Montana's camping landscape ranges from developed campgrounds within Glacier National Park to dispersed sites along the Middle Fork Flathead River. Many Glacier Campground and Fish Creek Campground offer established tent and RV sites with amenities like drinking water, picnic tables, and toilets. For those seeking a more rustic experience, Montana off-grid campsites provide free options with minimal facilities. KOA properties in West Glacier and Billings provide more extensive services including cabins, glamping accommodations, electric hookups, and shower facilities. These developed sites typically operate seasonally from May through September or October.
Camping access and conditions vary significantly with Montana's seasonal changes. Glacier National Park campgrounds like Apgar and St. Mary operate primarily from May through early October when mountain roads remain passable. Many popular campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during the peak summer months of June through August. Weather conditions can change rapidly in mountain environments, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations even during summer months. Fire regulations and water availability shift throughout the season based on drought conditions and fire danger levels. Travelers should prepare for varied conditions across the state's diverse terrain. "We found out just this year you could camp into the park and we love it. It's so quiet and peaceful and the views are amazing," noted a camper describing Sluice Boxes State Park.
Several visitors highlight riverside camping as particularly desirable throughout Montana. Campgrounds positioned along waterways like the Yellowstone River and Flathead River receive consistently positive reviews for their scenic views and recreational opportunities. Some dispersed camping areas along river corridors provide free options with basic amenities like vault toilets. A camper at Loch Leven noted, "The campground is clean and well-maintained with great views of Chico Peak and the Yellowstone River. Our campsite had great access for our son to throw rocks in the water." Proximity to national parks represents another significant draw, with West Glacier serving as a popular base for exploring Glacier National Park. Established campgrounds typically feature picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, while RV-oriented properties may include additional hookups, shower facilities, and dumping stations. Public lands managed by the Forest Service and BLM offer more primitive camping options throughout the state, including Lewis and Clark National Forest sites.
$30 / night
"We have stayed in Many Glacier and Avalanche Creek but this is our favorite campsite in the park because of its proximity to Lake Mcdonald as well as Apgar village."
"Now the good: We were really close to Apgar village and other sites along the Road to the Sun road. The rangers were nice and pleasant to interact with."
$45 - $90 / night
"Apgar is walking distance from the Apgar Visitor Center and park shuttles, as well as Apgar Village, camp store, equipment rentals, etc."
"I could see 6 or 7 other camp fires burning while sitting next to mine. We stayed three nights and every night heard someone a site or two over as he was talking too loud (and too much)."
"This is a big RV resort close to West Glacier town and park entrance. We came with our 25’ RV and reserved a tent pad site to ensure we were up against the edge of the resort."
"9/13/19 West Glacier, Montana West Glacier KOA Resort
Most beautiful location of the KOAs I've stayed at. Nestled against the mountains and less than 3 miles to Glacier National Park. "
"Great spot for travelers or people who didn't book a site in or close to Yosemite."
"Great views into the valley around Gardiner with easy access to Yellowstone (North Entrance). Plenty of space for a few tents or a camper."
$45 - $120 / night
"Montana is absolutely gorgeous! I may be biased because I go to college in Montana, but there is so many great outdoor activities. The mountains and scenery are my favorite."
"Great place tucked away from the road. Sites are smaller. Place was clear even the showers. Hot water in the morning not so much at night."
"It’s so close to the National Park entrance and a beautiful place to stay. The road is a bit bumpy getting down here but there’s plenty of room for tent camping and RVs. Be careful though!"
"Perfect spot for camping outside the west entrance, about 25 minutes away. That road is a little rough coming in but it’s short and manageable, even saw a little Mazda make it in."
$90 / night
"They had new bear boxes for every 4 sites this year with extra around bathrooms. Make sure you keep your camp bearproof as rangers will make sure it is."
"Our site had no shade and felt very exposed (A loop was better) but we enjoyed the proximity to the visitors center and ability to walk to the shuttle."
$90 / night
"When you stay at Many Glacier you are situated in the heart of the best hiking and wildlife viewing in the park. Grizzly sightings on the slopes nearby are an almost nightly occurrence."
"I recommend visiting this area of Glacier Montana!!"
"This camp ground is tucked into a residential area, and far enough off the interstate to not hear the noise, but close enough to town and all the other amenities to make it very convenient."
"This KOA sits right along the Yellowstone River along the eastern outskirts of Billings."
"Great location. Close to the park entrance and West Yellowstone. Pit toilets were in really good shape. And the camp host went way beyond to help us with a situation."
"Just outside the west entrance to Yellowstone (I think it's only 3-4 miles away from the entrance) is a good backup campground in case you can’t get a campsite in the park (a common problem in the summer"
TravelerJust go in and get a players card and you can stay with free electrical hook ups, 20, 30, and 50 amp. Good food in the restaurant and we did ok on the machines as well. Would definitely stay again. They only thing is the road noise but if you take advantage of the free power you can run your fan or ac and it isn’t an issue.
ScoutGreat spot that is far enough away from the highway. Almost a 30 minute drive from the highway. Close to some houses though. There was no one there! Had it to ourselves
TravelerI stayed at Carbella Recreation Site for a full week, using it as our primary base camp for exploring the northern section of Yellowstone National Park. Overall, it’s a fantastic, affordable spot if you are self-contained.
The Good Prime Location for Yellowstone: Located just 19 miles north of the North Entrance (Gardiner, MT), making daily trips into the park easy and hassle-free. Well-Equipped Campsites: Every site comes outfitted with a picnic table, a fire pit, and a secure bear locker for food storage. Easy First-Come, First-Served Access: With around 15 to 16 total sites, we noticed there were almost always a few vacant spots available, even over the weekend. Simple Self-Check-In: Self-registration at the entry kiosk is quick and painless—just fill out the registration form or punch in your information to claim your vacant site. Riverside Atmosphere: The campground sits right along the Yellowstone River. The mature trees along the riverbank offer nice shade, and listening to the flowing river at night is wonderful. Stunning Views: You get incredible, unobstructed views of Electric Peak—the tallest mountain in northern Yellowstone. Exceptionally Clean Restrooms: The two vault/pit toilets on-site are very well-maintained, clean, and surprisingly low-odor. Unbeatable Price: At $15 per night (or $7.50/night with an Interagency Lifetime Senior Pass), you won't find a better deal this close to the park.
Things to Keep in Mind (The Cons) Dry Camping / Pack It In, Pack It Out: There is no potable water and no garbage service (no trash cans). Plan to bring all the fresh water you need and take all trash with you when you leave. Hard-Sided Vehicles Only (Seasonal Ban): Due to high grizzly bear activity in the area, tent camping and soft-sided pop-ups are strictly prohibited from June 2 through December 31. You must be in a hard-sided camper/RV or vehicle during this period.
GuideQuite camping. Clean vaulted toilets. What else do you need? 🤷♂️
ScoutThere's an old rv at the one closest to the railroad. It's has broken windows in the back. You can pull past it with a car and set up camp and still have a camper on the side closer to the road. Pretty noisy with the BNSF running by. Be safe
ScoutDrove about 3 miles on a smooth dirt road with our 24ft class C RV. Easy access, several sites along the road. This one was a bit more open and had a fire pit nearby.
44.6245084, -111.1227809
ScoutFree according to the signage at the front. No campfires allowed and ok service with Verizon. Big duck hunting property so be aware of that in duck season. The many many mosquitoes here really want to be inside your car but its great if you love birds.
ScoutClean bathrooms. Dog park with a view. Easy spots
TravelerBeautiful lake and Mountain View’s from the sites! Every site is a waterfront site. No cell service but Starlink kept us connected. Only 4 stars because a shower would be nice!
Camping in Montana offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. From serene lakes to rugged mountains, there's something for everyone, whether you're a tent camper or an RV enthusiast.
Montana camping is all about enjoying the great outdoors, so pack your gear and get ready for an adventure!
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find RV-friendly camping sites in Montana?
Montana offers numerous RV-friendly camping options. North American RV Park & Yurt Village is conveniently located just 5 minutes from the West Glacier Park entrance with full hookups and amenities. Trout Creek Motel & RV Park near the Idaho border provides peaceful sites with easy access to local amenities. For those visiting Yellowstone, several RV parks around West Yellowstone offer convenient access to the national park. Many KOAs throughout Montana are excellent for RVers, featuring pull-through sites, full hookups, and amenities like laundry facilities and WiFi. National Forest campgrounds sometimes accommodate RVs, but check size restrictions and hookup availability before arrival.
Are there any free or low-cost camping options in Montana?
Montana offers several affordable camping options for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts. Peck Gulch Campground provides basic amenities like vault toilets and water access at minimal cost while offering stunning views. Indian Road Campground near Townsend offers reasonably priced camping along the Missouri River. Many National Forest campgrounds throughout Montana provide primitive camping for low fees, often between $5-15 per night. For completely free options, dispersed camping is allowed in most national forests with a 16-day stay limit. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas also offer free dispersed camping throughout the state. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and check local regulations as they may change seasonally.
What are the best campgrounds in Montana for scenic views?
Montana offers breathtaking scenic views at numerous campgrounds. Crystal Lake Campground provides peaceful lakeside camping with clear waters, surrounding meadows filled with summer wildflowers, and beautiful hiking trails. Gird Point in the Bitterroot National Forest offers stunning mountain vistas from its elevated location. For riverside beauty, consider camping along the Madison River between Hebgen Lake and Earthquake Lake. Glacier National Park campgrounds are also exceptional for scenery, with options providing views of mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and abundant wildlife. The diverse landscapes across Montana ensure scenic camping experiences, whether you prefer mountain views, riverside serenity, or alpine lake settings.
What's the best time of year for camping in Montana?
The prime camping season in Montana runs from late June through early September when temperatures are most comfortable and high-elevation sites are accessible. Apgar Campground in Glacier National Park is typically open May through September, with July-August offering the warmest conditions. Basin Campground and other mountain locations shine in summer when wildflowers bloom and hiking trails are fully accessible. Be aware that summer wildfires can affect air quality, particularly in August. Spring (May-June) offers fewer crowds but potential snowmelt and mud. Fall (September-early October) brings beautiful colors and fewer visitors, though nights get quite cold. Most high-elevation campgrounds close by mid-October, while some lower-elevation sites remain open year-round with limited amenities.
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