Upper Park Creek Camping Area

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Last Updated: December 4, 2025

Upper Park Creek Campground is a hidden gem in Montana’s Helena National Forest, offering stunning views of the surrounding mountains and access to nearby points of interest.


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Summary

The campground is situated at an elevation of 6,200 feet and is open from late May to early October.

There are 14 campsites available on a first-come-first-serve basis, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring, and access to potable water and vault toilets. The campground also features a day-use picnic area, a creek for fishing, and nearby hiking trails.

One of the main draws of Upper Park Creek is its proximity to the Continental Divide Trail, a 3,100-mile hiking trail that runs from Mexico to Canada. The trail passes through the nearby Elkhorn Mountains and offers stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Other nearby points of interest include the ghost town of Rimini, the Missouri River, and the state capital of Helena.

An interesting fact about the area is that it was once the site of a thriving mining community, with several ghost towns still visible in the surrounding mountains. Visitors can explore these abandoned towns and learn about the area’s rich mining history.

The best time of year to visit Upper Park Creek is from mid-June to early September when temperatures range from the mid-60s to mid-70s during the day and drop into the 40s at night. Visitors can expect beautiful wildflowers in the early summer and stunning fall foliage in September. Overall, Upper Park Creek Campground is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts looking to escape the crowds and enjoy Montana’s natural beauty.

       

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Camping Essential Practices

Pack It In, Pack It Out
Take all trash, food scraps, and gear back with you to keep campsites clean and protect wildlife.
Respect Wildlife
Observe animals from a distance, store food securely, and never feed wildlife to maintain natural behavior and safety.
Know Before You Go
Check weather, fire restrictions, trail conditions, and permit requirements to ensure a safe and well-planned trip.
Minimize Campfire Impact
Use established fire rings, keep fires small, fully extinguish them, or opt for a camp stove when fires are restricted.
Leave What You Find
Preserve natural and cultural features by avoiding removal of plants, rocks, artifacts, or other elements of the environment.

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