Best Dog-Friendly Camping near Helena, MT

Black Sandy State Park Campground on Hauser Lake allows pets across all tent and RV sites with minimal restrictions. Helena North KOA accommodates pets in their cabins, tent sites, and RV spaces, featuring a large gravel dog run area for exercise. Court Sheriff Campground and White Sandy Campground also welcome pets, with spacious sites providing room for pets to relax while remaining leashed. Riverside Campground and Devil's Elbow Campground offer water access points where dogs can cool off during summer months. Most campgrounds require pets to be on-leash at all times, cleaned up after, and not left unattended. The large dog zone at Helena North KOA remains well-maintained and clean according to visitor experiences.

Hiking trails near Helena's pet-friendly campgrounds provide excellent exercise opportunities for dogs, particularly those connecting to the extensive trail systems around Mount Helena City Park. Summer algae blooms at White Sandy Campground occasionally affect water quality, requiring pet owners to monitor conditions before allowing dogs to swim. Several campgrounds sit directly on Hauser Lake, offering water access for pets that enjoy swimming, though leash rules apply even at shorelines. Most campgrounds maintain fire restrictions that apply to all visitors including those with pets. Campers with electric vehicles should note that Helena North KOA prohibits EV charging at campsite hookups with significant penalties, while accommodating pets at all sites. The variety of pet-friendly options ranges from basic facilities at Cromwell Dixon Campground to full-service amenities at Helena North KOA.

Best Dog-Friendly Sites Near Helena, Montana (94)

    1. Black Sandy State Park Campground

    15 Reviews
    Helena National Forest, MT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 458-3221

    $6 - $24 / night

    "Pull up next to the lake. Electric, wood, toilets, noisy boat docking, gnats available. Office super friendly and helpful. Fishing near dam close by."

    "This campground is pretty small but is located right on the edge of the lake making for some nice views and a relaxing environment."

    2. Court Sheriff Campground

    18 Reviews
    Helena, MT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 475-3921

    $15 - $30 / night

    "Half an hour outside of Helena is a beautiful reservoir lake. Court Sheriff Campground spreads out along its shore. Many sites are waterside and you can see families playing in it."

    "We didn’t want to stay in Helena and looked around the Missouri. This spot was so nice! We had a spot in some shade, and looked right into the water."

    3. Helena North KOA

    6 Reviews
    Helena, MT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 458-3725

    "Great spot near Glacier National Park, quick to get to! Dog friendly, cabins and fun little round (yurt-like) metal buildings to stay in too! Plus over sized lawn chess!"

    "An area to play games and we didn’t have our dogs this time but the dog zone looked good and clean."

    4. White Sandy Campground

    8 Reviews
    Helena, MT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 458-4744

    $25 - $140 / night

    "The entrance is right before Black Sandy. The dump station is just past the entrance and does have potable water (if not closed in winter) In mid Sept, only one loop was open."

    "Near the water. Good hiking"

    5. Devil's Elbow Campground

    7 Reviews
    Helena, MT
    12 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 227-3570

    $25 - $140 / night

    "Right on the Missouri River, this campground is at a wide spot called Hauser Lake. No electricity or dump station but I knew that beforehand."

    "There are a small network of paved and unpaved trails with amazing views of the “lake”. There are places to swim and put a boat in."

    6. Hellgate Campground

    15 Reviews
    Helena, MT
    18 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 475-3921

    $10 - $170 / night

    "Canyon Ferry Lake is an expansive lake reaching 33 miles from Townsend to Helena, MT. "

    "If you don’t have a boat and don’t want to BBQ, there’s not much to do, but the views are pretty all around. Went here with a local."

    7. Cromwell Dixon Campground

    10 Reviews
    Elliston, MT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 449-5490

    "Stayed one night while visiting a friend in Helena. Close to the Continental Divide trail, which we briefly hiked. Beautiful trail. Campsites had tables and plenty of shade."

    "This is a small, no frills site just outside of Helena, MT. No hookups for RVs; Vault toilets, which were very clean. Pack in/Pack out as there are no trash receptacles."

    8. Park Lake Campground

    6 Reviews
    Clancy, MT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 449-5490

    "Helena National Forest's Park Lake Campground sits next to the beautiful Park Lake. A day use areas sits along the east side of the lake."

    "Our favorite nearby campground that's for enough away to get everyone to unplug. Peaceful mountain lake with no motors allowed on the water. Fish, kayak, paddle board, and swim."

    9. Riverside Campground

    5 Reviews
    Helena, MT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 475-3921

    $15 - $106 / night

    "This campground seems to get less traffic than those on the lake. Paved roads through the campground, walking paths with benches. Nice boat ramp with plenty of parking."

    "Located below a dam, this quiet park is much more than meets the eye. My husband and I spent a night here in April. It was the off season - so camping was free. There was a warm, CLEAN bathroom."

    10. Helena Campground & RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Helena, MT
    4 miles
    +1 (406) 502-1795
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Dog-Friendly Camping Reviews near Helena, MT

454 Reviews of 94 Helena Campgrounds


  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 23, 2025

    Galena Gulch

    Nice spot

    Nice spot along a stream. Seems to be a weekend spot for locals from Helena. I was told by locals that it has been free until 2025 and is now $10. It's primitive with a picnic table, and sit was fairly level.

  • Abby M.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 19, 2022

    Goose Bay - Dispersed Camping

    Another great stay

    I was here about a year ago and enjoyed my stay so much, I came back for another week. Arrived on Sunday afternoon with plenty of spots to pick from. My favorite is the very last loop before the Marina. I was able to snag a waterfront spot & had easy access to paddle board. Vault toilets were cleaned and restocked 3 times during my stay. Friday by mid-day, most of the spots are taken. The weekends aren’t as enjoyable because there’s always a group that is disruptive and respectful of quiet hours or the people camping next to them. Overall, definitely would recommend this place if you’re in the area. Only 50 min from helena to restock on all supplies. Little store next door at the marina you can access too!

  • Ashley C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 8, 2022

    Scott Reservoir Dispersed

    A nice view of the reservoir

    Came up here in a whim one night and got lucky! No one else camped up there so it was peacful. You're right by the water with. Great mountain view, couldn't ask for more.

    There were just a few cars driving back down the mountain in the evening. But no one bothered.

    There's a nice hand full of spots you could pull up in a car, maybe two spots your could fit a small trailer in. About four or five fire rings in the immediate area. I wouldn't be surprised in there were more spots in the area or the other side of the reservoir.

    Pretty easy to get to from Helena. Just take Rimini road all the way up, past the town, past private property. At some point I took a right onto Goulds.

    Not the best roads but I got up there fine with my 2015 Outback just fine.

  • J
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Lost Moose Meadows Campground

    Great base camp

    We enjoyed an incredible weekend at this campground. Nice clean restrooms, spacious sites, and they even pick up your trash every morning. Great dog park. The owners are very helpful and friendly . We definitely will be back.

  • H
    Oct. 1, 2017

    Lichen Cliff

    Small stopover

    Lovely little site north of Helena along the highway. Fish & wildlife state siteso simple primitive camp sites. Not too memorable but the nearby area is stunning Montana wilderness with loads of hiking.

  • Art S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 18, 2018

    Court Sheriff Campground

    Find a sunny spot by the reservoir and enjoy the water

    Half an hour outside of Helena is a beautiful reservoir lake. Court Sheriff Campground spreads out along its shore. Many sites are waterside and you can see families playing in it. Bring your boat or inflatables and relax.

    Our site is not on the water. As soon as we pulled in the camp host hurried over. He was super helpful and directed us to a shady spot. As time goes on, I’m finding the afternoon sun to directly hit our teardrop. There is still plenty of shade for us to relax in. Clean vault toilets are spread throughout camp. Water spigots give good water from the aquifer below. They provide waste bags for dogs! Garbage and recycling are by the entrance.

    There aren’t hiking trails nearby but you can drive back to Helena to find some good trails out of city park.

  • Z
    Jul. 28, 2024

    Holter Dam Rec. Site Campground

    Great week day but packed on weekend

     A lot of water stations.  The boat dock parking area allowed camping along the perimeter. A few paved walking paths near the beach area.   The narrow paved roads made life interesting. The fish cleaning station is closed due to vandalism.  Our first day was 105F which made the lake more inviting.  Evening low of 76F.  No pets on the fairly small swim beach.  All other water access has large rocks for erosion mitigation.

    Our Saturday departure was delayed by FWP boat inspection at the entrance and a long line was inbound to Holter Lake.

  • S
    Apr. 23, 2019

    Holter Dam Rec. Site Campground

    Clean

    Clean. Had outhouses. Pet and family friendly drive to accessible. Tent and camper parking. Right on the water.

  • E
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Hooper Park

    Great campground and park

    Nice place, quite and inviting. Walking distance to all the amenities of town. This park has a pit toilet and flush toilets, also showers, potable water and garbage service. Huge spots with lots of space. Pull through spots perfect for RV or tent camping. Sites available with or without hookups. Playground for kids and it's pet friendly! We love this park.


Guide to Helena

If you're looking for pet-friendly camping options near Helena, Montana, there are several great spots where you and your furry friends can enjoy the great outdoors together.

Pet-friendly campgrounds include Black Sandy State Park Campground

  • At Black Sandy State Park Campground, pets are welcome, allowing you to enjoy the beautiful lakeside views with your dog by your side.
  • This campground features electric hookups and picnic tables, making it a comfortable spot for both you and your pet.
  • With access to hiking trails and a swimming area, your dog will love exploring the natural surroundings.

Dog-friendly activities while camping near Helena

  • While staying at Court Sheriff Campground, you can enjoy swimming and fishing right by the water, perfect for a fun day out with your dog.
  • The nearby Devil's Elbow Campground offers paved hiking paths and a small swimming beach, ideal for keeping your pet active and entertained.
  • At Goose Bay Marina and Campground, you can take your dog for walks along the lake and enjoy the scenic views together.

Dog owners appreciate the amenities at Vigilante Campground

  • Vigilante Campground provides picnic tables and fire pits, making it easy to enjoy meals outdoors with your pet.
  • This campground is known for its secluded spots along a rocky canyon, offering a peaceful retreat for you and your dog.
  • With nearby hiking trails, you can explore the beautiful landscape while ensuring your furry friend gets plenty of exercise.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dog-friendly campsite near Helena, MT?

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

What is the best site to find dog-friendly camping near Helena, MT?

TheDyrt.com has all 94 dog-friendly camping locations near Helena, MT, with real photos and reviews from campers.