The best camping in Montana

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Few places in the Lower 48 feel more wild and remote than Montana. This northwestern state on the border with Canada is home to both Glacier National Park and a section of Yellowstone National Park along with a wide range of state parks and recreation areas, friendly cities, spooky ghost towns, and more than its fair share of hot springs. While most visitors comein summer—when weather is pleasant enough for camping and hiking—the Treasure State offers unique experiences in every season, with fantastic winter skiing opportunities, spring wildflowers, and gorgeous fall colors.

96% (13.8K) • 9,690 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Montana

Primrose Meadows

1. Primrose Meadows

95%
(1678)
Missoula, MT · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
We can’t wait to share our land with you! Get away from it all and get under the Big Sky. Close to the freeway for easy access but adjacent to over 300 acres of beautiful farmland, you’ll experience Montana’s wildlife and have beautiful Mountain views when you stay at Primrose Meadows. There are few trees in the property, it’s mostly rolling hills with some trails to walk and plenty of space between sites! This property has a railroad track that runs next to the property that sometimes toots its horn, if you’re a light sleeper this is something you should consider! We are close to Council Grove and Frenchtown Pond which are both great swimming holes! You can also coordinate with us for cross-country skiing or head to Snowbowl for local downhill skiing! We are close to Missoula should you need any services in town.
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❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

2. ❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

98%
(1470)
Coram, MT · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
WELCOME TO GLACIER HIPCAMP 🌲 🏕️ 🦌 Enjoy peace in the beautiful meadows near our home. Our 40-acre property features forested trails, a large pond, two smaller ponds, a creek, and frequent wildlife sightings—all under spectacular starlit skies. We offer a unique "Coolcation" experience as a peaceful alternative to crowded RV parks, located just 6 miles from the entrance to Glacier National Park! CHOOSING YOUR SITE ⛺ Please let us know if you have multiple tents or vehicles so we can recommend the best spot. 💧 DRY CAMPING: No hookups provided. Non-Potable Hydrants are available throughout the campground. 🚛 LARGE RIGS: Sites 1–6 are best for larger vehicles. These are in an open, flat meadow with views of the pond. ⛺ SECLUDED TENTS: We recommend the "Back Meadow" (Sites 7, 8, 10-17, 19-20) for more privacy, especially in July and August. 📏 LIMITS: Sites 7–20 accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 36 feet total length because of an access bridge. 🚻 AMENITIES: All sites are back-in (except 13 and 16, which are pull-through), offer partial shade, and have access to clean vault toilets. GOOD TO KNOW 📢 Due to our proximity to the National Park and the main highway, some traffic and train noise may be heard. To keep our environment pleasant and reduce dust on Greens Road, please keep driving speeds to a minimum. LOCAL ATTRACTIONS AND ESSENTIALS 📍 We are a short bike ride (2 mins by car) from the Whiskey Barn, Paul Bunyan Bar and Grill, Glacier Hi-Line Ropes Course, and the Amazing Fun Center. 🚲 BIKING: Easy access to the Gateway to Glacier Bike Path; E-bike rentals across the street. ⛽ GAS: Cenex in Coram (1.5 mi). 🛒 GROCERIES/LAUNDRY: Canyon Foods in Hungry Horse (3.5 mi). 🏥 SERVICES: Columbia Falls (9 mi) for large stores, cafes, and urgent care. 🚛 RV DUMP/WATER: Full RV dump/water fill at Mike’s Conoco in Columbia Falls (8.9 mi). 🗑️ TRASH: Pack in Pack out: Free landfill dump 2.2 mi away (9626 US Hwy 2 E). SAM AND MOLLY’S MERCANTILE 🪵 Located by our house in the middle of the property! We sell sunscreen, swag, firewood, coffee, and more. If you have any other questions, contact us.
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Electrical hookup
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American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

3. American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

96%
(170)
Zortman, MT · 26 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Antelope Creek Campground sits just off Highway 191 between mile markers 96 and 97. While it is more accessible than other remote properties—you can reach us in a standard passenger car and park right by the bathhouse—the wilderness feels just as close. You can watch the local prairie dogs right from your lawn chair. This is also one of the premier stargazing locations in Montana. With minimal light pollution and wide-open horizons, the Milky Way is brilliantly visible on clear nights, and meteor showers put on a spectacular show. Wildlife & Exploration In the spring, sage grouse leks come alive within a short walk of the camp. Our permanent residents, the prairie dogs, provide a constant soundtrack to the plains. For those looking to explore, the Antelope Creek Wilderness Study Area is accessible through a pedestrian gate just west of the walk-in tent sites, offering coulees, ponderosa pines, and total solitude in every direction. The Surrounding Area Our "Mars Vista" point sits near the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, offering views toward the towns of Hays and Lodgepole, as well as Mission Canyon in the Little Rocky Mountains. If you need supplies, the town of Malta is just 20 minutes away and has everything you might have forgotten to pack.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Lolo National Forest

4. Lolo National Forest

94%
(17)
National forest in Montana · 395 sites
You are going to be filled to the brim with glee when you discover Lolo National Forest. Seriously; this is the kind of place you can stand with your feet in a crystal clear stream, bighorn sheep filling the meadow, with the sun setting behind snowcapped mountain peaks in the distance. And that’s just a roadside pull off! With over two million acres to explore, hikers, bikers and backcountry seekers will be stoked on the supa-lush forest, and trails like Cougar Peak Lookout and the Lolo Peak trail (which we assure you is not low-low). Boat for a day in Seeley Lake, or cast a line into pristine mountain streams for a try at the trout. Dinner is going to taste great over the campfire! Through the meadows or up the peaks, it’s easy enough to get your share of adventure at Lolo.
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Flathead National Forest

5. Flathead National Forest

79%
(28)
National forest in Montana · 300 sites
The Flathead National Forest is all about its geography. It lies in the heart of the Rockies, just west of the continental divide, and a pinch south of the Canadian Border. With geography like this, landscape magic is bound to occur, and it does. With over 2.4 million acres, the Flathead features three wilderness areas, impressive ski areas, commanding wild ranges, meandering streams, and raging rivers (this list could go on). Spend your days hiking, rafting, wildlife viewing, snowshoeing, and fishing. At night shack up in a Forest Service cabin or pitch a tent beneath the northern lights. Get the fire roaring, raise your bottle, and make a toast to the Flathead and her geographic magic!
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Glacier Park RV

6. Glacier Park RV

94%
(222)
Coram, MT · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Welcome to my property, just a stones throw from Glacier Five minutes from Glacier National Park. Five minutes to grocery store. Property used to be the old Grizzly bear park that you could drive through to see the bears. Driveway is directly across from North American RV Park. Driveway is marked Hipcamp. Pets are allowed. Need to be leashed Please make sure you pick up after them.
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Toilets
Full hookups
Jammin Jackalope Camping

7. Jammin Jackalope Camping

99%
(567)
Livingston, MT · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to Jammin Jackalope Camping, nestled in the heart of nature! Whether you prefer tent camping, van or truck camping, or staying in cabins or tipis, we have the perfect accommodation for your outdoor adventure. Located in a picturesque setting, our property boasts a small intermittant creek that meanders through the land, creating a serene atmosphere. With half of the property covered in an enchanting forest, you'll feel connected to the natural beauty that surrounds you. For music lovers, Pine Creek Lodge, a renowned music venue, sits adjacent to our property. Enjoy the lively tunes from the lodge while relishing in the tranquil ambiance of our camping grounds. While campfires are not permitted, you can still enjoy the great outdoors with your furry friends, as our property is pet-friendly. Additionally, we provide potable water, flush toilets, and sweet showers. One vehicle is included in your nightly rate. Additional vehicles and boat parking are $20 each and can be added online as an "extra guest" or paid on arrival. We are conveniently situated 45 miles from the North entrance of Yellowstone National Park and 12 miles from the quaint town of Livingston. If you're craving a city escape, the vibrant town of Bozeman is just 40 minutes away, offering a plethora of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Embrace the call of the wild as you hike, fish, and commune with nature. The opportunities to connect with the great outdoors are endless, making your stay with us an unforgettable experience. Book your stay now and embark on a remarkable adventure in the heart of nature!
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American Prairie Buffalo Camp

8. American Prairie Buffalo Camp

92%
(18)
Zortman, MT · 13 sites · Tents, RVs
This is a remote property—roughly 2.5 hours from the nearest paved road, deep in Phillips County. Sun Prairie is where our conservation bison herd is most visible. Bands of bison move across rolling shortgrass prairie, graze near prairie potholes, and shift with the weather and season. Watching them cross an open horizon is one of the defining experiences of this landscape. But bison aren't the only story. Prairie dog towns chirp with excitement. Telegraph Creek carves a riparian corridor that draws birds, mammals, and insects. Coyotes call at dusk. Larb Hills offer a sense of scale that photos can't quite capture. And at night, the stars are unreasonable. This is still a ranched landscape with active grazing operations and, in season, active hunting areas nearby. You'll share the roads with pickups, cattle, RVs with boats pulled behind, and the occasional gate that needs opening and closing. Go slow. Respect the neighbors. That's part of it.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Wineglass Ranch

9. Wineglass Ranch

97%
(217)
Livingston, MT · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
We are a horse boarding ranch south of Livingston that caters to people traveling with horses or other people traveling and camping. We have an outdoor arena, indoor arena, a bathroom, a shower, barn stalls, barn stalls with runs and paddock areas for horses. Leashed dogs are welcome, but we ask that you clean up after your dog so another camper doesn't have the misfortune of stepping in it. We are located exactly 2 miles from the interstate south of the lovely town of Livingston. We will not allow large party gatherings for local concerts. I will give a forewarning that Livingston is a windy place, especially when storms are coming through. I try to help accommodate tents during these times by letting people set them up in the barn if needed. Please stay attention to checking the weather during your stay so I can try to hep accommodate. Learn more about this land: Quiet, private place with views of the Crazy mountains and the Absaroka mountains south of Livingston that caters to overnight people camping with their horses. We are allowing people to stay without horses. There is plenty of room for larger rigs. Electricity may be available depending on availability and the area you chose to camp in. We are 2 miles exactly from the interstate south of Livingston and 50 miles from Yellowstone Park. There is a bathroom with a sink and toilet along with a separate shower for usage by guests. We have a playground open for use by our guests. We offer a Keurig coffee station. We also have a microwave, a toaster oven, and a pay for use washer and dryer.
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Glacier National Park

10. Glacier National Park

97%
(389)
National park in Montana · 809 sites
With over 700 miles of trails to explore, Glacier National Park is a hiker’s dream.
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Campfires
Custer Gallatin National Forest

11. Custer Gallatin National Forest

84%
(60)
National forest in Montana · 936 sites
Find wilderness camping near Yellowstone National Park and beyond.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

12. Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

77%
(13)
National forest in Montana · 421 sites
It is only right that the land named after some of America’s raddest explorers would be totally epic! Covering a whopping seven mountain ranges, Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest is your front door to adventure in Montana. If winter is your happy place, then come make turns at Silver Crest Ski Area, or snowshoe trails through peaceful forests. In the summer, day trippers can roam among prairielands and flowering cacti on the Sulphur Springs Trail, while offroaders and bikers and zip down the OHV trails. Stay in an epic lookout tower on top of the Castle Mountains, or enjoy a remote campsite all to yourself. However you choose to spend your time at Lewis and Clark, you’ll find yourself thanking these two OG adventurers for discovering such an incredible place!
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Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

13. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

94%
(8)
National park in Wyoming · 185 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Bighorn Canyon's vast landscapes.
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Electrical hookup
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Ennis RV Park by Starry Night Lodging

14. Ennis RV Park by Starry Night Lodging

93%
(37)
Ennis, MT · 94 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Discover the unique charm of Ennis RV Park, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Montana while enjoying a full-service RV experience. Located just a scenic 1 hour and 20 minutes from Yellowstone National Park, our RV park in Ennis, Montana, is designed to accommodate RVs of all sizes, ensuring that your stay is comfortable and convenient. At Ennis RV Park, we pride ourselves on offering a range of amenities that enhance your Montana getaway. Our park features spacious pull-thru sites, pristine restrooms, and endless hot showers, making it easy for you to relax after a day of exploring. Enjoy full hookups and fast wireless internet to stay connected during your visit. Our convenience store is tailored for RV owners, providing essential supplies to make your stay hassle-free. In addition to RV accommodations, we also offer tent sites and cabin rentals for those seeking a different camping experience. With easy access to nearby natural attractions, swimming holes, and outdoor activities, Ennis RV Park is the perfect base for your adventures. Explore local restaurants and shops in the charming town of Ennis, ensuring that you have everything you need for an unforgettable Montana experience.
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Toilets
Full hookups
Lost Paddle and Pole

15. Lost Paddle and Pole

99%
(98)
Columbia Falls, MT · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Lost Paddle and Pole is conveniently located between Whitefish and Columbia Falls. Lost Paddle and Pole is great for a quick night while passing through, or as a base camp while exploring Glacier Park, Whitefish, and the north end of Flathead County. There is some highway noise, but it usually isn't too bothersome. Please contact us to check on pet status, trailers, or other questions. Thanks, Don and Bree
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Acres about 10 miles from Glacier

16. Acres about 10 miles from Glacier

99%
(74)
Columbia Falls, MT · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Enjoy a landscape connected to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks property thus providing walking access to waters edge of the Flathead River. A quick ride to Columbia Falls, Bigfork, Whitefish, or Kalispell will provide you with numerous coffee shops, restaurants, saloons, breweries, and shopping. For an afternoon of adventure bike rentals, ziplining, and water slides within minutes as well as Hungry Horse Reservoir, Glacier National Park, and Flathead Lake.
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A Place of Tranquility

17. A Place of Tranquility

98%
(126)
Thompson Falls, MT · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Whether you’re seeking adventure or solitude, you’ll find it here in Big Sky Country. From the jagged Rocky Mountains to the expansive Great Plains. Green Acres Ranch is home to some of the most beautiful wildlife in the country. The town of Thompson Falls is filled with friendly residents, affordable eatery’s and unique trinket shopping. It's a 20-minute walk or 10-minute bike ride to the famous High Bridge that takes you to the island into town, along with swimming and fishing. Need some space. You’ll find it on our green fields of 10 acres, or 5 acres of forest. Inviting the wild turkeys, geese, elk, eagles and deer. Views are filled with panoramic serene mountains and majestic blue skies. Portable toilets will not be available until the beginning of May and we've got The Best Drinking Water. ~Thank You~
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Camp A Way

18. Camp A Way

100%
(15)
Lincoln, NE · 45 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located at the crux of Interstate 80 and Highway 34 in Lincoln, Nebraska, Camp A Way is the best-loved, year-round campground in the area. For over 50 years, Camp A Way has been the leader in providing the best guest experiences and amenities.
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Full hookups
Ridgeline Retreat

19. Ridgeline Retreat

96%
(97)
Missoula, MT · 2 sites
Perched on a secluded ridge, Ridgeline Retreat offers a peaceful escape surrounded by Forest Service land and wilderness. This completely off-grid property spans 70 private acres, providing space, privacy and a true back to nature experience. The land includes a main cabin along with several thoughtfully spaced campsites, making it ideal for quiet getaways, small gatherings or simply unplugging from the busyness of everyday life. Take in expansive views overlooking the Missoula Vally, enjoy star-filled skies, and settle into the quiet, undisturbed nights. Whether you're here to relax, explore or reconnect, Ridgeline Retreat offers a unique secluded Montana experience.
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East Gallatin River Campsite

20. East Gallatin River Campsite

97%
(31)
Bozeman, MT · 3 sites
Nestled on 12 scenic acres of pristine riverfront property, this well-maintained field offers a peaceful and private camping experience along the East Gallatin River—renowned for its world-class fly fishing. The field is located near a road and railroad, yet a thoughtfully constructed berm ensures privacy and helps reduce noise. On the opposite side, a private forest creates a natural boundary and features a tranquil walking path that leads directly to the riverbank. Although the open field is spacious enough to accommodate up to five campsites, we are currently limiting access to just three sites to ensure a quiet, uncrowded experience for our guests. Multiple designated areas are available for campfires, allowing you to enjoy evenings by the fire under Montana’s big sky. Conveniently located just 2 miles from downtown Bozeman, the campsite offers easy access to restaurants, shops, and local attractions—while still feeling like a private escape into nature. Whether you're here to fish, relax, or explore the surrounding landscape, this riverside retreat provides the perfect base for your next outdoor adventure.
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Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Montana camping guide

Where to go

Glacier Country

Northwestern Montana's Glacier Country is characterized by massive forests, craggy peaks, and long expanses of wilderness, with plenty of wildlife to boot. It's also home to Glacier National Park, where you'll find hundreds of miles of hiking trails along with tons of developed and backcountry camping options.

Southwest Montana

In the heart of Montana's Big Sky country, just west of Yellowstone National Park, this region is characterized by cute towns (notably Butte and Helena), historic ghost towns (a remnant of the region's historic mining industry), and relaxing hot springs. Popular camping areas include Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park and Bannack State Park.

Yellowstone Country

If you're headed to Yellowstone Country, it's likely with a visit to Yellowstone National Park in mind, but there's plenty more to do in the region, from hiking the Lake Fork Trail to checking out the restaurant and brewery scene in Bozeman. Yellowstone itself is, of course, a must-visit, but if you can’t find camping in the massive—and ever so popular—national park, you may have better luck snagging something in Custer Gallatin National Forest.

Central Montana

Central Montana offers all sorts of opportunities for outdoor recreation, rain or shine. Summer activities include fishing, horseback riding, and camping, while spots such as Showdown Mountain, Teton Pass Ski Resort, and Bear Paw Ski Bowl offer skiing and snowboarding. The region also has plenty of state parks, including Sluice Boxes State Park, Giant Springs State Park, and First Peoples Buffalo State Park.

Eastern Montana

Vast and expansive, eastern Montana features sparse landscapes dotted with the occasional herd of cattle, and plenty of room to get out and explore. You can take in views of the Badlands from Makoshika State Park or the Badlands Wilderness Study Area, or camp under the open sky in the expansive Custer National Forest. If you'd like to get out on the water, the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is the place to go, with boat rentals available.

Frequently Asked Questions

While not all camping in Montana is free, you can find free camping options in Montana's national forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. Dispersed camping is allowed in these areas, but amenities are usually not available, so be prepared for primitive camping experiences. Some popular national forests in Montana include Lewis and Clark National Forest, Lolo National Forest, and Gallatin National Forest.

When camping in Montana, it's essential to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions and outdoor activities. Here are some must-haves for your Montana camping adventure:

  1. Tent and sleeping gear: A sturdy, weather-resistant tent, sleeping bag rated for the expected temperatures, and a sleeping pad or air mattress for comfort.
  2. Clothing: Dress in layers, including moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers. Don't forget hats, gloves, and sturdy hiking boots.
  3. Backpack: A comfortable and spacious backpack to carry your essentials during hikes and outdoor activities.
  4. Navigation tools: A map, compass, or GPS device to navigate Montana's vast wilderness areas.
  5. Food and water: Bring enough food and water for your trip, plus extra in case of emergencies. A portable water filter or purifier can be helpful for longer trips.
  6. Cooking gear: A portable stove, fuel, cookware, and utensils for preparing meals at your campsite.
  7. First aid kit: A well-stocked first aid kit for treating minor injuries and ailments.
  8. Bear safety: Montana is home to both black bears and grizzly bears. Bring bear-resistant food containers, bear spray, and follow proper food storage and bear safety guidelines.
  9. Insect protection: Bug spray and possibly a bug net or screen for your tent to protect against mosquitoes and other insects.
  10. Lighting: Headlamps, flashlights, and lanterns for navigating and setting up camp in the dark.
  11. Emergency gear: A whistle, multi-tool, fire starter, and extra batteries for your electronic devices.
  12. Camera or binoculars: Capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Montana with a camera or enjoy birdwatching and wildlife spotting with binoculars.

Remember to check the specific requirements and regulations for the area where you'll be camping, as different parks and campgrounds may have additional rules or recommendations.

Yes, wild camping is legal in Montana. Dispersed or primitive camping is allowed in national forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, and some state lands. Some popular areas for wild camping in Montana include Missoula, West Yellowstone, and Roundup. Always follow Leave No Trace principles, camp at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams, and check for any local regulations or restrictions before setting up camp.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Top state and regional parks in Montana