Harry Morgan Campground

For Montanans who cherish the peace and solitude of the great outdoors, especially those with a passion for fly fishing, Harry Morgan Campground offers an idyllic retreat. Nestled near the charming town of Ovando, this small yet significant fishing access site provides a quiet basecamp on the legendary Blackfoot River. Far from the bustling crowds, it’s a place where the gentle sounds of the river and the rustle of leaves replace the everyday noise, inviting you to slow down and reconnect with nature. This article will provide a comprehensive look at Harry Morgan Campground, detailing its unique location, the essential services it offers, its standout features, and why it's a perfect fit for locals seeking a genuine Montana outdoor experience.

Montana is globally renowned for its pristine rivers, expansive wilderness, and unparalleled opportunities for outdoor recreation. Among its many hidden gems, Harry Morgan Campground stands out as a testament to the state's natural beauty and its commitment to providing accessible, tranquil spaces for anglers and campers alike. While it offers a more primitive setting, it's precisely this simplicity and focus on core outdoor activities that draws many locals seeking an authentic connection with the wild. We'll explore its strategic location on the Blackfoot River, the basic yet crucial amenities it provides, its unique appeal, and ultimately, why it's a cherished spot for Montanans looking to immerse themselves in the state's remarkable fishing culture and enjoy peaceful moments by the water.

Harry Morgan Campground is situated in Ovando, MT 59854, USA, making it a convenient and sought-after location for Montanans. More precisely, it is recognized as Harry Morgan Fishing Access Site, located in northwestern Montana directly on the iconic Blackfoot River. This positioning makes it a prime spot for anglers and those looking to explore this famous waterway. The campground is approximately 5 miles from the town of Ovando and about an hour's drive (around 61 miles) east of Missoula, which is a significant access point for many visitors. Helena is about 1 hour and 19 minutes away, and Great Falls is approximately 1 hour and 51 minutes away, making it reasonably accessible for residents from various parts of the state.

The accessibility to Harry Morgan Campground is generally via well-maintained roads. While it offers a sense of quiet seclusion, it is not so remote as to be difficult to reach by standard vehicles. However, prospective visitors, especially those with RVs or trailers, should note that there is a vehicle length restriction of 25 feet. This helps maintain the cozy, less-crowded atmosphere. The campground is positioned on flat terrain with direct access to the Blackfoot River, allowing for easy put-ins for non-motorized watercraft. Temperatures in this area can range from winter lows of 20°F to summer highs of 80°F, so campers should pack accordingly for varying weather conditions throughout the seasons.

Harry Morgan Campground, as a Fishing Access Site (FAS), provides a focused set of services designed to support angling and quiet camping on the Blackfoot River. It emphasizes simplicity and self-sufficiency, aligning with a more traditional outdoor experience.

• Designated Campsites: The campground offers a small number of designated campsites, typically 3 or 4. Each site generally includes a picnic table and a metal fire ring, providing basic necessities for setting up camp.
• Vault Toilet: A vault or pit toilet is available on-site, offering essential sanitation facilities.
• No Potable Water: It is crucial to note that potable (drinking) water is not available at Harry Morgan Campground. Campers must bring their own supply of water for drinking, cooking, and hygiene.
• No Garbage Service: Similar to many primitive or smaller campgrounds, Harry Morgan operates on a strict "pack it in, pack it out" policy. There is no garbage service, and campers are responsible for removing all their waste.
• Boat Launch (Carry-in): The site provides a carry-in boat launch, specifically designed for non-motorized watercraft. This allows convenient access to the Blackfoot River for activities like canoeing, kayaking, and rafting.
• Bear Proof Food Locker: Given that the campground is in bear country, a shared bear-proof food locker is typically available, encouraging safe food storage to protect both visitors and wildlife.
• Camping Fees: There is a fee for camping, which is typically $12.00 per night for those with a valid Montana fishing license, and $18.00 per night for those without a valid fishing license.
• Stay Limit: A maximum stay limit of 7 days is usually enforced, ensuring fair access for all visitors.

Harry Morgan Campground's appeal lies in its natural setting and the specific outdoor activities it facilitates, making it a favored spot for certain types of adventurers.

• Premier Fly Fishing Destination: This is a significant highlight. The campground offers direct access to the Blackfoot River, renowned as one of Montana's premier fly fishing rivers. It's particularly popular among anglers seeking trout, including cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout. Customer reviews often mention the presence of "fly fishing folks."
• Quiet and Peaceful Atmosphere: Multiple customer reviews emphasize the "nice quiet campground" and its appeal for those seeking "quiet" outside of Missoula. This serene environment is ideal for relaxation and escaping urban noise.
• Non-Motorized Boating: The Blackfoot River, including the stretch accessible from Harry Morgan, is restricted to non-motorized watercraft only. This ensures a peaceful river experience for kayakers, canoers, and rafters, without the disturbance of motorboats.
• Scenic River Views: Campers can enjoy picturesque views of the Blackfoot River and the surrounding forested mountains. The flat terrain with river access makes for beautiful scenery.
• Wildlife Viewing Opportunities: The natural setting along the river provides chances to observe local wildlife, including various bird species and other forest creatures, enhancing the wilderness experience.
• Remote Yet Accessible: While offering a sense of wild remoteness, the campground remains relatively accessible by vehicle, providing a good balance for those seeking solitude without extensive backcountry travel.
• Proximity to Ovando: Its location near the charming small town of Ovando means campers are not entirely isolated and can access limited services or simply enjoy the local character of the area.

For direct inquiries regarding Harry Morgan Campground, particularly as it is a Montana State Fishing Access Site, here is the essential contact information:

Address: 12941 Ovando Helmville Rd, Ovando, MT 59854, USA. This is a more precise address often associated with the site, helping with navigation.

Phone: The primary contact number for the managing agency, Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) for the region that includes Harry Morgan Fishing Access Site, is generally 406-542-5500. It is always recommended to call this number or visit the MyFWP website (myfwp.mt.gov) for the most current information regarding camping conditions, fees, fishing regulations, fire restrictions, or any alerts before planning your trip. This number will connect you to the FWP office responsible for managing this site.

Harry Morgan Campground is an exceptional destination for Montanans who truly appreciate the state's natural heritage and seek a peaceful, authentic outdoor experience. Its prime location on the renowned Blackfoot River makes it a magnet for local fly fishing enthusiasts, offering direct and easy access to some of the best trout waters in Montana. For those living in and around Missoula, Helena, or Great Falls, the relatively short drive means that a genuine escape into the wild is highly attainable for a weekend or even a mid-week break.

The quiet atmosphere, a recurring highlight from visitors, provides a much-needed respite from daily life, allowing for deep relaxation and connection with nature. This tranquility, combined with basic yet functional amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and a vault toilet, caters perfectly to self-sufficient campers who value natural beauty over extensive comforts. The allowance for non-motorized boating ensures the river remains pristine and serene for all to enjoy. For locals, Harry Morgan Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an opportunity to engage with Montana's cherished landscapes, practice responsible recreation, and create lasting memories in a truly iconic setting. It embodies the essence of "The Last Best Place," offering a serene and accessible haven for Montanans eager to immerse themselves in their state's legendary outdoor appeal.

Harry Morgan Campground

Ovando, MT 59854, USA