White Earth Campground
4.32100 reviews7700 Canyon Ferry Road, Helena, MT, 59601, USA
White Earth Campground
$10.00 - $90.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$10.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$90.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees are only charged during peak seasons, which run from the 1st weekend of May through the second weekend of September. Rates range from $10 for standard non-electric sites to $90 for group shelter electric.
About this campground
Nestled along the sparkling shores of Canyon Ferry Reservoir just east of Winston, Montana, White Earth Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 36 thoughtfully arranged campsites and modern amenities. This waterfront haven seamlessly blends comfort with wilderness, offering everything from a convenient boat ramp for aquatic adventures to accessible vault toilets, fresh potable water, and comprehensive trash and recycling services throughout the bustling summer season.
White Earth Campground caters to a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group use. The focus is on rustic, outdoor experiences with minimal facilities.
Historical SignificanceThese ancient lands whisper stories of America's greatest expedition, where in 1805, Meriwether Lewis and William Clark journeyed through this very region with their Corps of Discovery. Here, near the confluence of the three forks of the Missouri River, the remarkable Sacagawea's eyes lit with recognition as she identified familiar landmarks of her childhood homeland, marking a pivotal moment in the expedition's westward journey.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms White Earth into a sun-drenched playground where warm breezes sweep across the reservoir, though Mother Nature occasionally flexes with dramatic hail storms that remind visitors of Montana's wild spirit. When winter's embrace transforms the landscape, the frozen reservoir becomes an enchanting wonderland for ice fishing enthusiasts and skating adventurers seeking crisp mountain air and pristine ice conditions.
ElevationCradled within a gentle valley that stretches between towering mountain peaks, White Earth Campground offers a protected sanctuary where the terrain naturally shields visitors from harsh elements while providing spectacular vantage points of the surrounding Montana wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to breathtaking panoramas where Canyon Ferry Reservoir mirrors the endless Montana sky, framed by the majestic silhouettes of the Big Belt and Elkhorn mountain ranges. This scenic valley setting creates an amphitheater of natural beauty, where golden sunrises paint the water's surface and evening alpenglow bathes the distant peaks in rose-colored splendor.
Geological RegionWhite Earth Campground claims its stunning position along Canyon Ferry Reservoir's scenic banks, where an expansive valley carved by ancient geological forces spreads between the rugged Big Belt Mountains to the east and the dramatic Elkhorn range to the west, creating a natural corridor of unparalleled beauty in the heart of Montana's diverse landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible features, including an accessible vault toilet, picnic shelters, campsites, parking, and walkways. However, details on specific ADA-compliant amenities or additional accommodations for individuals with disabilities are not provided.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as roomy, with some designated for single-unit use. Sites near the beach and water offer direct access.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are described as open and close to one another, with little to no trees for privacy. As noted by a reviewer: 'There is little to no shade at this campground at all.'
Total Campsites36 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose campsites near the lake for better views and proximity to water activities. Bring shade structures as tree cover is minimal.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight Campsite 24 as a favorite, offering proximity to the water and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
5PM
Check-out
4PM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 14 nights during a visit and 14 nights within a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Single campsites are limited to one camping/sleeping unit per campsite.
Groups
The Group Use Shelter includes a 30' x 44' structure with electrical power, picnic tables, and proximity to vault toilets. The group shelter is noted to have issues with bird droppings, according to a reviewer.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground features 36 campsites, including group shelter sites, arranged near the reservoir and surrounding open spaces.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from the 1st weekend of May through the second weekend of September.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be available as first-come-first-served during peak season if not reserved. Campground tends to be busy on weekends and holidays.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations for individual campsites will forfeit the first night's recreation use 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
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of activities centered around its proximity to Canyon Ferry Reservoir. Visitors can engage in wildlife viewing, water sports, fishing, camping, and boating. Several users emphasized the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views.
Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the campground, with some users noting good fishing opportunities from the shore. One reviewer mentioned, 'Best of all, I caught a Walleye.'Swimming
Swimming is mentioned as an activity in the reservoir, though no specific designated swimming areas are described. A reviewer noted, 'Water was comforting on a hot day.'Boating
Boating is a key activity at White Earth, supported by a boat ramp and parking area for trailers. Several users praised the ease of beaching boats and the available facilities.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a noted activity, with one visitor mentioning opportunities to see the Milky Way and various animals, including wolves and bears, outside the campground area.Beach activities
Beach activities are possible due to the lakeside location. Reviewers noted the gravel shoreline and proximity to the water.Winter Activities
Winter activities include ice fishing and ice skating on the reservoir.Water Sports
Water sports such as kayaking, canoeing, jet skiing, windsurfing, and water skiing are popular during the summer months.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, with fire pits and grills available at campsites.
- Quiet hours are from 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsThe area is home to bull snakes, which prey on rattlesnakes and rodents but generally do not bother humans. The gravel shoreline has sudden drop-offs in the water.
Active alertsNo current alerts are reported.
Weather forecast
87
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 12%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.4 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 include facilities in Helena, MT, which is approximately 25 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 13
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling containers are available on-site. Several reviewers mentioned the trash areas being well-maintained, although there were isolated complaints about overflowing dumpsters.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is next to Canyon Ferry Reservoir and features a gravel shoreline and boat ramp.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include a heavily washboarded road leading to the campground and lack of shade or tree cover at campsites.
HostCampground hosts are highly praised in user reviews for being helpful, friendly, and maintaining clean facilities.
Campground Map
7700 Canyon Ferry Road, Helena, MT, 59601, USA
Driving directionsHeading north along MT highway 12/287 from Townsend. Drive north to the town of Winston, MT, and turn right onto Beaver Creek Road and follow the road 5.5 miles to the campground.
The road to the campground includes a 5.5-mile gravel road, with at least 1.5 miles being heavily washboarded, which may present challenges for some vehicles.Nearby places
Helena, MT - 25 miles
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries and fuel, can be found in Helena, MT, approximately 25 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.3
100 reviews
White Earth Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews for White Earth Campground are generally positive, with frequent praise for cleanliness, friendly hosts, and the peaceful lakeside setting. Criticisms include the lengthy, rough gravel road leading to the campground, lack of shade, and occasional maintenance issues.
Review Summaries
Based on 100 reviews
What Campers Love
Exceptional cleanliness, friendly and helpful campground hosts, direct lake access, peaceful environment, and opportunities for fishing and boating.
Based on 100 reviewsCommon Concerns
Lack of trees and shade, rough gravel road with washboard sections, occasional issues with garbage overflow or bird droppings in the group shelter.
Based on 100 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a pop-up canopy for shade, arrive early to secure a preferred lakeside spot, and prepare for a rough road on the way in. Also, be mindful of the lack of on-site firewood sales and bring your...
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is the peak season, with high activity levels and occasional complaints about noise and overcrowding. Winter offers quieter conditions and unique activities like ice fishing.
Based on 100 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Campground is very nice and clean. Room for our kids to run around and play.' (Amber Weber)
- 'The volunteer hosts were very friendly and helpful with picking out a campsite and all important...
Based on 100 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Campsite 24 is specifically highlighted as the best spot by one reviewer: 'Campsite 24 is the best.'
- Spots 24 and 25 are noted to be close together.
Based on 100 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features receive positive mentions, though specific reviews from individuals with disabilities are not provided.
Based on 100 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, and one reviewer noted enjoying the dog-friendly atmosphere.
Based on 100 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025