Best Campgrounds near Sheridan, MT

Camping opportunities near Sheridan, Montana center around the Tobacco Root Mountains with several established sites within a 7-mile radius. Mill Creek Campground, situated in Beaverhead National Forest, provides 10 shaded campsites along Mill Creek. Ruby Valley Campground and RV Park in nearby Alder offers more amenities with tent sites, RV hookups, and cabin options. The region includes both developed campgrounds with facilities and dispersed camping areas where visitors can experience more solitude. Balanced Rock Campground and Potosi Campground provide additional tent and RV options in the area's surrounding forest land.

Road conditions vary significantly across the camping areas, with some sites requiring travel on rough dirt roads. Mill Creek Campground is accessible via a road that begins at the forest boundary about 6 miles from Sheridan, with the final mile leading to the campground. Most forest campgrounds in the area operate seasonally from late May through early September, with some like Potosi open only from May to September. Bear safety precautions are necessary throughout the region as one reviewer noted: "This is grizzle bear territory, food must be stored in your car or the provided bear proof foot locker at the campground."

Public lands near Sheridan attract visitors for hiking, fishing, and hot springs access. Potosi Campground receives positive reviews for its proximity to hiking trails and nearby hot springs. Several campers mentioned the excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation beyond simply camping. Many forest service campgrounds feature amenities like picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets but limited services otherwise. Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area offers primitive camping with opportunities for garnet hunting along the shoreline. A camper shared that "The garnets are beautiful, and keep the kids entertained for hours. And if you need to cool off, you can hop right in!" Visitors frequently note the peace and quiet of the more remote sites, with shaded areas being particularly valued during summer months.

Best Camping Sites Near Sheridan, Montana (143)

    1. Beaverhead National Forest Mill Creek Campground

    2 Reviews
    Sheridan, MT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 682-4253

    "The campground is 7 miles from the town of Sheridan."

    2. Ruby Valley Campground and RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Virginia City, MT
    10 miles
    Website

    $35 - $55 / night

    "Close proximity to Virginia and Nevada cities. Obviously a former KOA with all the accompanying amenities, but slightly lower price. A little close to highway, but quiet at night. Will stay again!"

    "With no need for hookups, we paid a mere $28 for a roomu site adjacent to the water. My wife appreciated that the restrooms and shower are a short walk and I love the serenity and space."

    3. Mill Creek Campground

    1 Review
    Sheridan, MT
    6 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 682-4253

    "The campground is 7 miles from the town of Sheridan."

    4. Balanced Rock Campground

    1 Review
    Sheridan, MT
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 682-4253

    "It was after dark by the time we reached the campground, so the hidden entrance sign seem kinda scary. Set and went right to sleep as we had been traveling all day."

    5. Potosi Campground

    5 Reviews
    Pony, MT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 682-4253

    "The campsite we chose required driving over a small creek, but no worries to those of you who don’t drive a Jeep or a truck- we saw people drive over in small cars with campers too!"

    "Wonderful peaceful campground, fire pits, can walk to hot spring, camped next to the river. Good times. Take a dirt road to get there but beautiful"

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

    37 Reviews
    Cardwell, MT
    30 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."

    7. Rambling Moose Campground

    4 Reviews
    Virginia City, MT
    17 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 843-5493

    $72 / night

    "Had spot away from highway. Hosts friendly and accommodating."

    "Very clean, super nice owners, close to a quaint little historical town, and 15 minutes from another great little town. Good foods and shopping nearby. Very clean showers and laundry area."

    8. Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Virginia City, MT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 683-8000

    "Be prepared for steep inclines in some situations. While it was quiet people wise, I’m pretty sure you can hear the dam because we had rumbling noise that woke both of us up."

    "This campsite has loads to offer ~ there is access to the reservoir, of course, and along with this comes the garnets lining the shores."

    9. Ennis RV Village

    10 Reviews
    Ennis, MT
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 682-5272

    "Really nice RV Park just on the edge of town. Overlooks a bluff with gorgeous view. Nice level gravel parking pads with a grass rectangle beside each spot."

    "The town is close to the Rv park, we could really easily bike to the grocery store and some local restaurants. The grounds, shower, and bathrooms are very nice and clean."

    10. Valley Garden Campground

    12 Reviews
    Ennis, MT
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 444-2535

    $12 - $18 / night

    "Small fishing access campground near Ennis MT. Sites are fairly large. Montana residents get a nice rate but even for out of state only $18/night. Quiet, mainly fly fishing campers here."

    "We were looking for someplace for the night close to Ennis and were glad to find this spot. There are only 10 sites but all on the river and most decently spaced."

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Recent Reviews near Sheridan, MT

497 Reviews of 143 Sheridan Campgrounds


  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 20, 2025

    Humbug Spires Wilderness Study Area

    Secluded campsite adjacent to mini spires

    Road was rocky and rutted by water runoff. The sprinter all wheel drive negotiated the trail easily from the trailhead up. We found an open meadow of sagebrush. Beautiful sunrise. One bar AT&T signal. We camped adjacent to the private property sign.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 17, 2025

    Countryside RV Park

    Country side

    Friendly and clean. I would have no issue staying here again if I was back in the area.

  • K
    Sep. 15, 2025

    Three Forks KOA Journey

    Very welcoming RV Park.

    We had a lovely overnight at this RV Park in Sept 2025. The park is very handy to all the area has to offer, and the country setting lets you relax and rest peacefully after a long day exploring. The staff were exceptionally welcoming. Our pull-through site was spacious, level, and equipped with reliable full hookups (30/50 amp), shady trees, fire pit, picnic table, and Wi-Fi. The amenities were top-notch: clean restrooms, a well-maintained laundry room, the best setup we have seen thus far for the cost.

  • 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.


Guide to Sheridan

Dispersed camping spots near Sheridan, Montana provide access to the Madison Valley and surrounding mountain terrain. With elevations ranging from 5,000 to 8,000 feet throughout the region, temperatures can drop significantly at night even during summer months. Several free camping areas exist beyond the established campgrounds, particularly along forest service roads in the Tobacco Root Mountains.

What to do

Garnet hunting along shorelines: At Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area, visitors can search for garnets with basic equipment. "It is a perfect adventure for beginners, as all you need is a shovel and some screens to begin your search," shares Hannah S. For better results, "If you use a gold pan shake the gravel around for several minutes then flip the pan is the easiest way to find them as the garnets are heavy and will settle to the bottom of the pan."

Hot springs exploration: Several thermal springs attract campers to the region. Potosi Campground serves as a base for accessing natural hot springs. "You have to hike about a half mile to access the hot spring but it is definitely worth it," notes Robin P. Another visitor confirms the appeal: "Wonderful peaceful campground, fire pits, can walk to hot spring, camped next to the river."

Fishing the Madison River: The waterways near Sheridan offer productive fishing spots. Valley Garden Campground provides direct river access. "Pulled into the campground late evening and it was easy to get into and out of with my 41 ft toy hauler. The river flows right along the camp ground and made for a nice morning to get up eat breakfast and then fish for a few hours. Caught a few fish on a PMD," reports Palmi B.

What campers like

Quiet locations away from crowds: Many Valley Garden Campground visitors appreciate the spacing between sites. "The sites are spread out and most are private," notes Maura. Another camper mentions, "There are only 10 sites but all on the river and most decently spaced."

Mountain views and wildlife: The terrain provides scenic backdrops and wildlife viewing. At Ennis RV Village, campers enjoy "Lovely view of mountain ranges & good places to walk or run your dog," according to Alicia T. The campground features "a short trail in the back that has some nice views of the mountains, cattle, and pasture."

Historical attractions: The area contains preserved historical sites from Montana's mining era. Ruby Valley Campground puts travelers in "Close proximity to Virginia and Nevada cities," as Kierra B. notes. Another reviewer at Rambling Moose Campground adds, "The way in leads you right through Virginia City which is a fun little ghost town."

What you should know

Site availability varies by season: Many forest service campgrounds operate only during summer months. Ennis RV Village has a specific season from "Apr 1 - Nov 1." Some smaller campgrounds fill quickly: "We were looking for someplace for the night close to Ennis and were glad to find this spot. There are only 10 sites but all on the river and most decently spaced. It is first come, first served but there were still 3 spots when we arrived around 5pm on a Friday."

Road conditions can be challenging: Access to Balanced Rock Campground and other forest sites requires careful driving. "It was after dark by the time we reached the campground, so the hidden entrance sign seem kinda scary," reports Brooke C. For Ruby Reservoir, a camper advises, "After passing the dam look for the first paved turn with a stop sign on the right side of the road, this is your turn, the pavement will stop after a couple hundred feet."

Limited services at primitive sites: Many camping areas near Sheridan lack amenities. At Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area, "The only facilities at this campground is a double vault toilet. Being a primitive camping area this is a trash-in-trash-out site, and you will need to bring your own water." Potosi Campground has similar limitations as Jake Z. bluntly states: "Basically just a parking lot deep in woods just off private land."

Tips for camping with families

Educational opportunities: Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park offers learning activities for children. "Did you know you can print out a packet for your little ones to become Cub Rangers at this State Park?" asks Sierra V. The park features "amenities for both camping and RVs with a child's playground located on the camp."

Rock hunting activities: Several sites keep children engaged with natural treasure hunts. At Ruby Reservoir, "The garnets are beautiful, and keep the kids entertained for hours. And if you need to cool off, you can hop right in!" For families, the educational component enhances the experience: "There's also another little spot off the road about a mile and a half down the road from Virginia City where there's a possibility of finding corundum!"

Playground access: Some established campgrounds include play areas. Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park has features specifically for younger campers. One visitor notes, "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."

Tips from RVers

Level site challenges: RVers should prepare for uneven terrain at many sites. At Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area, one camper warns, "Almost impossible to level a camper." Even at established campgrounds, leveling can be an issue: "Had to use all our jack stands to combat the slope of our site (P007). Others looked much more level."

Premium RV spots: For full hookups and services, Rambling Moose Campground receives positive reviews. "Great hosts, Full hookups, lots of space & Beautiful views," shares Barb N. The campground receives consistently high ratings with one camper noting it was "Very clean, super nice owners, close to a quaint little historical town."

Connectivity considerations: Internet access varies widely across camping areas near Sheridan. At Ennis RV Village, "The wifi works very well, at least at our site near the office." Another RVer confirms: "Full hookups, WiFi, Verizon cell service. Very friendly, helpful staff."

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Sheridan, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, Sheridan, MT offers a wide range of camping options, with 143 campgrounds and RV parks near Sheridan, MT and 19 free dispersed camping spots.

Which is the most popular campground near Sheridan, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Sheridan, MT is Beaverhead National Forest Mill Creek Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 2 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Sheridan, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 19 free dispersed camping spots near Sheridan, MT.