The area around Bridger, Montana sits at about 3,700 feet elevation where the rolling grasslands transition into the dramatic Beartooth Mountains. Camping options range from primitive riverside sites to established campgrounds with full hookups within a 45-mile radius. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F with significantly cooler nights in spring and fall, requiring campers to pack appropriate layering options.
What to do
Visit Chief Many Coups State Park: Located within driving distance of Bridger, this cultural site offers a unique perspective on local history. "Chief Many Coups State Park is worthy of a stop for a night or even longer. It's within easy daytrip distance of Little Bighorn Battlefield, Red Lodge, the Beartooth Highway and more," notes Marc G. about Bridger City Campground.
Explore the Beartooth Highway: This scenic drive provides exceptional mountain views and access to hiking trails. "The Beartooth Highway is undescribable! Amazing views. Close to Red Lodge," writes Michael M., who stayed at Red Lodge KOA. "This campground is beautiful! Mountains all around! Great place to stay to take in the Beartooth Highway, most beautiful drive in the country I've seen!"
Attend local events: During summer weekends, check out unique regional activities. "Check out the pig races at Beat Creek on summer weekends!" suggests Mimi, who enjoyed using Bridger City Campground as a base camp for exploring the area.
What campers like
Riverside camping access: Many campgrounds offer spots right along flowing water. "This family owned and operated campground is located outside of the quaint town of Red Lodge and at the entrance to Beartooth Scenic Byway. Tent sites give you a primitive feel and are right on the heavy flowing Rock Creek making sleeping nice," writes Kim B. about Perry's RV and Campgrounds.
Affordability of camping options: Several sites offer reasonable rates for various accommodations. "Full hookups (30/20A electrical, water and sewer) for $20/night, what more could you ask for?" comments Marc G. about Bridger City Campground. Similarly, Shannon T. mentions Water Birch as a "quaint little campground with several spots right along Rock Creek."
Mountain views and recreation: The surrounding landscape offers scenic beauty and outdoor activities. Basin Campground provides "gorgeous sites with mountains all around you," according to Sasha W., who adds, "We hiked in the mornings, and hung by the water in the evenings!" At Itch-Kep-Pe Park, Troy M. notes it offers "nice level spots. The campsite is right on the Yellowstone river. Free but they do have a donation box."
What you should know
Weather fluctuations: The region experiences significant temperature changes. "Temperatures can fluctuate dramatically in Montana's mountain environments," mentions Gay Lynn A. about Itch-Kep-Pe Park, adding it's "perfect for a night stopover as traveling through. Easy to access. It's a pretty area with well laid out camp spots."
Insect preparation: Depending on season and location, insects can be problematic. "The mosquitoes in the area can carry you away so prepare your campsite for that," warns Kim B. about Perry's RV and Campgrounds. Similarly, at Basin Campground, campers note proximity to streams means "tons of bugs because it's close to a river. Bring your bug spray!"
Limited services: Many campgrounds have minimal amenities. "This is dry camping so no hookups but also no fee (they ask for donations)," explains Diane H. regarding Itch-Kep-Pe Park. At Horsethief Station, Edward R. notes, "You need to have a Montana conservation license $10 which you can purchase online."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Some campgrounds offer specific activities for children. "Safe and clean sites with lots of fun things for the kids! Pool is great with showers close by. Super fun campground to explore!" shares Hailey L. about Red Lodge KOA. At Billings KOA Holiday, visitors can enjoy "mini-golf, pool, and a BBQ joint."
Space considerations: Look for campgrounds with room for children to play. "The north tentsite side has the benefit of river ambience, while the south side has the kid playground amenities," advises Bjorn S. regarding Red Lodge KOA. At Itch-Kep-Pe Park, Gay Lynn A. appreciates that "you aren't on top of each other."
Pet accommodations: Most sites welcome dogs with varying policies. Shannon T. notes that Water Birch offers "several spots right along Rock Creek" where both families and pets can enjoy the water. Similarly, many reviewers mention the pet-friendly policy at Bridger City Campground, making it a good option for families traveling with animals.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing and access: Consider how tight the campsites are when booking. "Sites are set up to oppose one another with a shared pedestal in between, so scout your site first to decide which way you're going to pull in," advises Marc G. about Bridger City Campground. "If you come in off of East Broadway, watch your overhead clearance on the trees."
Hookup availability: Different sites offer varying utility connections. At Horsethief Station, Bart mentions, "5 sites. This is a first come first serve camping area... Fire pits and picnic tables at 4 sites... No hookups." In contrast, Lindsey A. notes this location has "easy place to park an RV with two pull through spots and two entrances/exits and no need to turn around."
Seasonal considerations: Some campgrounds have limited operating seasons or challenging conditions. "The campground is right off the highway, but the creek drowns out the road noise," explains Shannon T. about Water Birch, noting some "loss of parking where the 2022 flooding washed out the loop at the end of the road."
