Best Camping near Helena, MT

Are you in need of a campground near Helena, MT? Helena is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Find the best campgrounds near Helena, MT. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Best Camping Sites Near Helena, Montana (124)

    1. Black Sandy State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    42 Photos
    37 Saves
    Helena National Forest, Montana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    2. Court Sheriff Campground

    14 Reviews
    34 Photos
    38 Saves
    Helena, Montana

    Overview

    Court Sheriff Campground is located at the very north end of Canyon Ferry Reservoir, 30 miles east of Helena, Montana, along Montana Highway 284. Court Sheriff Campground offers year-round access to a wide range of recreational opportunities. Court Sheriff Campground is named for the Sheriff family. In 1865 Court Sheriff moved into the region from the state of Illinois to Montana to work the mines. Court Sheriff first worked the mines in Diamond City, then hired on as a carpenter to help build a wooden flume for the Magpie-Gave Hill ditch. In 1875 he opened a general mercantile to serve the miners east of the Missouri River at Cavetown. He moved to nearby Canyon Ferry in 1880, and by 1883 had established a general store and later added a livery stable and two-and-a-half-story hotel.

    Recreation

    Canyon Ferry Reservoir offers a wide range of year-round recreational opportunities. Water related activities include everything from swimming and fishing to sailing and motor-boating. Canoeists and kayakers explore the many quiet backwater bays. Jet skiers, windsurfers and water skiers skim the summer waves, while winter draws ice fishermen, ice boaters and ice skaters.

    Natural Features

    Court Sheriff Campground sits at the north end of Canyon Ferry Reservoir between the Big Belt and Elkhorns mountain ranges.

    Nearby Attractions

    Court Sheriff Campground on Canyon Ferry Reservoir is located halfway between Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park along with the capital city of Helena, Montana. For up to date events visit, www.helenamt.com.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (406) 475-3920.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $15 - $30 / night

    3. Hellgate Campground

    13 Reviews
    57 Photos
    22 Saves
    Helena, Montana

    Overview

    Hellgate Campground is located 30 miles east of Helena, Montana, along Montana Highway 284. In July of 1805 the Lewis and Clark Expedition traveled through the Canyon Ferry area exploring and mapping the Missouri River. When Lewis visited the area he described it as a beautiful and extensive plain country of about 10 to 12 miles wide which extended upwards further than an eye could see. In the 1850s the gold rush hit the Canyon Ferry area attracting miners from all over the United States in the hopes of striking it rich.

    Recreation

    Canyon Ferry Reservoir offers a wide range of year-round recreational opportunities. Water related activities include everything from swimming and fishing to sailing and motor-boating. Canoeists and kayakers explore the many quiet backwater bays. Jet skiers, windsurfers and water skiers skim the summer waves, while winter draws ice fishermen and ice skaters.

    Natural Features

    Hellgate Campground and Group Use Shelter Area sits along the banks of Canyon Ferry Reservoir in an open valley between the Big Belt and Elkhorns mountain ranges. Along the bank of the reservoir there is a narrow riparian canopy that provides partial shade.

    Nearby Attractions

    Hellgate Campground and Group Use Shelter Area is located halfway between Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park. The city of Helena, Montana, the state capital, is 25 miles away and the city of Townsend, Montana, is 21 miles away. For up to date events visit, click here

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (406) 475-3920.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $10 - $170 / night

    4. Goose Bay - Dispersed Camping

    13 Reviews
    40 Photos
    95 Saves
    Canyon Ferry Lake, Montana
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents

    5. Cromwell Dixon Campground

    10 Reviews
    21 Photos
    42 Saves
    Elliston, Montana

    Cromwell Dixon Campground, located right on the Continental Divide, provides spectacular views of surrounding country encompassing meadows, timbered slopes, and far away mountains. Trailhead access to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail is nearby. ACTIVITIES Camping Picnicking

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • RVs

    6. White Sandy Campground

    8 Reviews
    41 Photos
    33 Saves
    Helena, Montana

    Overview

    White Sandy is located on the west side of Hauser Lake at the confluence of Prickly Pear creek. White Sandy faces Eldorado Bar and the beautiful Big Belt mountains. It is in an ideal location for outdoor recreation, wildlife watching, water sports, camping and swimming.

    Recreation

    White Sandy offers excellent recreational access. There is a beach area, picnic areas, as well as a ramada/pavilion with power and lights, available by advanced reservation. There are vault toilets located in convenient locations throughout the site. There are trails throughout White Sandy as well as in the surrounding area. Additionally, there are multiple trails within the larger Hauser Lake Recreation area, as well as multiple fishing access sites, hunting access, wildlife viewing and of course, boating. World class mountain biking trails abound in the area as well. The recreation opportunities are truly boundless.

    Natural Features

    The campground and day use areas are situated in a shrub-steppe landscape, mostly comprised of sage brush and bunch grasses. Every campsite has a view of the lake and mountains. While there are some ponderosa pine and deciduous trees throughout the area, they are scarce and do not provide a large amount of shade, but the lake does help keep the temperatures down a bit on those hot summer days.

    Nearby Attractions

    White Sandy is located in a prime location to get out and recreate outdoors, or within the capital of Montana. There are hundreds of miles of trails, Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service lands, state parks, the Lewis and Clark Trail and so much more. Helena (only a short drive away) has all the amenities of a large city with small town charm. There are great restaurants, museums, the capitol building, old mining settlements, Last Chance Gulch, Reeder's Alley and a vibrant downtown with a walking mall area.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Reservation Cancellations & Changes Cancelling a Reservation: Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. Depending on when you cancel in relation to your arrival day, it may be considered a late cancellation (see below). Group Facility (including Cabins and Lookouts): Customers who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee. Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window Individual Campsites: A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. The recreation.gov cancellation policy can be found here: https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $25 - $140 / night

    7. Devil's Elbow Campground

    7 Reviews
    38 Photos
    68 Saves
    Helena, Montana

    Overview

    Devil's Elbow Recreation Area is situated on the picturesque "Devil's Elbow" of Hauser Lake. Just a short drive from Helena, the area offers stunning views of the Big Belt and Elkhorn mountains. The area is overflowing with outdoor adventure opportunities. Whether you're into fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, hiking, mountain biking, boating or all of the above; all of these things are immediately accessed from (the greater) Hauser Lake Recreation Area. There is surely an activity for everyone! While just a short drive from Helena, the state capital; the feeling of seclusion and abundant nature is sure to impress.

    Recreation

    Devil's Elbow offers excellent recreational access. Devil's Elbow has a small beach area, picnic areas, as well as a ramada/pavilion with power and lights, available by advanced reservation. There are vault toilets located in convenient locations throughout the area. There is a network of non-motorized dirt, gravel and paved trails throughout Devil's Elbow, Two Camps Vista and Clark's Bay that allow you to walk or bike around the area without contending with vehicles. There are multiple trails within the larger Hauser Lake Recreation area, as well as multiple fishing access sites, hunting access, wildlife viewing and of course, boating. There are several world class mountain biking trails in the area as well. The recreation opportunities in the area are truly boundless.

    Natural Features

    The campground and day use areas are situated in a shrub-steppe landscape, mostly comprised of sage brush and bunch grasses. Every campsite has a view of the lake and mountains. While there are some ponderosa pine and deciduous trees throughout the area, they are scarce and do not provide a large amount of shade, but the lake does help keep the temperatures down a bit on those hot summer days.

    Nearby Attractions

    Devil's Elbow is located in a prime location to get out and recreate outdoors, or within the capital of Montana. There are hundreds of miles of trails, Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service lands, state parks, the Lewis and Clark Trail and so much more. Helena (only a short drive away) has all the amenities of a large city with small town charm. There are great restaurants, museums, the capitol building, old mining settlements, Last Chance Gulch, Reeder's Alley and a vibrant downtown with a walking mall area.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Reservation Cancellations & Changes Cancelling a Reservation: Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. Depending on when you cancel in relation to your arrival day, it may be considered a late cancellation (see below). Group Facility (including Cabins and Lookouts): Customers who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee. Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window Individual Campsites: A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. The recreation.gov cancellation policy can be found here: https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs

    $25 - $140 / night

    8. Holter Dam Rec. Site Campground

    15 Reviews
    22 Photos
    35 Saves
    Wolf Creek, Montana

    Overview

    Holter Lake Campground is situated on the picturesque Holter Lake in west central Montana. The site is located approximately 45 miles north of Helena, Montana, along the Missouri River. The area offers stunning views of the Sleeping Giant Wilderness Study Area. Gates of the Mountains Historic Site is in close proximity of the campground, which is accessible via a watercraft. The area is overflowing with outdoor adventure opportunities. Whether you're into fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, hiking, boating, water skiing, or all of the above, all of these activities are in close proximity to Holter Lake Campground. There is surely an activity for everyone!

    Recreation

    Holter Lake Campground offers excellent recreational opportunities. Activities in the area include camping, boating (motorized and non-motorized), fishing, water skiing, hiking, scenic/wildlife photography, wildlife viewing, and bird watching. There are trails within the general vicinity, as well as multiple fishing access sites and hunting access points. The recreation opportunities in the area are truly boundless.

    Natural Features

    Every campsite has a view of the lake and mountains. The campground and day-use area has poplar and green ash trees throughout the campground, which provide shade during the height of the summer. The site is situated in a shrub-steppe landscape, mostly comprised of sage brush and bunch grasses. The campground is surrounded by sparsely wooded hills.

    Nearby Attractions

    Holter Lake Campground is located in a prime location to get out and recreate outdoors. There is access to public lands, where multiple recreation opportunities and experiences are available. The campground is adjacent to the Missouri River, which was also the historical travel corridor for The Lewis and Clark Trail. Holter Lake Campground is situated between Helena and Great Falls. In Helena, there are great restaurants, museums, the capitol building, old mining settlements, Last Chance Gulch, Reeder's Alley, and a vibrant downtown area. In or near Great Falls, there is the First People's Buffalo Jump and Interpretive Center, Charlie Russell museum, Lewis and Clark Interpretive Center, Giant Springs Fish Hatchery and State Park, and Tower Rock State Park. The Continental Divide Trail is nearby.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Reservation Cancellations & Changes Cancelling a Reservation: Customers may cancel their reservation prior to arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 service fee will be withheld from any refund for a cancellation. Depending on when you cancel in relation to your arrival day, it may be considered a late cancellation (see below). Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window Individual Campsites: A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. The recreation.gov cancellation policy can be found here: https://www.recreation.gov/rules-reservation-policies

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents

    $25 / night

    9. Moose Creek Campground — Helena Lewis And Clark National Forest

    6 Reviews
    23 Photos
    5 Saves
    Elliston, Montana

    Moose Creek Campground is located southwest of Helena, Montana.__ Travel west of Helena on Highway 12 (about 8 miles) and turn south on Rimini Road #695.__ This__9 unit campground is located near other Forest Service features including: rental cabin, picnic area and environmental education trail.__ Also located within a short distance is access to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.

    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Cabins
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    10. Park Lake Campground

    5 Reviews
    36 Photos
    121 Saves
    Clancy, Montana

    Park Lake Campground is located approximately 20 miles southwest of Helena, Montana. The site provides an opportunity to camp near the placid, lovely Park Lake. You could enjoy fishing for cutthroat and greyling trout in this beautiful mountain lake, hand launch non-motorized boats or picnic along the lakeshore.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
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Showing results 1-10 of 124 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Helena, MT

404 Reviews of 124 Helena Campgrounds



Guide to Helena

Camping near Helena, MT, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're into fishing, hiking, or just relaxing by the water, there’s something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Fishing: Many campers enjoy fishing in the nearby lakes. One reviewer at Holter Dam Rec. Site Campground mentioned, "The campground is right next to a large boat launch for anyone getting on the water."
  • Hiking: Explore the trails around the campgrounds. A visitor at Cromwell Dixon Campground noted, "You can turn right off the highway and easily access dispersed camping around the site."
  • Swimming: Enjoy the water at places like Black Sandy State Park Campground. One camper said, "All the sites are on the water. Nice swim area."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review for Court Sheriff Campground highlights, "The lake is right against the sites and makes for a beautiful place to stay."
  • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds are well-maintained. A visitor at Hellgate Campground mentioned, "The camp host was amazing and works really hard to keep the sites in tip-top shape."
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campers appreciate the peaceful environment. One reviewer at Goose Bay - Dispersed Camping said, "I felt so secluded here on a Sunday night."

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds lack certain facilities. A camper at Black Sandy State Park Campground pointed out, "You must already have water or get it at the dump station at the entrance."
  • Crowded Weekends: Expect busier crowds on weekends. A visitor at Holter Dam Rec. Site Campground noted, "Our Saturday departure was delayed by FWP boat inspection at the entrance and a long line was inbound."
  • Bugs: Be prepared for mosquitoes, especially in warmer months. A camper at Confederate Campground mentioned, "The mosquitoes were absolutely bloodthirsty and aggressive."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for sites with easy access to water and activities. A reviewer at White Sandy Campground said, "Beautiful big widely spaced sites. Excellent beach area."
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games or outdoor toys. A visitor at Cromwell Dixon Campground suggested, "If you don't fish or boat/kayak/SUP, relaxation would be the next most popular thing to do."
  • Pack Snacks: Keep everyone fueled for fun. A camper at Court Sheriff Campground noted, "Great campground with a mix of sites and day use."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Black Sandy State Park Campground mentioned, "Most sites are really tight to get into with a larger rig."
  • Bring Water Containers: Some sites don’t have water hookups. A camper at Hellgate Campground advised, "You must use a bucket or jug for water at the campsites."
  • Be Ready for Generators: Many sites may have campers using generators. A visitor at Holter Dam Rec. Site Campground noted, "None have electrical service so there are lots of generators."

Camping near Helena, MT, is a great way to enjoy the outdoors, but be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground. Whether you're in an RV or tent, there's a spot waiting for you!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What camping is available near Helena, MT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, Helena, MT offers a wide range of camping options, with 124 campgrounds and RV parks near Helena, MT and 14 free dispersed camping spots.

  • Which is the most popular campground near Helena, MT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Helena, MT is Black Sandy State Park Campground with a 4-star rating from 15 reviews.

  • Where can I find free dispersed camping near Helena, MT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 14 free dispersed camping spots near Helena, MT.

  • What parks are near Helena, MT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, there are 10 parks near Helena, MT that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.