Thain Creek Campground

🏛 Introduction / Overview: The Secluded Charm of Thain Creek in the Highwoods

For Montana campers who prioritize seclusion, scenic beauty, and authentic wilderness over paved roads and modern hookups, Thain Creek Campground presents a rewarding challenge. As the only established campground in the Highwood Mountains of the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, it is a truly unique destination just a relatively short drive from Great Falls. This site offers forested camping loops, spacious sites, and access to excellent fishing in Briggs and Thain Creeks.

The campground sits at a pleasant 4,700-foot elevation, surrounded by the beautiful mosaic of streams, aspen groves, and meadows characteristic of this isolated 'island' mountain range. Past visitors who enjoy the rustic nature of the area describe it as a "Great starting point for new campers or a regular spot if you like the area," noting the quality of the sites, outhouses, and fire pits. It is built to accommodate larger groups, with some sites capable of fitting "two families in one campground" (up to 12 people). However, potential visitors, particularly those from Montana who appreciate preparedness, must be fully aware of the highly variable and often poor condition of the access road, a crucial factor that separates the prepared adventurer from the disappointed traveler.

📍 Location and Accessibility for Montana Users (A Critical Warning)

Thain Creek Campground is located in the Highwood Mountains, near the community of Highwood, Montana (59450). It is considered the closest National Forest System land to the Great Falls area, making it a natural choice for a local escape.

The official address/location is:

Forest Road 8840, Highwood, MT 59450, USA.

⚠️ CRITICAL ACCESSIBILITY ALERT: Accessing Thain Creek Campground is a challenging endeavor and is only recommended for high-clearance or 4x4 vehicles. The drive from the main highways involves navigating a significant stretch (approximately 15–20 miles) of unpaved county and Forest Road 8840. Recent reviews indicate this road is severely degraded with "washboard and loose gravel," "Rock gardens and giant potholes," making it "impassable unless you have a 4x4 and drive 5 mph." This is not suitable for low-clearance vehicles or large, sensitive RVs. Travelers must be prepared for potential vehicle damage and should plan for a drive time significantly longer than the nominal distance suggests. Always call the Forest Service office before departure to confirm current road status and seasonal opening/closure dates.

✅ Services Offered at Thain Creek Campground (Rustic Forest Service)

Thain Creek is a rustic, developed campground managed by the U.S. Forest Service, providing essential amenities typical of a remote mountain setting. It is designed for self-sufficient camping.

• Campsites: Offers approximately 12 to 20 single campsites (numbers vary by source), with one site able to accommodate a maximum trailer length of up to 40 feet. Sites are generally spacious and well-forested.
• Water: Potable Water is typically available via a hand-pump or spigot system during the operational season (usually May through mid-fall). Campers should confirm availability.
• Restrooms: Equipped with clean vault toilets (outhouses), which are generally well-maintained. No showers or flush toilets are available.
• Site Amenities: Each campsite includes a large fire ring with a rotating griddle for cooking and a spacious picnic table.
• Reservations: The campground typically operates on a first-come, first-served basis, though visitors should check with the Forest Service.
• Mandatory Food Storage: Due to the presence of bears (both Black and possibly Grizzlies in the wider area), mandatory food storage rules apply. All food and attractants must be stored out of sight in approved containers or vehicles.

⭐ Features / Highlights for the Local Traveler

For those prepared to make the difficult journey, Thain Creek Campground rewards the effort with unparalleled recreational features in a secluded mountain environment.

• Excellent Mountain Fishing: The campground is situated with access to both Briggs Creek and Thain Creek, both known for good fishing for brook and rainbow trout.
• Windy Mountain Loop Trail: A major highlight is the access to the 6-mile loop trail leading up to Windy Mountain. This trail offers "killer views" and a stunning panoramic vista of the surrounding plains and the faraway mountains of the Rocky Mountain Front.
• Unique Island Range Scenery: The Highwoods are an isolated island mountain range, providing a distinctive landscape of meadows, streams, and dense timber that is rich with wildlife and known for spectacular fall colors after the first frost in September.
• Wildlife and Wildflower Viewing: The area is known for its wildlife, including the potential for seeing deer, elk, and various bird species. Wildflowers are abundant in the spring and early summer months.
• Seclusion Near Civilization: Despite the short 30-mile distance to Great Falls, the challenging road conditions effectively filter out transient traffic, ensuring a peaceful, secluded camping experience even during peak season.
• Group-Friendly Camping: The generous site size and layout make this an ideal spot for multiple families or small groups (up to 12 people) to camp together comfortably.

📞 Important Contact Information (Essential Pre-Trip Contact)

Due to the critical issues with road conditions and seasonal closures, contacting the managing Forest Service office is non-negotiable before planning a trip to Thain Creek Campground.

Address:

Forest Road 8840, Highwood, MT 59450, USA

Lewis and Clark National Forest (Contact for Current Status):

(406) 566-2292 (Often listed as the primary number for the Highwood area).

Alternate Phone:

(406) 727-8733 (This number may be an alternate or outdated Forest Service contact).

Note: The campground is usually open from May through the middle of fall. Always call the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest office to confirm the operating status, current road conditions, and check for any fire restrictions before beginning the drive.

🎉 What is Worth Choosing Thain Creek Campground

For the adventurous, well-equipped Montanan camper, Thain Creek Campground is worth choosing for the rewarding seclusion and access to high-quality recreation that few other Great Falls-area camps can offer. You are securing the only developed camping spot in the gorgeous Highwood Mountains, guaranteeing peace and quiet far from the typical tourist crowds. The spacious sites, the crackling fire pit next to the stream, and the immediate access to the panoramic views from the Windy Mountain Trail create an unforgettable, authentic Montana experience.

The choice to camp here is a commitment to a true wilderness experience. If you possess a reliable, high-clearance vehicle and are prepared to manage your own resources, you will be rewarded with a favorite secluded spot for excellent trout fishing and family camping. Thain Creek offers a rich outdoor experience for those willing to accept the challenge of the journey.