Dispersed camping options around Virginia City, Montana situate travelers between the Madison and Ruby Valleys at elevations ranging from 5,000-6,000 feet. The region experiences short summers with cool nights even in July and August, when daytime temperatures typically range from 75-85°F. Winter camping near Virginia City requires preparation for below-freezing temperatures and potential snow accumulation from October through April.
What to do
Fish the Madison River: Valley Garden Campground provides direct river access with spacious sites that aren't crowded together. "I found this spot on Dyrt but did not realize that it was right on the Madison. So cool to be able to walk out of camp to an amazing river," notes one camper who appreciated the convenient water access from their site.
Collect gemstones: Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area offers unique rock collecting opportunities along the shoreline. "This campsite has loads to offer ~ there is access to the reservoir, of course, and along with this comes the garnets lining the shores," explains a visitor. For beginning rockhounds, the reservoir provides an accessible experience as "all you need is a shovel and some screens to begin your search."
Explore historic ghost towns: The drive to several campgrounds takes visitors through preserved mining communities. "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!" shares a Ruby Reservoir visitor who combined history with rock hunting.
What campers like
Lake access with mountain views: Meadow Lake Campground provides free lakeside camping with striking vistas. "Beautiful spot just on Ennis Lake. Probably 6-8 sites. Each site has a fire ring and picnic table. There's also a bathroom on site!" reports one camper. The campground sits only "6-7 miles from Ennis which has a decent sized town to get supplies."
Convenient town proximity: Some campgrounds offer the dual advantage of nature and nearby services. At Valley Garden Campground, campers appreciate that "the sites are well spaced out and beautiful views of the Madison valley and mountain ranges." The location balances seclusion with accessibility to towns like Ennis.
Quiet surroundings: Rambling Moose Campground provides a peaceful atmosphere with attentive management. One visitor described it as a "Lovely campground, maintained, super nice and attentive owners... we got the overview of Virginia City and a local mine." The campground features "level site with electric and water" and remains "very peaceful" despite being near attractions.
What you should know
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area offers free camping but minimal infrastructure. "The only facilities at this campground is a double vault toilet. There is no signage on the highway to indicated the campground," explains one reviewer who noted campers must pack in water and pack out trash.
Road conditions vary: Access to some of the best places to camp near Virginia City, Montana requires preparation for rough roads. "Almost impossible to level a camper," warns one Ruby Reservoir visitor, highlighting the uneven terrain at some dispersed sites.
Cell service considerations: Ennis RV Village offers reliable connectivity, with one visitor noting, "Full hookups, WiFi, Verizon cell service." This contrasts with more remote camping options where connectivity becomes limited or non-existent.
Seasonal closures affect availability: Several campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Valley Garden had one visitor report it was "Closed until spring 2023," demonstrating the importance of checking current status before planning trips, particularly in shoulder seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Look for sites with water activities: Meadow Lake Campground provides good fishing opportunities for children. "Fishing is pretty good, I caught a few brown trout. Very open not much seclusion available. Has a vault toilet, picnic tables and fire rings," reports one visitor, though they caution to "bring fire wood" as there's "not much around to scavenge to burn."
Choose established campgrounds for convenience: Madison Valley Campground offers amenities that simplify family camping. A recent visitor described it as a "Small campground tucked away in town. Walking distance to the cute center of town. Clean—and convenient."
Consider educational opportunities: Several campgrounds near Virginia City provide learning experiences beyond typical outdoor recreation. The Rambling Moose Campground even offers "a lovely gift shop where you can get shirts, stickers, gourmet popcorn, ice, ice cream" according to one reviewer.
Tips from RVers
Reserve sites during peak season: Ennis RV Village fills quickly during summer months. "We are so impressed! Wifi, showers, gorgeous flowers, beautiful view of the mountains, friendly neighbors, accommodating office staff," reports one RVer who appreciated the amenities and atmosphere.
Seek level sites for larger rigs: Valley Garden Campground accommodates various RV sizes despite being a more rustic option. "Pulled into the campground late evening and it was easy to get into and out of with my 41 ft toy hauler. Campground was quiet and secluded," shares one RVer, noting the benefit of arriving with enough daylight to navigate.
Utilize full-service campgrounds for extended stays: For RVers wanting extended time exploring the Virginia City area, campgrounds with complete hookups provide comfortable base camps. "Well laid out. Long sites. Plenty of room between sites. Full hookups, WiFi, Verizon cell service," notes one Ennis RV Village guest who appreciated the thoughtful design.
