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Best Campgrounds in Montana

5,859 Reviews
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Montana's camping landscape ranges from developed campgrounds within Glacier National Park to dispersed sites along the Middle Fork Flathead River. Many Glacier Campground and Fish Creek Campground offer established tent and RV sites with amenities like drinking water, picnic tables, and toilets. For those seeking a more rustic experience, Montana off-grid campsites provide free options with minimal facilities. KOA properties in West Glacier and Billings provide more extensive services including cabins, glamping accommodations, electric hookups, and shower facilities. These developed sites typically operate seasonally from May through September or October.

Camping access and conditions vary significantly with Montana's seasonal changes. Glacier National Park campgrounds like Apgar and St. Mary operate primarily from May through early October when mountain roads remain passable. Many popular campgrounds require advance reservations, particularly during the peak summer months of June through August. Weather conditions can change rapidly in mountain environments, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations even during summer months. Fire regulations and water availability shift throughout the season based on drought conditions and fire danger levels. Travelers should prepare for varied conditions across the state's diverse terrain. "We found out just this year you could camp into the park and we love it. It's so quiet and peaceful and the views are amazing," noted a camper describing Sluice Boxes State Park.

Several visitors highlight riverside camping as particularly desirable throughout Montana. Campgrounds positioned along waterways like the Yellowstone River and Flathead River receive consistently positive reviews for their scenic views and recreational opportunities. Some dispersed camping areas along river corridors provide free options with basic amenities like vault toilets. A camper at Loch Leven noted, "The campground is clean and well-maintained with great views of Chico Peak and the Yellowstone River. Our campsite had great access for our son to throw rocks in the water." Proximity to national parks represents another significant draw, with West Glacier serving as a popular base for exploring Glacier National Park. Established campgrounds typically feature picnic tables, fire rings, and vault toilets, while RV-oriented properties may include additional hookups, shower facilities, and dumping stations. Public lands managed by the Forest Service and BLM offer more primitive camping options throughout the state, including Lewis and Clark National Forest sites.

Best Camping Sites in Montana (1,483)

    1. Fish Creek Campground — Glacier National Park

    62 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    Website
    +1 (406) 888-7800

    $30 / night

    "We have stayed in Many Glacier and Avalanche Creek but this is our favorite campsite in the park because of its proximity to Lake Mcdonald as well as Apgar village."

    "Now the good: We were really close to Apgar village and other sites along the Road to the Sun road. The rangers were nice and pleasant to interact with."

    2. Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park

    62 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    Website
    +1 (406) 888-7800

    $45 - $90 / night

    "Apgar is walking distance from the Apgar Visitor Center and park shuttles, as well as Apgar Village, camp store, equipment rentals, etc."

    "I could see 6 or 7 other camp fires burning while sitting next to mine. We stayed three nights and every night heard someone a site or two over as he was talking too loud (and too much)."

    3. West Glacier KOA Resort

    52 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    Website
    +1 (406) 387-5341

    "This is a big RV resort close to West Glacier town and park entrance. We came with our 25’ RV and reserved a tent pad site to ensure we were up against the edge of the resort."

    "9/13/19 West Glacier, Montana  West Glacier KOA Resort

    Most beautiful location of the KOAs I've stayed at. Nestled against the mountains and less than 3 miles to Glacier National Park. "

    4. Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone

    53 Reviews
    Gardiner, MT

    "Great spot for travelers or people who didn't book a site in or close to Yosemite."

    "Great views into the valley around Gardiner with easy access to Yellowstone (North Entrance). Plenty of space for a few tents or a camper."

    5. Glacier Campground

    53 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    Website
    +1 (406) 387-5689

    $45 - $120 / night

    "Montana is absolutely gorgeous! I may be biased because I go to college in Montana, but there is so many great outdoor activities. The mountains and scenery are my favorite."

    "Great place tucked away from the road. Sites are smaller. Place was clear even the showers. Hot water in the morning not so much at night."

    6. Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed

    53 Reviews
    Coram, MT
    Website

    "It’s so close to the National Park entrance and a beautiful place to stay. The road is a bit bumpy getting down here but there’s plenty of room for tent camping and RVs. Be careful though!"

    "Perfect spot for camping outside the west entrance, about 25 minutes away. That road is a little rough coming in but it’s short and manageable, even saw a little Mazda make it in."

    7. St Mary Campground - Glacier National Park — Glacier National Park

    54 Reviews
    Babb, MT
    Website
    +1 (406) 732-7708

    $90 / night

    "They had new bear boxes for every 4 sites this year with extra around bathrooms. Make sure you keep your camp bearproof as rangers will make sure it is."

    "Our site had no shade and felt very exposed (A loop was better) but we enjoyed the proximity to the visitors center and ability to walk to the shuttle."

    8. Many Glacier Campground — Glacier National Park

    48 Reviews
    Siyeh Bend, MT
    Website
    +1 (406) 732-7740

    $90 / night

    "When you stay at Many Glacier you are situated in the heart of the best hiking and wildlife viewing in the park. Grizzly sightings on the slopes nearby are an almost nightly occurrence."

    "I recommend visiting this area of Glacier Montana!!"

    9. Billings KOA Holiday

    48 Reviews
    Billings, MT
    Website
    +1 (406) 252-3104

    "This camp ground is tucked into a residential area, and far enough off the interstate to not hear the noise, but close enough to town and all the other amenities to make it very convenient."

    "This KOA sits right along the Yellowstone River along the eastern outskirts of Billings."

    10. Bakers Hole Campground

    46 Reviews
    West Yellowstone, MT
    Website
    +1 (406) 823-6961

    "Great location. Close to the park entrance and West Yellowstone. Pit toilets were in really good shape. And the camp host went way beyond to help us with a situation."

    "Just outside the west entrance to Yellowstone (I think it's only 3-4 miles away from the entrance) is a good backup campground in case you can’t get a campsite in the park (a common problem in the summer"

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5859 Reviews of 1483 Montana Campgrounds

  • Sara-Jayne C.
    Aug. 2, 2026

    Indian Creek RV Campground

    Yelled at 9year old over fake gun

    NO STARS!!! Was staying there, my son was playing with another little boy, they were running around playing with fake guns belonging to the other boy. The other boys father and brother were both watching them, well the guy that mows the lawn, came out of the bathroom and yelled at my son so much that when my son came home he couldn’t even talk to tell me what happened. He was sobbing! I went outside and yelled at the guy that if he has a problem with my son come talk to me don’t ever yell at him again! Both the other boys father and brother said my kid didn’t do anything wrong. The next morning I printed a formal complaint and left it at the office for when they opened at 9am, was headed over at 9:30 to discuss the complaint when a police officer shower up at my door. They said they called about the gun incident, apparently the gun triggered the guys PTSD, well my kid also has PTSD and no man needs to be yelling at him! We ended up leaving because I was due to pay that day anyway and refused to give them ANY more of my money! No apology from any of the staff or owners! And since this incident I have seen 3 men in different stores with real guns oh their waists, if an orange fake gun is going so triggering for the worker’s PTSD perhaps Montana one of the most gun friendly states isn’t the place for him! I’d stay far far away from this campground you have kids! Below is the fake gun that was so scary!

  • Sean G.The Dyrt Pro User
    Aug. 2, 2026

    Antelope Creek

    Great spot worth 20 bucks!

    Incredible scenery on the short grass prairie. The showers are excellent, a stove, microwave, and fridge are also available. Food prep areas (indoor and out, shaded). Fire ring, tent pad, and picnic table at each tent site. Small cabins, tipis, and rv/camper sites too. The nature is great. In the middle of a prairie dog town. Silent as can be except for the very occasional car. The campground hosts were super awesome, friendly and helpful. There is not shade at the campsites so be prepared for if it is hot.

  • TThe Dyrt Pro User
    Aug. 2, 2026

    Jocko Hollow Campground

    Small private campground.

    The sites back into a clear stream. Sites are also spread out quite a bit. 30 amp service. Toilets and shower. Mom and pop feel.

  • MThe Dyrt Pro User
    Aug. 1, 2026

    Acton Recreation Area

    Beautiful Site, Rough Road

    I stopped here overnight on a road trip with my dog. The washboard road in is rough but if you take it slow it’s ok. The site was clean and so was the toilet. We were there are on Thursday and I didn’t see anyone else. The area is very beautiful. We did have a random cow hanging out mooing most of the evening but it was pretty cute. We also saw some deer. I would definitely come back.

  • P
    Aug. 1, 2026

    Itch-Kep-Pe Park

    Beautiful campground

    Very peaceful surroundings for being in a city. My only complaints are that one if the two pit toilets was very unusable. And the water system was turned off to the outdoor faucets. But for free, one can’t really complain. And the city is very close to get water.

  • A C.
    Jul. 31, 2026

    Cromwell Dixon Campground

    Peaceful

    The sites were well separated and you didn’t hear any noises from other campers. It wasn’t full when we got there. Beautiful views. Got pretty chilly in the evening. FYI, you get a discount with an America the Beautiful pass. Cons: constant highway traffic noise all night. We had a hard time finding a spot that had a good place to pitch a tent. Ended up using the first site and put the tent on the parking spot area. Probably not a great place for a big tent or big rig.

  • A C.
    Jul. 31, 2026

    Tongue River State Park Campground

    Beautiful spot

    This is a beautiful campground. There are a lot of electrical sites along the reservoir that would make for a beautiful morning scene. The tent spots were a bit out in the open — no trees around —- and it was pretty windy the night we were there. Otherwise, it’s great. A lot of vault toilets around, you didn’t have to walk far for one.

  • Fa B.The Dyrt Pro User
    Jul. 31, 2026

    Big Beaver Campground

    Stunning site but bear aware

    Pulled in to one of the last two spots and woah!!!

    Yes, it’s right on the gravel/dirt road but it’s not a freeway so it gets quiet really fast.

    Zero complaint from me when I can get prime real estate right on the water with this view.

  • JThe Dyrt Pro User
    Jul. 31, 2026

    Cow Belles Corral Campground

    Good overnight stay!

    We’ve stayed here a couple times now. It’s mostly dispersed camping. No fire rings and no picnic tables. But mostly flat! There are spots with water and power, only for when events are happening. This seems to be the rodeo and fairgrounds!

Guide to Montana

Camping in Montana offers a unique blend of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. From serene lakes to rugged mountains, there's something for everyone, whether you're a tent camper or an RV enthusiast.

What to do

  • Explore Nature: Montana is home to beautiful parks like Kiwanis Park, where you can enjoy a park-like atmosphere. One camper mentioned, “Road noise disappears at night,” making it a peaceful spot for relaxation.
  • Fishing and Water Activities: At Ackley Lake State Park Campground, you can fish, swim, and kayak. A visitor shared, “Good spot for camping, fishing, swimming, kayaking!”
  • Hiking: The James Kipp Campground offers great hiking trails. One camper noted, “We took a nice hike along the river,” highlighting the scenic views.

What campers like

  • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate clean restrooms and well-maintained sites. A review from Chief Joseph City Park stated, “The bathrooms are clean and have flushing toilets.”
  • Wildlife Sightings: Many campers enjoy spotting wildlife. One reviewer at Deadmans Basin said, “Great views! It was pretty windy the night we were there,” indicating a connection with nature.
  • Quiet Atmosphere: Campgrounds like Petrolia Reservoir offer a peaceful experience. A camper mentioned, “We woke up to cows mooing and a beautiful sunrise over the lake.”

What you should know

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Crystal Lake Campground, lack drinking water and electric hookups. A visitor remarked, “There is not much privacy now as every camp site can be watched by all the other campers.”
  • First-Come, First-Served: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. At Ackley Lake State Park, a camper noted, “They only have 26 spots, first come first serve.”
  • Seasonal Access: Some campgrounds are only open during certain months. For example, Mountain Acres RV Park is open from May 1 to October 31.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose Family-Friendly Parks: Look for parks with playgrounds and activities. Chief Joseph City Park has a five-star play area for kids, making it a great choice.
  • Plan for Activities: Bring games and outdoor toys. One family at Kiwanis Park enjoyed the park-like atmosphere, saying, “No fire rings, but a park-like atmosphere.”
  • Pack Snacks: Keep snacks handy for hikes and outings. A camper at Ackley Lake State Park mentioned, “We stocked up on some snacks,” which is always a good idea for family trips.

Tips from RVers

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Mountain Acres RV Park noted, “Sites are big,” which is helpful for larger rigs.
  • Be Prepared for Limited Services: Some campgrounds don’t have full hookups. A camper at James Kipp Campground mentioned, “There was no water available during my stay.”
  • Explore Nearby Attractions: Many campgrounds are close to local attractions. One RV traveler at Deadmans Basin said, “It’s a beautiful place to stay,” encouraging exploration of the surrounding area.

Montana camping is all about enjoying the great outdoors, so pack your gear and get ready for an adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find RV-friendly camping sites in Montana?

Montana offers numerous RV-friendly camping options. North American RV Park & Yurt Village is conveniently located just 5 minutes from the West Glacier Park entrance with full hookups and amenities. Trout Creek Motel & RV Park near the Idaho border provides peaceful sites with easy access to local amenities. For those visiting Yellowstone, several RV parks around West Yellowstone offer convenient access to the national park. Many KOAs throughout Montana are excellent for RVers, featuring pull-through sites, full hookups, and amenities like laundry facilities and WiFi. National Forest campgrounds sometimes accommodate RVs, but check size restrictions and hookup availability before arrival.

Are there any free or low-cost camping options in Montana?

Montana offers several affordable camping options for budget-conscious outdoor enthusiasts. Peck Gulch Campground provides basic amenities like vault toilets and water access at minimal cost while offering stunning views. Indian Road Campground near Townsend offers reasonably priced camping along the Missouri River. Many National Forest campgrounds throughout Montana provide primitive camping for low fees, often between $5-15 per night. For completely free options, dispersed camping is allowed in most national forests with a 16-day stay limit. Bureau of Land Management (BLM) areas also offer free dispersed camping throughout the state. Always practice Leave No Trace principles and check local regulations as they may change seasonally.

What are the best campgrounds in Montana for scenic views?

Montana offers breathtaking scenic views at numerous campgrounds. Crystal Lake Campground provides peaceful lakeside camping with clear waters, surrounding meadows filled with summer wildflowers, and beautiful hiking trails. Gird Point in the Bitterroot National Forest offers stunning mountain vistas from its elevated location. For riverside beauty, consider camping along the Madison River between Hebgen Lake and Earthquake Lake. Glacier National Park campgrounds are also exceptional for scenery, with options providing views of mountain peaks, glacial lakes, and abundant wildlife. The diverse landscapes across Montana ensure scenic camping experiences, whether you prefer mountain views, riverside serenity, or alpine lake settings.

What's the best time of year for camping in Montana?

The prime camping season in Montana runs from late June through early September when temperatures are most comfortable and high-elevation sites are accessible. Apgar Campground in Glacier National Park is typically open May through September, with July-August offering the warmest conditions. Basin Campground and other mountain locations shine in summer when wildflowers bloom and hiking trails are fully accessible. Be aware that summer wildfires can affect air quality, particularly in August. Spring (May-June) offers fewer crowds but potential snowmelt and mud. Fall (September-early October) brings beautiful colors and fewer visitors, though nights get quite cold. Most high-elevation campgrounds close by mid-October, while some lower-elevation sites remain open year-round with limited amenities.

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