Within Gallatin National Forest, Canyon Campground sits tucked between large boulders that define its unique character. This Forest Service facility operates year-round along Highway 89, positioned 16 miles from Yellowstone's north entrance near Gardiner.
The campground's most distinctive feature is its boulder-studded layout, where many sites nestle between massive rock formations that create natural windbreaks and climbing opportunities. "The boulders are what really make this campground interesting," notes Dexter I., who observed how sites are "tucked in between these large boulders." Site #9 receives particular praise from reviewers for its setting among the rocks. The proximity to Highway 89 means consistent road noise throughout the day, with some nighttime disturbance from vehicles hitting rumble strips.
Each of the sites includes a picnic table and metal fire ring, with vault toilets serving the two small loops. The campground operates without water service, requiring campers to bring their own supply. Bear food storage rules apply, with bear boxes available at select sites though reviewers note only two boxes serve the entire campground. RVs up to 48 feet can access the facility, with one pull-through site available.
The location serves as a practical base for Yellowstone access, filling rapidly by evening during peak season despite morning availability. Wesley A. summarizes the trade-offs: "No water, no trash, but cheap." Cell service works for Verizon users, and the campground accepts payment via envelope system.
First-come, first-served sites cost $7-10 per night, making early arrival essential during summer months when the facility typically reaches capacity by 5 PM.
Description
A campground along the Yellowstone River on the Gardiner District.
Camp sites: 17
Accessible Facilities: Fire Grates Tables Toilet Trash Pickup: No Firewood: No No Reservations: This campground does not use a reservation system, it is managed on a first-come, first-served basis. Be aware the campground may fill up on weekends & holidays during the summer months and you should arrive in the early afternoon to ensure there is a space available for the night. Information: Gardiner Office P.O. Box 5; 805 Scott St. Gardiner, MT 59030 (406) 848-7375
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsCanyon Campground is located in Montana near Custer Gallatin National Forest
Directions
Located 16 mi N of Gardiner on US 89.
Coordinates
45.1827389 N
110.88816497 W
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/21/26
- VerizonPossible CoverageVerified by 31 usersLast on 5/21/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 5/21/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 5/21/26
- VerizonPossible CoverageVerified by 31 usersLast on 5/21/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 5/21/26
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Trash
- Picnic Table
- Phone Service
- Toilets
- Alcohol
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
- Big Rig Friendly
Drive Time
- 56 min from Bozeman, MT
- 2 hrs 16 min from Billings, MT
- 2 hrs 20 min from Helena, MT
- 4 hrs 11 min from Idaho Falls, ID


























