Best Campgrounds near Emigrant, MT

Paradise Valley around Emigrant, Montana provides multiple camping experiences along the Yellowstone River with options ranging from established campgrounds to dispersed sites. The region includes several RV parks with full hookups like Yellowstone Edge RV Park, which sits directly on the Yellowstone River, as well as cabin accommodations at Yellowstone Dreamin Camp offering glamping-style amenities. Public lands near Dailey Lake Fishing Access Site and Carbella Recreation Area provide more primitive camping experiences, many located 20-30 minutes from the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park.

Camping availability in the Paradise Valley area generally runs from May through October, with many established campgrounds closing after the first snowfall. Road access to fishing access sites like Loch Leven and Paradise remains open year-round but with limited winter facilities. Most campgrounds near Emigrant require fees ranging from $12-18 per night for tent and RV camping, while fishing access sites typically have vault toilets but no drinking water or shower facilities. Exposure to elements can be significant, particularly at Dailey Lake where one camper noted, "Nice place with lots of room. Windy!"

Several campgrounds feature river access as their primary draw, with Yellowstone Edge RV Park consistently receiving high ratings for its riverfront sites. A visitor wrote, "We were the site closest to the Yellowstone River with views of the mountains and river. The restroom facilities were immaculate." Dailey Lake offers a different experience with wide-open views rather than tree cover, which appeals to campers seeking expansive mountain panoramas. Campgrounds closer to Yellowstone provide convenient access to the national park while avoiding the crowds and higher prices at in-park accommodations. Paradise Valley's camping areas provide both destination experiences and convenient staging areas for exploring the greater Yellowstone region.

Best Camping Sites Near Emigrant, Montana (209)

    1. Yellowstone Edge RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Pray, MT
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 333-4036

    "Right on the edge of the Yellowstone River, about 90 minutes north of Yellowstone NP. This is an RV Park, so no tents are allowed. The view of the river and the mountains is fantastic."

    "It is 20-30 minutes outside the north entrance. Communal campfire every night. It’s right in the river with benches to sit and enjoy the water. "

    2. Livingston/Paradise Valley KOA Holiday

    21 Reviews
    Pray, MT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 222-0992

    "The KOA is tucked away from the main road. Is has beautiful views of the mountains and is very quiet. The staff is extremely friendly and helpful!"

    "Bad: Mile long dirt road to get to entrance. Would I stay again: ?, I might try West entrance next time."

    3. Hood Creek Campground

    17 Reviews
    Gallatin Gateway, MT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 646-1012

    $26 - $185 / night

    "We love this area, and this site was fine for us...however, it is a bit of a steep walk down some steps from the parking spot to the picnic area. And again from the picnic area down to the water."

    "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."

    4. Loch Leven

    11 Reviews
    Pray, MT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 444-2535

    "Great location - $18 - steps away from the Yellowstone River - awesome view. Would totally recommend."

    "This campground is located among the Yellowstone River. The current is swift and boaters come down the river each day. We stopped at this park because of a heat wave rolling over Montana."

    5. Mallard's Rest - TEMPORARILY CLOSED

    12 Reviews
    Pray, MT
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 444-2535

    "Got a beautiful spot just feet away from the Yellowstone River. Wasn't sure how long we would stay but decided to stay the full week allowance immediately upon getting set up."

    "18 without a Montana fishing license, but found a GORGEOUS spot on the Yellowstone River... on July 4th. Not bad. Pretty place."

    6. Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone

    46 Reviews
    Gardiner, MT
    23 miles

    "Great spot for travelers or people who didn't book a site in or close to Yosemite."

    "It was last minute I read about this spot on Dyrt and was pretty relieved to find something with great reviews and relatively close to home in Bozeman."

    7. Carbella Rec Site Camping

    14 Reviews
    Gardiner, MT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 533-7600

    $15 / night

    "Our “go to” camping spot near Yellowstone NP. It is convenient to hwy but away from noise of traffic, near Yellowstone River. Winds consistent overnight but temps only down to 40°s."

    "Camp site was 20 feet away from the Beautiful Yellowstone River. The river was moving at a very good clip, as was the wind! Clean vault toilet, didn't see any water hook ups or pumps."

    8. Dailey Lake

    7 Reviews
    Emigrant, MT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 444-2535

    "Unique area of Paradise Valley that doesn’t have any trees near the lake or campsites. Wide open but very pretty 360 degree views."

    "Nice spots around the lake. A bit windy. The fee was 18, which means $20 unless you have change."

    9. Canyon Campground

    14 Reviews
    Custer Gallatin National Forest, MT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 848-7375

    $10 / night

    "The proximity to Yellowstone, the price, and the charm of this place made me love it, but I think there are a few things that would annoy people."

    "This place is right outside the northern entrance to Yellowstone."

    10. Mammoth Campground — Yellowstone National Park

    57 Reviews
    Gardiner, MT
    28 miles
    Website
    +1 (307) 344-2107

    $25 / night

    "Access to so many great wonders this park has to offer. Also on a don’t miss drive into Montana for one of the most beautiful mountain drives ever."

    "Beautiful campground near Mammoth Hot Springs and the surrounding village."

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Recent Reviews near Emigrant, MT

1118 Reviews of 209 Emigrant Campgrounds


  • VanRumschpringa V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 14, 2025

    South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

    Quiet with a relatively easy approach

    The road has some potholes but nothing too problematic. There are a lot of small pull-ups and some large spaces as well. You’ll be buried deep in the woods near Bridger bowl. I camped at the trailhead for Lower South Brackett trail. I did not explore what lay beyond my site. It was 28° or less overnight and there is a pretty dusting of snow on the ground when I woke.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 13, 2025

    Buffalo Jump Camp

    Beautiful but small

    There are only 2 spots for camping here. It’s a nice spot with river access, but close to road and no room for big rig.

  • e
    Oct. 12, 2025

    Yellowstone RV Park

    Beautiful and convenient

    Great little camp ground next to the river. Clean bathrooms, hot showers, laundry, wifi. A bit pricey, but probably due to the location being near the Yellowstone entrance

  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone

    Remote but pretty

    There are no markings for campsites and I’m assuming the few pull-offs are the sites. They’re pretty remote and there were no other campers when I went. There was also a big pile of bones by the campsite. As a single girl it didn’t feel like a safe spot for me and the vibes just didn’t feel great, but it was a stunning view! I would however, recommend eagle creek campground instead. First come first serve with a bathroom.

  • Caroline T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 2, 2025

    Hyalite Canyon Dispersed

    TENT CAMP ONLY - no drive in

    Came here looking to camp in our rooftop tent. These 3-4 camp spots are tent only because the spots are about a 5 minute walk into the woods and you cannot drive up. We unfortunately had to find camp elsewhere

  • Caroline T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046

    Not what other reviews make it seem

    We came here looking for a dispersed site to camp in a rooftop tent. There was only about 3 spots all super unlevel, and seem somewhat sketchy. I didn’t feel safe camping here and we ended up going somewhere else. Not sure what these other reviews are talking about.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Hood Creek Campground

    Outstanding

    I had such a fantastic September stay at Hood Creek with gorgeous weather and peaceful views. Of all the sites only a few were undesirable with the vast majority being awesome. Signs posted this weekend that gate is closing for the season at 12:00PM 9/28/25. Never saw a forest service staff member or any representative for the recreation area this weekend. A massive bummer that boils my blood is I had no less than 5 nearby spots all reserved for multiple nights where nobody showed during the entire weekend while others strolled thru looking for a place to camp. Total garbage. Something has to improve on this because affluent people don’t give an ounce of care by booking and not using. The reservoir was nearly 25ft below full this time of year. Bathrooms were very clean but definitely stenchy. I believe that there was a water spigot there but wasn’t paying much attention to that. Overall just a tremendous place to spend a solid few days enjoying.


Guide to Emigrant

Camping near Emigrant, Montana, offers a fantastic blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are plenty of options that cater to different camping styles.

What to do:

  • Explore Yellowstone National Park: Just a short drive away, Yellowstone is a must-see. Campers rave about the wildlife sightings, with one reviewer noting, "The best part of the park to see wildlife is without a doubt the north end. We saw everything from elk to bears" at Mammoth Campground.
  • Relax in Hot Springs: If you’re near Bozeman, check out the Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV. One visitor mentioned, "Between the free coffee, breakfast, & hot spring access our stay was worth it."
  • Hiking and Nature Walks: Trails abound in the area. A camper at Pine Creek Campground said, "Great trail nearby," making it a perfect spot for hiking enthusiasts.

What campers like:

  • Wildlife Encounters: Many campers appreciate the chance to see wildlife up close. One camper at Red Cliff Campground shared, "The morning we left, elk were in the campground, which was really cool to me."
  • Clean Facilities: Clean bathrooms and well-maintained sites are a big plus. A reviewer at Livingston/Paradise Valley KOA Holiday noted, "The bathrooms and showers were clean."
  • Scenic Views: Campers love the beautiful surroundings. One visitor at Hood Creek Campground said, "This campground is situated almost immediately on the lake and most sites have stunning views over the lake."

What you should know:

  • Limited Cell Service: Many campgrounds have spotty cell service. A camper at Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV mentioned, "At this time there was no AT&T service at the campsite."
  • First-Come, First-Serve: Some campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. A visitor at Mammoth Campground noted, "Mammoth is a first-come, first-serve campground."
  • Road Conditions: Be prepared for rough roads in some areas. A camper at Spire Rock Campground warned, "The dirt road was so pockmarked we had to turn back."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for campgrounds with amenities. One family at Yellowstone Edge RV Park appreciated the "nice level spots with lots of space and awesome river views."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor gear. A camper at Pine Creek Campground suggested, "Definitely bring bear spray as this is a remote campground in the woods."
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A reviewer at Hood Creek Campground mentioned, "The southern half of the campground gets a ton of traffic from day users and campers."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check for Hookups: Make sure your chosen campground has the necessary hookups. A visitor at Yellowstone Edge RV Park said, "Full hookups, nice clean bathrooms, game room and little store that has everything."
  • Be Mindful of Space: Some sites can be tight. A camper at Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV noted, "Tent sites were small, no privacy."
  • Plan for Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A reviewer at Red Cliff Campground mentioned, "Great place for dogs. Lots of road noise unfortunately."

Camping near Emigrant, Montana, has something for everyone, from stunning views to wildlife encounters. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!

Frequently Asked Questions

What hot springs camping options are available near Emigrant?

For hot springs camping near Emigrant, Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV offers a premium experience with full hookup sites and direct access to their hot springs facility. The campground features well-maintained grounds, a convenient path to the springs, and is just a short drive from Emigrant. Another option is Yellowstone Edge RV Park near Livingston, which provides easy access to Chico Hot Springs Resort (where you can enjoy the hot springs as a day visitor). While camping isn't available directly at Chico Hot Springs, these nearby campgrounds offer comfortable accommodations within a short drive to this popular thermal attraction.

Where can I find camping in Emigrant, MT?

Emigrant, MT offers several camping options in the surrounding Paradise Valley area. Dailey Lake provides accessible camping just minutes from Emigrant with beautiful mountain views and fishing opportunities. For those seeking dispersed camping, Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone offers free camping about 20 minutes from the North Entrance of Yellowstone with stunning mountain scenery. Other nearby options include Carbella Rec Site Camping along the Yellowstone River, and for those willing to drive a bit further, the Eagle Creek and Mammoth campgrounds provide additional alternatives closer to Gardiner.

Is Dailey Lake Campground a good option near Emigrant?

Yes, Dailey Lake is an excellent camping option near Emigrant. This fishing access site offers basic amenities including vault toilets and is big-rig friendly. The campground provides stunning views of the Absaroka Mountain Range and direct access to Dailey Lake for fishing, swimming, and non-motorized boating. Its proximity to Emigrant makes it convenient for accessing local services while still enjoying a natural setting. For those seeking more developed facilities nearby, Hood Creek Campground offers reservable sites with water access and is just a short drive from Emigrant, providing another good alternative in the Paradise Valley area.