Cromwell Dixon Campground
The campground operates seasonally, typically opening around Memorial Day weekend and closing in mid-October depending on weather conditions. First-come, first-served only; no advance reservations for individual sites. Due to its high elevation on the Continental Divide, opening dates may vary based on snowpack.
Air Quality Alert issued August 10 at 7:30AM MDT by NWS Great Falls MT
AQAMT The Montana Department of Environmental Quality has issued an air quality alert for Beaverhead, Broadwater, Deer Lodge, Flathead, Gallatin, Granite, Jefferson, Lake, Lewis and Clark, Lincoln, Madison, Mineral, Missoula, Park, Powell, Ravalli, Silver Bow, Sweet Grass, Sanders, Yellowstone counties in effect until 9AM on 08/11/2026 An Air Quality Alert means that particulates have been trending upwards and that an exceedance of the 24 hour National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) has occurred or may occur in the near future. Elevated particulate levels from wildfire smoke As of 7AM on 08/10/2026, particulate levels in Columbia Falls, Frenchtown, Libby and Missoula are Unhealthy. As of 7AM on 08/10/2026, particulate levels in Billings, Dillon, Great Falls, Helena and Thompson Falls are Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. As of 7AM on 08/10/2026, particulate levels in Butte, Cut Bank, Hamilton, Lewistown and Sleeping Giant are Moderate. When air quality is Unhealthy... State and local health officials recommend that people with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly, and children should avoid prolonged exertion; everyone else should limit prolonged exertion. When air quality is Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups... State and local health officials recommend that people with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly and children should limit prolonged exertion. When air quality is Moderate... State and local health officials recommend that unusually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion. For more information visit the Montana Department of Environmental Quality at http://todaysair.mtdeq.us
About
Cromwell Dixon Campground occupies a scenic 9-acre site perched at 6,325 feet elevation directly on the Continental Divide at MacDonald Pass, approximately 15 miles west of Helena via US Highway 12. The campground commemorates aviator Cromwell Dixon, who in 1911 became the first person to fly an airplane across the Continental Divide at this location. The setting offers expansive views encompassing alpine meadows, forested slopes, and distant mountain peaks. The campground features 15 established campsites equipped with picnic tables and fire rings. Facilities include vault toilets and potable water available from a hand pump. This is a pack-it-out site, so campers must remove all trash. The campground sees heavy use during the summer season due to its convenient location and proximity to Helena. Nearby trailhead access to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail makes this an excellent staging area for day hikes or longer backpacking trips. The area supports diverse recreational activities including hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. Pets are permitted but must remain leashed. The campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis with a 14-night maximum stay limit.
Directions
From Helena, travel west on US Highway 12 for approximately 15 miles to the top of MacDonald Pass. The campground entrance is located off Highway 12 at the pass.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $15 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | 15ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | — |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (406) 449-5490 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | None |
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!