Best Time to Visit Lincoln, MT | Lost Moose Meadows

Spring brings a slower pace, summer fills the days with mountain outings and small town traditions, and fall invites you to linger outside with a warm cup of coffee. Here’s a look at the season so you can choose what sounds best to you.

Mid April to May

Spring

We open April 15, and spring is a good time to settle in and enjoy the valley waking up around you. Green starts returning to the meadows while snow can still brighten the mountains.

Spend an afternoon walking through Sculpture in the Wild, stop in town for a meal or take a drive through the valley. Bring layers for the changing weather, then make yourself comfortable and enjoy having a little less on the schedule.

Spring rates begin April 15. Summer rates begin on the Friday of Memorial Day weekend each year. See Sites & Rates for your travel dates.

RVs on spacious sites with snowy peaks behind

June

Early summer

June brings green hills, long evenings and more reasons to spend the day outside. Make time for a ride, explore around Lincoln or head out on a day trip while the mountains still hold patches of snow.

On the Blackfoot, anglers look forward to the salmonfly hatch as summer approaches. Its timing depends on river conditions, so a local outfitter can help you decide where and when to fish during your stay.

Pack a rain jacket alongside your sunglasses. If a particular high country trail or ride is on your list, check its access before you come.

July and August

Summer

Summer brings long days, mountain outings and some of Lincoln’s favorite traditions. Head out after breakfast, spend the day exploring and come back with time to relax at your site.

Fourth of July is a big occasion here, with a parade, the Lincoln Rodeo and evening fireworks. Sculpture in the Wild also hosts a summer performance series, giving you another way to spend an afternoon around town. Check the local event calendar to see what lines up with your stay.

Between outings, there’s something to be said for opening the awning and kicking back at camp. Bring a warm layer for the evening, enjoy a campfire when permitted and leave time to look up after dark.

September

Early fall

September has plenty going for it: cooler mornings, time outdoors and the start of fall color around the valley. Take a drive, choose a hike or spend an afternoon taking in the view.

During the fall rut, you may hear elk bugling in the surrounding country. It’s something to listen for while you’re outside, and hearing one is always a treat.

Grab a jacket for the evenings, keep your plans simple and give yourself time to enjoy the season. A day exploring followed by dinner at your RV can be plenty.

October 1 to 14

Late fall

October brings the final two weeks of our season. Fall color gives you a reason to take the scenic route, and crisp mornings make that first cup of coffee especially welcome.

Head into town, take a drive or settle into a chair when the afternoon warms up. Pack for cold nights and changing weather so you can stay comfortable through the last part of the season.

Fall rates run October 1 through October 14. October 14 is the last night you can book, with checkout on October 15.

Best Time to Visit

Which month is right for you?

A slower stay: Consider spring or fall if your plans include time around town and quiet afternoons at your site.
Hiking and mountain outings: July through September is a good starting point for planning higher country hikes. Match your dates to the route you want to explore. See our hiking guide.
Fishing: Plan around the water you want to fish, the hatches that interest you and current conditions. Our fishing guide will help you start with public access and destination ideas.
Events and small town fun: Look at July and August, with Independence Day celebrations and summer performances. Check the local calendar before choosing dates around an event.
Fall color and wildlife watching: Consider September and the first two weeks of October. Color timing varies from year to year, and you never know what you’ll spot. Bring binoculars and see what catches your eye.
Stargazing: Choose clear nights with little moonlight. Summer and fall evenings can offer views of the Milky Way, with nothing more than a chair and time to look up. See our stargazing guide.
Seasonal rates: Compare your dates on Sites & Rates to find the stay that works for you.

Season at a glance

Open: April 15 to October 15
Spring rates: Begin April 15
Summer rates: Begin the Friday of Memorial Day weekend
Fall rates: October 1 to October 14
Last bookable night: October 14, with checkout October 15

A few tips for any time of year

Bring layers. An afternoon outside and an evening under the stars can call for different clothing.
Have particular dates in mind? Check availability early, especially if you’re planning around a holiday or local event.
Staying longer? See our weekly and monthly stay details.
If hunting is part of your trip, check current Montana FWP season dates, district rules and license requirements.

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