Dispersed camping options abound around Norris, Montana, with established sites situated between 5,000-7,000 feet elevation in the foothills of the Madison and Tobacco Root Mountain ranges. Summer temperatures can reach into the mid-80s while dropping to the 40s at night, creating comfortable camping conditions. Weather patterns can shift rapidly with afternoon thunderstorms common in summer months.
What to do
Hot springs soaking: $8 per person at Norris Hot Springs where campers get discounted access. "I love this place! 45 minutes away from Bozeman and you're in the middle of a beautiful landscape. When you're camping it's only and extra $3/day per person to go to the hot springs...normally $8/person. They have great food and a descent selection of beer/wine as well," notes Alicia F.
Cave exploration: 2-mile uphill hike from Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park to tour underground limestone formations. "Amazing family campsite with amenities, gift shop and stores. For small children it's quite a hike for them, they do get fatigued on the way, there are pit stops along the hill with shade for rest," writes Carla S.
Fishing Madison River: Multiple access points near campsites with productive morning and evening fishing. "Great spot on the river to fish! Lots of nice wholes walking both ways on the bank. Also very close to Ennis lake," shares Shawn S. from Valley Garden Campground.
Rock climbing: Beginner to advanced routes available at Revenue Flats. "Tons of super fun climbing! Pulled up to this spot and camped under the most beautiful night sky I've ever seen," reports Lucille W.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Campgrounds design varies from private to open. "The sites are close together but are divided by trees and lattice fencing. There is a bit of traffic on the nearby road, be ready with earplugs if you are a light sleeper," reports Katherine B. about Norris Hot Springs.
Mountain views: Elevated camping locations provide panoramic vistas. "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. It's a rustic camping experience, but the beautiful scenery and peaceful surroundings make it worth it," explains Charlie L.
River and lake access: Several dog friendly campgrounds near Norris offer water recreation. "I was in Dillon on a Friday afternoon and was looking for a place between Dillon and Bozeman. I found this spot on Dirt but did not realize that it was right on the Madison. So cool to be able to walk out of camp to an amazing river," shares Rob M. about Valley Garden Campground.
Free camping options: Several no-cost sites exist within 30 minutes of Norris. "Seven sites, most lakeside. Boat ramp and bathroom facilities. Next to road and some houses which was a little weird but you forget about it when you see the views of the Madison Range across the lake. Free!" notes Brad T. about Meadow Lake Campground.
What you should know
Road access challenges: Some dispersed camping areas require appropriate vehicles. "We drove a F450 with triple slide truck camper and made it ok. Also saw a 2 wheel drive 30 foot class C motorhome that made it but would not recommend anything larger," reports Lisa A. about Revenue Flats.
Seasonal closures: Verify campground status before traveling. "Closed until spring 2023," warns Elizabeth W. about Valley Garden Campground, highlighting the importance of checking current operational status.
Limited amenities at dispersed sites: Many areas lack basic services. "No water or trash service is available. The big down point for this campground is that everything is in the open, the site has no trees so you are at the mercy of the sun and wind," cautions Dexter I.
Weather preparedness essential: Temperature swings of 40+ degrees can occur within 24 hours. "Very open! Found a site tucked in from the wind. Watched a lovely thunder storm roll through last night," shares David P. about Meadow Lake Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly campgrounds: Sites with playgrounds provide activity options. "We camped here with a group of families and the playground was nice for the kids. There aren't many trees and the land is flat but we were able to really keep a decent eye of the kids running around because of it and the views were still beautiful," notes Heather from Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park.
Educational programs: Some parks offer junior ranger activities. "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 RV'S with a child's playground located on the camp," advises Sierra V.
Swimming spots for hot days: Lake and river access provides cooling options. "Most camp sights have lake access. Fishing is pretty good, I caught a few brown trout. Very open not much seclusion available. Has a vault toilet, picnic tables and fire rings," reports David H. about Meadow Lake Campground.
Pet-friendly hot springs options: Coordinate pet care during soaking. "This is one of my favorite spots. Your reservation includes your soak. They offer live music in the dome on the weekends. Imagine soaking in a beautiful wooden pool, enjoying a cold beverage and a pizza, while you listen to live music. Dog and kid friendly!" explains Ashley F. about Norris Hot Springs.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full-service options limited to select campgrounds. "Cozy spot, site is tight but full hookup. We came on Tuesday when the Spring is closed. Wednesday is private soak so reserve early for a spot," advises Beth B. about Bozeman Hot Springs Campground.
Accessibility for large rigs: Road conditions vary significantly. "Pulled into the campground late evening and it was easy to get into and out of with my 41 ft toy hauler. Campground was quiet and secluded. The river flows right along the camp ground and made foe a nice morning to get up eat breakfast and then fish for a few hours," shares Palmi B. about Red Mountain.
Leveling challenges: Some sites require substantial equipment. "Had to use all our jack stands to combat the slope of our site (P007). Others looked much more level," notes Michael B. about Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park.
RV site separation: Privacy varies between campgrounds. "We are so impressed! Wifi, showers, gorgeous flowers, beautiful view of the mountains, friendly neighbors, accommodating office staff. We would definitely stay again," reports Emily L. about Ennis RV Village.
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