Places to Camp near Red Lodge, MT

Camping near Red Lodge, Montana

Red Lodge, Montana, is a fantastic destination for camping enthusiasts. Nestled in the heart of the Beartooth Mountains, this area offers a variety of camping experiences, from established campgrounds to more rustic, dispersed sites. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot by a creek or a family-friendly campground with amenities, Red Lodge has something for everyone.

Two popular campgrounds in the area are Basin Campground and Red Lodge KOA. Each offers unique features and experiences, making them great choices for different types of campers. Read on to learn more about what to do, what campers like, what you should know, and tips for camping with families and RVs.

What to do

Red Lodge is a gateway to outdoor adventures. From hiking and fishing to exploring scenic drives, there's no shortage of activities to keep you busy.

One of the highlights is the hiking opportunities. As one camper at Basin Campground mentioned, "There are dispersed sites up the road a piece and great hiking at the end of the road." - Jim.

Fishing enthusiasts will also find plenty to love. The West Fork of Rock Creek near Basin Campground is a great spot for fishing. "This is a small but nicely maintained campground about 7 miles from Red Lodge, MT on the West Fork of Rock Creek." - James S..

For those who enjoy scenic drives, the Beartooth Highway and Chief Joseph Highway offer breathtaking views and are easily accessible from Red Lodge KOA. "What a great clean campground near the Beartooth Hwy, Chief Joseph Hwy and beautiful Red Lodge." - deb k..

What campers like

Campers appreciate the natural beauty and tranquility of the campgrounds near Red Lodge. Many reviews highlight the peaceful environment and friendly hosts.

At Basin Campground, one camper noted, "The sites are big, close to a creek to lull you to sleep and everything is fairly level." - Jim.

Another camper at Red Lodge KOA appreciated the cleanliness and hospitality, saying, "The campgrounds were nice and clean. As were all facilities. Hosts were friendly." - Jay T..

The sense of community is also a big plus. "Friendly camp host and some long-stayers happy to chat us up as we set up camp." - J T..

What you should know

While camping near Red Lodge offers many benefits, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure a smooth experience.

Some campgrounds, like Basin Campground, do not have electric hookups or showers. "It is dry camping but plenty of sun in the right places." - Jim.

Noise can be an issue at certain locations. One camper at Red Lodge KOA mentioned, "A little noisy because it is right on the main road." - Jay T..

Additionally, some sites can feel crowded. "There are a lot of sites here and they are close to each other kinda feels like a fish bowl." - Tarrah C..

Tips for camping with families

Camping with families near Red Lodge can be a rewarding experience with the right preparation. Look for campgrounds that offer amenities and activities suitable for children.

Red Lodge KOA is a great option for families. "The north tentsite side has the benefit of river ambience, while the south side has the kid playground amenities." - Bjorn S..

The friendly atmosphere is also a big plus for families. "Very friendly hosts!" - David F..

Make sure to bring plenty of activities to keep the kids entertained, and take advantage of the nearby hiking trails and scenic spots.

Tips from RVers

RVers will find several campgrounds near Red Lodge that cater to their needs. Look for sites with full hookups and easy access.

Red Lodge KOA is particularly RV-friendly, offering electric hookups, sanitary dumps, and water hookups. "The hook ups are awesome, heated pool, immaculate facilities, and awesome trail off the CG." - deb k..

Another RVer mentioned the ease of access at Basin Campground, saying, "Easy in/out. Coming through on motorcycles, we got the last spot on a Wednesday." - J T..

It's also helpful to know that some campgrounds may not have WiFi or strong cell signals. "The only drawback was spotty WiFi and limited channels using antenna." - deb k..

Camping near Red Lodge, Montana, offers a mix of natural beauty, friendly communities, and a variety of activities. Whether you're a tent camper, RVer, or looking for a family-friendly spot, you'll find plenty to enjoy in this scenic area.

Best Camping Sites Near Red Lodge, MT (88)

    Camper-submitted photo from Basin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Basin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Basin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Basin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Basin Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Basin Campground

    1.

    Basin Campground

    20 Reviews
    32 Photos
    61 Saves
    Red Lodge, Montana

    Overview

    Basin Campground is located 7 miles west of Red Lodge, Montana, along Forest Road 2071, which is paved all the way to the campground. The area is a popular location for hiking, backpacking and fishing.

    Recreation

    Fishing is a popular activity along the West Fork of Rock Creek and at nearby Wild Bill Lake. The small lake is open to kayaking and canoeing, and an accessible fishing dock is located on the shore. The Basin Lakes Trailhead is just across the road. Silver Run Plateau, West Fork and Timberline Lakes Trails offer access to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Mountain bikers enjoy the Ingles Creek Trail and a variety of loop trails at Silver Run. Biking is also allowed on the Basin Lakes Trail.

    Facilities

    Fishing is a popular activity along the West Fork of Rock Creek and at nearby Wild Bill Lake. The small lake is open to kayaking and canoeing, and an accessible fishing dock is located on the shore. The Basin Lakes Trailhead is just across the road. Silver Run Plateau, West Fork and Timberline Lakes Trails offer access to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Mountain bikers enjoy the Ingles Creek Trail and a variety of loop trails at Silver Run. Biking is also allowed on the Basin Lakes Trail.

    Natural Features

    The campground is situated on the banks of the West Fork of Rock Creek. The campground and the area surrounding the campground were burned by the Cascade Fire in 2008, leaving an open landscape abounding with wildflowers.

    Nearby Attractions

    The charming town of Red Lodge, Montana offers a variety of dining and lodging options, galleries, shops and summer events. The Home of Champions Rodeo is held on Fourth of July weekend, Beartooth Bike Rally and Iron Horse Rodeo in mid-July, Mountain Man Rendezvous in late July and the Festival of Nations in early August. The Beartooth Highway was deemed "the most beautiful drive in America" by the late Charles Kuralt. It snakes across the rugged Beartooth Mountains from Red Lodge to Cooke City, Montana, and is the highest elevation highway in the Northern Rockies. Along the way, visitors are treated to sweeping views and plentiful outdoor recreation opportunities.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Refunds: Refund requests made through www.recreation.gov will be charged a $10 processing fee. This cancellation processing fee is retained by the reservation service contractor along with the non-refundable reservation fee. All requests for the return of the non-refundable reservation fee and the cancellation processing fee will be declined by the campground concessionaire as they did not receive these fees (these are the fees retained by the reservation contractor, a different entity).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash

    $20 - $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Red Lodge KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Lodge KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Lodge KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Lodge KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Lodge KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Red Lodge KOA

    2.

    Red Lodge KOA

    10 Reviews
    86 Photos
    34 Saves
    Red Lodge, Montana

    Our KOA is located just 4 miles north of Red Lodge. We offer KOA Patio Sites, RV Sites, Tent Sites, and Kamping Kabins. Amenities include a heated pool, new playground, new gem mining sluice (which is open to the public), outdoor activities, and access to Rock Creek. We are the perfect basecamp while exploring Red Lodge, the Beartooth Scenic Hwy, Yellowstone NP, or numerous other breathtaking sites around our area. Happy Kamping, The Tubb's

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Itch-Kep-Pe Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Itch-Kep-Pe Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Itch-Kep-Pe Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Itch-Kep-Pe Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Itch-Kep-Pe Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Itch-Kep-Pe Park

    3.

    Itch-Kep-Pe Park

    25 Reviews
    28 Photos
    98 Saves
    Fishtail, Montana

    Welcome to Itch-Kep-Pe Park, a charming spot near Columbus, MT, perfect for a laid-back camping experience. This place is open from April 1 to October 31, and it's a great spot to unwind by the Yellowstone River. The park offers a mix of tent and RV accommodations, making it a versatile choice for different camping styles.

    One of the standout features here is the easy access from I-90, which makes it a convenient stop for travelers. The campsites are nicely spaced out, each equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring. You can enjoy a peaceful walk along the river trail, especially if you have dogs—they'll love it too. Fishing is a popular activity, so bring your gear if you're into that.

    While the park is free, it's donation-based, so consider leaving a contribution to help maintain the area. There are vault toilets available, but don't expect luxury—some visitors have noted they're not the best. The park can get a bit noisy due to the nearby highway, train tracks, and occasional generators, but the beautiful river views and large trees make up for it.

    If you're into nature, you'll appreciate the scenic walks and the chance to spot wildlife like bald eagles. Just be prepared for bugs, especially mosquitoes and ticks. Despite some minor drawbacks, many campers find Itch-Kep-Pe Park a pleasant and convenient place to stay, especially for a quick overnight stop. Enjoy your stay and don't forget to take a stroll down to the river for some stunning views!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Perry's RV and Campgrounds
    Camper-submitted photo from Perry's RV and Campgrounds
    Camper-submitted photo from Perry's RV and Campgrounds
    Camper-submitted photo from Perry's RV and Campgrounds
    Camper-submitted photo from Perry's RV and Campgrounds
    Camper-submitted photo from Perry's RV and Campgrounds

    4.

    Perry's RV and Campgrounds

    6 Reviews
    17 Photos
    67 Saves
    Red Lodge, Montana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $40 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Greenough Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenough Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenough Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenough Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenough Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Greenough Lake

    5.

    Greenough Lake

    8 Reviews
    56 Photos
    75 Saves
    Red Lodge, Montana

    Overview

    Greenough Lake Campground is within walking distance of its namesake, 12 miles south of Red Lodge, in southern Montana. It is located just off the scenic Beartooth Highway. The area is a popular location for fishing, hiking and scenic driving. Glacier Lake, Hellroaring and Lake Fork trailheads are nearby.

    Recreation

    Greenough Lake offers canoeing, kayaking and rainbow trout fishing. The Main Fork of Rock Creek is also a popular fishing stream. The Beartooth Wilderness can be accessed via the Hellroaring and Lake Fork trailheads, both of which are not far from the campground. Visitors also enjoy mountain biking and hiking on the Parkside National Recreation Trail. Hellroaring Road is open to off-road vehicles.

    Facilities

    Greenough Lake offers canoeing, kayaking and rainbow trout fishing. The Main Fork of Rock Creek is also a popular fishing stream. The Beartooth Wilderness can be accessed via the Hellroaring and Lake Fork trailheads, both of which are not far from the campground. Visitors also enjoy mountain biking and hiking on the Parkside National Recreation Trail. Hellroaring Road is open to off-road vehicles.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits in the shadow of the Beartooth Range, on the banks of Rock Creek, less than a quarter-mile from beautiful Greenough Lake. A forest of aspen and pine trees covers the area. A variety of wildlife, including grizzly bears, deer and elk, makes its home in the surrounding area.

    Nearby Attractions

    The charming town of Red Lodge, Mont., offers a variety of dining and lodging options, galleries, shops and annual summer events. The Home of Champions Rodeo is held on the Fourth of July weekend, the Beartooth Bike Rally and Iron Horse Rodeo take place in mid-July, the Mountain Man Rendezvous is in late July, and the Festival of Nations happens in early August. The Beartooth Highway was deemed "the most beautiful drive in America," by the late Charles Kuralt. It snakes across the rugged Beartooth Mountains from Red Lodge to Cooke City. It is the highest elevation highway in the Northern Rockies. Along the way, visitors are treated to sweeping views and plentiful opportunities for outdoor recreation. Yellowstone National Park's northeast entrance is 55 miles from the campground, via the Beartooth Highway. The park offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities, as well as breathtaking scenery and unique geological features.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Refunds: Refund requests made through www.recreation.gov will be charged a $10 processing fee. This cancellation processing fee is retained by the reservation service contractor along with the non-refundable reservation fee. All requests for the return of the non-refundable reservation fee and the cancellation processing fee will be declined by the campground concessionaire as they did not receive these fees (these are the fees retained by the reservation contractor, a different entity).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash

    $20 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Parkside
    Camper-submitted photo from Parkside
    Camper-submitted photo from Parkside
    Camper-submitted photo from Parkside
    Camper-submitted photo from Parkside
    Camper-submitted photo from Parkside

    6.

    Parkside

    8 Reviews
    53 Photos
    46 Saves
    Red Lodge, Montana

    Overview

    Parkside Campground is located 12 miles south of Red Lodge, Montana, just off the scenic Beartooth Highway. The area is a popular location for fishing, hiking and scenic driving. Greenough Lake less than a mile away. Glacier Lake, Hellroaring and Lake Fork Trailheads are nearby.

    Recreation

    The Main Fork of Rock Creek and nearby 5-acre Greenough Lake offer rainbow trout fishing. The lake is also open to canoeing and kayaking. The Beartooth Wilderness can be accessed via the Hellroaring and Lake Fork Trailheads, both nearby. Visitors also enjoy mountain biking and hiking on the Parkside National Recreation Trail. Hellroaring Road is open to off-road vehicles.

    Facilities

    The Main Fork of Rock Creek and nearby 5-acre Greenough Lake offer rainbow trout fishing. The lake is also open to canoeing and kayaking. The Beartooth Wilderness can be accessed via the Hellroaring and Lake Fork Trailheads, both nearby. Visitors also enjoy mountain biking and hiking on the Parkside National Recreation Trail. Hellroaring Road is open to off-road vehicles.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits in the shadow of the Beartooth Range on the banks of Rock Creek. A forest of aspen and pine covers the area. A variety of wildlife, including grizzly bear, deer and elk, make their home in the surrounding area.

    Nearby Attractions

    The charming town of Red Lodge, Montana offers a variety of dining and lodging options, galleries, shops and summer events. The Home of Champions Rodeo is held on the Fourth of July weekend, Beartooth Bike Rally and Iron Horse Rodeo in mid-July, Mountain Man Rendezvous in late July and the Festival of Nations in early August. The Beartooth Highway was deemed "the most beautiful drive in America" by the late Charles Kuralt. It snakes across the rugged Beartooth Mountains from Red Lodge to Cooke City, Montana, and is the highest elevation highway in the Northern Rockies. Along the way, visitors are treated to sweeping views and plentiful outdoor recreation opportunities. Yellowstone National Park's Northeast Entrance is 55 miles from the campground via the Beartooth Highway. The park offers unparalleled wildlife viewing opportunities, as well as breathtaking scenery and unique geological features.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Refunds: Refund requests made through www.recreation.gov will be charged a $10 processing fee. This cancellation processing fee is retained by the reservation service contractor along with the non-refundable reservation fee. All requests for the return of the non-refundable reservation fee and the cancellation processing fee will be declined by the campground concessionaire as they did not receive these fees (these are the fees retained by the reservation contractor, a different entity).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    $80 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Campground-Custer National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Campground-Custer National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Campground-Custer National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Campground-Custer National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Campground-Custer National Forest
    Camper-submitted photo from Cascade Campground-Custer National Forest

    7.

    Cascade Campground-Custer National Forest

    5 Reviews
    12 Photos
    23 Saves
    Red Lodge, Montana

    Overview

    Cascade Campground is located 11 miles west of Red Lodge, in southern Montana. It conveniently sits along Forest Road 2071, which is paved for most of the route. The area is a popular location for hiking, backpacking and fishing.

    Recreation

    Fishing is a popular activity along the West Fork of Rock Creek and at nearby Wild Bill Lake. The small lake is open to kayaking and canoeing, and an accessible fishing dock is located on the shore. The Basin Lakes Trailhead is three miles away, across the road from Basin Campground. Silver Run Plateau, West Fork and Timberline Lakes trails offer access to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Mountain bikers enjoy the Ingles Creek Trail and a variety of loop trails at Silver Run. Biking is also allowed on the Basin Lakes Trail.

    Facilities

    Fishing is a popular activity along the West Fork of Rock Creek and at nearby Wild Bill Lake. The small lake is open to kayaking and canoeing, and an accessible fishing dock is located on the shore. The Basin Lakes Trailhead is three miles away, across the road from Basin Campground. Silver Run Plateau, West Fork and Timberline Lakes trails offer access to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Mountain bikers enjoy the Ingles Creek Trail and a variety of loop trails at Silver Run. Biking is also allowed on the Basin Lakes Trail.

    Natural Features

    The campground is situated on the banks of the West Fork of Rock Creek. The area surrounding the campground was burned by the Cascade Fire in 2008, which left many open glades with abundant wildflowers.

    Nearby Attractions

    The charming town of Red Lodge, Mont., offers a variety of dining and lodging options, galleries, shops and annual summer events. The Home of Champions Rodeo is held on the Fourth of July weekend, Beartooth Bike Rally and Iron Horse Rodeo take place in mid-July, the Mountain Man Rendezvous is in late July and the Festival of Nations happens in early August. The Beartooth Highway was deemed "the most beautiful drive in America," by the late Charles Kuralt. It snakes across the rugged Beartooth Mountains from Red Lodge to Cooke City. It is the highest elevation highway in the Northern Rockies. Along the way, visitors are treated to sweeping views and plentiful opportunities for outdoor recreation.

    contact_info

    For facility specific information, please call (928) 537-8888.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Refunds: Refund requests made through www.recreation.gov will be charged a $10 processing fee. This cancellation processing fee is retained by the reservation service contractor along with the non-refundable reservation fee. All requests for the return of the non-refundable reservation fee and the cancellation processing fee will be declined by the campground concessionaire as they did not receive these fees (these are the fees retained by the reservation contractor, a different entity).

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Trash

    $18 - $34 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Cooney State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cooney State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cooney State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cooney State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cooney State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Cooney State Park Campground

    8.

    Cooney State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    23 Photos
    30 Saves
    Roberts, Montana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    Camper-submitted photo from Lily Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Lily Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Lily Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Lily Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Lily Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Lily Lake

    9.

    Lily Lake

    9 Reviews
    65 Photos
    216 Saves
    Cooke City, Montana

    This dispersed camping area has eight camping spots and a boat launch to the picturesque Lily Lake. 16-day stay limit Water: Not available This site is not accessible to persons with mobility impairments No cell service Notes: Boat launch, three shared bear boxes, five picnic tables, but no metal fire rings or grates. No garbage collection

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Beartooth Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Beartooth Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Beartooth Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Beartooth Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Beartooth Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Beartooth Lake

    10.

    Beartooth Lake

    6 Reviews
    31 Photos
    104 Saves
    Cooke City, Montana

    The Beartooth Lake Campground has 21 sites and is located near many beautiful mountain lakes. Water is available at the campground, and there is a nearby store for supplies. There is no cell service available. This site is not accessible to persons with mobility impairments. Maximum spur 32 feet.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
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Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Red Lodge, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, Red Lodge, MT offers a wide range of camping options, with 88 campgrounds and RV parks near Red Lodge, MT and 14 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Red Lodge, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Red Lodge, MT is Basin Campground with a 4.7-star rating from 20 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Red Lodge, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 free dispersed camping spots near Red Lodge, MT.

What parks are near Red Lodge, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Red Lodge, MT that allow camping, notably Yellowstone National Park and Shoshone National Forest.