Dispersed camping options surround Livingston, Montana at elevations ranging from 4,500 feet in town to 6,000+ feet in nearby mountain areas. The Absaroka mountain range creates a rain shadow effect that keeps camping areas relatively dry compared to other Montana regions, with summer high temperatures averaging 80-85°F. Seasonal considerations significantly impact campsite availability, with most dispersed camping areas requiring self-sufficiency in waste management.
What to do
Fishing access: 12-minute drive from Livingston. The Yellowstone River flows directly through several camping areas, offering prime fishing opportunities. Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp provides direct river access with a boat ramp. "Great ramp for launching boats or kayaks or fishing from. Yellowstone on one side and beautiful mountains on the other and it's free!" reports Steve M.
Hot springs visit: 30-minute drive south. Chico Hot Springs is a popular day trip from nearby campsites. Loch Leven serves as a convenient base camp with a prime river location. "Small but nice campsite... steps away from the Yellowstone River - awesome view," notes Jonas. The campground costs $18 per night for non-residents without a fishing license, or $12 with a license.
Stargazing: Best June-September. Clear mountain air and minimal light pollution create exceptional night sky viewing. "We did lose our white famepoint Siamese cat here in June. We stayed in the middle site just across the little road from the river. All the sites were pretty nice," mentions Crystal R. about her Loch Leven stay, highlighting the remote camping experience.
What campers like
River proximity: Prime waterfront sites. Campers consistently rate waterfront sites highest among Livingston-area camping options. Yellowstone Edge RV Park offers premium riverside locations. "We parked on one of the river sites, and the river was about 15 feet from our back door, absolutely beautiful!" says Dawn R. The campground operates seasonally from May 1 to October 10.
Music events: Summer concert access. The area hosts summer concerts that can be heard from certain campsites. Jammin Jackalope Campground offers this unique experience. "Even more amazing when there are shows next door as you can hear the whole concert," notes Elizabeth H., highlighting this distinctive feature that separates it from other camping options.
Mountain views: Absaroka Range visibility. The eastern horizon features dramatic mountain scenery visible from many campsites. "Great little KOA. Awesome views of the Absaroka range. Book early. Tent sites were great. Nice dog park, small though," reports Justin S., emphasizing the importance of advance reservations during peak season.
What you should know
Train noise: Regular freight traffic. Railroad tracks run through the area with trains passing regularly. "Beautiful spot by the Yellowstone River. Train whistles woke us up four times," reports Prudence T. about her stay at Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp.
Limited amenities at fishing access sites. State-managed fishing access areas offer minimal facilities. "No water, but right on the Yellowstone River. You hear the road noise at night but if you need a beautiful spot as part of the Yellowstone excursion it's a good one nighter," explains Erica T. about Mallard's Rest.
Road conditions: Variable access. Some camping areas require navigating unpaved roads. "The road is a bit rough, not well maintained but I'm sure you could drive a big rig in here just take it slow," notes Steven L. about Pig Farm Fishing Access, providing important information for larger vehicles.
Tips for camping with families
Pool facilities: Beat summer heat. Several campgrounds offer swimming pools for family recreation. "Beautiful campground with kind staff and wonderful patrons. Be prepared to be close to your neighbors. A lovely place - would visit again!" reports Abigail L. about Livingston/Paradise Valley KOA Holiday.
Playground availability: Limited options. Family-friendly recreational facilities vary significantly between campgrounds. "Definitely a great spot if you're looking for all amenities. Great if you're camping with little ones too, nice playground and activities for the family. Very clean restrooms & showers," shares Ashley M. about Livingston/Paradise Valley KOA.
Wildlife viewing considerations. Children may enjoy prairie dog sightings at certain campsites. "Beautiful views & shared our site with some curious but shy prairie dogs," Carmen notes about her Loch Leven experience, highlighting a natural attraction for children.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing variations. RV spaces range from spacious to compact depending on the campground. "Mostly a gravel lot, close sites. Don't think I would stay again. Overpriced because close to Yellowstone," reports Donna T. about Osen's RV Park by Starry Night Lodging.
Full hookup availability. Several campgrounds offer complete utility connections. "Very nice RV Park. All sites are gravel, the grass areas are really green and well taken care of. Great dog play area, large," notes Charley K. about Osen's RV Park.
Entrance challenges. Some RV parks have difficult access points. "Not the best experience. The entrance is quite tricky and very steep. We missed the entrance and had to find a place to unhook and turn around. (We're in a 36' RV pulling a Jeep)," warns MaryAnn B. about Bear Canyon Campground, providing crucial information for drivers of larger rigs.
