There’s just something different about camping in Montana. Sure, you can find hulking mountains, wide rivers, and wildflower fields in other Western states—and a go-everywhere-in-jeans vibe, too. But there’s a certain indescribable feeling you get only in Montana: Everything feels bigger, better, and more pristine—it’s like nature in technicolor.
Maybe it has something to do with the fact that there are more elk than people here. Or it’s the richness of its geographical diversity, from the Rocky Mountains to the Great Plains to the badlands to Kalispell Lake. Maybe it’s the small-town vibe at general stores that sell everything from propane to hot sandwiches to local art, or the brightness of the night skies, full of stars you never knew existed. Or maybe it’s the warmth of the community, made up of real people doing real things who strike up conversations on the sidewalks to find out where you’re from and why you’re there.
Whatever it is, camping in Montana gives you a feeling that changes you. The land here makes you feel the timelessness of nature—of being connected to something much larger than you. All the white noise in your brain grows quiet, and your priorities shift to what really matters: friends, family, and nature.
Whether you’re after a true backcountry adventure or the simple pleasure of sitting by a fire under a sky of blazing stars, Montana is the place to find it. Here are 10 campgrounds that showcase the very best of what the state has to offer.
Thompson Chain of Lakes State Park
This state park in northwestern Montana strings together 18 pristine alpine lakes—some of which have water so clear they look downright Caribbean— like emeralds on a necklace. The Thompson Chain offers some of Montana’s most accessible mountain lake camping, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, boating, and fishing for rainbow and brook trout. Mellow hiking trails connect the lakes, making it ideal for families wanting a taste of Montana’s high country without the technical challenges of true wilderness camping. There are 83 designated sites and eight group sites, but it’s not ideal for large RVs, as the access roads are rough.
Painted Rocks State Park
Painted Rocks gets its name from the brightly colored lichens that cover the cliffs along the West Fork Road in the Bitterroot Valley. While the colorful cliff faces are stunning, the real star here is the shining waters of Painted Rocks Lake. This campground offers incredible fishing for mountain whitefish or cutthroat trout, plus some of the best sunsets you’ll find anywhere in the state. Whether it’s a romantic getaway or a family beach weekend, Painted Rocks has 25 campsites that can accommodate RVs.
Brush Lake State Park
Located in Montana’s northeastern prairie country, Brush Lake proves that the state’s beauty extends far beyond its famous peaks. This deep, clear lake with white sandy beaches is perfect for birdwatching, swimming, canoeing, or waterskiing. Due to the high mineral content of its water, there are no fish in the lake, but there are plenty of other diversions. There are 12 sites for either RV or tent camping, all of which have electrical hookups.
Makoshika State Park
Welcome to Montana’s badlands—a landscape so otherworldly it makes you feel as though you’re visiting an alien planet. Makoshika (“bad land” in Lakota) showcases sandstone formations and fossil beds that transport you 65 million years into the past. The camping here is an adventure in itself, with sites perched among the colorful rock formations that glow pink, orange, and red come sunrise and sunset. The park—Montana’s largest—has 28 campsites, an outdoor amphitheater, disc golf course, hiking trails, and a visitor’s center with dinosaur fossils. You can rough it in a backcountry site or go glamping in a yurt or tipi.
Tongue River Reservoir State Park
This southeastern Montana prairie lake offers excellent fishing and water sports. The reservoir is famous for its walleye, and fly fishermen can cast in the river below the dam. It’s also a fantastic spot for families, with calm waters ideal for first-time paddlers and plenty of space for kids to explore safely. Wildlife includes osprey, blue herons, bald eagles, deer, and antelope. There are 81 reservable camping sites with electric hookups, plus more than 69 first-come, first-served rustic camping sites.
Missouri Headwaters State Park
Camp where Lewis and Clark recorded one of their most significant observations—the convergence of three rivers that form the mighty Missouri. This historically rich campground offers excellent trout fishing and serves as a gateway to exploring the Madison, Jefferson, and Gallatin rivers. The interpretive trails provide fascinating insights into both natural history and the Corps of Discovery’s epic journey. Reserve one of 17 campsites.
Cooney Reservoir State Park
Situated in south-central Montana 40 minutes south of Billings, this park’s namesake reservoir is a water lover’s dream with over 5 miles of shoreline perfect for swimming, waterskiing, and fishing. The reservoir is renowned for its walleye and trout fishing, while the surrounding prairie landscape offers excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. It’s an ideal basecamp for exploring the nearby Beartooth Mountains. The park’s 79 campsites have a combination of electrical hookup sites and rustic camping sites.
Ackley Lake State Park
With views of the Little Belt and Snowy mountains, this central Montana treasure inspired the renowned Western artist Charlie Russell more than 100 years ago. The lake offers great rainbow trout and tiger muskie fishing, and its refreshing waters make it a favorite swimming spot on warm summer days. The surrounding grasslands come alive with wildflowers in late spring and early summer. Ackley Lake has 26 first-come first-served, rustic campsites, with no water or electrical hookups.
Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park
Montana’s first state park boasts spectacular underground wonders, with one of the most highly decorated limestone caverns in North America. After exploring the caves, you can hike, bike, and camp with views of the Jefferson River Valley. You have an array of options for camping: the park has rustic sites, group sites, sites with electrical hookups, a wall tent, and cabins.
Bannack State Park
Step back in time at Montana’s best-preserved ghost town, where you can camp among the remnants of the state’s first territorial capital. Bannack Creek offers decent trout fishing, but the real draw is the incredibly preserved 1860s mining town, home of the state’s first gold strike. Camping here is like having your own private historical theme park, complete with authentic Old West atmosphere and some of the darkest night skies in the state. The campground has 28 first-come, first-served sites for both tents and RVs.
Montana’s campgrounds are more than just a place to pitch your tent—they’re gateways to experiences that will fundamentally change you. So pack your sense of adventure and discover the feeling of being outdoors in Big Sky Country.
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