Virginia City, Montana sits at an elevation of 5,800 feet in Madison County with a semi-arid climate characterized by warm summers and cold winters. The camping season typically runs from May through September when temperatures range from 40°F to 80°F. Nearby Madison River provides water access for campers while the surrounding Ruby and Tobacco Root mountains create natural boundaries around the valley.
What to do
Garnet hunting at Ruby Reservoir: At Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area, campers can search for garnets 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. It is a perfect adventure for beginners, as all you need is a shovel and some screens to begin your search," explains Hannah S.
Soak in hot springs: Located 30 minutes north of Virginia City, Norris Hot Springs offers camping with hot spring access. "Come for the hot spring and stay steps away in a great tent or RV site! The RV sites have water and electric hook ups, and there is a portable toilet by the tent sites," notes Katherine B. Weekend visitors can enjoy live music while soaking.
Fishing access points: Multiple fishing spots provide access to the Madison River. "This is a nice area, and I have camped here several times during hunting season. The fishing is decent as well," writes Dexter I. about Ruby Reservoir. Valley Garden Campground offers direct river access with "spacious sites that aren't on top of one another. Some are right on the water," according to Anne D.
What campers like
Proximity to historic attractions: Rambling Moose Campground provides convenient access to Virginia City's historic district. "Great hosts, Full hookups, lots of space & Beautiful views. Rode our bikes to Virginia City -lots of fun!" shares Barb N. The campground features cabin options alongside RV and tent sites.
River access for cooling off: Madison River locations offer relief during hot summer days. "Great for Madison River fishing access. Not a whole lot of conveniences, but nice," writes Edward N. about Varney Bridge Fishing Access Site. These riverside locations provide natural swimming areas during summer months.
Small-town convenience: Several campgrounds offer proximity to Ennis for supplies. "This campground is conveniently located near downtown Ennis, Montana. While you're close enough to town to run and get coffee in the morning, your spot will feel tucked back by the river," explains Kayla about Ennis FAS. The town provides groceries, restaurants, and outfitters within walking distance of some campsites.
What you should know
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Many fishing access points have minimal amenities. "This is a dry campground like most FAS sites. A small vault toilet serves the area, sites are numbered and have a picnic table and appear to all have rock fire rings," reports Dexter I. about Ennis FAS.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes quickly in this region. "Although a small town there are a couple gas stations and a decent sized grocery. Busy on the weekends and you can hear cars on the highway but there are few at night," notes Sadie P. about camping near Ennis.
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds present difficulties for RVs. "Hardly any water campsites. Rattlesnakes by the bathrooms. Almost impossible to level a camper," warns Kelsie M. about Ruby Reservoir. At Valley Garden Campground, "sites are spread out and most are private. There are no bear lockers or dumpsters. Vault toilet was well maintained," according to Maura.
Tips for camping with families
Lakeside options: Meadow Lake Campground offers family-friendly lake access. "Most camp sights have lake access. 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," writes David H.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early mornings provide chances to see local wildlife. "Quiet. Lots of birds, rabbits and a cow moose and calf," mentions Robert W. about his stay at Varney Bridge. Families should maintain appropriate distances from wildlife.
Educational experiences: Ruby Reservoir offers learning opportunities for children. "The garnets are beautiful, and keep the kids (college age or elementary!) entertained for hours. And if you need to cool off, you can hop right in!" explains Hannah S. Bring simple mining tools like shovels and screens for a full day activity.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: At Ennis RV Village, visitors recommend choosing sites carefully. "Our first site was small pretty much right next to your neighbor. We moved to the premier sites though, and it was better," advises Patrick C. Premium sites offer more space and better views.
Road conditions: Access roads to some campgrounds can be rough. "We talked w multiple campers who had things broken in their rigs coming up the road. We won't return due to the access, but loved the campground," cautions Elizabeth W.
Hookup availability: Ruby Valley Campground and RV Park offers full hookups for RVers. "Wonderfully friendly and accommodating staff. Very clean inside and out. Close proximity to Virginia and Nevada cities. Obviously a former KOA with all the accompanying amenities, but slightly lower price," mentions Kierra B. The campground provides water, electric and sewer connections.
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