Steve M.
Legend
LegendHellgate Campground
Serene and quiet Campground right on the shores of the lake
Not a ton of privacy between campsites but very well maintained with clean toilets and showers and garbage facilities but no water
Best Campgrounds in Montana
SUMMARY PRESENTED BY
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.
Best Camping Sites in Montana (1,487)
1. Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park
62 ReviewsWest Glacier, MTWebsite+1 (406) 888-7800$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."
2. Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park
62 ReviewsWest Glacier, MTWebsite+1 (406) 888-7800$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)."
3. Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone
56 ReviewsGardiner, MT"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."
4. West Glacier KOA Resort
54 ReviewsWest Glacier, MTWebsite+1 (406) 387-5341"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. "
5. Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed
55 ReviewsCoram, MTWebsite"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."
6. Glacier Campground
53 ReviewsWest Glacier, MTWebsite+1 (406) 387-5689$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."
7. St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park
55 ReviewsBabb, MTWebsite+1 (406) 732-7708$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."
8. Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park
48 ReviewsSiyeh Bend, MTWebsite+1 (406) 732-7740$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."
"There is a store and restaurant close by in walking distance along with showers and laundry(you have to pay). Multille hiking trails, fishing and an abundance of wildlife."
9. Bakers Hole Campground
47 ReviewsWest Yellowstone, MTWebsite+1 (406) 823-6961"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"
10. Itch-Kep-Pe Park
50 ReviewsFishtail, MTWebsite+1 (406) 322-5313"Close to the Yellowstone. We camped on the second loop and at the end near the boat dock is a trail that follows the river. We enjoyed the walk with our dogs. Lots of folks fishing."
"Only a 5 min drive off the highway so it’s very convenient as a road trip stop. It has lots of shade and is located right next to the Yellowstone River."
Recent Camping Photos in Montana
1213 Photos of 1487 Montana Campgrounds • uploaded by The Dyrt campers
Recent Reviews in Montana
5994 Reviews of 1487 Montana Campgrounds
Connie B.
GuideGreat Falls RV Park
Nice park
This is a nice park for an inner city park. It is set down off the main road. Surprisingly I didn’t hear much road noise and I am awake a lot at night. It does have trees but most won’t help against the sun but I think it does help against road noise. The bath house has clean toilet areas and clean showers. It is a good place to stop when you need electricity for air conditioning.
Yasir A.GuideMuchwater Dispersed Campground and Recreation Area
Gorgeous Free Site Near the River
This free campsite has absolutely gorgeous views and sits right along a beautiful river—definitely bring a kayak if you want to get out on the water! Keep in mind that there is a little ambient noise, as it is located close to the highway on one side and a railway track on the other. Overall, it is a stunning and convenient free location that is well worth a stop!
- Yasir A.Guide
Fireman Memorial Park & Campground
Downtown Site Near Grocery Store ($10/night)
This campsite costs $10 per night and sits right downtown, making it super close and convenient to a local grocery market. However, because of its location right next to the street, there is a bit of street noise, and you will see some homeless individuals in the surrounding area. The site itself comes equipped with a picnic/dining table and a fire ring. I would not recommend using the restrooms, as they were not clean. Good for a cheap, convenient stop if you don't mind the urban setting.
- Yasir A.Guide
GooseHead Camping Area
Quiet and Clean Site Near the Lake ($26/night)
The main gate to the site was closed, so I decided to camp just uphill from the lake instead. It was $26 per night and well worth it. The site is very clean and quiet, equipped with potable water, picnic/dining tables, and clean restrooms. Great spot if you're looking for a peaceful setup near the water!
Nadine T.
ScoutRoute 56 RV Park
Have not stayed yet!! But looks awesome
We drove through today without our RV but need to stay in the future. Great location for outdoor recreation. Bull Lake and Bull River are very nearby and a great restaurant 'Halfway House' just down the road!!!
Great RV sites w/ electric and a dump site.
We will need to stay in the future!!!
- PPatricia P.
TravelerSpillway
Too rough for resevoir camping
Rough road, glad we had 4wd and clearance. Not for a trailer camping and wouldn't takke myy rv either.
Brian C.
RangerGrey Sandy Campground
We Left a Night Early and Didn't Ask for the Money Back
SUMMARY
We booked Grey Sandy on Hauser Lake and pulled our fifth wheel into a site directly across from the office. Shared water, shared fire pit, and enough dust to season a steak. The site was nowhere near level and tight enough that backing in felt like a timed event. Bathrooms were average. The camp store was average. The park itself is run down. Older long-term rigs, no visible upkeep, and the clear impression that nobody has invested a dollar here in a long time. We don't lock camper doors at a campground. We locked them here. We left a night early and did not ask for a refund.
**WHAT I LIKED
**The hosts. Genuinely kind people who seemed to actually care about the guests, which is more than the property can say for itself. The male host walked over and fired up the fire pit for the kids and us, and that was hands down the best part of the stay. The fire pit itself, once it was lit. The only nice feature in the park. Bathrooms and the store were average. At this campground, average counts as a win.**WHAT I DISLIKED:
**Extremely tight site. Not level. Dirt and dust everywhere. Shared water and a shared fire pit. Dirt road in with steady traffic, so the dust never had a chance to settle. The lake is a long way off. If you are booking this for Hauser Lake access, look elsewhere. Overall condition of the park. Rough-looking campers parked long-term and no sign of maintenance or pride of ownership. The photos on the website do not match what you pull into. Go in with your expectations adjusted. We canceled a reservation in June when our camper broke down and never received our refund.**WILL I STAY HERE AGAIN?
**Not the way it sits today. We left a night early and walked away from the money, which tells you exactly where we landed. That said, the campground has changed hands, and I know the new owner. There is real potential here. Level the sites, control the dust, clean up the long-term rigs, and update the photos so they match the property. Do that, and this becomes a solid Hauser Lake stop. I will check back in a season. As of this trip, it is a hard pass.- Yasir A.Guide
Ryan Road Dispersed Camping
Free Campsite Close to Glacier National Park Entrance Review
Great free dispersed camping option! The location is extremely convenient, sitting just minutes away from the West Glacier entrance of Glacier National Park. It is a quiet, peaceful area nestled in the forest with established pull-off spots and fire rings. Highly recommended if you are looking for a cost-free, low-maintenance spot close to the park.
Guide to Montana
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.
What to do
- Explore Nature: Montana is home to beautiful parks like Kiwanis Park, where you can enjoy a park-like atmosphere. One camper mentioned, “Road noise disappears at night,” making it a peaceful spot for relaxation.
- Fishing and Water Activities: At Ackley Lake State Park Campground, you can fish, swim, and kayak. A visitor shared, “Good spot for camping, fishing, swimming, kayaking!”
- Hiking: The James Kipp Campground offers great hiking trails. One camper noted, “We took a nice hike along the river,” highlighting the scenic views.
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate clean restrooms and well-maintained sites. A review from Chief Joseph City Park stated, “The bathrooms are clean and have flushing toilets.”
- Wildlife Sightings: Many campers enjoy spotting wildlife. One reviewer at Deadmans Basin said, “Great views! It was pretty windy the night we were there,” indicating a connection with nature.
- Quiet Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Petrolia Reservoir offer a peaceful experience. A camper mentioned, “We woke up to cows mooing and a beautiful sunrise over the lake.”
What you should know
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Crystal Lake Campground, lack drinking water and electric hookups. A visitor remarked, “There is not much privacy now as every camp site can be watched by all the other campers.”
- First-Come, First-Served: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. At Ackley Lake State Park, a camper noted, “They only have 26 spots, first come first serve.”
- Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Mountain Acres RV Park is open from May 1 to October 31.
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Parks: Look for parks with playgrounds and activities. Chief Joseph City Park has a five-star play area for kids, making it a great choice.
- Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. One family at Kiwanis Park enjoyed the park-like atmosphere, saying, “No fire rings, but a park-like atmosphere.”
- Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for hikes and outings. A camper at Ackley Lake State Park mentioned, “We stocked up on some snacks,” which is always a good idea for family trips.
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Mountain Acres RV Park noted, “Sites are big,” which is helpful for larger rigs.
- Be Prepared for Limited Services: Some campgrounds don’t have full hookups. A camper at James Kipp Campground mentioned, “There was no water available during my stay.”
- Explore Nearby Attractions: Many campgrounds are close to local attractions. One RV traveler at Deadmans Basin said, “It’s a beautiful place to stay,” encouraging exploration of the surrounding area.
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?
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?
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?
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?
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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