rainbow lake State Park campground

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

A narrow access road leads less than a quarter mile to Rainbow Lake State Park Campground, terminating at the lake's edge with five or six dispersed sites, each equipped with a fire ring. No hookups, no potable water. The pit toilet on-site is functional but rough. Dry camping only, and cell service is absent, though satellite options like Starlink have worked for some visitors. Anglers report pike and largemouth bass in the lake, and the water is accessible for swimming, though rocky footing makes water shoes a practical necessity. Those browsing campgrounds outside Hot Springs will find this one draws a mix of day visitors and overnight campers, particularly on summer weekends. It suits self-sufficient campers comfortable with minimal facilities.

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Map & Directionsrainbow lake State Park campground is located in Montana near Hot Springs

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

47.52791820160626 N
114.75109579950734 W

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Connectivity

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Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

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Features

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DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

Drive Time


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Reviews2 Camper Reviews - rainbow lake State Park campground

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4.5

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2 Reviews

Reviewed Jul. 25, 2026

Hidden gem

We arrived on a Friday around noon. Although the road was narrow in spots it was very manageable for an average width vehicle. Less than a quarter of a mile the road terminated at a lake with five or six spots with fire rings. The pit toilet could use some work but could be used in an emergency. There was a mouse in it when we arrived. While we were there a family stopped by to take a swim. You would need water shoes to swim because it is very rocky. Another family camped overnight and fished and paddle boarded in the evening. There appear to be pike as well as very nice sized largemouth bass in the lake.

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of rainbow lake State Park campground by Tony F., July 25, 2026
  • Review photo of rainbow lake State Park campground by Tony F., July 25, 2026
  • Review photo of rainbow lake State Park campground by Tony F., July 25, 2026
  • (6) View All
Reviewed Jun. 15, 2025

Hidden spot!

This spot is quick before the turn on the road. Don’t miss it! The path to get to these spots is kinda tight. Our car was hitting branches. There are some along the road, but if you drive further down there are more spots and a bathroom. There is one spot by the water.

Dry camping. No amenities, and no service (but starlink worked great). We got here earlier in the day, towards evening more cars showed up. Car noise from the road dies down around 9pm.

It’s bug season so make sure to bring bug spray!

Month of VisitMay

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Rainbow Lake Campground located in Montana?

Rainbow Lake Campground is located just off the main road in Montana, with a turnoff that can be easy to miss if you're not paying attention. The campground is situated alongside Rainbow Lake, with some camping spots directly adjacent to the water. The location requires navigating a somewhat narrow access road where vegetation may brush against vehicles.

What amenities are available at Rainbow Lake Campground in Montana?

Rainbow Lake Campground offers basic amenities including bathrooms located further down the campground road. This is a dry camping area with no hookups or running water. The campground has multiple camping spots with varying proximity to the lake, including at least one prime spot directly by the water. Expect a rustic, primitive camping experience.

What activities can you do at Rainbow Lake in Montana?

Rainbow Lake offers opportunities for water-based recreation and lakeside relaxation. While specific activities aren't detailed, the lake setting is ideal for fishing, swimming during warmer months, and potentially non-motorized boating such as kayaking or canoeing. The surrounding area likely provides options for hiking, wildlife viewing, and nature photography. The lakeside campsite would be perfect for those wanting direct water access for activities.