Reservations are available at Vigilante Campground, one of two small campgrounds within Bannack State Park, and that access to a booking system matters here since the site count is low: 15 sites plus one tipi site, with one spot designated specifically for bikers. Nightly rates run from $0 to $54, and non-Montana residents should expect to pay more. The access road has drawn comments from multiple visitors, so arriving with a capable vehicle is worth factoring into plans.
Sites sit alongside Grasshopper Creek, which shapes the experience in a few ways. Fly fishing is possible directly from camp, cottonwoods provide shade over some sites, and mosquitoes can be heavy near the water, particularly in summer. Cell coverage is limited or absent. The campground has vault toilets, a community water faucet, and trash bins. Campers with trailers report enough room to maneuver, though reviewers note it is worth topping off supplies in Dillon before arriving. For those exploring campgrounds around Bannack State Park, the nearby Road Agent Campground — Bannack State Park offers 8 additional sites with a similar setup.
The main draw beyond the creek is the Bannack ghost town, which sits within walking distance of camp. The 1860s mining-era buildings have been stabilized and are open for self-guided exploration, and the park hosts periodic reenactment events that draw larger crowds. A camp host is typically on site and sells firewood. Vigilante Campground works best for history-focused campers, anglers, and families who want a base close to the ghost town without driving out each day.
Description
Bannack State Park is a National Historic Landmark and the site of Montana's first major gold discovery on July 28, 1862. This strike set off a massive gold rush that swelled Bannack's population to over 3,000 by 1863. As the easy to mine gold steadily dwindled, Bannack's bustling population slowly declined till no one was left. Over 50 buildings line Main Street; their historic log and frame structures recall Montana's formative years.
A walk down the deserted streets of Bannack evokes a feeling of the realities faced in the 'Old West.' Bannack is the best preserved of all Montana ghost towns -- being preserved rather than restored, protected rather than exploited.
Bannack Days, with historic displays, re-enactors, and activities, is held the third weekend in July each year. Tours are conducted from the visitor center, which is open from Memorial Day through Labor Day.
Bannack has one wall tent and two campgrounds; Vigilante and Road Agent offering a total of 24 campsites, 8 of which are available on a first come, first served basis.
Bannack also has several group day use facilities for special events and occasions. Inquire with park staff regarding their availability.
<font>ADA designated campsites may only be reserved and occupied by a party who can provide proof of disability upon arrival. Proof of eligibility for at least one member of your party will be required in the form of a DMV (or other states equivalent) issued person with disabilities placard or disabilities motor vehicle license plate. The eligible member of your party must be an occupant of the site for the entire reserved period. Failure to comply with these requirements will result in the cancellation of your reservation and forfeiture of your reservation fee. Additional cancellation fees will be applied. </font>
Some yurts, cabins and group facilities are ADA accessible and do not require proof of disability upon arrival.
Camping is allowed in designated areas only. All boats, trailers, rigs and motorized vehicles must fit entirely within the campsite parking-spur provided. Any equipment that does not fit entirely within the campsite parking-spur must be parked outside the campground in an area designated by the park manager.
Open fires are allowed only in established iron fire rings and grills. Propane and LPG camp stoves are allowed. Smoking is not allowed except in enclosed vehicles or developed sites at least 3 feet in diameter and cleared of all flammable materials.
Reservations are non-transferable and cannot be sold, bartered, or traded. The primary occupant and/or their party are the only persons authorized to camp in the site during the duration of their reservation.
Check-in time is 2:00pm for campsites and 3:00pm for yurts, cabins and wall tent's (local time).
The maximum capacity at each individually signed or numbered campsite is eight (8) people. This typically involves a single camping unit, which includes, but not limited to, a tent, motor home, camping bus, truck mounted camper shell, pull-type camper, or other device designed and commonly used for sleeping. In the event the site is designated as Double Site, the site capacity for that site is doubled to allow for sixteen (16) people and two camping units.
Campfires are allowed in designated areas only!
Pets must be kept on a leash. Please check with destination park staff for local restrictions.
Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00pm to 7:00am.
Fireworks are prohibited in all parks at all times. No Exceptions..
In case of an emergency when visiting Montana State Parks, please dial 911. You may also wish to notify park staff for additional assistance if necessary.
For non-emergency assistance please contact park staff.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsVigilante Campground is located in Montana near Polaris
Public CampgroundDirections
**Bannack State Park is located in the southwestern area of Montana.** Take I-15 south of Dillon to exit #59 (Highway 278 exit.) Drive west on Highway 278 for 17 miles. Turn south onto the Bannack Road and travel four miles. Park entrance road will be on the left hand side.
Address
721 Bannack Rd
Dillon, MT 59725
Coordinates
45.16492035 N
113.00419928 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
- Group
- Cabins
- Tent Cabin
- Yurts
Features
For Campers
- Picnic Table
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sewer Hookups
- Water Hookups
- Pull-Through Sites
- 30 Amp Hookups
- 50 Amp Hookups
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 2 hrs 13 min from Bozeman, MT
- 2 hrs 16 min from Idaho Falls, ID
- 2 hrs 16 min from Helena, MT
- 2 hrs 47 min from Missoula, MT
