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Best Campgrounds near Cardwell, MT

553 Reviews

Camping near Cardwell, Montana sits at the intersection of mountain landscapes and river valleys, with options ranging from full-service RV parks to state park campgrounds. The area includes the Cardwell General Store and Campground in town and Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park just 15 minutes east. These established campgrounds provide convenient access to Interstate 90, making them popular stopover points for travelers between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks. Missouri Headwaters State Park, located about 30 minutes east near Three Forks, offers camping at the historic confluence where the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin Rivers form the Missouri River.

Most campgrounds in the Cardwell area are open year-round, though services may be limited during winter months. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F, while winter can bring temperatures well below freezing with occasional heavy snowfall. Mosquitoes can be prevalent near water sources during summer months. Highway noise is noticeable at some campgrounds close to I-90, as one camper noted: "The park was well kept and we had electric plus sewer and water, but it is about a mile from the interstate which is convenient but you can occasionally hear trucks pass by." Cell service is generally reliable near town and along major highways but becomes spotty in more remote areas.

The camping options around Cardwell accommodate various preferences and needs. RV campers will find full hookup sites at Cardwell General Store and Campground, which also offers a market and gift shop. Those seeking more natural surroundings can head to Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, which features tent sites, RV spots, and cabins amid pine-covered hills. For free camping, Homestake Pass Dispersed area provides primitive sites about 30 minutes west of Cardwell. Fishing enthusiasts often prefer sites along the Jefferson River, which flows through the area and offers good trout fishing opportunities. Most campgrounds are pet-friendly, though leash rules apply in developed areas.

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Best Camping Sites Near Cardwell, Montana (132)

    1. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park — Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park

    37 Reviews
    Cardwell, MT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 287-3541

    $8 - $90 / night

    "The layout of this state park was somewhat unusual: there are five loops within one larger loop with 32 sites plus seven additional pull-through sites on the outside of the loop."

    "It is not far away from freeway I90.

    It has never been crowded when we were there in spring or fall. Big campground, clean and tidy, in an open area with few trees. Shower building was OK."

    2. Cardwell General Store and Campground

    10 Reviews
    Cardwell, MT
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 581-1526

    "This is a nice camping area although the sites are fairly close to each other. There are bugs because of the nearby pond."

    "There is some highway noise, but is background noise."

    3. Three Forks KOA Journey

    18 Reviews
    Three Forks, MT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 285-3611

    $58 - $70 / night

    "Park for children

    Great walking paths

    Fire pit accessible

    Trash and dumpsters."

    "New KOA owner here very friendly and all around awesome. Though spot close quarters tight turns."

    4. Missouri Headwaters State Park Campground

    24 Reviews
    Three Forks, MT
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 285-3610

    $18 - $30 / night

    "This campsite is located in a beautiful remote area of Montana, only a short hike away from the beginning of the Missouri River. Large site. The only problem was there were many mosquitoes."

    "We stayed at Site 16, which is at the far end of the campground and felt nicely tucked away."

    5. Harrison Lake Campground

    7 Reviews
    Harrison, MT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 444-2535

    "Harrison Lake FAS campground is a large spacious campground with most campsite being well spread out from each other. "

    "Harrison Lake Campground is a great spot if you're looking for a quiet getaway. The campsites are spacious and well-spread out, offering plenty of privacy."

    6. Pipestone OHV Recreation Area

    4 Reviews
    Whitehall, MT
    15 miles

    "Just a short drive to Delmo lake from any of them. The campsites are very spread out so you don’t feel cramped."

    "Definitely bare bones and off the beaten path, but if you’re willing to endure a bumpy ride for 20 minutes it’s a great stay!"

    7. Homestake Pass Dispersed

    14 Reviews
    Butte, MT
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 683-3900

    "The spot was close to the highway - lots of potential spots - some “locals” who seem to live out there and run generators 24/7 - we had no problem and got a good night sleep to carry on our journey."

    "Found a spot right by the entrance to the large camping area (approx 1/2mile past railroad tracks on the left). We were exposed from 3 sides, luckily we could park our jeep for privacy block."

    8. Delmoe Lake

    12 Reviews
    Butte, MT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 287-3223

    $8 / night

    "Located in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest near Butte, Montana, Delmoe Lake was a beautiful place to camp for a night."

    "Best out of the 7 campsites we visited on our Montana trip! It’s gorgeous and open and has trees you can easily sling up hammocks. Gorgeous lake."

    9. Norris Hot Springs

    13 Reviews
    Norris, MT
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 685-3303

    $33 - $44 / night

    "Come for the hot spring and stay steps away in a great tent or RV site! The RV sites have water and electric hook ups, and there is a portable toilet by the tent sites."

    "Outside of the hot springs there’s nothing to do at the small campground. They have it well maintained and it is pretty quiet even though it’s on the highway."

    10. Pipestone RV Park & Campground

    1 Review
    Whitehall, MT
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 287-5224
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Recent Camping Photos near Cardwell, MT

91 Photos of 132 Cardwell Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Cardwell, MT

553 Reviews of 132 Cardwell Campgrounds

  • James W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 8, 2025

    Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV

    Oh Wow...

    This was a relatively normal campground, with a decent, but small, level back-in site, full hook ups, and relatively clean bathroom.  BUT, access to the Hot Springs facility next door was next level (and why this campground was substantially more expensive, at least in our experience).  Additionally, there was live music on the night we were there, which was an added bonus.  The facility had swimming pools, hot and cold tubs, a steam room, and my favorite, a properly hot sauna.  The facility caters to local members, so it is very clean and nicely managed.  The cost may prevent a multiple night stay, but for an evening after a few nights of boondocking...why not?

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 5, 2025

    Maiden Rock Dispersed

    Amazing spot but be Bear aware

    I think the other reviews say it best but it’s a really nice spot, almost feels like it should be paid for. Smooth gravel roads and well set out campsites with picnic tables and a Bear box. The river is right there next to most of the sites, but could be a bushwhack to get to depending on where you are.

    The only downside is as of September 1st 2025 a Bear might still be active in the area. It tried to get into our camper (it didn’t thankfully lol, but it did pull my window open and give me a heart attack). We didn’t see it the next two nights after that encounter. Apparently his name is Boo-boo, and he was orphaned as a cub and fed by miners making him not so human afraid. Last I heard rangers were trying to get him further away and up the canyon. Carry bear spray and you’re probably fine!

  • pThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 30, 2025

    Rambling Moose Campground

    Nice campground. Close to Virginia city

    Quiet, clean. Had spot away from highway. Hosts friendly and accommodating.

  • TheFoxphire F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Homestake Pass Dispersed

    Bring drinking water!

    Already left a review but forgot to mention —about water. I do not recommend getting water from Butte other than from “Ultimate Big Spring Water” which cost $15 for 5gal with a jug. Apparently Butte has occasional toxic leakage into the mains from the Toxic Pits. Very sad and unfortunate. We were weary even getting filtered refill water from Walmart. Either bring your own drinking water or buy bottled. There is an rv park in Pipestone that said they’d allow fill-up there, though not sure what the fee would be, but they’re seemed super nice and willing to help out.

  • TheFoxphire F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 26, 2025

    Homestake Pass Dispersed

    Great spot

    Rolled in on Sunday afternoon. Found a spot right by the entrance to the large camping area (approx 1/2mile past railroad tracks on the left). We were exposed from 3 sides, luckily we could park our jeep for privacy block. This is definitely the place that all the locals bring out their quads and dirt bikes on weekends. Daily drive through by park rangers so that was nice. There’s a 16 day limit here and the rangers do keep a close eye on it. And several people do come here to stay for the full limit so it looks like people be living here, but they’re constantly ushered out by rangers. Found several good running/biking trails. The boulders are quite amazing! I could definitely feel bear vibes while on the trails, though we never saw one. Cows did come to our campsite nightly and dig through our fire pit. Several big classA’s in and out. Several other campers running gens all day.

  • Darren P.
    Aug. 25, 2025

    Browne's Bridge Campground

    Great spot just off 15

    We really appreciated the quiet and nature with beautiful river views and fishing. Historical Browns bridge is worth looking up, quite interesting. Only a couple actual sites with picnic tables and burn rings, 4 in total.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 23, 2025

    Gallatin County Fairgrounds Campground

    Bozeman Stay

    I was torn between 3 or 4 stars since there are no bathrooms, but it is right in Bozeman and there are not many places to stay. There is electric if needed. The fairgrounds are pretty close to the road, but traffic sounds are not that (less than the train sounds thru the night).

Guide to Cardwell

Camping near Cardwell, Montana, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Explore the Lewis & Clark Caverns: Just a short drive from Cardwell, the Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park is a must-visit. One camper mentioned, "Be sure to unhook and get to the caverns early in the morning to get a reservation to tour." The caverns offer fascinating tours that are great for families.
  • Fishing and Boating: At Delmoe Lake, you can enjoy fishing and boating. A reviewer noted, "Great campground on the lake with some sites more private than others." Just be aware that the lake can dry up in late summer.
  • Hiking: There are plenty of trails around the area. One visitor at Missouri Headwaters State Park shared, "Some hiking in the area, but... bears!" So keep an eye out while you explore.

What campers like:

  • Friendly Hosts: Campers at Three Forks KOA Journey rave about the staff. One camper said, "Beautiful facilities and friendly helpful staff." This makes for a welcoming atmosphere.
  • Clean Facilities: Many campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms and showers. A visitor at Butte KOA remarked, "Of all the places we have stayed at, this KOA had the nicest restrooms/showers."
  • Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Ennis RV Village offer stunning views. A reviewer mentioned, "View is very nice. Restrooms and showers are clean."

What you should know:

  • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at Missouri Headwaters State Park. One camper warned, "The mosquitos were so bad we immediately left and found another place to stay for the night."
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Norris Hot Springs, have limited amenities. A visitor noted, "The campground is a bit close together and off a busy road, but the hot springs and clean bathrooms make it worth it!"
  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds, including Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, recommend making reservations in advance. A camper advised, "They do have drop-in non-reservation sites, but recommend getting reservations."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to check out the caverns and nearby parks. One parent shared, "The Paradise tour was really easy and it was spectacular!" This makes for a fun family outing.
  • Pack Bug Spray: Given the mosquito situation, it's wise to bring bug spray. A camper at Missouri Headwaters State Park mentioned, "I tried 3 different bug repellants, burned multiple mosquito coils... they never cleared out."
  • Bring Your Own Firewood: Some campgrounds, like Delmoe Lake, do not provide firewood. A camper noted, "No firewood available, so bring your own."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Some sites can be small, so check the dimensions before booking. A reviewer at Three Forks KOA Journey said, "The sites are very small and very crowded."
  • Be Mindful of Noise: Campgrounds near highways, like 2 Bar Lazy H RV Campground, can be noisy. One camper mentioned, "The campground is located just off the highway, so there is some noise."
  • Full Hookups Available: Many campgrounds offer full hookups, which is a plus for RVers. A visitor at Ennis RV Village noted, "Staff is very friendly and helpful."

Camping near Cardwell, Montana, has its quirks, but with the right preparation, it can be a fantastic experience!

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Cardwell RV Park?

Cardwell RV Park offers full hookup sites for recreational vehicles with standard utilities. For comparison, nearby Sportsman Lodge, Cabins & RV Park features meticulously maintained, all-grass RV spots with full hookups. The grounds at Cardwell are basic but functional for overnight stays. While not as feature-rich as Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV with its hot springs access, Cardwell provides the essential amenities needed for RV camping. The location just off Interstate 15 makes it convenient for travelers needing an accessible stopover point with basic services.

Where is the Cardwell campground located in Montana?

The Cardwell General Store and Campground is located in the small town of Cardwell, Montana, conveniently situated just off Interstate 15. It's positioned west of Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, making it a strategic stopover point for travelers. Cardwell is located in Jefferson County between Butte and Three Forks, offering easy access for travelers exploring southwestern Montana. The campground's location provides a practical base for visiting nearby attractions, including the historic Lewis and Clark Caverns and the headwaters of the Missouri River.

Can I buy supplies at the Cardwell General Store and Campground?

Yes, the Cardwell General Store and Campground includes a general store where you can purchase basic camping supplies and necessities. The store offers essential items for campers, though selection may be limited compared to larger retailers. For more extensive shopping options, nearby towns provide additional resources. This setup is similar to other small campground stores like those found at Missouri Headwaters State Park Campground, where basic provisions are available in a remote but accessible location. The combination of camping facilities with an on-site store makes Cardwell a convenient option for travelers needing both accommodation and supplies.

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