Established Camping
Madison River Campground (MT)
Madison River Campground, near Ennis, Montana, is a scenic retreat that offers a fantastic blend of nature and outdoor activities. With stunning mountain views and the river flowing right through the campground, it’s a prime location for those looking to relax or get active.
This campground is a favorite for floating, fishing, and tubing, making it a hotspot during the summer months. Many visitors recommend coming during the week to avoid the weekend rush, as it can get quite busy with fellow campers and water enthusiasts. One happy camper noted, “If you like floating on a river and relaxing in the sun, this is the place!”
Amenities include drinking water and firewood, so you can enjoy cozy campfires under the stars. While there are no electric hookups or showers, the clean facilities and friendly staff make for a pleasant stay. Reviewers have praised the beautiful surroundings, with one stating, “Mountain views, river runs through the campground, near many geysers and other beautiful sites.”
For those eager to explore, the campground is located within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, offering a wealth of hiking trails and natural wonders nearby. Whether you’re casting a line, floating down the river, or just soaking in the views, Madison River Campground is a great choice for your next outdoor adventure.
Description
US Forest Service
Beaverhead National Forest
Overview
Madison River Campground is located in southwestern Montana just beyond the banks of its namesake river. It is approximately 34 miles south of Ennis and about 45 miles west of Yellowstone National Park. The ten site campground borders a Douglas Fir covered hillside to the back, with the Madison River just across the road, on the front side. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water taps are located near each site, along the one-way road. Visitors enjoy fishing, sight-seeing and nearby hiking and ATV trails. Riverview Campground is only about a quarter mile away and West Fork Campground is less than one mile and both are available on a first come, first served basis. Campsite 8 has a two week in advance booking window
Recreation
Just across the gravel road, and for about a 40 mile length, the world renowned Madison River offers blue ribbon flyfishing. Nearby Wade and Cliff Lakes also offer fishing opportunities as well as small craft boating, canoeing and swimming. Hebgen and Henry's Lakes are each about a 30 minute drive. There are many hiking trails in the area, including just beyond the highway in the Lee Metcalf Wilderness. Off Road Vehicle trail riding is popular in the Gravelly range.
Facilities
There are two vault toilets and four drinking water spigots spread throughout the campground. Water is available May to September, exact dates being dependent upon weather. Picnic tables and fire rings are located in each site. Bear proof bins enable compliance with food storage regulations. The camp sites lie along a one way through road which parallels and reconnects with the access road. There is no garbage service. Cellular service is available.
Natural Features
At an elevation of 5910 feet, the campground is situated on the west side of the world renowned Madison River and at the southern end of the Gravelly Mountain range. The Lee Metcalf Wilderness is about two miles directly to the west. Wade and Cliff Lakes are about ten miles away. The campground is backed by a forest of predominantly Douglas Fir trees.
Nearby Attractions
Wade and Cliff Lakes are ten miles away. Riverview and West Fork Campgrounds are less than one mile away, and available on a first come, first served basis, while Wade, Cliff Point and Hilltop Campgrounds are ten miles. The west entrance to Yellowstone National Park is less than 40 miles east, at West Yellowstone. The Earthquake Lake Visitor Center and Geologic Site is only about a ten minute drive.
Fee Info
Fee to reserve campsite is non-refundable within 14 days of arrival date. Any changes in reserved dates may be assessed an additional fee by the National Recreation Reservation Service.
Location
Madison River Campground (MT) is located in Montana
Directions
Travel south from Ennis for 33 miles on US Highway 287. Approximately one mile beyond the Lyon Rest Area, turn west at signs indicating West Fork RV Camp. Cross the Old Kirby Bridge (maximum height 12 7 , maximum weight four tons) and turn left onto West Madison road #8381. Travel about one mile to campground. When travelling from south or east, turn to Old Kirby Bridge six miles northwest of US 287 and MT 87 junction.
Address
Madison Ranger District
5 Forest Service Road
Ennis, MT 59729
Coordinates
44.87719 N
111.57571 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Connectivity
T-Mobile5GExcellent Coverage
VerizonLTESome Coverage- AT&T5GExcellent Coverage
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Market
- Trash
- Firewood Available
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Toilets
- Pets
- Fires
For Vehicles
- Sanitary Dump
Drive Time
- 1 hr 28 min from Bozeman
- 1 hr 47 min from Idaho Falls
- 2 hrs 9 min from Helena
- 2 hrs 30 min from Pocatello
