Camping options near Roscoe, Montana span elevations between 4,200 and 9,000 feet across the Beartooth Mountain region. The area experiences dramatic temperature changes, with summer nights dropping below 40°F at higher elevations even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Primitive camping sites along the Stillwater River offer alternatives to established campgrounds, particularly during peak July and August tourism months.
What to do
Hiking to mountain lakes: The Mystic Lake trailhead located about a mile from Emerald Lake Campground offers excellent day hike opportunities. "The Majestic Lake trailhead is about a mile further south and that was a fun excursion for the day," shares camper Brodie B., who recommends sites #20 or #13 for the best experience.
River fishing access: Multiple fishing access sites provide entry points to the Stillwater and Yellowstone Rivers. Castle Rock offers a unique fishing platform. "There's a really cool, elevated cement lookout area next to the river to set up your chairs and fish," notes Kathi F., who adds that swimmers use a rock ledge across the river for diving into a deep pool.
Rock hounding adventures: The Stillwater River basin contains interesting geological features worth exploring. "Quiet, nice fishing access, nice spot for rock hounding too," according to Jacee R., who camped at Castle Rock during Labor Day weekend. Just be aware that "there are snakes by the river" where rocks accumulate.
What campers like
Creekside camping: Many sites position campers within earshot of moving water. At Emerald Lake Campground, Steven K. notes they're "situated between emerald lake and west rosebud lake with a creek going next to half the camp spots." The campground provides toilets and hand pump water, creating a convenient base for exploration.
Mountain lake paddling: Several lakes in the region are ideal for non-motorized watercraft. "The lake isn't very deep so it's great for paddle boards, kayaks and fishing," explains Danae P. about Island Lake Campground. Another visitor, Bettina S., shares, "We paddled our dogs to the islands and had the best time, saw 2 firepits on one... the hiking scenery is amazing."
Riverside relaxation: The Yellowstone River provides opportunities for swimming and relaxation at several access points. "Camping and fishing on the Yellowstone river. Fun for the kids and only a few miles from town to get supplies," reports Taylor L. from Grey Bear fishing access site, though he notes "campsites are on the smaller side."
What you should know
Weather preparedness: High elevation camping requires gear for cold nights. Nicholas G. warns about Beartooth Lake conditions: "Up over 9000 feet, prepare for cold nights and large mosquitoes in the summer. Don't let this turn you away though, as the mountain views and air are worth it."
Wildlife awareness: Bears frequent the area, particularly at higher elevations. Annie C. reports from Beartooth Lake: "The ranger actually closed the campground down as we were pulling up, saying poor camper habits with food storage had attracted a sow and cub to the campground." Bear spray is essential for hiking.
Road conditions: Access to remote campgrounds can be challenging. Kathryn N. notes about Beartooth Highway: "It's a remarkable drive with views for days," while accessing East Rosebud requires navigating "the 10.5 mile dirt road," which Darrell N. says is "worth every minute."
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly sites: Look for campgrounds with access to gentle water features. "Lovely little spot! Showed up around 5pm Friday and there was only 1 other camper," reports Abby M. about Big Rock fishing access site, which offers "6 sites with rock fire rings. A couple sites had picnic tables too!"
Kid-friendly activities: Seek out campgrounds with dedicated play areas. The Big Timber-Greycliff KOA features "a nice playground, pool, enormous jumping pillow," according to Melissa H., who adds, "I had never seen one before - this was definitely a treat, even for adults!"
Yurt camping options: Families seeking yurt camping near Roscoe, Montana will find limited permanent structures, but safari-style yurts or platform tents are available seasonally at certain private campgrounds. For comfortable all-season yurt camping, Roscoe, Montana visitors typically need to reserve 3-6 months in advance.
Tips from RVers
Site selection strategy: RVers should seek campgrounds with adequate space between sites. "The sites were bigger than most other KOAs," notes Melissa H. about Big Timber-Greycliff KOA, which also offers "great amenities" including "a nice playground, pool, enormous jumping pillow."
Hookup availability: Most national forest and fishing access sites lack hookups. Danae P. advises that at Emerald Lake Campground, "not a lot of spots for RVs our size 28ft, but we found one. We got to the campground on a Thursday, by Friday evening all the RV spots seemed to be taken. It cleared out almost completely by Sunday."
Road accessibility concerns: RVers should research road conditions before attempting remote sites. Gabriela S. cautions about East Rosebud: "Road is just terrible. If you want to break your RV and drive 10 miles per hour for 15 miles- go for it."
