Tent camping opportunities near Norris, Montana range from wide-open Bureau of Land Management sites to alpine lake destinations in the surrounding mountains. Located in Madison County at approximately 5,200 feet elevation, the Norris area serves as a gateway to both the Madison Valley and the Tobacco Root Mountains. Summer temperatures often reach the high 80s, while evenings can drop to the 40s even during July and August, requiring campers to pack layers regardless of season.
What to do
Mountain biking at Copper City BLM: Free dispersed camping areas near the Copper City trail system provide direct trail access for mountain bikers. "Great spot right on parts of the trail! It's open and you can see miles in each direction. No shade, no bathrooms, but most have man made fire pits," notes a camper at Copper City BLM.
Fishing multiple waterways: Varney Bridge offers direct access to the Madison River with productive fishing spots. "We stayed here for 2 nights, and it has become our traditional early summer spot. There are a few smaller sites right next to the river, which are close to the road. The views are stunning, and the fishing is superb!" reports a camper at Varney Bridge.
Hiking to alpine lakes: Reaching Spanish Lakes requires significant effort but rewards with exceptional scenery. "An absolutely stunning area to camp. A relatively challenging nine-mile-hike in from the Spanish Creek campground. You'll cross a couple rivers—so be prepared to take off those boots. Once arriving at the top; you'll find a stunning array of crystal lakes, snow melts, and glistening cliffs," shares a visitor who hiked to the backcountry site.
What campers like
Expansive views from elevated sites: Revenue Flats camping areas sit on a high plateau with panoramic vistas. "We were pleasantly surprised at the beautiful views and quiet sites at Revenue Flats. The sites were roomy and private on a high plateau with beautiful views. Will definitely go back," writes a camper at Revenue Flats.
Quiet forest settings: Mill Creek offers shaded sites within the Tobacco Root Mountains. "Mill Creek is a nice 10 site campground along Mill Creek in the Tobacco Root Mountains. This is a well shaded campground due to the large fir and pine trees. In the mile between the forest boundary and the campground about 6 marked primitive campsites can be found as well," reports a visitor to Beaverhead National Forest Mill Creek Campground.
Farm experiences: Some unique camping options in the area include farm stays. "We loved this place nestled in the valley about 30 minutes outside of Bozeman. Not only did we have spectacular views of the mountains but we loved seeing the farm animals (cows, sheep, llama, chickens). This is not a campground but a working farm," explains a camper who enjoyed a family-friendly tent site at a local farm.
What you should know
Vehicle requirements: Many tent sites near Norris have challenging access roads. "You need a reliable car/truck to get the campground, but it's a great view, and if you climb up to the Fishbowl, it is worth it! it's a great spot for hammocks as well," advises a camper about Revenue Flats.
Weather considerations: Higher elevation campsites may have lingering snow into summer. "The first 4.5 miles are super chill and flat. You'll cruise through those. Then there is a gradual uphill and the last 2 miles are pretty brutal," explains a hiker who reached Spanish Lakes.
Water availability: Most tent sites require campers to bring their own water. "This place is DRY—so be sure to bring your own water (but on the plus side, no bugs!!)," notes a camper who stayed at Copper City BLM.
Tips for camping with families
Look for beginner-friendly sites: Blackmore Campground offers first-come, first-served sites with amenities that work well for families. "Great First Come First Serve campground with clean bathroom, recycling facilities and bear boxes. Nice sites with fire pits and picnic tables. There's trails throughout campground leading to the creek/river," writes a visitor to Blackmore Campground.
Consider animal encounters: Farm stays provide unique experiences for children. "We felt safe and comfortable staying at the farm near all the animals. The owner of the property was very nice and she didn't hesitate to answer any questions!" reports a family who enjoyed tent camping with access to farm animals.
Check for bear activity: Many campgrounds in this region require proper food storage. "This is grizzle bear territory, food must be stored in your car or the provided bear proof foot locker at the campground," warns a camper about Mill Creek Campground.
Tips from RVers
Site limitations: Most tent campsites in the Norris area have limited space for larger 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," explains an RVer who camped at Revenue Flats.
Road conditions: Check recent reports on access roads before bringing campers. "The road to this location is closed, the bridge is out. There is no access," reported a visitor to Copper City BLM in 2024, highlighting the importance of verifying current conditions before attempting to reach the best tent camping near Norris, Montana.
