This article on camping near Helena, MT, is brought to you by Supernola. These superfood clusters will fuel your trip to any of these great campgrounds.
It’s easy to find great camping near Helena, MT. Helena is surrounded by pristine lakes, wilderness areas, and mountain ranges. In under an hour, you can pitch your tent or RV among the pines and relax in the outdoors. You will be so immersed in nature you’ll forget the state’s capital is just a few miles away.
The Best Camping Near Helena, MT
Canyon Ferry Lake
Image from The Dyrt camper Carla S.
Canyon Ferry Lake is a recreational area 40 miles from Helena with several campgrounds (the best are listed below). If you’re a boater, you’ll love this area, with docking points in every campground. You can enjoy water sports and fishing or explore the 76 miles of shoreline. For a unique adventure, check out the nearby sapphire mines. This place is a gem.
“My favorite summer spot at the lake!! Lots of campsites along Canyon Ferry as well as day spots, restrooms and access. Fishing, boating, restaurant at Yacht Basin!! It’s Perfect!!” – Carla S.
Campground Details:
- Price: $10-$170
- Number of sites: n/a
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
Hellgate Campground
Image from The Dyrt camper Dexter I.
Hellgate Campground defies its name. This large campground sits on the eastern banks of beautiful Canyon Ferry Lake. Nestled in a valley between the Big Belt and Elkhorn mountain ranges, you’re enveloped by natural beauty. Hellgate Campground is perfect for canoers and kayakers, with plenty of peaceful bays to tour. In the winter, you may even see campers ice skating.
“Canyon Ferry Lake is an expansive lake. Gorgeous scenery that is reminiscent of the ocean: long, white-sand beaches, warm waters (in the summer), and the lake disappearing into the horizon.” – Aspen K.
Campground Details:
- Price: $10 – $170
- Number of sites: 72
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
Court Sheriff Campground
Image from The Dyrt camper Daniel B.
Court Sheriff Campground sits on the north shore of Canyon Ferry Lake. Court Sheriff Campground is a popular spot with spacious campsites and close access to the lake. You can enjoy year-round water activities and take in the Big Belt and Elkhorn mountains.
“We spent two nights and it was perfect. It was easy to find. The campground had large sites and plenty of room to park our car. We have a 20 foot trailer but some here had much longer rigs, and they were fine. It is so beautiful. We will be back. We picked water view sites.” – Julie A.
Campground Details:
- Price: $15-$30
- Number of sites: 48
- RV sites: No
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
Black Sandy State Park
Image from The Dyrt camper Evan H.
Black Sandy State Park is a popular campground and recreation area on the western shore of Hauser Lake. You can go fishing for trout or walleye, or enjoy other water sports. If you prefer land activities, you can hike or bike the many historic trails.
“This campground is located right on the edge of the lake making for some nice views and a relaxing environment. The best thing about this campground is the proximity to Hauser Dam. There are some wonderful hikes around the dam as well as great fishing. If you are there in August you can see the largest concentration of Bald Eagles west of the Mississippi.” – Evan H.
Campground Details:
- Price: $4-$34
- Number of sites: 35
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
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Holter Lake
Image from The Dyrt camper Megan B.
Holter Lake Campground sits at the north end of Holter Lake, near the Sleeping Giant Wilderness. In addition to incredible views of the lake and mountains, you’ll find outdoor activities for every kind of adventurer: water sports, hiking, biking, or wildlife viewing. Grab a campsite and start exploring.
“Holter Lake is a very nice campground. The entire campground including parking pads is paved. The site also has a swimming beach, boat ramp, docks, fish cleaning station, and accessible fishing walkway.” – Dexter I.
Campground Details:
- Price: $15
- Number of sites: 52
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
Log Gulch Recreation Site
Image from The Dyrt camper Keith K.
Log Gulch Campground is on the east end of Holter Lake. This large campground offers ample space for RVs and tent sites, as well. Log Gulch is a fantastic retreat for the whole family. There are outdoor adventures for every type of explorer and amazing views of the Sleeping Giant Wilderness Study Area.
“This is a hidden gem near the west end of Holter Lake. Over 50 sites with views of the mountains, Holter Lake, and the sleeping giant from various points in the campground. Wildlife and fishing galore. Most sites are big enough for a camper and level enough for tents. Trails connect it to other points of interest nearby.” – Keith K.
Campground Details:
- Price: $15-$50
- Number of sites: 70
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
Park Lake Campground
Image from The Dyrt camper Dexter I.
For more tranquility, head down to Park Lake Campground, on the south end of Park Lake. You can take your non-motorized boat on the lake, fish for cutthroat, or go swimming. This seasonal campground is smaller, making it ideal for campers who want a quieter experience.
“Our favorite nearby campground that’s far enough away to get everyone to unplug. Peaceful mountain lake with no motors allowed on the water. Fish, kayak, paddleboard, and swim. The entire campground is paved! Perfect for the kiddos on their bicycles.” – Heather
Campground Details:
- Price: $15
- Number of sites: 22
- RV sites: Yes
- Fires allowed: Yes
- Pets allowed: Yes
You don’t have to go far from Helena to enjoy the outdoors. In under an hour you can camp lakeside, catch your dinner, hike the scenic trails, and enjoy a weekend lounging between mountain peaks. With so much excellent camping near Helena, MT, you’re sure to find a great spot after browsing through The Dyrt’s full list of campgrounds.
