104 campgrounds · Check availability for any dates.
Camping near Fishtail, Montana sits at the gateway to the Beartooth Mountains, with options ranging from established campgrounds to dispersed sites on public lands. The area includes Rosebud Isle Fishing Access Site within Fishtail itself, while nearby Basin Campground near Red Lodge and Castle Rock in Nye provide additional developed camping opportunities. These sites offer mountain views and access to the Stillwater River and its tributaries, making them popular bases for fishing, hiking, and outdoor recreation. The proximity to the Beartooth Scenic Byway provides campers with dramatic mountain vistas and alpine meadows characteristic of south-central Montana.
Most campgrounds in the Fishtail area operate seasonally from late spring through fall, typically April through October, with winter closures due to snow and freezing conditions. Many fishing access sites require a Montana Conservation License ($10) for overnight stays. Cell service is limited in remote areas, with better connectivity in established campgrounds near towns. Summer temperatures are moderate at this elevation, but nights can be cool even in July and August. Fire restrictions are common during dry periods, particularly in late summer. Some access roads to remote sites require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain.
The camping experience varies significantly across the region. Fishing access sites like Cliff Swallow and Rosebud Isle offer more primitive accommodations with basic vault toilets and no potable water, but provide direct river access for anglers. According to reviews, "Most sites are only a rock's throw from water," making them ideal for fishing enthusiasts. For those seeking more amenities, Mountain Range RV Park in Columbus (about 25 miles north) provides full hookups, showers, and dump stations. Basin Campground, though further away near Red Lodge, offers "big spacious sites with picnic tables and fire rings" in a forested setting with mountain views. Visitors should note that many first-come, first-served sites fill quickly during summer weekends and holiday periods.
"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."
"Montana is one of my favorite places to visit. The amount of outdoor activities is incredible."
"Montana offers so many outdoor activities, and I love that mountains surround you everywhere you go. This campground is smack dab in the middle of heaven."
from $20 / night
Check Availability"The lake has nice options for all levels of use. Be prepared for gravel roads to get to them."
"It lacks trees at most campsites, but that’s ok…it’s easy to get in and out of, the sites are level and every one has a view of the lake."
from $18 - $90 / night
Check Availability"It sits right next to the stillwater river. There's a really cool, elevated cement lookout area next to the river to set up your chairs and fish. Theres also a vault toilet and picnic spot."
"Great campground in Yellowstone National Park close to castle rock falls, good tree coverage, has bathrooms and secured food storage, it also has a creek - great for fly-fishing- that leads to the falls"
"We enjoyed spot 2 which was right next to the fishing river water. We appreciated the picnic table (even with a few broken slats) and the provided cooking grate over the fire pit."
"We wanted to show a few pictures of our beautiful park here in Columbus Montana. We invite you to come see us and stay with us."
"Very clean RV/tent campground just outside of Billings with full hookups and a lovely area for tent camping. Laundry facilities, showers."
from $64 - $108 / night
Check Availability"Pool is great with showers close by. Super fun campground to explore!"
"Mountains all around! Great place to stay to take in the beartooth Highway, most beautiful drive in the country I’ve seen! The amenities are good here and staff friendly and helpful."
"We enjoyed a chilly overnight and woke to the geese nearby flying overhead. Excellent fishing opportunities as well- just bring waiters!"
"Some algae near the shore of river but waded out deeper for refreshing dip."
"we had a great time. situated between emerald lake and west rosebud lake with a creek going next to half the camp spots. toilets and hand pump water."
"Lots of campsites most in the woods with only a few next to the creek between the two lakes. I got there on Saturday at 3 pm and there were only 2 spots open. With the final gone within 30 minutes."
TravelerParked in the trees for shade. Yellowstone river accessable but high. Floaters liked it. Train is very close but not obnoxious. Ya hear it almost as loud in nearby Big Timber. Mosquitos are abundant and hungry.
TravelerStarted out in Basin Campground and was very well received, went in w/o a reservation and was able to get a great spot for a few nights, then the host turned me on to some campers who where moving from a GREAT dispersed site right up the road. Snagged a nice spot and was able to explore Beartooth area for several days. Bonus is it’s up at about 7k feet so nice and cool.
TravelerNew Loves with 4 RV hookups, water and sewer.
ScoutAdd some RV motorhome, mechanical control. They were very helpful. As far as facilities, the picnic tables were in great shape. There was more room between camping spots then in a lot of RV parks and the pull through we used did not have to share electric or water with anyone else. Clean and convenient!
ScoutClean restrooms and free camping along the Yellowstone River. A little bit of garbage but otherwise beautiful
GuideThe mountain is beautiful, the. road in is not bad at all, but the mosquitoes will chew your legs off and drag your body into the woods to consume you. Long pants, long sleeves and copious amounts of bug spray are required at all times. The spots are nice and well spaced, but several locals have decided that these free dispersed camping spots belong exclusively to them, there were at least three spots occupied by abandoned RVs, trailers and such. This is becoming more and more prevalent the more i visit our national forests. Campsites must be occupied the first night and every 24 hours after that for a maximum stay of 16 days. Going to start reporting these abandoned units, who knows, we might be able to pick them up cheap at a government auction.
GuideGood road coming in, sites are well spaced host are wonderful. No tent camping or soft sided campers allowed. Big time bear country. 20 dollars a nite or 10 with the senior lifetime card. No hookups but water available.
TravelerFishing access site with several designated campsites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. I didn’t think the noise from the interstate or trains was too bad. Beautiful while passing through, but not “destination camping.” I had the place to myself on a weeknight.
I think you’re supposed to have a conservation license to stay here, I bought one online for $10 when I got here just in case. See my photo.
TravelerHelpful reception, clean, pool, great place
Camping sites near Fishtail, Montana range from riverside fishing access areas to established campgrounds with mountain views. Elevations vary from 4,000 feet in the valleys to over 10,000 feet in the nearby Beartooth range, creating distinct microclimates across camping locations. Summer afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August, requiring campers to secure their equipment against sudden wind gusts.
Paddling opportunities: Cooney State Park Campground offers access to a reservoir that's popular for non-motorized watercraft. "The lake is 50 feet deep, clean, great kayaking and fishing. Stream provides fly fish opportunity and white water kayaking," notes loren S., highlighting multiple water-based activities in one location.
Hiking to alpine lakes: The Emerald Lake Campground serves as a gateway to more remote wilderness experiences. A camper explains, "The Majestic Lake trailhead is about a mile further south and that was a fun excursion for the day," making this an excellent base camp for day hikers seeking alpine scenery.
Horseshoe pitching: Mountain Range RV Park provides simple recreation options for evenings at camp. According to Melissa C., the park has "a nice area with horse shoes and another toss game," giving campers something to do between adventures.
Riverfront sites: Castle Rock fishing access offers prime water access. "There's a really cool, elevated cement lookout area next to the river to set up your chairs and fish," says Kathi F., describing one of the unique features that attracts anglers to this spot.
Privacy between campsites: Swinging Bridge Fishing Access Site provides a sense of seclusion despite limited space. "Sites are really separated down along the river. There's lots of trees and bushes that separate sites," notes Art S., pointing to the natural barriers that create privacy.
Free camping options: Many campers appreciate that Itch-Kep-Pe Park doesn't charge fees. "Free but they do have a donation box," reports Troy M., while another camper mentioned, "We pulled all the way through the campground towards the end and we were next to a beautiful meadow with trees."
Road conditions: Many access roads to fishing sites and campgrounds require careful driving. At Cliff Swallow Fishing Access, one visitor noted it's "About 7 miles west of Absarokee, 2.5 of them gravel," which can be challenging after rain.
Cell service: Connectivity varies dramatically across the area. Bob R. at Basin Campground reports, "We had no cell coverage with T-Mobile and so-so reception with Starlink due to the tree cover," which is important for those needing to stay connected.
Campsite availability: Most fishing access sites and smaller campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. At Emerald Lake Campground, a camper observed, "I got there on Saturday at 3 pm and there were only 2 spots open. With the final gone within 30 minutes," indicating the need for early arrival.
Look for play areas: Red Lodge KOA offers dedicated facilities for children. Hailey L. says it's "Perfect for families with kids" and has "lots of fun things for the kids! Pool is great with showers close by."
Consider noise factors: Some campgrounds are quieter than others. At Swinging Bridge, Taylor T. notes, "There are cows right by the bathroom too, making it feel like this is a campground squeezed between a creek and several private properties," which could be entertaining for kids or disruptive depending on your perspective.
Safe swimming spots: Castle Rock provides natural swimming opportunities. One camper mentions, "Across the river is a rock ledge swimmers use to dive off of into a deep pool," though parents should supervise children closely around these natural features.
Site leveling: Basin Campground gets high marks for its prepared sites. "Sites are paved and mostly level and nestled in the pine trees - gorgeous!" says Bob R., making it easier for RVs to set up without extensive leveling.
Hookup availability: Mountain Range RV Park offers full-service options for larger rigs. TravelingTaylors T. describes it as a "Very clean RV/tent campground just outside of Billings with full hookups," which is important for RVers needing electricity and water.
Dust concerns: Be prepared for dusty conditions at some sites. Paul G. mentions at Mountain Range RV Park that there's "Close to interstate and one of MT busiest truck stops," which can contribute to dust and noise that might affect RV camping comfort.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is Fishtail Campground located and how do I access it?
Fishtail is a small town in south-central Montana, nestled near the Beartooth Mountains. While there isn't a specific 'Fishtail Campground,' several camping options exist in the vicinity. East Boulder Campground is located off East Boulder Road near Fishtail, offering tent sites and space for small RVs or vans. It's accessible via a maintained road and features creek-side sites. Another option is Rosebud Isle near Fishtail, which provides basic amenities including toilets. Most campgrounds in the area are accessible by car on paved or well-maintained gravel roads, though conditions may vary seasonally.
What fishing opportunities are available near Fishtail, Montana?
Fishtail, Montana offers excellent fishing opportunities in its surrounding waterways. Whitebird is situated alongside the Stillwater River, providing direct fishing access with a boat dock. It costs $12 per night with a valid Montana fishing license or $18 without one. Horsethief Station is another fishing-focused site requiring a Montana fishing or hunting license to stay. The area also features numerous fishing access sites along the Stillwater River and nearby streams. The region is known for trout fishing, particularly rainbow, brown, and cutthroat varieties, with seasonal fishing available depending on water conditions and regulations.
What camping is available near Fishtail, MT?
According to TheDyrt.com, Fishtail, MT offers a wide range of camping options, with 104 campgrounds and RV parks near Fishtail, MT and 19 free dispersed camping spots.
Which is the most popular campground near Fishtail, MT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Fishtail, MT is Itch-Kep-Pe Park with a 4-star rating from 48 reviews.
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Fishtail, MT?
According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 free dispersed camping spots near Fishtail, MT.
Keep Exploring
