Camping near Gallatin National Forest offers a variety of options within the Gallatin Range, where elevations range from 5,000 to 10,000 feet. The camping season typically runs from late May through September, with most high-elevation sites inaccessible until mid-June due to snowmelt. Nighttime temperatures can drop below 40°F even in summer months, requiring appropriate sleeping gear at all elevations.
What to do
Hiking from campsite bases: Several campgrounds provide direct trail access. At Fairy Lake Campground, the trailhead to Sacajawea Peak is located right at the campground entrance. "The campground itself is peaceful, not overly crowded, and surrounded by towering trees and mountain views in every direction," notes one visitor about this high-elevation site.
Historical exploration: Missouri Headwaters State Park Campground offers historical significance alongside camping. "Experience Camping near where Captains Meriwether Lewis and William Clark and the Corps of Discovery camped at the headwaters of the Missouri river in 1805... Historical signs about the Corps of Discovers stay at the headwaters of the Missouri and their journey are located throughout the park," explains one camper.
Water activities: Accessible reservoir recreation awaits at Hood Creek Campground. "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," recommends one camper about this location 30 minutes from Bozeman.
What campers like
Riverfront sites: Many visitors appreciate camping directly alongside moving water. At Spire Rock Campground, sites border creek access. "We were in one of the group sites (#2) with creek access in our site it was perfect... the hosts were friendly, and the toilets were the cleanest we've ever seen," notes one family who stayed there.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Campgrounds throughout the region provide wildlife observation chances beyond those mentioned in existing descriptions. "For sure there is 1 grizzly that's pretty big. He checked out our truck tent. Mountain Goats will come in your camp and they will do what goats do and want to check you out. They are not scared," warns one camper at Fairy Lake Campground.
Diverse camping options: The area offers everything from basic tent sites to premium accommodations. "This is a small KOA. Super friendly staff. Sites are shady unless you have a big rig - that area does not have shade. Decent dog park. Decent playground," reports a visitor to Three Forks KOA Journey, highlighting the range of glamping close to Gallatin National Forest.
What you should know
Access challenges: Many forest roads leading to campsites require appropriate vehicles. "The 6-mile unmaintained road to get to the campground is definitely rough. The warnings are justified—it's bumpy, rocky, and slow going. That said, I made it up just fine in my rear-wheel-drive Ranger," explains a visitor about reaching Fairy Lake Campground.
Reservation strategies: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "This campground books up super fast, so plan out your trip well in advance and book it as soon as you can! You won't be sorry," advises a camper at Hood Creek Campground.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience unexpected noise issues. "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," reports a visitor at VangoBoon.
Tips for camping with families
Look for campgrounds with play features: Several sites include child-friendly amenities. "Park for children, great walking paths, fire pit accessible, trash and dumpsters," summarizes one parent about their stay at Three Forks KOA Journey.
Educational opportunities: Some campgrounds offer learning programs for children. "Did you know you can print out a packet for your little ones to become Cub Rangers at this State Park? There are great amenities for both camping and RVs with a child's playground located on the camp," shares a visitor at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park.
Safe swimming spots: Families appreciate shallow water access points. "It's the perfect place to relax, hike, fish, or just sit back and take in the beauty of Montana," mentions a camper about Fairy Lake Campground, where the lake provides safer swimming than faster-moving rivers.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Many forest campgrounds require effort to level larger vehicles. "Had to use all our jack stands to combat the slope of our site (P007). Others looked much more level," reports an RVer about their experience at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park.
Alternative luxury camping: For those seeking upscale glamping close to Gallatin National Forest without roughing it, established facilities offer full amenities. "Our pull-through site was spacious, level, and equipped with reliable full hookups (30/50 amp), shady trees, fire pit, picnic table, and Wi-Fi. The amenities were top-notch: clean restrooms, a well-maintained laundry room, the best setup we have seen thus far for the cost," notes an RV camper at Three Forks KOA Journey.
Dump station information: Most forest campgrounds lack dump facilities, requiring advance planning. "Electric only campsite. Water fill and dump station are separate from sites," reports a camper about Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, important information for those traveling in self-contained units.
