Best Equestrian Camping near Gallatin National Forest in Montana

Are you looking for a place to stay in Gallatin National Forest with your horse? It's easy to find Gallatin National Forest equestrian campgrounds with the Dyrt. Search nearby equestrian campsites or find top-rated spots from other campers.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Gallatin National Forest, MT (12)

    Camper-submitted photo from Langohr Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Langohr Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Langohr Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Langohr Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Langohr Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Langohr Campground

    1. Langohr Campground

    11 Reviews
    26 Photos
    149 Saves
    Gallatin Gateway, Montana

    Overview

    Langohr Campground is located in scenic Hyalite Canyon on the Bozeman Ranger District of the Gallatin National Forest. It is located just 12 miles south of Bozeman, Mont. The surrounding area offers many outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, hiking and climbing.

    Recreation

    Hyalite Creek provides great fishing for Yellowstone cutthroat, Arctic grayling and brook trout. Many hiking trails can be found in Hyalite Canyon.

    Natural Features

    The campground sits next to Hyalite Creek, at an elevation of 6,200 feet. Most campsites are situated in open meadows along the creek. Some are located among scattered pine and fir trees.

    Nearby Attractions

    Hyalite Reservoir is just 3.5 miles from the campground. The scenic 206-acre lake offers many recreational activities, including boating, canoeing, fishing, hiking, climbing and picnicking. The popular Hyalite Peak Trail begins near the reservoir. The 7.5-mile one-way trail gains 3,450 feet in elevation as is climbs past numerous waterfalls to beautiful Hyalite Lake and Peak.

    Contact Info

    For facility specific information, please call (406) 522-2520.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group

    $52 - $60 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from VangoBoon
    Camper-submitted photo from VangoBoon
    Camper-submitted photo from VangoBoon
    Camper-submitted photo from VangoBoon
    Camper-submitted photo from VangoBoon
    Camper-submitted photo from VangoBoon

    2. VangoBoon

    5 Reviews
    7 Photos
    11 Saves
    Bozeman, Montana

    Welcome to our campground! We have a variety of options that should suit just about anyone. We are near Yellowstone National Park as well as Bozeman, MT which offers all types of recreational opportunities e.g. hiking, fishing, climbing, skiing, cycling and running trails.

    VanGoBoon is the perfect "Pull-in for the Night" as well as week-long stays! Most of our sites are SELF-CONTAINED. We have 2 sites that have electric and water hookups. (20,30,50amp)

    On site we have horseshoes, frisbee golf, and corn toss. We mostly offer dry campsites for overnight stays for vans. Most sites are on concrete slabs so they are level and the property has grass areas with trees as well.

    FYI: Great site if you like trains! An important part of Montana’s commerce is transportation by rail so there will be some highway and train noise.

    Private spots between trees but near freeway for easy access. Our 2 horses have been a favorite with young campers along with the open yet private campsites! We look forward to welcoming you!

    Showers are for cabin rentals only.

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

    $25 - $195 / night

    Camper-submitted photo from Halfmoon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfmoon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfmoon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfmoon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfmoon Campground
    Camper-submitted photo from Halfmoon Campground

    3. Halfmoon Campground

    10 Reviews
    49 Photos
    155 Saves
    Melville, Montana

    A campground in the east crazy mountains on the__Yellowstone District.__Camp sites: 12Maps: Halfmoon Campground Map (527 KB)Accessible Facilities:Toilet6 SitesTrash Pickup: NoFirewood: NoNo Reservations:This campground does not use a reservation system, it is managed on a first-come, first-served basis. Be aware the campground may fill up on weekends & holidays during the summer months and you should arrive in the early afternoon to ensure there is a space available for the night.Information:Livingston Office5242 Hwy 89.Livingston, MT 59047(406) 222-1892

    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Drinking Water
    Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Creek Picnic Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Creek Picnic Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Creek Picnic Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Creek Picnic Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Creek Picnic Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Creek Picnic Area

    4. Spanish Creek Picnic Area

    3 Reviews
    14 Photos
    52 Saves
    Gallatin Gateway, Montana

    A picnic area in the Gallatin Canyon on Bozeman District. Picnic sites: 4 Accessible Facilities: Toilet Trash Pickup: No Firewood: No Information: Bozeman Office 3710 fallon Street Bozeman, MT 59718 (406) 522-2520

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    • No image available

      5. Mystic Lake Cabin

      1 Review
      26 Saves
      Bozeman, Montana

      Overview

      Mystic Lake Cabin was built in 1930 and is currently open year-round. It provides access to a variety of recreational activities, including fishing, hunting and exploration of numerous trails. The cabin is located in a non-motorized area. Guests must be prepared to hike, horseback ride or mountain bike to get there in the summer, and winter access is by cross-country skis or snowshoes. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.

      Recreation

      New World Gulch Trail and Bozeman Creek Trail are just a couple of the multi-use trails in the area for hikers, equestrians, mountain bikers, skiers and snowshoers. The Mystic Lake Loop is popular with mountain bikers. Anglers can fish for brook, rainbow and cutthroat trout in Mystic Lake. Hunting opportunities are good in the fall.

      Natural Features

      The cabin is tucked into a stand of pines near the southeastern shore of Mystic Lake, at an elevation of about 6,400 feet. The landscape surrounding Mystic Lake includes meadows that fill with wildflowers in the summer, as well as evergreen forest and the peaks of the Gallatin Range. Visitors may spot one of the resident black or grizzly bears, moose, elk or mule deer. Several bird species also inhabit the area.

      • Reservable
      • Equestrian
      • Cabins
      • Trash
      • Firewood Available
      • Toilets

      $65 / night

      Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Lakes
      Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Lakes
      Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Lakes
      Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Lakes
      Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Lakes
      Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Lakes
      Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Creek Cabin
      Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Creek Cabin
      Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Creek Cabin
      Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Creek Cabin

      7. Spanish Creek Cabin

      1 Review
      4 Photos
      12 Saves
      Gallatin Gateway, Montana

      Overview

      Spanish Creek Cabin was constructed in 1934 and retains much of its rustic character from that time. The cabin is available year-round and offers an excellent base camp for a variety of summer and winter recreation opportunities. It is adjacent to a popular trailhead and a campground. Guests may drive to the cabin during summer months. During the winter (December 2nd through May 15th) the access road is gated 3.5 miles from the cabin and guest should be prepared to hike, bike, ski or snowshoe to the cabin. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.

      Recreation

      A nearby trailhead provides access to a network of trails that head south into the Lee Metcalf Wilderness and west into non-wilderness areas.The trails can be used by hikers, equestrians, snowshoers and cross-country skiers. Trails also lead to Little Hell Roaring Creek, the north end of the Madison Range and the South Fork of Spanish Creek. This area also offers opportunities for fishing and hunting.

      Natural Features

      The cabin sits at the base of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, in a large meadow, at an elevation of 6,200 feet. Wildflowers add bursts of color around the cabin each summer. South Fork Spanish Creek flows nearby. The densely-forested peaks of the Madison Range surround the cabin. This area is home to grizzly bears, moose, elk, deer and bighorn sheep, as well as a variety of bird species.

      • Reservable
      • Equestrian
      • Cabins
      • Tent Cabin
      • Glamping
      • Firewood Available

      $65 / night

      • No image available
        Camper-submitted photo from Lake Shore Lodge

        9. Lake Shore Lodge

        1 Review
        1 Photo
        19 Saves
        Ennis, Montana
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Electric Hookups
        • Phone Service
        • Reservable
        • ADA Access

        $40 / night

        Camper-submitted photo from Richardson Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Richardson Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Richardson Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Richardson Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Richardson Campground
        Camper-submitted photo from Richardson Campground

        10. Richardson Campground

        2 Reviews
        9 Photos
        6 Saves
        White Sulphur Springs, Montana

        Richardson Campground is located in the Lewis and Clark National Forest in the Castle Mountains. At an elevation of 5,500 feet, the campground encompasses 8 acres. It is located in a lodgepole pine forest on a hillside. There are 3 campsites provided with restrooms. Richardson Creek is located nearby, and scenic hiking trails are accessible from the campground. Pets are welcome. The maximum recommended trailer length for the area is 16 feet. Please limit your stay to 16 days. Bears may frequent the area; keep all food out of sight in approved containers and remove all food from area after eating. Mandatory food storage is required.

        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Tents
        • Equestrian
        • Picnic Table
        • Toilets
      Show More
      Showing results 1-10 of 12 campgrounds

      Recent Equestrian Reviews in Gallatin National Forest

      44 Reviews of 12 Gallatin National Forest Campgrounds


      • d
        Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Lakes
        Aug. 27, 2024

        Spanish Lakes

        Beautiful lake

        I visited this lake last week. I love it and slope game. The water is pristine and visually appealing with no obstructions like stumps or logs, as mentioned earlier. The lake underwent complete drainage and dredging. It has been populated with eight different types of fish. I recently reeled in two bass weighing 2-3 pounds each. My wife has successfully caught numerous quality channel catfish. This lake is quite lovely. However, the landing area is shallow, restricting the launch of large bass boats.

      • Damira G.
        Camper-submitted photo from VangoBoon
        Jun. 30, 2024

        VangoBoon

        Not great for the price

        This place seems to be nicer than nearby campsites, but stinky toilets with no toilet paper, outdoor shower with cold water for $54 for a small camper was quite disappointing. Trains and highway noises are extremely loud as others mentioned

      • EThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp
        Jun. 15, 2024

        Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp

        Good spot above

        There’s a spot down by the water that someone took with a tent who we let by us. We took a spot just above before you drive down to the water. I wasn’t sure if I could turn around my 20’ travel trailer down by the water. Very buggy.

      • owen T.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp
        Mar. 30, 2024

        Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp

        Fishing access site. No developed sites. State of Montana lands .

        Rough camp. No amenities. Not large enough for motor home. But ok for pull camper. First come first serve. Looking for that free spot. Between the hotels and hassle.

      • Erik B.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from VangoBoon
        Jul. 20, 2023

        VangoBoon

        Pull in for the night - just off highway

        Clean and flat pull up spots. If you’re ok with road noise and don’t want the “window knock” on your Campervan then this is a option for the night.

      • SThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from VangoBoon
        Jul. 12, 2023

        VangoBoon

        Cool spot with horses but very loud.

        We came in late and it was already dark. That may have contributed to the confusion in where to go when we first got there, but once we were there it was fine. Not a lot of privacy between spots but to pull in, set up camp and leave the next day it was worth it.

        We LOVED visiting with the horses and they were very friendly and did not even mind when our dogs barked at them.

        Biggest negative is that you can hear all the highway noise and trucks like to jake-break in this area. On the other side of the highway there were railroad tracks. The train blew its horn through this area ‘frequently and when it stopped you could hear all the train cars smashing together. This woke me up a couple times throughout the night but otherwise fine.

        There is a pit toilet, with hand sanitizer.

        We camped in a tent with our 2 dogs and young toddler.

      • Angie B.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Creek Picnic Area
        Jun. 24, 2023

        Spanish Creek Picnic Area

        Very quiet and beautiful!

        I had a bison run after my car on the way in...that was exciting! 😆 The road in had breathtaking scenery. The campsites were easily accessible near the trailheads. It was extremely quiet and peaceful the whole time I was there.

      • Dylan R.
        Camper-submitted photo from VangoBoon
        May. 18, 2023

        VangoBoon

        Overall great campground

        The hosts were very friendly and passionate about the up keep of their land. They were very flexible with check in and check out times and are pet friendly. Would definitely consider staying here again next time we visit the Bozeman area.

      • T
        Camper-submitted photo from VangoBoon
        May. 3, 2023

        VangoBoon

        Only place open before April 1

        Ended up here on a winter site that had electric but no water or bathroom facilities (I knew this).  Site was plowed and I had plenty of room for my pickup with GFC camper to fit.  Site was easy to find and despite all the snow was plowed for me.  There are only two site that are available before April 1 so this was a convenient place to stay right near Bozeman for a night. Cost about $50.  Could have stayed in a Walmart, but prefer to only put the rooftop tent up in proper campsites so this worked out well for me.

      • DThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Langohr Campground
        Sep. 23, 2022

        Langohr Campground

        Creekside

        Camping on a Thursday in Sept. many sites available. Picnic table, fire ring and the peaceful sound of the creek flowing by!!! Sounds like weekends this place fills up with reservations. Some water. Firewood at camp host until the 25th.

      • JThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Halfmoon Campground
        Jun. 9, 2022

        Halfmoon Campground

        Glacier like views without crowd

        This is a 4wd road so don’t try to drag a trailer in here but it is a lovely campground with abundant hiking.

      • dThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Halfmoon Campground
        Nov. 24, 2021

        Halfmoon Campground

        Awesome drive in

        We actually didn’t get to stay here because it was closed due to fires but got to drive all the way to the gate. The drive in is amazing up a valley into a beautiful valley. I’m sure it would be a cool place to stay

      • vicki
        Camper-submitted photo from Halfmoon Campground
        Nov. 22, 2021

        Halfmoon Campground

        Only stayed one night but will be back!

        Beautiful area with amazing views. The camp sites looked well kept and the bathrooms were decent. We were just passing through so only stayed one night but we will definitely be back. The road to get to the campground was slick with snow and we needed to put Chains on our promaster van. A little bumpy bit nothing too crazy! You have to go through one gate that has a private property sign next to it, but that property is off the main road. Keep going up the road and you will find the loop of campsites.

      • CThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Halfmoon Campground
        Jul. 31, 2021

        Halfmoon Campground

        Good Location Bad Roads

        Decent location at the start of the trailhead right next to a creek but the sites aren’t close enough to see the water, just hear it. Showed up at about 4pm on a Friday with more than half of the sites still open but they did fill up by around 7pm. Road in is gravel for about 16 miles with the last 4 having vehicle crawl. If you go more than 10 miles an hour in this section you will probably pop a tire and should definitely have 4x4 and high clearance.

      • Connie H.
        Camper-submitted photo from Halfmoon Campground
        Jul. 17, 2021

        Halfmoon Campground

        Lovely area @ 3800 ft

        Well separated, timbered sites with miles of hiking available. Don't miss Big Timber falls! Black bear and Moose are frequent visitors.

      • CThe Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Yellowstone Dreamin Camp
        Jun. 9, 2021

        Yellowstone Dreamin Camp

        Glamping with a View

        We were in need of a place to stay while attending a field seminar in Yellowstone.  It is about a 30 min drive to Gardiner/Entrance to Yellowstone.  The owners have experience in the hospitality industry and it shows inside the tent.  We stayed in the Elk because we wanted a private bathroom. The room had 2 beds (super comfortable and well dressed), refrigerator, couch,  writing table and electric fireplace (more for ambiance vs really providing a lot of heat) and still very roomy. They provide a little lantern for night walks to bathroom or back to tent if you don't have your own flash light.   The deck off the front was ideal for sitting or practicing yoga.  You do have to walk to the bathroom/showers.  While we didn't have the opportunity to use the 2 community fire pits or horseshoes, butthey were well placed with a beautiful backdrop of mountains.  There is also a small building with a coffee/tea machine and another small refrigerator.  You can park right next to the tent.  

        If you want to take a walk, there are some dirt roads to walk by other surrounding farms.  

        The tents a pretty dispersed and seemed fairly private.  There was only one other couple on the premises so not sure when it is a full house.  They offer really nice kennels.  

        My only ding is they have a few kinks to work out, but I feel they will figure it out.  They will be offering speciality breakfasts in the future, but now they are just store bought muffins with yogurt and orange juice.  The location gets you off the highway, but you do need to navigate a gravel road for about a mile.  Totally drivable for any car. 

        I think if I stayed here again I would take one of their guiding trips.

      • Amy H.
        Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Creek Cabin
        Feb. 8, 2021

        Spanish Creek Cabin

        Highly recommend

        Cute, clean cabin. Sleeps four, a bunk bed and two more beds in a loft. Creek was running in winter, can hear it at night with the window open a crack. 4 mile ski in from the gate with some gentle up and down grades, traveling on an unplowed road. Easy to find. Comfortable and beautiful scenery, hiking trails near by.

      • Rachel S.
        Camper-submitted photo from Halfmoon Campground
        Sep. 6, 2020

        Halfmoon Campground

        The Crazies got Crazy on us!

        Absolutely breathtaking views with a long, beautiful dirt road in to the campsite. The campground is rural but perfectly well equipped with vault toilets (which needed tending to when we were there TBH), rock fire rings and picnic tables. We were looking forward to exploring this gorgeous area, but Mother Nature had other plans for us. We were able to easily find a private site and set up camp and have a peaceful evening under the stars, looking forward to our hike in the morning. We went to sleep all happy and cozy. We woke up to the craziest wind storm around 1am!!! Our tent took quite a beating, we are estimating that winds were above 50mph!!! Needless to say, we were exhausted in the morning and packed up promptly and promised ourselves we would return!

      • Amy S.
        Camper-submitted photo from Langohr Campground
        Aug. 27, 2020

        Langohr Campground

        Pretty Busy and sights aren't great unless you are right on the creek

        Our site for our pop up was basically a little dirt pull through along the main road. No shade, no privacy, and a barely accessible path to the creek. And nowhere to sit/enjoy the creek. 

        Unless your site is directly on the creek seriously don't bother.

      • Ruby W.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Lakes
        Aug. 6, 2020

        Spanish Lakes

        BREATHTAKING Alpine Lakes

        An absolutely stunning area to camp. A relatively challenging nine-mile-hike in from the Spanish Creek campground. Turn left at the trail map and follow the well marked signs. You’ll have stunning views of the mountains, rivers, and pines on your hike in. A few other places to camp on the way in. You’ll cross a couple rivers—so be prepared to take off those boots. Once arriving at the top; you’ll find a stunning array of crystal lakes, snow melts, and glistening cliffs. We camped on top of a large cliff system across the first lake. As you hike in, there are multiple little lakes to camp and fish around. The highest lake (about 100 meters past the first) is indescribably breathtaking. Surrounded by massive mountains, a rolling stream, and a little dead forest accompanied by a campsite and fire ring—AH! I felt like I was in a simulation. Apparently you can summit the nearby mountains and reached a higher lake called Beehive. My friends went and said they enjoyed it. Tons of fishing in all of the lakes. Diverse wildflowers. Tons of bugs. But all great fun! Will certainly return when I go back to Montana.

      • Lucille W.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Creek Picnic Area
        Jul. 22, 2020

        Spanish Creek Picnic Area

        Pretty lil spot

        Stayed here with my sister one night before we hiked up to Spanish Lakes! Follow a long gravel road to the picnic area. Tons of pic nic tables and spots to set up. Creek not too far away for purifying water. There’s a very clean restroom and two different trail heads. We just camped by our car and packed up in the morning and hiked. Very basic all ya need here folks! Pretty views as well

      • Lucille W.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Lakes
        Jul. 22, 2020

        Spanish Lakes

        360 Breathtaking Views

        This place is indescribable. To get there you drive into the Spanish Creek Picnic area. Then you follow the trails on the map to Spanish Lakes. The trails are pretty well marked. It’s about 9.5 miles in and up. The first 4.5 miles are super chill and flat. You’ll cruise through those. You cross over some beautiful bridges over roaring streams. Couple streams didn’t have bridges so we had to lose our boots for those crossings. Then there is a gradual uphill and the last 2 miles are pretty brutal. Eventually, you reach the first lake and you’re like WHAAATT and your jaw is dropping. Mt. Blaze is up to your left and all around are other stunning peaks. The lake is crystal clear and cold. Tons of west slope cutthroat trout that get flown in. There is a ~ 40 ft cliff you can jump off of into the super deep water. We camped just above that spot at a fire ring overlooking the lake. But if you go up to the second and third lakes there are even better spots. Truly a magical place. Definitely make it worth it and stay at least two nights if the weather is good!

      • Ruby W.The Dyrt PRO User
        Camper-submitted photo from Spanish Creek Picnic Area
        Jul. 22, 2020

        Spanish Creek Picnic Area

        Trailhead with Views

        Plenty of dispersed drive in camping sites at the Spanish Creeks Trailhead. Many lots, solid roads, picnic tables, fire rings, and clean facilities. Great signage nestled behind the trees at the start of the trail. Water and a nice bathroom available. A cute little creek nestled along the side of the campground—making for good morning music. Stunning mountain views from the campsites. Head down the canyon trail a little bit to view some stunning meadows. All around a great spot if you’re looking to hit the trails early the next day!


      Drive Time


      Guide to Gallatin National Forest

      Horse camping near Gallatin National Forest in Montana offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and equestrian-friendly facilities, making it an ideal destination for horse enthusiasts.

      Equestrian campers like these nearby activities

      • Enjoy scenic trails and breathtaking views at Halfmoon Campground, where abundant hiking opportunities await.
      • Experience the thrill of fishing and hiking at Spanish Lakes, accessible via a challenging nine-mile hike that rewards you with stunning alpine lakes.
      • Explore the diverse wildlife and picturesque surroundings at Richardson Campground, perfect for those looking to combine camping with horseback riding.

      Campers appreciate these amenities for horses

      • Langohr Campground features spacious sites and is pet-friendly, making it a great choice for equestrian campers.
      • At Spanish Creek Cabin, you'll find a cozy cabin with nearby trails suitable for horseback riding and hiking.
      • Windy Pass Cabin offers a rustic experience with ample outdoor space for setting up tents and enjoying the great outdoors with your horses.

      Tips for equestrian camping near Gallatin National Forest in Montana

      • Always check for trail conditions and accessibility at VangoBoon to ensure a safe and enjoyable ride.
      • Bring your own firewood and be prepared for limited amenities at Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp, as it offers a more rustic camping experience.
      • Make sure to secure your horses properly and utilize bear lockers for food storage at Langohr Campground to keep both your pets and the local wildlife safe.

      Frequently Asked Questions

      • Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Gallatin National Forest?

        According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Gallatin National Forest is Langohr Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 11 reviews.

      • What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Gallatin National Forest?

        TheDyrt.com has all 12 equestrian camping locations near Gallatin National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.