J
John H.
Traveler
TravelerMeadow Creek Dispersed Campground
Not bad
Not a bad place to sleep, creek behind you is loud and helps drown any noise out. Saw 3 big mule deer bucks on the way in.
Camping near Bozeman, MT
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Camping near Bozeman, Montana ranges from full hookup RV parks to primitive dispersed sites on surrounding public lands. The area includes Bozeman Hot Springs Campground with full hookups and cabin accommodations, while Bear Canyon Campground offers similar amenities approximately 6 miles east of downtown. Hyalite Canyon Dispersed camping area presents opportunities for more primitive camping on Forest Service land just south of the city. Most locations accommodate both tent and RV camping, with several facilities offering cabin rentals for those seeking additional comfort.
Many campgrounds in the region operate seasonally, with most developed sites closing between October and May due to winter conditions. "The sites are flat, but expect train sounds through the night," noted one visitor about the centrally-located Gallatin County Fairgrounds Campground. Access to dispersed camping areas may require high-clearance vehicles, particularly during spring when snowmelt and rainfall affect forest roads. Cell service varies considerably, with better coverage near town and diminished signals in canyon areas. Advance reservations are strongly recommended for established campgrounds during summer months, particularly on weekends and holidays. Overnight temperatures can drop significantly even in summer, especially at higher elevations in the surrounding mountain ranges.
Campers consistently mention the noise levels as a consideration when choosing camping locations near Bozeman. Fairgrounds camping and locations near Interstate 90 experience regular train and highway noise, while sites in Hyalite Canyon offer more natural surroundings. Reviews indicate that facilities at established campgrounds are generally well-maintained but vary in quality. According to one visitor, camping at Bozeman Trail Campground provides "clean and well-kept" sites, though noise remains a factor. Higher-rated campgrounds typically include amenities such as showers, electrical hookups, and convenient access to town services. Wildlife viewing opportunities increase at campgrounds farther from town, with mixed-use campgrounds closer to Bozeman providing easier access to urban amenities but less seclusion.
Best Campgrounds near Bozeman (171)
1. Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV
"Bozeman hot Springs campground The sites at these grounds do vary a bit. We were in Row C in a back-in site with fhu."
"Stayed for 2 nights while going to a concert in Bozeman, and the hot springs next door are a huge bonus."
from $45 - $100 / night
Check Availability2. Bear Canyon Campground
"This park was in a great location and overlooked the whole valley. W/E only for us but there were some full hookups. Very clean facilities and friendly staff, right down the street from Bozeman."
"Fun little hike behind the campground to see the hills and valley. Pool is great, does get busy in the middle of the day."
from $49 / night
Check Availability3. Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
"12 miles from Bozeman. Creekside spots are high demand, but other spots are nice also. Flat for rigs, and very clean vault toilets. Lots of hikes and reservoir is only 4 miles further."
"About 25 minutes from downtown Bozeman. There’s more spots available up this FS road and the FS roads off-shooting from it, like FS 3164, so explore your options."
4. Bozeman Trail Campground
"There is also a train that passes very near the campground and can be heard at all hours of the day and night. It never woke me up but I can certainly see it being a problem."
from $50 / night
Check Availability5. Hood Creek Campground
"About 15 miles of paved roads from Bozeman. Separated sites, most with lake views. Clean vault toilets."
"Stayed here one night after passing through Bozeman to get my Go Fast Camper. It did not disappoint. We stayed at spot 12 and it had amazing views of the lake/reservoir and mountain."
from $26 - $185 / night
Check Availability6. Langohr Campground
"We were looking for a campground near Bozeman and a friend recommended Hyalite Canyon. We lucked out finding Langohr! Wonderful and secluded camping spots, and we found one right by a river."
"Some are drive-in or back into sites, and a few are literally next to Hyalite Creek which is an added bonus."
from $26 - $60 / night
Check Availability7. Gallatin County Fairgrounds Campground
"This site is in the fairgrounds in Bozeman. You can stay a max of ten days out of 30, and they have power but no water or sewage hookups. They do have a water fill station for a fee."
"I was torn between 3 or 4 stars since there are no bathrooms, but it is right in Bozeman and there are not many places to stay. There is electric if needed."
from $20 - $40 / night
Check Availability8. VangoBoon
"Would definitely consider staying here again next time we visit the Bozeman area."
"Biggest negative is that you can hear all the highway noise and trucks like to jake-break in this area. On the other side of the highway there were railroad tracks."
from $25 - $195 / night
Check Availability9. Bozeman Hot Spring Campground & RV Park
"Bathrooms and showers are centrally located, warm, secure and clean."
10. Spire Rock Campground
"This is a really nice spot next to the river. It makes a great base to explore Big Sky & Bozeman. The dispersed camping area is just passed the official campground."
"Small and quiet campground located in between Big Sky and Bozeman. Camp hosts were very nice and made sure to go over bear safety thoroughly."
from $26 - $50 / night
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Drive Time
- 1 hr 23 min from Helena, MT
- 2 hrs 2 min from Billings, MT
- 2 hrs 36 min from Great Falls, MT
- 3 hrs 14 min from Idaho Falls, ID
Recent Camping Photos near Bozeman, MT
159 Photos of 171 Bozeman Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Bozeman Trail Campground
Bear Canyon CampgroundK
Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV
Langohr Campground
Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
Hyalite Below Dam Camping
Blackmore Campgrounda
Hood Creek Campground
Serenity Sheep Farm Stay
Chisholm Campground
Battle Ridge Campground
Recent Reviews near Bozeman, MT
898 Reviews of 171 Bozeman Campgrounds
Eric Z.TravelerSpanish Creek Picnic Area
Mountain fresh air
• This free horse-friendly campsite features family trails leading to Spanish Creek.
• Located far from cities on an unpaved road, it offers no cell service but provides clean water and basic toilets.
• Visitors should remain cautious of bears and bring spray, though the presence of horses and wild buffalo makes it a unique experience.
- DDuane H.Traveler
Bozeman Trail Campground
Nice Campground Nice people
Nice campground little more than I need really.
- CChris H.
GuideSun Outdoors Yellowstone North
Excellent Location
We stayed here for 3 nights while we explored the Lamar Valley area of Yellowstone. We also took a day trip to Bozeman. The area is beautiful. We had elk come through the campground one night. The view from our extra wide back in aite was breathtaking. We used the laundry and the machines worked perfectly and we did not think they were over priced. We would definitely stay here again.
Erich B.
RangerBear Trap South
Madison River camping
There are about a dozen sites along the river. Sites are separated from each other. Pit toilets available. You need to pay at the kiosk, paying with a CC is an option. Some sites you can hear the big rigs driving on the road across the river.
- HHenry S.
ScoutBozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV
Very over priced, owners push their religous views on guests
We booked 5 hours before we arrived and were told that hotsprings were open until sun set; 7:56 pm, however just after 6 pm staff started to boot people out anf they were closed before 7pm. When it was brought up to Anthony who claimed to be the manager on 5 Sept he could care less, partly due to the fact he was late opening and "no one was going to hold him accountable"! He further stated that he did not care that military members booked because after driving all day we needed to soak. Stating it was his "call" and none of us would get any funds returnd.
Christina W.TravelerBozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV
Excellent Stay
I thoroughly enjoyed this stay. The spot was level and well maintained, laundry facilities clean, check in personnel very nice and helpful. The best part was the Hot Springs next door. I went both nights and the second night there was live music which was wonderful. They provide towels, showers and have shampoo and conditioner available at the springs. And the outside lighting was very relaxing. I will definitely be back.
- WWalter B.Traveler
Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
Quiet and peaceful
Perfect if you are looking for something peaceful and relaxing
- Erich B.Ranger
Bear Trap North
Madison River camping
Sites are located across the bridge and along the gravel road. Sites are dispersed all along the river. Some have shade by the river and others are more exposed. You can pay via cash, check or there is a machine that also takes cards as you enter. First come first serve for spots.
Guide to Bozeman
Cabin camping options near Bozeman, Montana range from full-service accommodations to rustic forest retreats. At Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV Park, cabins provide access to multiple thermal pools. According to one visitor, the property has been "freshly updated with natural rocks, landscaping and upscale amenities," while another noted their cabin had "a huge yard area and super convenient walking path to the hot springs just feet away." Basic cabin rentals are also available at Bear Canyon Campground, located 6 miles east of downtown, though train noise affects all accommodation types at this location.
For families seeking cabin camping experiences, most established campgrounds near Bozeman maintain seasonal operations between May and September. Winter cabin access is limited to commercial locations like Bozeman Hot Springs, which operates year-round. Some cabin rentals include furnishings and heating systems, as noted by one visitor who appreciated that "the heater in the cabin was efficient for warming it up even though it was chilly and rainy outside." Reservations for cabins throughout the region should be secured 3-6 months in advance during peak summer season.
What to do
Mountain biking access: The area around Hyalite Canyon Dispersed offers extensive trail networks. "Winding mountain trail... not secluded, likely will have people drive/ride bikes past your site," notes one camper, indicating the popularity of these routes. Most trails follow Forest Service roads with moderate technical difficulty.
Kayaking and paddleboarding: Hood Creek Campground provides direct water access. "The adjacent Hyalite Reservoir is spectacularly scenic. Bring your favorite watercraft or floaty, because you'll want to go out onto the water to explore, taking in the fantastic scenery," reports one visitor. The reservoir does not permit motorized boats over 10 HP.
Hiking options: Multiple trailheads originate near Spire Rock Campground. One camper mentioned, "It was nice to be so close to the Storm Castle Peak trailhead," while another recommended "Garnet Mtn; great views at the top!" Most trails in this area range from moderate to difficult with significant elevation gain.
What campers like
Creek-side camping spots: Several campgrounds feature sites with direct water access. At Langohr Campground, "We found one right by a river. This was probably the best campsite of our week-long Montana camping excursion," one camper shared. These prime water-adjacent sites typically fill 3-4 weeks in advance during summer.
Natural hot springs access: Many visitors appreciate the thermal pools at Bozeman Hot Springs Campground. "Campers are given bracelets for access to use the Hot Springs 12 pools which are... incredible. The indoor and outdoor pools vary in temperature from 106-56 degrees," one reviewer explained. This amenity is included with the camping fee.
Proximity to town services: Campgrounds near the city provide convenience for supply runs. One camper at Bozeman Trail Campground appreciated being "by both trail/open spaces (like the Drinking Horse and Sourdough trails) and nearby shopping and travel fill-up locations." Most established campgrounds are within 15-30 minutes of grocery stores and outdoor retailers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the best campgrounds near Bozeman, Montana?
Where are the best campgrounds near Bozeman, Montana?
Bozeman is surrounded by excellent campgrounds that showcase Montana's natural beauty. Swan Creek Campground offers a remote feel despite being a short drive from town, with stunning river access that's perfect for fishing enthusiasts. Meadow Lake Campground provides a beautiful lakeside setting just 6-7 miles from Ennis, featuring fire rings, picnic tables, and bathroom facilities with decent spacing between sites. For those seeking a unique experience, several campgrounds in Hyalite Canyon offer scenic mountain settings with varying amenities. Most campgrounds near Bozeman fill quickly during peak summer months, so arriving mid-week or making reservations when possible is recommended.
What is the camping season in Bozeman, Montana and how does weather affect it?
What is the camping season in Bozeman, Montana and how does weather affect it?
The camping season around Bozeman typically runs from late May through early October, with peak conditions from June through August. Weather plays a significant role in accessibility, especially at higher elevations where snow can linger into June and return by late September. Langohr Campground in Hyalite Canyon offers a wonderful summer escape but may have limited accessibility in shoulder seasons. For year-round options, Maxey Cabin provides shelter and remains accessible throughout all seasons, making it ideal for winter camping adventures. Always check local conditions before heading out, as mountain weather can change rapidly even during summer months.
What dispersed camping options exist around Bozeman?
What dispersed camping options exist around Bozeman?
Bozeman offers several free dispersed camping options within a short drive. South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site is just 20 minutes from town with level ground for car camping and established fire rings. The site provides a quiet retreat with minimal traffic. Chestnut Mountain Trailhead Dispersed offers overnight parking suitable for car camping or quick stops when traveling through the area. While no amenities are provided, it's convenient for self-contained camping. For those willing to venture further, Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046 provides additional options. Remember that dispersed camping typically requires pack-in, pack-out practices and proper waste management.
Are there any private camping areas or KOAs near Bozeman?
Are there any private camping areas or KOAs near Bozeman?
Bozeman features several well-maintained private campgrounds for those seeking more amenities than public lands offer. Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV provides full hookup sites with the added bonus of direct access to hot springs, making it popular among RVers looking for comfort. Bear Canyon Campground overlooks the valley with water/electric hookups and some full hookup sites, clean facilities, and friendly staff. For those willing to drive a bit further, Norris Hot Springs offers camping with hookup options about 45 minutes from Bozeman, plus discounted hot springs access for campers. Most private campgrounds in the area require reservations during peak summer months.
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