Best Campgrounds near Hot Springs, MT
Campgrounds near Hot Springs, Montana range from basic dispersed sites to developed facilities with amenities. The area includes Wild Horse Hot Springs, which offers tent camping combined with hot spring access, and Muchwater Recreation Area, a free dispersed camping area along the river. Several properties in the region support RV hookups, tent sites, and cabin rentals, with particular concentrations around nearby water features like lakes and rivers. The Lolo National Forest provides public land opportunities for primitive camping with established sites that typically include fire rings but limited other amenities.
Road conditions and seasonal access vary significantly throughout the region, particularly at dispersed sites which may have steep entry roads. Many campgrounds operate from May through September, though exact dates depend on weather conditions and elevation. "This is by far one of my favorite camping spots. Dispersed. Pet friendly. Quiet. Plenty of space between you and other campers. A river right by you," noted one visitor about Muchwater Recreation Area. Train noise can be a factor at riverside campgrounds, with several reviews mentioning the sounds of passing trains across the river. Visitors should check fire restrictions during summer months, as bans are common during dry periods.
Campers frequently mention the appeal of natural features, particularly hot springs and water access. Wild Horse Hot Springs receives consistently high ratings for its variety of soaking pools combined with camping options. The property charges separate fees for camping ($35 for tent sites) and hot spring access ($14 per person). Several visitors commented positively about the privacy between sites at dispersed locations, though amenities are minimal. Based on reviews from The Dyrt, wildlife sightings are common, with one camper reporting moose crossing the river and sleeping in the campground at night. For those seeking more amenities, developed campgrounds offer toilets, trash service, and in some cases electrical hookups, though these facilities typically charge nightly fees versus the free dispersed options.
