Newlan Creek Campground

Nestled in the picturesque southern foothills of the Little Belt Mountains, Newlan Creek Campground provides a peaceful and scenic escape for anyone seeking the authentic Montana outdoor experience. This beautiful camping destination is situated on the shores of Newlan Creek Reservoir, a body of water renowned for its clear, cold depths and excellent fishing. The campground offers a mix of sites, many of which are located just steps from the water’s edge, providing campers with stunning, uninterrupted views of the lake and the surrounding majestic landscape. The atmosphere here is one of quiet appreciation for nature, making it a perfect spot for those who want to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with the wild.

Newlan Creek Campground is well-suited for a variety of campers, from those pitching a tent to those in an RV. Its family-friendly nature, with features that cater to children, makes it a popular choice for Montanans looking for a local getaway. The campground is also welcoming to dogs, ensuring that the entire family can enjoy the adventure together. While the area can become quite popular, especially during the peak summer and holiday weekends, the various camping sections and spread-out sites help maintain a sense of space. It’s a place where you can enjoy a campfire under a sky full of stars and wake up to the sound of nature, all with the convenience of well-maintained, if basic, facilities.

Location and Accessibility

Newlan Creek Campground is located in the beautiful region surrounding White Sulphur Springs, Montana. The address, on Newlan Creek Road, places it approximately 12 miles north of the town of White Sulphur Springs. The drive is scenic, taking you through rural Montana and into the mountainous terrain. The road to the campground is gravel, so while it is accessible for most vehicles and RVs, drivers should be prepared for unpaved conditions and take their time. The location is a Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) Fishing Access Site (FAS), which means it is officially managed to provide public access for fishing and recreation, adding to its appeal.

A key feature of the campground's accessibility is its on-site parking, which allows campers to park their vehicles directly at their chosen spot. This is a significant convenience, particularly for setting up camp and having easy access to all your gear. The campground also features a wheelchair-accessible parking lot, demonstrating a commitment to making the natural beauty of the area available to a broader range of visitors. The sites are first-come, first-served, so it is recommended to arrive during a weekday or early in the day on weekends to secure a prime spot, especially those coveted sites right by the lake. This first-come, first-served policy adds to the spontaneity of a trip and allows for flexible travel plans.

Services Offered

• Public Restrooms: The campground is equipped with multiple well-maintained vault toilets, or outhouses, located near each camping loop, so you don't have to worry about a long walk.
• Running Water: A public water pump is available on-site, providing a source of fresh, running water for campers. This is a highly valued amenity for those in need of a water supply.
• RV Water Hookup: While the campground does not have full hookups, it does offer an RV water hookup, a convenience for those with recreational vehicles who need to fill up their tanks.
• Tent Sites: The campground offers numerous designated tent sites, some of which are located right in the trees for shade and a more secluded feel.
• Dogs Allowed: As a pet-friendly location, you can bring your dog along for the trip, as long as they are kept on a leash.

Features / Highlights

• Lakefront Camping: Many of the sites are situated directly on the shore of Newlan Creek Reservoir, offering stunning views and immediate access to the water for swimming, fishing, or boating.
• Excellent Fishing: The reservoir is a well-known spot for anglers. It is regularly stocked with various trout species, including rainbow and westslope cutthroat trout, and is also home to Burbot (Ling). The lake is noted for its lack of moss, making it easier to fish without getting snagged.
• Kid-Friendly Environment: The open spaces and proximity to the water make Newlan Creek a fantastic place for kids to play and explore. There are ample opportunities for them to discover the natural world, from looking for crayfish to watching for wildlife.
• Picnic Tables & Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring with a cooking grate, providing all the basic necessities for a comfortable and enjoyable meal and evening campfire.
• Boat Launch: A boat ramp and dock are available, making it easy for campers to get their boats out on the water for fishing or recreation.

Contact Information

Newlan Creek Campground is managed by Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. For inquiries, you can reach out to the local office.

Address: White Sulphur Springs, MT 59645, USA

Phone: (406) 444-2535

What is Worth Choosing

Newlan Creek Campground is a compelling choice for any Montana resident or visitor seeking a genuine and memorable camping experience. What truly sets it apart is its spectacular location. The blend of mountain vistas, tranquil lake waters, and the peaceful, forested setting creates an atmosphere that is hard to replicate. It's a place where you can be right on the water, yet still feel surrounded by the mountains, providing a sense of both openness and intimacy with nature. For the fishing enthusiast, the reservoir is a major draw. The promise of catching healthy, hard-fighting fish is a strong incentive, and the abundance of crayfish indicates a thriving ecosystem. While the fishing can be challenging at times, as some anglers note, the pursuit is part of the fun, and the payoff is a healthy, wild-caught Montana fish.

For families, the campground's amenities, such as the public restrooms and running water, add a layer of comfort that makes camping with kids much easier. The wide-open spaces and the clear water of the reservoir are a safe playground for young explorers. The fact that the campground is pet-friendly means you don't have to leave your dog behind, making it a true family affair. Moreover, the lack of a reservation system offers a refreshing degree of flexibility for weekend trips and spontaneous getaways. While it can be busy, the feeling of getting a lakeside spot, setting up your camp, and truly making it your own for a few days is an experience that makes Newlan Creek worth the drive. It’s an ideal place to disconnect from technology and reconnect with loved ones and the magnificent outdoors of Montana.

Newlan Creek Campground

White Sulphur Springs, MT 59645, USA