet and overlooking the majestic peaks of Yellowstone National Park, Eagle Creek Campground offers a unique and scenic escape for campers and equestrians alike. Located just two miles northeast of Gardiner, Montana, and approximately 55 miles south of Livingston along Highway 89, this well-equipped campground provides the perfect base for exploring Montana’s rugged beauty and Yellowstone’s iconic landscapes.

Campsites Designed for All Campers

With 20 sites available, Eagle Creek Campground caters to a variety of campers, from RV enthusiasts to those pitching tents. The campground features 18 single sites and two double sites, providing ample space for families or groups looking to enjoy the great outdoors. Sites 19 and 20 are located next to horse corrals, making them ideal for stock users. These sites are reserved exclusively for equestrians until 4 pm and, after that, are available for first-come, first-served use for one night.

Not all campsites are level, so campers are encouraged to plan accordingly. Gravel roads wind through the campground, offering access to each site, while the surrounding unpaved areas maintain the rustic charm of Montana’s wilderness. The campground is open to RVs up to 48 feet, allowing larger vehicles to enjoy the comfort of Eagle Creek’s well-situated amenities.

Equestrian Facilities for Horse Campers

For those traveling with horses, Eagle Creek Campground is a fantastic destination. The campground is equipped with horse corrals, available for use by campers and day users. The corrals are conveniently located adjacent to sites 19 and 20, ensuring easy access for equestrians looking to explore the area on horseback.

The nearby Yellowstone River Trailhead, located within the campground itself, provides access to stunning trails that take riders through breathtaking landscapes and offer scenic views of the Yellowstone River. Whether you’re planning a short ride or a day-long excursion, the trail system near Eagle Creek ensures a memorable outdoor adventure for both riders and their horses.

Access to Outdoor Recreation

Eagle Creek Campground is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, with a variety of activities available in the immediate area. The Yellowstone River is nearby, offering opportunities for fishing, rafting, and kayaking. Anglers can enjoy casting a line in the pristine waters, while thrill-seekers can embark on a rafting adventure along one of the most iconic rivers in the United States.

Additionally, the campground’s proximity to Yellowstone National Park means that visitors are just a short drive from some of the park’s most famous attractions, including its abundant wildlife, geothermal features, and scenic drives. For hikers, the area surrounding Eagle Creek offers numerous trails that range from easy to challenging, allowing visitors to explore the diverse and stunning landscapes of Montana.

Essential Campground Amenities

At Eagle Creek Campground, visitors can enjoy a blend of rustic camping and essential amenities to make their stay comfortable. The campground is equipped with vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables at each site, ensuring that campers have what they need for a relaxing experience in nature. Horse campers will appreciate the horse corrals provided at the stock sites, making it easy to care for their animals while exploring the trails.

Though the sites are unpaved, the natural beauty of the area more than makes up for the rugged setup. Campers are encouraged to bring their own firewood or purchase locally and practice safe campfire etiquette. With the nearby trails, rivers, and mountains, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to enjoy.

Experience Eagle Creek Campground in Montana

For horse campers seeking a scenic and convenient camping experience near Yellowstone National Park, Eagle Creek Campground is the perfect choice. With its access to trails, horse corrals, and breathtaking views, this campground provides everything you need to fully immerse yourself in Montana’s stunning wilderness. Whether you’re planning a horseback ride along the Yellowstone River Trailhead or simply looking to relax under the stars, Eagle Creek promises an unforgettable adventure.

 

Directions:

From Livingston, MT - Head south toward Gardiner, MT on Highway 89 for 54 miles. Turn Left onto Jardine Rd. Go .9 miles, stay right at the split. Head another 1.2 miles, campground will be on your left.

 

Facilities and Amenities at Eagle Creek Campground

  • Campfire Rings
  • Creek Access
  • Food Storage Locker
  • Horse Corrals
  • Pets Allowed
  • Picnic Tables
  • Scenic Overlooks
  • Self Pay Station
  • Trailhead Parking
  • Vault Toilets
  • Tent pads
  • Tables

 

Cost Details:

  • $15.00 single
  • $30 double 
  • $5.00 each additional vehicle

 

Notes:

  • Bears frequent the area; all food must be stored in approved containers and secured when the campsite is unoccupied.
  • Don't move firewood. Campfires must be completely extinguished while the campsite is unoccupied and before leaving.
  • The first two vehicles are included in the reservation fee for a single site, and four vehicles for a double site. Any additional vehicles will be assessed a $5.00/night extra vehicle fee upon arrival at your site. This fee will need to be deposited in the self-service fee station.
  • Check-out time is 12:00pm (Noon), Check-in time is 1:00 pm 
  • Reserved campsites will be held until check-out time on the day following your scheduled arrival.
  • The campground is usually full for most of the season. Don't expect the First come First serve sites to be unoccupied. There are limited camping options in the area. Have a PLAN B if you do not have a reservation.
  • This 20-site campground has gravel roads with unpaved sites that accommodate a maximum of 48’ RVs.
  • Dispersed camping is prohibited along the Jardine Rd downhill of Eagle Creek Campground, Jardine Rd for 1 ½ miles past Eagle Creek Campground, and the first 3 miles of Eagle Creek Rd.
  • For campground inquiries, please call: (406) 848-7375 

 

If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:

Yellowstone National Park - Lava Creek Canyon Trail to Undine Falls

Yellowstone National Park - Electric Peak

MT - Northfork Bearcreek TH to Knox Lake

MT - BLM Travertine Mine Little Trail Creek

 

Eagle Creek Campground does not require reservations for overnight accommodations. For more information, please visit their page on Top Horse Trails - Eagle Creek Campground