Tent camping near Virginia City, Montana sits at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 9,000 feet in the surrounding Tobacco Root and Madison mountain ranges. Sites are typically accessible from late June through September at higher elevations, with lower sites available May through October. Most roads to dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles and become impassable after rainfall.
What to do
Fishing access and mountain lakes: Ruby Creek Campground provides direct Madison River access with 22 campsites on a flat, grassy area. "Good fishing to be found in the Madison River. Far enough from Yellowstone to avoid the crowds, but not too far away," notes Dexter I., who paid $12/night for basic amenities.
Rock climbing opportunities: Revenue Flats offers multiple climbing routes for various skill levels. "Pulled up to this spot and camped under the most beautiful night sky I've ever seen... Tons of super fun climbing!" writes Lucille W., who mentions the challenging road access for low-clearance vehicles.
Backcountry hiking: For experienced hikers, Spanish Lakes rewards with alpine lake camping. "A relatively challenging nine-mile-hike in from the Spanish Creek campground... You'll cross a couple rivers—so be prepared to take off those boots," advises Ruby W., who camped on a cliff overlooking crystal-clear lakes.
What campers like
Madison River campsites: Varney Bridge Fishing Access Site offers riverfront camping with basic facilities. "We stayed here for 2 nights, and it has become our traditional early summer spot. There are a few smaller sites right next to the river... Each site has a picnic table, fire pit, and there is one outhouse across from the boat dock," shares J W.
Solitude at higher elevations: Backcountry sites typically see fewer visitors even during peak summer months. "I have stayed here twice and each time there were only a couple others camped here," notes a Ruby Creek Campground visitor, highlighting the relative isolation compared to more popular areas.
Night sky viewing: The open terrain at many sites provides excellent stargazing conditions. "Pulled up to this spot and camped under the most beautiful night sky I've ever seen," one Revenue Flats camper commented, while another mentioned camping "under the most beautiful night sky I've ever seen."
What you should know
Road conditions and vehicle requirements: Most dispersed camping areas have rough access roads. "We drove a F450 with triple slide truck camper and made it ok. Also saw a 2 wheel drive 30 foot class C motorhome that made it but would not recommend anything larger," explains Lisa A. about the 5-mile rough road to Revenue Flats.
Bear safety precautions: Bear activity affects camping practices throughout the region. "This is grizzle bear territory, food must be stored in your car or the provided bear proof food locker at the campground," warns a visitor to Mill Creek Campground.
Campground transitions: Some established sites have undergone management changes. Virginia City RV Park (formerly Virginia City Campground) has changed ownership, with one visitor noting: "Has now become the (overpriced) Rambling Moose Campground."
Tips for camping with families
Location selection for children: Sites near roads require extra vigilance. "This is a highly desired river for fly fishermen and boaters will buzz through that dirt road ALL day long starting at about 6:30am... I'm constantly worried about my 2 year old getting nailed by one of these idiots," cautions Micah O. about Varney Bridge Fishing Access Site.
Entertainment options: Yellow Mule Cabin offers a unique overnight experience. "The cabin is so cute, tucked away in a forest. It's pretty magical. The best part about this cabin is you can't reach it by car. You can take a 4 wheeler, ATV or you can hike 8 miles," explains Kayla K., noting the cabin "comfortably sleeps 3."
Shoulder season crowds: Late summer and early fall typically see fewer visitors. "We were there on Saturday and it was busy but not crazy... Pretty ideal way to spend the weekend!" shares one Revenue Flats visitor, suggesting weekdays provide more solitude for families.
Tips from RVers
Site selection at river access: Choose sites based on traffic patterns at popular fishing spots. "The first 3 sites are nearly right on a dirt road which is only feet away from where you can pitch a tent. This is a highly desired river for fly fishermen and boaters will buzz through that dirt road ALL day long," notes one Varney Bridge visitor.
Road damage considerations: Rough access roads can damage equipment. "We talked with 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," shares Elizabeth W., emphasizing the need to assess road conditions before committing.
