Dispersed camping opportunities near Belgrade, Montana include options in the Gallatin National Forest, primarily from May through September when forest roads become accessible. The region sits at approximately 4,500 feet elevation and experiences cold winter conditions that limit off-season camping. Most RV camping outside established campgrounds requires self-contained units with reliable traction for unpaved mountain roads.
What to do
Swimming at natural lakes: Fairy Lake Campground provides swimming access in crystal-clear mountain water about 30 miles from Belgrade. "The lake itself is stunning, with crystal clear water that looks almost unreal. It's the perfect place to relax, hike, fish, or just sit back and take in the beauty of Montana," notes one visitor at Fairy Lake Campground.
Hot springs soaking: Multiple hot springs pools with varying temperatures are available year-round at Bozeman Hot Springs, where campers receive access with their stay. "The hot springs access is what makes it worth the price. I soaked in the evening and early the next morning and both were relaxing. Live music was awesome for ambiance too," according to a Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV visitor.
Hiking nearby mountains: Access to Sacajawea Peak trail from camping areas provides challenging day hikes with mountain views. "Great access to sacagewea peak hike and cold water," reports one camper about the trails accessible from nearby camping areas.
What campers like
Mountain views: Campsites with direct views of surrounding mountains are particularly valued by visitors. "The view is the best one I have ever had. Very accommodating and friendly staff. Perfect location to explore Yosemite," shares a visitor to Yellowstone Edge RV Park.
Riverside locations: RV sites near Belgrade offering waterfront access to the Yellowstone River provide popular fishing and relaxation spots. "We parked on one of the river sites, and the river was about 15 feet from our back door, absolutely beautiful!" notes one camper.
Clean facilities: Despite varying amenity levels, many campers appreciate well-maintained bathrooms and showers. "The bathhouse is very nice!" reports one visitor, while another notes, "Bathrooms and showers are centrally located, warm, secure and clean."
What you should know
Mountain road conditions: Access to some campgrounds requires navigating difficult unpaved roads. "The 6-mile unmaintained road to get to the campground is definitely rough. The warnings are justified—it's bumpy, rocky, and slow going," warns a Fairy Lake visitor.
Seasonal closures: Many camping facilities outside established RV parks close between September and June. "The campground was closed, so we camped right outside. There was a perfect little creek that my 5yo fully enjoyed for a few days," shares one camper.
Wildlife encounters: Bears and mountain goats frequently visit campsites, requiring proper food storage. "For sure there is 1 grizzly that's pretty big. He checked out our truck tent. Mountain Goats will come in your camp and they will do what goats do and want to check you out. They are not scared," cautions a visitor at Cardwell General Store and Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Check playground amenities: Some RV campgrounds offer dedicated children's play areas. "The kids loved the playground and tons of open grass space and swings throughout, and they also have a pond that you can even fish in on site at the back of the property," notes one family that stayed at Cardwell.
Confirm shower facilities: Family-friendly campgrounds typically offer private shower stalls rather than communal facilities. "Nice clean and private coed individual bathrooms with showers," reports a visitor to Osen's RV Park by Starry Night Lodging.
Grassy sites for play: Camping areas with maintained grass provide better play spaces than gravel-only sites. "The lawn behind the sites in C Row were immaculate with green grass, nice stone-lined fire pits and large decorative rocks," mentions a Bozeman Hot Springs camper.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing considerations: RV sites near Belgrade, Montana vary significantly in spacing between units. "Sites are reasonably level and about half and half pull-through vs back in. They use a larger size gravel on the roads so there is very little dust," notes a visitor to Ennis RV Village.
Elevation impacts: Higher elevation campgrounds require better traction vehicles for access. "I would highly not recommend unless you have 4 wheel drive and even then we saw a jeep wrangler sliding everywhere," warns one camper about accessing mountain camping areas.
Campground amenities: Laundry facilities vary significantly between locations. "We were in a back in site that had a huge yard area and super convenient walking path to the hot springs just feet away," shares one RVer, while another notes, "The grounds are very well maintained and the fire rings are pretty great!"
