1 campground with availability this weekend
Canyon Ferry Lake KOA provides 61 sites for RVs with full hookups including electric, water, sewer, and fifty-amp service. Sites accommodate large rigs with pull-through access near Townsend. Conestoga Campground & RV Park features clean, level sites with full hookups and strong WiFi. "All pull through sites. Camp hosts were fantastic. Great views," one camper shared about their experience at Conestoga. Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV Park remains open year-round with full hookup options, accommodating both large and small recreational vehicles on pull-through sites. Most RV parks in the area offer picnic tables, trash service, and shower facilities, though tree cover varies significantly between locations.
During summer months, reservations are highly recommended as lakefront camping areas fill quickly with weekend travelers. Several RV parks provide sanitary dump stations for non-sewer sites at additional fees ranging from $5-10 per use. Cell service through Verizon and AT&T works reliably at most established campgrounds, though signal strength diminishes in some canyon areas. A visitor commented that "the roads were a combo of gravel, pothole dirt, and vague paved patches" at certain marina campgrounds, suggesting careful driving when towing larger units. Pets are welcome at nearly all RV facilities in the region, though leash policies are strictly enforced. Winter camping options are limited primarily to Bozeman Hot Springs and the Canyon Ferry KOA, which maintain year-round operations with reduced services during colder months.
"Sites were readily available the night we stayed, about 12 in the main campground and several more sites with fire rings outside by the trail entrance."
"Fairy Lake Campground is hands down my favorite campground I’ve ever visited."
"We pulled off to the side of the General Store next to the RV park for check-in, which was quick and easy."
"This is a nice camping area although the sites are fairly close to each other. There are bugs because of the nearby pond."
"Close to everything you need and has laundry and a gym available."
"There is laundry, a rec room, small store with farm fresh eggs, and an enclosed off leash pet area."
"All pull through. No shade at all."
Available this weekend
from $25 - $45 / night
"This property has been freshly updated with natural rocks, landscaping and upscale amenities. The staff is outgoing and friendly."
"Plus Bozeman is just a short drive away. We loved spending the day browsing and dining in downtown Bozeman."
"Nice dog park across the street, sites are a little tight but its perfect for a couple night stay. Awesome that its only 35 miles to Big Sky and its a gorgeous drive."
"Not much road noise at all, well kept grassy areas for tents, fire pits and picnic tables. The showers and bathrooms are generally well kept. Wish the WiFi worked better, but it’s camping."
from $45 - $100 / night
"Clean area, typical KOA restrooms. Not much shade. Pretty mount and lake views. Playground and store. $5 for showers if you are not staying."
"Great Playground, close to tent sites. Nice staff and great coffee and beautiful setting!"
TravelerIn late out early short stay, train noise with long whistles several times during the night. Road noise too. Site was level easy to back into. No utilities late in the season
TravelerBy the interstate, $10 to camp. Takes cash, check or there is a kiosk for cards. Definitely interstate noise and gun shots in the distance, but great for one night stay. You can back in right by the river. Our travel trailer was 27ft and we chose site #3, it was easy to back into to.
TravelerWe camped one night in a tent in site #12. Luckily it was a cool evening because the scent of the vault toilet wafted over our site off and on. Can't imagine being here on a hot humid day in the summer. I'm sure this campground is fine for overnight if you are self contained in an RV. Good if you don't want to be too far off the Interstate but also don't want the traffic noise.
GuideWe are here in October and we are getting snow I love it. Only 3 other campers here. .the dogs just run. Getting about 6 inches of snow. Going to hike some trails tomorrow. We have AT&T and there is cell service but we also have Starlink. No water this time of year and there is only 1 pit toilet...across the campground. It would not be a place I would stay in summer....no trees I'm not a fan of seeing all the campers. Looks like pretty decent gravel sites. We do have electric. The rangers are very nice.
ScoutWe got here after dark and were very confused by the no trespassing signs and small pull offs. We didn’t go very high up on the road but camped right where the pin was set up. Gorgeous in the morning and very quiet peaceful place to stay for the night. Not necessarily “camping” with room to move around or set up but easy for one night.
TravelerStopped in overnight. Nice quiet spot on the lake. Toilets were very clean. Enjoyed the hike to the overlook. Hard to find what the off season prices were.
ScoutCamping late September in a truck camper, found it quite comfortable and adequate. Post-logging, (reportedly due to tree disease) the new growth is up to around 12' tall. There a nice brook babbling and some of the sites are along it. Sites are well separated and clean, as is the toilet. Parking sites are mostly quite level. There is a $15 camping fee. Only one other site was occupied. Road noises are fairly distant and tolerable. No T-Mobile coverage.
TravelerWe’re in a 30 TT and the sites a very easy back in. We stayed in site 15 on the lake side. Would certainly recommend the area. They have water spigots but it’s turned off got the season. But there is dump and fresh water at the black water park for $5.00 a self serve kiosk.
LegendWhat’s not to like? A beautiful RV Park and admission to the hot springs next door is included for day of arrival and all the next day (out day of departure). They have live music tomorrow evening at the hot springs which sadly we’ll miss. Plus Bozeman is just a short drive away. We loved spending the day browsing and dining in downtown Bozeman.
Canyon Ferry Lake camping areas provide year-round access, with elevations around 3,800 feet and temperatures that range from summer highs of 85°F to winter lows below freezing. The region features high desert terrain with limited natural shade and often experiences afternoon winds coming off the water. Most campgrounds near Townsend sit between the mountains and the 76-mile-long reservoir, creating distinct microclimates that campers should prepare for.
Hiking to Sacajawea Peak: Access this popular trail from Fairy Lake Campground, though preparation is essential. "The views of the surrounding mountains and dense forest are absolutely magical—it truly feels like you've stepped into another world. The lake itself is stunning, with crystal clear water that looks almost unreal," notes camper Sayler O.
Fishing from shore: Shore fishing at Canyon Ferry Lake offers catfish, walleye, and trout opportunities, particularly during morning and evening hours. "We saw a few other campers along the creek before climbing the slippery dirt road," reports Avery O. from Fairy Lake, suggesting alternative fishing spots when the lake is crowded.
Mountain goat watching: Wildlife viewing is common at higher elevation sites. At Fairy Lake Campground, Jonathan A. warns, "Mountain Goats will come in your camp and they will do what goats do and want to check you out. They are not afraid."
Bear boxes at higher elevations: Safety infrastructure varies by location. "1 bear box for the whole camp ground so be prepared to store food in car or tree," advises Jonathan A. about Fairy Lake Campground, reminding campers to plan ahead for food storage.
Off-season tranquility: Weekdays and shoulder seasons offer more solitude. "The weekdays we were basically alone at the campground," reports Amber R. about her stay at Fairy Lake, contrasting with busy weekend conditions.
Clean bathrooms: Facility maintenance stands out at certain locations. At Canyon Ferry Lake KOA, Betsy T. praises the "Cleanest and nicest bathrooms I've seen in a long time!!" Many campgrounds charge additional fees for shower access.
Free laundry services: Some RV campgrounds near Townsend offer unexpected amenities. At Cardwell General Store and Campground, Scott W. notes it "has cheap fuel & a free laundry. Beautiful grassy grounds & some great scenery."
Road conditions can be challenging: Many access roads require appropriate vehicles. "The 6-mile unmaintained road to get to the campground is definitely rough. The warnings are justified—it's bumpy, rocky, and slow going," explains Sayler O. about reaching Fairy Lake Campground.
Weather fluctuations: The region experiences rapid temperature drops and occasional afternoon storms. "A storm came through and it was windy for a bit, but besides that beautiful skies and great weather," reports Betsy T. at Canyon Ferry Lake KOA.
Seasonal closures affect access: Forest Service and other land management agencies adjust access based on conditions. "Was unable to get to this site as the road in was closed due to logging. Had a Tángeres parked at the turn off from the main road," notes Callie B. about a failed attempt to reach Fairy Lake Campground.
Tent site pricing variability: Some RV campgrounds Townsend, Montana charge premium rates for tent camping. "If you are in a tent they will gouge you for $40 per tent for a crappy tent site with no services, no grass, and uneven ground," reports Mary J. from Cardwell General Store and Campground.
Playground proximity: When booking with children, request sites near play areas. A camper at Canyon Ferry Lake KOA appreciated the "Great Playground, close to tent sites. Nice staff and great coffee and beautiful setting!"
On-site fishing ponds: Some facilities offer contained fishing options ideal for young anglers. Amber W. from Cardwell General Store and Campground mentions "they also have a pond that you can even fish in on site at the back of the property. The campsites are quite close together, but all in all a great stay!"
Wildlife awareness: Educate children about wildlife safety before arrival. "For sure there is 1 grizzly that's pretty big. He checked out our truck tent," warns Jonathan A. from Fairy Lake, underscoring the importance of proper food storage and wildlife awareness.
Hookup verification: Confirm utility details when booking RV sites. "I had to move my trailer to dump the black tank because my site didn't have sewer connections," reports Diane H. from Cardwell, highlighting the need to verify amenities in advance.
Late arrival coordination: Plan for after-hours check-in if traveling a long distance. At Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV, Jennifer H. notes, "We rolled in after the office closed at 7 - the camp ground looks like it has some wonderful amenities. Sadly we didn't get to take advantage of them."
Leveling requirements: Many RV campgrounds Townsend, Montana and surrounding areas require leveling equipment. "Sites level, good utilities," confirms Michael C. about Cardwell Store RV Park, but this isn't universal across all area campgrounds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular RV campsite near Townsend, MT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular RV campground near Townsend, MT is Fairy Lake Campground with a 3.9-star rating from 9 reviews.
What is the best site to find RV camping near Townsend, MT?
TheDyrt.com has all 87 RV camping locations near Townsend, MT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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