Primitive camping options near Wilsall, Montana provide access to both mountain and river recreation. The Bridger and Gallatin mountain ranges flank this area at elevations between 5,000-9,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with frequent afternoon thunderstorms in July and August, while early fall brings cooler nights and changing colors.
What to do
Mountain hiking trails: Access multiple trail networks at Battle Ridge Campground where "the campground has excellent views of the Bridgers. It's a fairly shady campground, bugs weren't too bad. Each site has a fire pit and a picnic table," according to visitor Annika W.
Wildlife watching: Many campgrounds report frequent wildlife sightings. At Fairy Lake Campground, camper Jonathan A. warns that "for sure there is 1 grizzly that's pretty big. He checked out our truck tent. Mountain Goats will come in your camp and they will do what goats do and want to check you out."
Hot springs soaking: Several campgrounds provide direct access to thermal pools. At Bozeman Hot Springs Campground, campers receive "wristbands for the hot springs pool and fitness center adjacent to the campgrounds." One visitor noted the "indoor and outdoor pools vary in temperature from 106-56 degrees, with most comfortable temps."
Fishing access: Yellowstone River locations offer prime fishing opportunities. The KOA in Livingston features cabins "right on the river. One of my favorite spots," reports Justin C. River sites provide direct water access for anglers seeking trout and other local species.
What campers like
Mountain views: Campsites with panoramic vistas remain popular. At Yellowstone Edge RV Park, camper Norma S. found "the last site open for that day and what a site/view! We were the site closest to the Yellowstone River with views of the mountains and river."
Privacy between sites: Battle Ridge earns praise for spacious layouts, with one camper noting "there is a very generous amount of space between camp sites making this campground feel very private. I brought my dog and it was really nice to have all that space."
Clean facilities: Many campers highlight bathroom quality. At Livingston/Paradise Valley KOA, Ashley M. found "very clean restrooms & showers. And the staff is very friendly and welcoming." Multiple reviewers across campgrounds specifically mentioned bathroom cleanliness as a top consideration.
Seasonal amenities: Campgrounds offer varying services by season. The Bozeman Hot Springs Campground provides "a delicious breakfast from 7:30am to 9:15am each morning," according to one reviewer, while others mention pools being open later in summer months.
What you should know
Road conditions: Access to several mountain campgrounds requires careful planning. For Fairy Lake, Sayler O. warns "the 6-mile unmaintained road to get to the campground is definitely rough. The warnings are justified—it's bumpy, rocky, and slow going."
Seasonal closures: Many campgrounds operate on limited schedules. Rock Canyon RV Park lists their season as May 1 to October 1, while Conestoga Campground & RV Park runs May through October. One visitor noted the Battle Ridge hosts are present only during peak season.
Limited services: Primitive sites offer fewer amenities. At Battle Ridge, Timothy M. notes there's "no water or power" and Anthony B. advises "there are restrooms but no trash bins."
Weather preparation: Mountain conditions change rapidly. Pack accordingly for temperature swings of 30+ degrees between day and night, particularly in spring and fall seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Hot springs activities: Family-friendly water options abound. One visitor to Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV noted it's "worth it for the Hot Springs Access. Live music was awesome for ambiance too."
Playground facilities: Several campgrounds offer dedicated children's areas. The Livingston KOA features a "nice playground and covered pool, dog friendly, nice little store, a nice pavilion," according to kelly N.
Wildlife safety: Educate children on proper behavior. At Fairy Lake, Jonathan A. cautions that "mountain goats will come in your camp and they will do what goats do and want to check you out. They are not scared."
Stream exploration: Creekside campsites provide natural play areas. Heather F. from Fairy Lake remembers: "There was a perfect little creek that my 5yo fully enjoyed for a few days."
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: RV campgrounds vary in layout. At Osen's RV Park, Ben H. notes "the spots are reasonably level and about half and half pull-through vs back in. They use a larger size gravel on the roads so there is very little dust."
Internet connectivity: Working remote campers should check service. At Osen's RV Park by Starry Night Lodging, Daniel W. found "level gravel parking, private bath and shower, full hookups. Good WiFi, T-Mobile 5g 2bars."
Mountain road limitations: Large RVs face access challenges to mountain sites. Morgan B. warns about Battle Ridge: "don't go up the mountain if you have an rv. We ended up at the dead end and we had to back down our 30 foot rv down the mountain."
Riverside options: Premium locations command higher rates. At Yellowstone Edge RV Park, "the river was about 15 feet from our back door, absolutely beautiful!" according to Dawn R., who found the location "quiet" despite being "right off the highway."
