The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.
Clark's Bay Day Use Area is in Montana, next to Houser Lake, a reservoir popular with anglers and watersports enthusiasts. Both Devil's Elbow Campground and Two Camps Vista are connected by walking trails to Clark's Bay. Montana's state capital, Helena, is right next door and is a stopping point for many RVers making the trek between Yellowstone and Glacier national parks. Mount Helena City Park is home to some of the region's best mountain biking and hiking trail systems. Helena Lake, Helena Valley Reservoir, and the Missouri River offer additional water recreation and fishing opportunities near Clark's Bay.
In addition to outdoor activities and Helena attractions, Clark's Bay is near excellent Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. These sites offer a low-cost way to experience Montana's outdoors on the doorstep to the Gates of the Mountains.
The Helena Reservoir Loop is suitable for all skill levels and is a good stop for RVers to stretch their legs and get ready for more challenging outdoor activities in the area. The trail is popular with hikers, runners, and bird watchers. It is a relatively flat hike with lovely views of the water. To get to the trailhead from Clark's Bay, travel 4.8 miles southwest on Clark Road until you reach the Helena Reservior parking area.
Length: 5.6 miles
Intensity: Easy
The Mount Helena Ridge Trail is considered a must-do by mountain bikers who visit the area. As a ridge traverse, breathtaking views of the Helena Valley below reward eager peddlers. The ride is at the center of the single-track network in the area, connecting to the Wakina Sky Trail and Mount Helena City Park. The trailhead is approximately 20 miles southwest of Clark's Bay in Mount Helena City Park.
Length: 5.9 Miles
Intensity: Moderate
The 1906 Trail is also on Mount Helena and is more enjoyable for casual hikers than the Ridge Trail. The path begins at the parking area and gradually ascends as you wind around the mountain. There is a short rock scramble just before reaching the summit. The 1906 Trail is a favorite in Helena because it has fantastic views of the city below and the rest of Helena Valley. Parking area access to the trail is approximately 16 miles southwest of Clark's Bay at the northern entrance to Mount Helena City Park.
Length: 2.9 Miles
Intensity: Moderate
Hauser Lake is adjacent to Clark's Bay Day Use Area. In addition to being favored by anglers interested in trout, walleye, and perch, the lake is popular with waterskiers and swimmers. Alternatively, a short drive on York Road to the north or south will bring visitors to developed launching points on the Missouri River for fishing and paddle sports.
The Helena Climbers Coalition has worked with the city to develop Mount Helena City Park climbing. Climbers can use the 1906 Trail from the parking area. Several of the bolted limestone routes challenge visitors with multiple pitches.
The self-guided nature tour around Spring Meadow Lake in Helena is a relaxing way for birdwatchers to get their fix and learn more about local species. If seeking land animals, the hiking trails near Clark's Bay and the surrounding area offer a chance to see elk, bighorn sheep, and bears. Alternatively, there are several commercial boat tours up the Maddison River and into the Gates of the Mountains. Locals and fellow RVers agree that the tour is a must-do if you are in the area and craving to see and photograph wildlife. Boat tours disembark from the Gates of the Mountains Marina, 24 miles north of Clark's Bay.
Meriwether Picnic Area, 28 miles north of Clark's Bay, is a unique experience because most visitors arrive by boat. On the Missouri River, the park features tables under shelter, potable water, and restrooms. Spring Meadow State Park is a local favorite because it features a trail around the lake and plenty of grills to cook up some eats. The park is 16 miles west of Clark's Bay, near Helena.
Several RV camping opportunities near Clark's Bay have stunning views of the Big Belt and the Elkhorn mountains. Besides the scenery, Devil's Elbow and White Sandy campgrounds offer level parking pads, fire rings, and picnic tables at each site. Additionally, these campgrounds have concrete docks, vault toilets, and fish cleaning stations.
Duck Creek, Cottonwood Creek, and Gelena Gulch are just some of the primitive campgrounds offering excellent Bureau of Land Management free camping near Clark's Bay. These sites have space for RV camping but minimal amenities. You can search "BLM camping near me" once in the area to find more free camping opportunities.
Weather can change rapidly in the mountain environment near Clark's Bay, so packing clothes appropriate for adverse conditions is important. Another consideration is a plan to secure your food by keeping it in your RV or bringing along a bear-proof container for storage. The state has emphasized a concern about raccoons, seagulls, and other wildlife getting into visitors' edibles, turning wildlife into pests that plague camping areas. Before leaving on your trip to Clark's Bay, you may want to check out our blog about BLM camping, which will give you some hints and tips on being comfortable on your first primitive camping expedition.
The BLM requires visitors to public lands to clean up after themselves and do their best to limit their impact on the environment. By adhering to BLM rules, RVers ensure that future visitors to Clark's Bay will enjoy the area for generations to come.
From Helena, take Exit 193 from I-15. Travel on Washington Street, pass the airport, then turn right onto Canyon Ferry Road for 0.5 miles. Lastly, turn left on York Road and drive 11 miles until you reach the Clark's Bay entrance sign.
Ready to visit Clark's Bay Day Use Area? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you'll have your RV to return to for the night, where you'll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here's a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.
