Doris Creek Campground

Star4.33
34 reviews
10 Hungry Horse Drive, Hungry Horse, MT 59919, USA
Doris Creek Campground
$18.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly fee for a standard non-electric site is $18. An additional vehicle charge of $5 per night for each vehicle beyond the first is collected...
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Standard Site Fee$18.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$18.00

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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider
406-752-7924

About this campground

Tucked away along the pristine shores of Hungry Horse Reservoir, Doris Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into Montana's untamed wilderness. With just nine thoughtfully spaced sites—five available for reservation and four welcoming spontaneous adventurers—this hidden gem provides a refreshing alternative to the region's busier destinations. Here, the rhythmic lapping of reservoir waters and the whisper of mountain breezes create a natural symphony that draws those seeking genuine solitude in the heart of the Rockies.
The campground supports tent and RV camping. It has nine sites in total, five of which are reservable, while the other four are available on a first-come, first-served basis. Some reviews suggest that the campground is more suited for RVs than tents due to gravel-based camping surfaces.
Historical SignificanceFrom your campsite, you'll witness one of America's engineering marvels—the mighty Hungry Horse Dam. This towering testament to human ingenuity stands as both a crucial hydroelectric powerhouse and flood control guardian, its massive concrete face telling the story of mid-20th century ambition. The dam's presence adds a fascinating layer of human history to this wild landscape, where nature and engineering achievement coexist in dramatic harmony.
Weather and SeasonsSummer arrives with crystalline skies and comfortable temperatures, painting perfect days for lakeside relaxation and mountain exploration. As autumn approaches, the air turns crisp and the surrounding peaks may don their first dustings of snow, creating a photographer's paradise. Winter transforms the landscape into a snow-laden wonderland, where significant accumulations blanket the forest in peaceful white silence, offering a completely different but equally magical camping experience for the hardy few.
ElevationNestled at mountain elevation where the air feels refreshingly thin and the stars shine with exceptional clarity.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's crown jewel is its front-row seat to the spectacular Hungry Horse Reservoir, where crystal-clear waters stretch toward horizons framed by jagged Rocky Mountain peaks. The impressive dam—ranking as the 10th highest in the United States—creates a stunning backdrop that shifts from golden at sunrise to deep purple at dusk. This pristine wilderness serves as home to some of North America's most elusive creatures, including the mysterious lynx, majestic grizzly bears, and the native bull trout that cruise the reservoir's depths. Every vista promises postcard-worthy scenes that capture the raw beauty of Montana's backcountry.
Geological RegionPerched on the western slopes of the Continental Divide, the campground sits within the dramatic geological tapestry of the Rocky Mountains. This location places you at the crossroads of ancient geological forces, where millennia of glacial carving and tectonic uplift have sculpted a landscape of breathtaking peaks, deep valleys, and the magnificent reservoir basin that defines this corner of Montana's wilderness.
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Campsite details

AccessibilityThe campground has accessible vault toilets and gravel roads. Specific campsite accessibility details are not provided.
Sites SizeThe campsites are described as roomy and capable of accommodating RVs and larger parties. Some sites are noted as being specifically spacious, such as site #6, which easily accommodated two camper vans.
Sites PrivacyCampsites vary in privacy. Site #10 is described as being isolated and shaded, providing good privacy.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider Site #6 for shade and proximity to the creek. Sites #9 and #10 are ideal for privacy and access to water.
Best CampsitesSite #6 is described as spacious and shaded, located near the creek. Sites #9 and #10 are also praised for their privacy and proximity to water.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
16 consecutive nights, with a yearly limit of 32 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 2 vehicles per site, with additional fees for extra vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of a single loop with 9 sites, including both reservable and walk-up options.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 21, 2025, to September 15, 2025. Reservations available starting June 24, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityThere are 4 first-come-first-serve sites available, identified on maps and campsite markers.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made any time before the scheduled stay. A $10 cancellation fee applies. Late cancellations, within 1 day of check-in, forfeit the first night's fee.

Amenities available

Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Doris Creek Campground offers a variety of recreational activities. Boating is particularly popular on the nearby Hungry Horse Reservoir, with a concrete boat ramp available at Doris Point Boat Launch. Swimming and fishing are also available, with anglers often catching cutthroat trout. The area is great for wildlife viewing and hiking.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available, but detailed information about specific trails is not provided.
Fishing
Fishing is described as a popular activity, with cutthroat trout being a common catch.
Swimming
The campground offers access to the lake for swimming. Some reviews mention the water as being clear and ideal for floating on inner tubes.
Boating
Boating is a major activity, with a concrete boat ramp available at the nearby Doris Point Boat Launch. The 27,750-acre reservoir is suitable for motorized and non-motorized boats.
Wildlife viewing
The area is home to lynx, grizzly bears, and bull trout, making it ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed.
Water Sports
Water sports like swimming and boating are readily available. Specific options for kayaking or paddleboarding are not detailed.
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Campground rules

  • Pets are allowed
  • Campfires are allowed in designated rings. Campers must obtain firewood locally to prevent the spread of pests.
  • Quiet hours are not explicitly stated.

Hazards

General hazardsWildlife such as grizzly bears and lynx may pose a risk. Campers should follow food storage rules and exercise caution.

Weather forecast

33
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 74%

High humidity, may feel muggy

Wind: 1.1 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Clear sky

7 day forecast

Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo

Emergency Services

Emergency services are available in Hungry Horse, MT (approximately 3 miles away), and a hospital is located in Kalispell, MT (approximately 27 miles away).

Good to know

Peak season datesMay 21 to September 15.
Trash and recyclingThere are no trash and recycling facilities on-site. Visitors are required to pack out all their garbage.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is located next to the Hungry Horse Reservoir and Doris Creek, offering opportunities for swimming, fishing, and boating.
Common complaintsSeveral user reviews mention dissatisfaction with the tent camping conditions due to gravel sites and lack of grass. Noise from other campers and hosts displaying political messages have also been noted.
HostCampground hosts are reported as friendly and helpful in recent reviews. However, earlier reviews highlight concerns about hosts displaying political flags.

Campground Map

10 Hungry Horse Drive, Hungry Horse, MT 59919, USA
Driving directionsTurn off U.S. Highway 2 at milepost 144 and follow the West Side Hungry Horse Reservoir (Forest Road #895) across the Hungry Horse Dam. The campground is 3 miles south of the Dam. The road is paved to the campground.
The access road is paved all the way to the campground. The road is narrow and windy for 3 miles after turning off U.S. Highway 2.
Nearby places
Hungry Horse: 3 miles (5 minutes)
West Glacier: 14 miles (approximately 20 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are available in Hungry Horse, MT, 3 miles from the campground.

Camper Reviews

4.3
34 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Doris Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Doris Creek Campground is rated positively, particularly for its serene location and well-maintained facilities. Many reviewers highlight the beautiful surroundings and the friendliness of the camp hosts. However, there are complaints about the campground's suitability for tent camping and occasional issues with noisy neighbors or political displays by camp hosts.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews

What Campers Love

- Scenic views of Hungry Horse Reservoir and surrounding mountains - Quiet and secluded atmosphere - Clean and well-maintained facilities - Positive feedback about campground hosts, including their...
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Based on 34 reviews

Common Concerns

- Gravel surfaces at tent sites, making them uncomfortable for tent camping - Occasional noise disturbances from other campers - Reports of political banners displayed by camp hosts, which some find...
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Based on 34 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own drinking water as there is none available on-site. Site #10 is highly recommended for privacy and access to the creek. For a serene experience, avoid peak summer weekends when the...
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Based on 34 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter months are less busy and provide a quieter camping experience, but facilities remain basic with no additional amenities. Summer is the peak season, with excellent opportunities for water-based...
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Based on 34 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "This campground is beautiful! Campsite #10 was where we stayed, and it was beautifully isolated from the rest of the sites. Lots of big trees provide shade." 2. "We loved our camp host! She let...
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Based on 34 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site #10 is consistently praised for its privacy and proximity to the creek. Site #6 is noted for being large, shaded, and able to accommodate camper vans. Conversely, site #1 is criticized for being...
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Based on 34 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific user reviews address the accessibility features, but the campground does have an accessible vault toilet and gravel roads.
Based on 34 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and no specific complaints or issues related to pets were mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 34 reviews

Last updated November 24, 2025
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