Turquoise waters and white sandy beaches – surrounded by mountains in the middle of Montana, this place has absolutely stunning scenery. Cliff and Wade Lakes are two medium sized lakes with multiple campground sites along both lakes. Camping fee is $10/night, bathrooms, a marina and store to rent kayaks/paddleboards, both single and group use sites. Cell service at the top of the mountain when driving in but no service down by the lakes. There are many campsites, but this a very popular destination and sites fill up quickly. I recommend getting there before 2pm to grab a site!
Located in the Gallatin National Forest and a few miles northwest of Yellowstone, this area is part of the migration path for many wild animals – including grizzly and brown bears. The 9 campsites are spread across a 4.5-mile dirt road, with trailheads in between. There are minimal utilities at the campgrounds: campfire rings and parking for 1-2 vehicles, no bathrooms, spotty cell service, and no fee for camping. Rated a four star because of location of campsites are in the canyon, making for an early sunset and late sunrise. Beaver Creek is clear and cold water - excellent for fishing! Remeber - be bear aware!
Canyon Ferry Lake is an expansive lake reaching 33 miles from Townsend to Helena, MT. Gorgeous scenery that is reminiscent of the ocean: long, white-sand beaches, warm waters (in the summer), and the lake disappearing into the horizon. Hellgate Campground is the largest developed campground with 69 campsites along the banks of the lake. Some campsites are for single cars only and some have space for multiple vehicles. Each campsite has a designated fire ring and picnic tables. Verizon cell coverage is available. Rated a four-star because this campground is popular and fills up quickly, a little too populated for my personal preference.
Nestled at the base of the soaring peaks of the Crazy Mountain Range, Halfmoon Campground feels truly magical. The dozen campsites are spread amongst the tall pine forest; each accommodated with a picnic table, fire ring and ample flat spaces for tents. There is also a toilet facility and minimal cellular service.
The scenery surrounding the campground is breathtaking: sharp peaks that rise upwards of 7,000 ft in elevation, crystal clear mountain streams rushing down the mountain sides, waterfall after waterfall, and two mountain lakes at the top of the 6 mile trail. Halfmoon Campground, I will be back! Also, it is a no-fee camping area.
Link to the varied legends of the naming of the Crazies:http://www.outsidebozeman.com/summer-2003/how-crazies-got-their-name