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.
$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."
$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)."
$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."
"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. "
"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."
"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."
$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."
$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."
"This camp ground is tucked into a residential area, and far enough off the interstate to not hear the noise, but close enough to town and all the other amenities to make it very convenient."
"This KOA sits right along the Yellowstone River along the eastern outskirts of Billings."
"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"
GuideOddly, this is my first time camping at Chisholm even though I’ve lived nearby for 25yrs. It is a tremendous campground. Small, quiet, laid back. My spot sat right above the creek and it was really marvelous. Only 1 bathroom for the entire spot. Very clean grounds except the bathroom was pretty nasty with flies.
Scout5/5 Stars - The Perfect Weekend Getaway! We had an absolutely fantastic time here! It was exactly the weekend getaway we were looking for. The property is super quiet and surrounded by sprawling farmland, which gave our four kids and the dog plenty of room to safely run around and burn off energy. We even had enough wide-open space to set up a great family game of wiffle ball. Getting our 34-foot fifth-wheel situated was a breeze, and the site was perfect for our setup. Despite feeling so peaceful and secluded, the location is incredibly convenient and close to everything you might need. Another huge bonus for us was the great cell phone service! To top it all off, the owners are fantastic and incredibly welcoming. We highly recommend staying here and can't wait to visit again!
GuideIf possible, I would give it 4 1/2 stars. We were in the middle of a forest and barely able to find a spot for our Starlink to work (which was fine). It has standard bathrooms, showers, and laundry and a one RV dump site. The dumpsters filled up over the weekend but were emptied Monday morning. It has a delicious restaurant on site, The Sunflower Cafe, serving breakfast and dinner. The biggest advantage is the distance to the west entrance of Glacier National Park. We checked a few prices after arriving, and this was a good price for the distance, but some 10-15 miles away are less expensive.
GuideFirst, let me say that the hosts are really chill and love all dogs. Being at Yellowstone, people with dogs is a common occurrence, and the staff know how to treat pooches right.
Our site accommodated two sprinters and a raft trailer. We even pitched a tent for one night.
Things I would have liked to see improved: The sites near the hot springs are grassy and lush; the other site was barren of trees. The hot springs side had bathrooms; the other side had a portable toilet (which did not stink). The hot springs were not open on Mondays. That sucks after dealing with Yellowstone park foolishness.
TravelerCampground owned by blackfeetcampgrounds.com/ I camped next to the creek under trees. There was a grizzly sighting that the hosts warned me of, but I did not see. Not too many other campers, but it is a large property. There is access to the Two Medicine lake. I very much enjoyed my stay.
TravelerWe stayed one night at Little Joe Campground in Lolo National Forest while traveling, and it was exactly what we were looking for—a peaceful place to rest before continuing our journey.
The campground is quiet, secluded, and sits alongside Little Joe Creek. Listening to the creek flowing by made for a relaxing evening and a great night’s sleep.
There are six campsites, each with its own fire pit. Some sites have metal fire rings, while others have fire pits surrounded by stacked rocks. The campground was clean and well maintained, and the pit toilet was also clean, which is always appreciated in a rustic campground.
If you’re looking for a simple, peaceful forest campground away from the crowds, Little Joe Campground is a great choice. Whether you’re stopping for a night on a long road trip like we did or planning to spend a few days enjoying the forest, it’s a quiet and relaxing place to camp.
TravelerYou have to book this campground on reservation.gov. No cell service on site though (Verizon). Sites are quite close with no shade or visual barriers. Plenty of room at the beginning of July. Did not stay.
ScoutCan hear the highway
GuideRoad was smooth. We went on a weekday so no one was there. It is pretty far back on the road. It’s an open field at the top so plenty of room for several vehicles.
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.
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?
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?
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?
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?
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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