Best Camping in Montana

A state of staggering variety, Montana is truly one of the nation’s best camping destinations. The eastern part of the state characterized by badlands and prairie, the west is where most of the fun is found. Camping in Montana means sleeping in some of the most sensational landscapes anywhere in the USA.

With no fewer than 50 state parks and two of the greatest national parks in America, Montana is an adventurer’s paradise. The brightest star in Montana’s firmament is Glacier National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that is blessed with magnificent mountainscapes. If you’re looking to go camping in Montana, Glacier should be at the top of your list.

Many explorers look for camping in Montana’s Yellowstone National Park, a sliver of which lies along the state’s southwestern border. Few people know this, but Montana is a superb access point to the world’s very first national park. If a visit to Yellowstone is on your itinerary, make sure to enter the park via the scenic Beartooth Highway.

Another great camping destination in Montana is gorgeous Flathead Lake, located within the Kootenai Tribes Flathead Reservation and the contiguous USA’s largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi. Numerous recreation areas surround Flathead Lake, offering excellent picnicking, fishing and camping. More adventure-minded travelers might want to attempt an ascent of Granite Peak, the highest mountain in the state.

If you’re looking to travel off the beaten path, Montana offers you plenty of opportunities to do so. With more than 70 different mountain ranges belonging to the giant Rocky Mountains chain, it is easy to unplug and get closer to nature while camping in Montana. Pick a lesser-known campground and explore Montana “behind the scenes”.

In addition to fishing, rock climbing, and camping in Montana, there are myriad other ways to enjoy the state’s glorious natural scenery. Go mountain biking, whitewater rafting, horseback riding, backpacking...the list of choices is never-ending!

Best Camping Sites in Montana (1,361)

    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park

    1.

    Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park

    59 Reviews
    210 Photos
    479 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Overview

    Apgar, Fish Creek, and St. Mary Campground reservations WILL NOT provide access to any vehicle reservation areas (including the west side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and North Fork). To obtain a vehicle reservation, visit Glacier National Park Vehicle Reservations on Recreation.gov. __ Fish Creek Campground is the second largest campground in Glacier National Park. Glacier National Park, in northwestern Montana, is comprised of pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles (1,125 km) of trails, Glacier is a hiker's paradise for visitors seeking wilderness and solitude. It also provides countless scenic vistas for those wishing to relax and take in its natural beauty. The campground is located on the western side of the park at an elevation of nearly 3,500 feet (1,066 m). This area of the park generally receives the most rainfall. Daytime temperatures can exceed 90__F (32__C), although it is frequently 10__ to 15__ F cooler at higher elevations. Weather in the mountains can be varied, including snow in summer; visitors should come prepared for anything.

    Recreation

    This facility is conveniently located in the western part of the park, nearby many day hikes, including Rocky Point Trail, which wanders through a burn area from a 2003 wildfire. Explorers of all ages can attend nightly ranger programs at an amphitheater within the facility.

    Facilities

    This facility is conveniently located in the western part of the park, nearby many day hikes, including Rocky Point Trail, which wanders through a burn area from a 2003 wildfire. Explorers of all ages can attend nightly ranger programs at an amphitheater within the facility.

    Natural Features

    Fish Creek is heavily forested with plenty of shade. Some sites have views of Lake McDonald. The park is named for its prominent glacier-carved terrain and remnant glaciers descended from the ice ages almost 10,000 years ago. Its diverse habitats are home to nearly 70 species of mammals including the grizzly bear, wolverine, gray wolf and lynx. Over 270 species of birds visit or reside in the park, including such varied species as harlequin ducks, dippers and golden eagles.

    Nearby Attractions

    One must-see attraction is Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier's sister park across the Canadian-U.S. border. As the other half of Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Waterton Lakes offers great hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the townsite of Waterton. Waterton Lakes National Park

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park

    2.

    Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park

    55 Reviews
    186 Photos
    494 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Overview

    Apgar, Fish Creek, and St. Mary Campground reservations WILL NOT provide access to any vehicle reservation areas (including the west side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and North Fork). To obtain a vehicle reservation, visit Glacier National Park Vehicle Reservations on Recreation.gov. Apgar Campground is situated on the southern tip of Lake McDonald in beautiful Glacier National Park in northwestern Montana. Pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains and spectacular lakes are found throughout the park. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier is a paradise for hikers seeking wilderness and solitude. It also provides countless scenic vistas for those wishing to relax and take in the natural beauty of the park.

    Recreation

    Lake McDonald provides great opportunities for boating, water skiing, canoeing and fishing in its cold mountain waters. A variety of fish are found in the lake, including cutthroat, rainbow, bull and lake trout, whitefish and Kokanee salmon.The campground is conveniently close to many trailheads for day hikes, including Apgar Lookout Trail, a 3.3-mile (5.3 km) trail leading up to a fire lookout with breathtaking views of Lake McDonald. The Apgar Bike Path, a paved 1.5-mile (2.4 km) trail popular for walking and biking, leads to the nearby Apgar Visitor Center and Village. Horseback ride reservations, boat rentals, shuttle service and Red Bus Tour reservations are available here.One of the most amazing highlights of Glacier National Park is a drive on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which travels past the campground. This engineering marvel spans 50 miles (80 km) through the park's wild interior, winding around mountainsides and treating visitors to some of the best sights in northwest Montana.

    Facilities

    Lake McDonald provides great opportunities for boating, water skiing, canoeing and fishing in its cold mountain waters. A variety of fish are found in the lake, including cutthroat, rainbow, bull and lake trout, whitefish and Kokanee salmon.The campground is conveniently close to many trailheads for day hikes, including Apgar Lookout Trail, a 3.3-mile (5.3 km) trail leading up to a fire lookout with breathtaking views of Lake McDonald. The Apgar Bike Path, a paved 1.5-mile (2.4 km) trail popular for walking and biking, leads to the nearby Apgar Visitor Center and Village. Horseback ride reservations, boat rentals, shuttle service and Red Bus Tour reservations are available here.One of the most amazing highlights of Glacier National Park is a drive on the Going-to-the-Sun Road, which travels past the campground. This engineering marvel spans 50 miles (80 km) through the park's wild interior, winding around mountainsides and treating visitors to some of the best sights in northwest Montana.

    Natural Features

    Apgar is located in a dense forest on the western side of the park at an elevation of nearly 3,500 feet (1067 m). This area of the park generally receives the most rainfall. Daytime temperatures can exceed 90 degrees, although it is frequently 10 to 15 degrees cooler at higher elevations. Weather in the mountains can be varied, including snow in summer. Visitors should come prepared for anything.The park is named for its prominent glacier-carved terrain and remnant glaciers descended from the ice ages almost 10,000 years ago. Its diverse habitats are home to nearly 70 species of mammals including the grizzly bear, wolverine, gray wolf and lynx. Over 270 species of birds visit or reside in the park, including such varied species as Harlequin ducks, Dippers and Golden eagles.

    Nearby Attractions

    One must-see attraction is Waterton Lakes National Park, Glacier's sister park across the Canadian-U.S. border. As the other half of Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Canada's Waterton Lakes National Park offers great hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the townsite of Waterton.__

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $65 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Campground

    3.

    Glacier Campground

    49 Reviews
    138 Photos
    419 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Glacier Campground is located just one mile from the west entrance of Glacier National Park and is the closest privately owned campground to the park, known for “the way camping used to be!” Our heavily wooded 40 acre campground is surrounded by the Flathead National Forest. West Glacier Village provides many activities including golf, mini golf, shopping, rafting, horseback rides and helicopter tours. There are also many options for great local dining. Outdoor lovers will love staying at with us

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $75 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort
    Camper-submitted photo from West Glacier KOA Resort

    4.

    West Glacier KOA Resort

    46 Reviews
    96 Photos
    210 Saves
    West Glacier, Montana

    Pine-scented campsites here are a mere 2.5 miles from Glacier National Park's west entrance. A short drive of a few minutes brings you to the start of the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road that twists and climbs across the million-acre alpine preserve. Whitefish, Kalispell, and Flathead lake are within driving distance to explore for part of a day with plenty of time left to relax at this KOA. This KOA also offers a heated adult (18+) pool 2 adult (18+) hot tubs and a heated family (all ages) pool. Enjoy our Lazy Bear Breakfast or Dinner restaurants, as well as our Bearstream Bar and Bear Garden. You can treat yourself to huckleberry ice cream at Scoops Ice Cream Shop or head to the state's largest water park in nearby Columbia Falls.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park

    5.

    Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park

    45 Reviews
    193 Photos
    679 Saves
    Siyeh Bend, Montana

    Overview

    The Many Glacier Campground is located on the east side of Glacier National Park, at an elevation of approximately 4,500 feet. The campground is located about 22 miles from the town of St. Mary and the east entrance to Glacier National Park. Babb, Montana, is the closest community to the Many Glacier Campground and is located approximately 12 miles east of the campground. Babb has a general store, gas station, several restaurants and an U.S. Post Office. Cell phone coverage is not available in the campground. However, limited coverage is available in Babb.

    Recreation

    Many Glacier Campground is located on the east side of the Continental Divide, and has excellent trails available for day hiking and overnight backpacking. Trailheads start at a higher elevation than those on the west side of the park, resulting in a shorter ascent to reach scenic vistas. Trails traverse areas frequented by grizzly and black bears, so take these safety precautions -- hike in groups, make lots of noise to avoid surprise encounters and carry bear pepper spray (know how to use it).

    Facilities

    Many Glacier Campground is located on the east side of the Continental Divide, and has excellent trails available for day hiking and overnight backpacking. Trailheads start at a higher elevation than those on the west side of the park, resulting in a shorter ascent to reach scenic vistas. Trails traverse areas frequented by grizzly and black bears, so take these safety precautions -- hike in groups, make lots of noise to avoid surprise encounters and carry bear pepper spray (know how to use it).

    Natural Features

    Many Glacier Campground is situated in a mature Douglas fir, lodgepole pine and quaking aspen forest. Vegetation is dense and provides partial shade for almost all campsites. Occasional strong wind gusts occur, however, with tree cover, most sites have some protection from the weather. Nearby natural features include Swiftcurrent Creek and Lake, and mountain views of Altyn, Henkel, Wilber, Grinnell Point, Allen and Wynn.

    contact_info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (406) 888-7800.

    Nearby Attractions

    If you have the time and a current passport, be sure to visit Waterton Lakes National Park in Alberta, Canada. Waterton Lakes National Park is a sister park to Glacier and both are known collectively as "Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park" -- the first international peace park in the world and designated in 1932. Waterton Lakes National Park offers fantastic hiking, scenic boat cruises and several short drives to view wildlife and access numerous hiking trails. Waterton Lakes National Park is located approximately 45 miles north of the town of Babb, Montana. Take Montana highway # 89 north to the intersection of Highway#17 or the Chief Mountain International Peace Park Highway. Continue north to the Chief Mountain international border crossing, where the road number changes to highway #6 and then highway # 5 into Waterton Lakes National Park.

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

    $23 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Billings KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Billings KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Billings KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Billings KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Billings KOA
    Camper-submitted photo from Billings KOA

    6.

    Billings KOA

    45 Reviews
    108 Photos
    116 Saves
    Billings, Montana

    Welcome to Billings KOA, a fantastic camping spot near Billings, MT. This place has been around for a while and has earned a reputation for its top-notch amenities and friendly atmosphere. If you're looking for a place that offers a bit of everything, this is it.

    First off, the mini golf course here is a hit with families and kids. It's a fun way to spend an afternoon without leaving the campground. And speaking of amenities, the bathrooms and showers are some of the best you'll find at any campground. They're clean, well-maintained, and even a bit luxurious—some folks say they're nicer than their bathrooms at home!

    For those traveling with pets, you'll be pleased to know that the campground is pet-friendly and has plenty of grassy areas for your furry friends to enjoy. The sites are spacious and many are shaded, which is great for those hot summer days. If you're into fishing, the campground backs up to the Yellowstone River, offering direct access for a bit of angling.

    The staff here are another highlight. They're known for being exceptionally friendly and helpful, making your stay as comfortable as possible. There's also a market on-site for any last-minute supplies you might need, and a food truck that serves up some tasty treats.

    Whether you're in a tent, RV, or looking for a cabin or glamping experience, Billings KOA has you covered. It's a great spot to relax, enjoy some outdoor activities, and maybe even make a few new friends along the way. So, pack your bags and head on over—you won't be disappointed!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Makoshika State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Makoshika State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Makoshika State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Makoshika State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Makoshika State Park Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Makoshika State Park Campground

    7.

    Makoshika State Park Campground

    38 Reviews
    171 Photos
    156 Saves
    Glendive, Montana

    Makoshika State Park Campground, near Glendive, MT, is a gem for anyone looking to immerse themselves in stunning badlands scenery. This place is open year-round and offers a mix of tent, RV, glamping, and yurt accommodations. The campground is known for its breathtaking views and a variety of activities that make it a must-visit spot.

    One of the standout features here is the incredible hiking trails. Visitors rave about the scenic drives and hikes, with amazing views all around. If you're into disc golf, you're in for a treat. The park boasts a very cool disc golf course that winds through the unique landscape, making it a fun and challenging experience.

    For those interested in paleontology, this park is a treasure trove. Dinosaur fossils have been found here, and you might just stumble upon one yourself while exploring. The geography of the area is spectacular, with plenty of opportunities for both easy and challenging hikes.

    The campground itself is pretty straightforward. There are vault toilets, potable water, and picnic tables at the sites. Fires are allowed, and you can even find firewood on-site. Pets are welcome, so feel free to bring your furry friends along. Just be aware that there are no showers, sewer hookups, or sanitary dump stations, so plan accordingly.

    Some campers have noted that the road coming in can be rough, so take it slow. But once you're here, the peace and quiet, along with the stunning sunrises and sunsets, make it all worthwhile. Whether you're here for a night or a longer stay, Makoshika State Park Campground offers a unique and memorable experience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    Camper-submitted photo from Missoula KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from Missoula KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from Missoula KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from Missoula KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from Missoula KOA Holiday
    Camper-submitted photo from Missoula KOA Holiday

    8.

    Missoula KOA Holiday

    41 Reviews
    70 Photos
    118 Saves
    Missoula, Montana

    Welcome to Missoula, Montana KOA. We are the perfect base camp for all that Western Montana has to offer! We are an oasis within the city of Missoula, surrounded by the beautiful Rocky Mountains. You will find the staff friendly and accommodating while enjoying the beautiful flowers and landscaping.

    We offer a heated pool and hot tubs, Pedal Kart rentals, an arcade, and min-golf. RV sites for all size RVs and we are big rig friendly. Camping Cabins and Deluxe Cabins are available at Missoula KOA. We also offer a variety of tent camping options for you to choose from. We are your base camp for everything Missoula has to offer.

    Located just off I-90 on Reserve St. (Exit 101), you are within easy access to everything that is Western Montana. Close to shopping, great restaurants, craft breweries and a myriad of sporting and cultural activities. Explore the Lewis & Clark Trail, Garnett Ghost Town, National Bison Range, and the Smoke Jumpers Museum to name just a few attractions. A great stopping point between Glacier and Yellowstone National Parks. Join us for great camping and an unforgettable experience!

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $75 - $192 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park

    9.

    St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park

    38 Reviews
    122 Photos
    56 Saves
    Babb, Montana

    Overview

    Apgar, Fish Creek, and St. Mary Campground reservations WILL NOT provide access to any vehicle reservation areas (including the west side of the Going-to-the-Sun Road, Many Glacier, and North Fork). To obtain a vehicle reservation, visit Glacier National Park Vehicle Reservations on Recreation.gov. ____ The St. Mary Campground is reservation only during the peak season. For information on camping outside the reservation timeframe visit the Glacier NPS website . St. Mary Campground is the largest campground on the east side of Glacier National Park, and is conveniently located approximately a half-mile from the St. Mary Visitor Center. The visitor center offers interpretive programs, shuttle service and Red Bus tours leaving from the center. The campground sits near the entrance of the popular scenic byway, the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Generators are allowed only in Loops B & C. Generators are prohibited in Loop A.

    Recreation

    St. Mary Campground is located on the east side of the park, which boasts some of the best trails available for day hiking. Trailheads start at a higher elevation than those on the west side, so less ascent is required to reach scenic vistas.

    Facilities

    St. Mary Campground is located on the east side of the park, which boasts some of the best trails available for day hiking. Trailheads start at a higher elevation than those on the west side, so less ascent is required to reach scenic vistas.

    Natural Features

    Though shade is sparse, the aspen trees that grace St. Mary Campground flutter in spring and summer breezes and provide colorful splashes of yellow late in the season. Views of Singleshot, East Flattop and Red Eagle Mountains provide a dramatic backdrop to the landscape. St. Mary Lake which, although too cold and occasionally too rough to swim in, provides refreshing scenery on warm days.

    Nearby Attractions

    One must-see attraction is the sister park across the U.S.-Canadian border, Waterton Lakes National Park. As the other half of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Waterton Lakes offers fantastic hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the Townsite of Waterton. Immediately east of Glacier National Park lies the picturesque Blackfeet Indian Reservation, spanning 1.5 million acres. Visit the Museum of the Plains Indian, in Browning, Montana, for a fascinating introduction to the rich cultural heritage of the largest Indian tribe in Montana.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park
    Camper-submitted photo from Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park

    10.

    Two Medicine Campground — Glacier National Park

    34 Reviews
    137 Photos
    208 Saves
    Browning, Montana

    Overview

    Two Medicine is a 100 site campground located in the Two Medicine Valley of Glacier National Park. There is a ranger station and campstore in close proximity, but no other services or accommodations are located in the valley. There is no cell service or wifi.__ Generators are allowed only in Loops B & C. Generators are prohibited in Loop A.

    Recreation

    Two Medicine Campground is located on the east side of the park, which boasts some of the best trails available for day hiking. Trailheads start at a higher elevation than those on the west side, so less ascent is required to reach scenic vistas.

    Facilities

    Two Medicine Campground is located on the east side of the park, which boasts some of the best trails available for day hiking. Trailheads start at a higher elevation than those on the west side, so less ascent is required to reach scenic vistas.

    Nearby Attractions

    One must-see attraction is the sister park across the U.S.-Canadian border, Waterton Lakes National Park . As the other half of the Waterton-Glacier International Peace Park, Waterton Lakes offers fantastic hiking, scenic boat cruises and several scenic drives all centered around the Townsite of Waterton.__ Immediately east of Glacier National Park lies the picturesque Blackfeet Indian Reservation , spanning 1.5 million acres. Visit the Museum of the Plains Indian, in Browning, Montana, for a fascinating introduction to the rich cultural heritage of the largest Indian tribe in Montana.

    contact_info

    This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (406) 888-7800.

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

    $90 / night

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Pet-friendly camping in Montana

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Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available in Montana?

According to TheDyrt.com, Montana offers a wide range of camping options, with 1361 campgrounds and RV parks in Montana and 140 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground in Montana?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground in Montana is Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park with a 5-star rating from 59 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping in Montana?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 140 free dispersed camping spots in Montana.

What are the best parks in Montana?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 13 parks in Montana that allow camping, notably Bitterroot National Forest and Glacier National Park.