What are the top must-haves for camping in Montana?

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: 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. 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. Backpack: A comfortable and spacious backpack to carry your essentials during hikes and outdoor activities. Navigation tools: A map, compass, or GPS device to navigate Montana 's vast wilderness areas. 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. Cooking gear: A portable stove, fuel, cookware, and utensils for preparing meals at your campsite. First aid kit: A well-stocked first aid kit for treating minor injuries and ailments. 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. Insect protection: Bug spray and possibly a bug net or screen for your tent to protect against mosquitoes and other insects. Lighting: Headlamps, flashlights, and lanterns for navigating and setting up camp in the dark. Emergency gear: A whistle, multi-tool, fire starter, and extra batteries for your electronic devices. 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.

Camping in Montana: Best Montana Campgrounds 2023

Q: Is wild camping legal in Montana?

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.

United States
—
Montana

93% (7491 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Montana

Top camping destinations

Custer Gallatin National Forest

109 campgrounds

Glacier National Park

437 campgrounds

Diane Gabriel Trail

24 campgrounds

Kootenai National Forest

612 campgrounds

Flathead National Forest

Cap Rock Nature Trail

24 campgrounds

12 top campgrounds in Montana

96%

(1159)

Under $50

96%

(1159)

Primrose Meadows

12 sites · Lodging, Tents28 acres · Missoula, Missoula

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 200 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 it’s 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.

Glacier Park HipCamp

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents37 acres · Coram, Flathead

Come enjoy peace and quiet in the beautiful meadows near our home. We are located on 37 acres that include forested trails, a large pond, two small ponds, a creek, and frequent wildlife as well as spectacular stargazing at night. All sites have a campfire ring and picnic table. We provide a unique eco-camping experience in contrast to the crowded campground/RV park, and we are only 6 miles away from the entrance to Glacier National Park! Please let us know if you have multiple tents or vehicles as some sites may be a better choice for you than others. No hookups are provided – dry camping only. Parking for larger vehicles/trailers is available at sites 1-6 - an open, flat meadow with the pond on the other side of the road. Tents are welcome in all sites; although, we recommend the back meadow sites (7 and up) for more secluded tent campers (especially in July) as it has less traffic and more privacy. Sites 7-20 (the back meadow sites) have parking for vehicles 26' or less in total length. All sites have access to vault toilets, and all sites are back-in sites with partial shade. **Be sure to visit recreation.gov to purchase the $2 entry reservation to Glacier Park...if you can't get one try again at 8am the day before or you can enter the park after 4pm without a ticket. Contact us if you need alternative ideas to get into the park. Because of the proximity to Glacier National Park and the main HWY, traffic noise and train noise can be heard at the campsites. Visitors are ask to keep their speed to a minimum to reduce dust on the dirt on Greens Road. We are just a short bike ride away (two minutes by car) from attractions such as the Whiskey Barn, Josephine’s Speak Easy, Glacier Hi-Line Ropes Course, Glacier Grill Restaurant and the Amazing Fun Center, maze, and mini golf. It is also easy access to the Gateway to Glacier Bike path. E-bike rentals are across the street from us. Closest Gas station is the Cenex in Coram (1.5 mi away). Closest public (free) landfill dump is 2.2 miles toward Columbia Falls at 9626 Us HWY 2 E. Near Paul Bunyan Bar and Grill (which is also a good restaurant near us). Look for the gated entry and small sign marking Flathead Landfill. Closest grocery is in Hungry Horse at Canyon Foods Grocery (3.5 miles away). There is a laundromat next to this grocery store. Closest dump and water fill up for a vehicle with a holding tank is Mikes Conoco at 1645 9th st W in Columbia Falls (8.9 mi away). Closest town with wifi, cafes, restaurants, urgent care and larger grocery stores is Columbia Falls (9 miles away). There is a freshwater spring where you can fill up containers of water in Bad Rock Canyon (between Columbia Falls and Hungry Horse on the way here... 10 min away from us). Look for the large pull off areas between the river and the rock canyon walls and a white pipe coming out of the rock. We've personally filled up at this spring for years! Showers are available at Pinewood Park Outdoor Pool in Columbia Falls (next to Cedar Creek Lodge) - It is $2 per person to enter the pool during Public Swim (Mon-Sun 1:30-4:15pm and Mon-Fri 6:30 pm- 8:15pm) or during Lap Swim (Mon-Fri 12-1pm and 5-6pm). They have a private bathroom with a shower and also open showers in the changing rooms. The pool opens the second week of June and closes the first or second week of August. To watch a video tour of the campground: https://youtu.be/EYYuGGWRtag

Lost Paddle and Pole

4 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Columbia Falls, Flathead

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. Please contact us to check on pet status, having fires, trailers, or other questions. Thanks, Don and Bree

Rising Wolf Johnson Ranch RV Cabins

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents25 acres · East Glacier Park Village, Glacier

The ranch is situated between the east and west entrances to Glacier National Park. The camp site is in an ideal location to explore both sides of the park. This option is ideal for those who are interested in trekking out on their own and exploring the local attractions, most notably Glacier National Park, Blackfeet Reservation. Campers can stay on either side of Hwy 2. We have an open field where you my chose to camp. We offer 3 cabins, , 2 RV hookup, you may dry camp in your RV and many Tent sites. Go to Mile Marker 212 east tan about 1/4 of a mile more, just ahead you will see three cabins on the right and on the left, you will see a set of green corrals. Rising Wolf/Johnson RV Campground and Ca 48927'27.5"N 11310'59.1"W 48.457651, -113.183091. i 1min

YELLOWSTONE’S HOME-BASE HOOKUPS

4 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Cameron, Madison

Our family purchased this 21 acre property in the middle of 2021 with the hopes of making some lasting memories and allowing others to do the same. Since it's so close to Yellowstone (30 min drive), Henry's Lake (10 min drive), Ennis (45 mins drive) & Bozeman (2 hours), we knew it would be a perfect "home base" for us to explore everything Montana has to offer. Learn more about this land: 21 acres near Cliff and Wade Lakes is set up for an RVs. * 2 - 50 amp power service w/ hookup * Drilled a 190'/20 gpm well w/ hookup * Installed a septic system - not hookup. Only for dumping. * RV corral to park in There are two pads (Site 1 & Site 2), which are rented out separately, however if you would like to grab both, please shoot me a message. Both sites have water & power hookup's. PLEASE NOTE: There are NOT a sewer/septic hookup's. We do have a dump station onsite for you to use. We also do not have trash service, so we kindly ask you pack-in and pack-out. The views are outstanding and you are minutes from fishing, hiking, hunting and exploring in Yellowstone National Park (30 min drive), Hebgen Lake (10 mins drive), Henry's Lake (10 min drive), the Madison River and Island Park. Please reach out if you would like more suggestions on what to do while staying at our home base hookups. We would love to share our favorite spots!

Star Hosts in Montana

99%

(1177)

Glacier Park HipCamp

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents37 acres · Coram, Flathead

Come enjoy peace and quiet in the beautiful meadows near our home. We are located on 37 acres that include forested trails, a large pond, two small ponds, a creek, and frequent wildlife as well as spectacular stargazing at night. All sites have a campfire ring and picnic table. We provide a unique eco-camping experience in contrast to the crowded campground/RV park, and we are only 6 miles away from the entrance to Glacier National Park! Please let us know if you have multiple tents or vehicles as some sites may be a better choice for you than others. No hookups are provided – dry camping only. Parking for larger vehicles/trailers is available at sites 1-6 - an open, flat meadow with the pond on the other side of the road. Tents are welcome in all sites; although, we recommend the back meadow sites (7 and up) for more secluded tent campers (especially in July) as it has less traffic and more privacy. Sites 7-20 (the back meadow sites) have parking for vehicles 26' or less in total length. All sites have access to vault toilets, and all sites are back-in sites with partial shade. **Be sure to visit recreation.gov to purchase the $2 entry reservation to Glacier Park...if you can't get one try again at 8am the day before or you can enter the park after 4pm without a ticket. Contact us if you need alternative ideas to get into the park. Because of the proximity to Glacier National Park and the main HWY, traffic noise and train noise can be heard at the campsites. Visitors are ask to keep their speed to a minimum to reduce dust on the dirt on Greens Road. We are just a short bike ride away (two minutes by car) from attractions such as the Whiskey Barn, Josephine’s Speak Easy, Glacier Hi-Line Ropes Course, Glacier Grill Restaurant and the Amazing Fun Center, maze, and mini golf. It is also easy access to the Gateway to Glacier Bike path. E-bike rentals are across the street from us. Closest Gas station is the Cenex in Coram (1.5 mi away). Closest public (free) landfill dump is 2.2 miles toward Columbia Falls at 9626 Us HWY 2 E. Near Paul Bunyan Bar and Grill (which is also a good restaurant near us). Look for the gated entry and small sign marking Flathead Landfill. Closest grocery is in Hungry Horse at Canyon Foods Grocery (3.5 miles away). There is a laundromat next to this grocery store. Closest dump and water fill up for a vehicle with a holding tank is Mikes Conoco at 1645 9th st W in Columbia Falls (8.9 mi away). Closest town with wifi, cafes, restaurants, urgent care and larger grocery stores is Columbia Falls (9 miles away). There is a freshwater spring where you can fill up containers of water in Bad Rock Canyon (between Columbia Falls and Hungry Horse on the way here... 10 min away from us). Look for the large pull off areas between the river and the rock canyon walls and a white pipe coming out of the rock. We've personally filled up at this spring for years! Showers are available at Pinewood Park Outdoor Pool in Columbia Falls (next to Cedar Creek Lodge) - It is $2 per person to enter the pool during Public Swim (Mon-Sun 1:30-4:15pm and Mon-Fri 6:30 pm- 8:15pm) or during Lap Swim (Mon-Fri 12-1pm and 5-6pm). They have a private bathroom with a shower and also open showers in the changing rooms. The pool opens the second week of June and closes the first or second week of August. To watch a video tour of the campground: https://youtu.be/EYYuGGWRtag

100%

(36)

Aspen Lane Hideaway

2 sites · RVs4 acres · Kalispell, Flathead

These are newly developed sites (2021) nested on the back of our property about 200ft from our house on a dead-end road. We have rural neighborhood vibe, with a 2 mile scenic paved walking path nearby. We have newly planted trees and shrubs, so no afternoon shade except in tent areas. With the open areas sunrises and sunsets are fantastic! Both back in sites are 40’ in length with extra vehicle parking available. Please confirm your measurements before booking. There is enough room to easily pull in and then back into your spot. Ideal for Class-A motor-homes, fifth wheels, tent trailers, travel trailers, pick-up campers and self-contained van campers. Additionally, 1 tent is allowed at each site. Because there are no bathrooms we are unable to accept TENT ONLY camping at this time. Both campsites have full hookups including artisan well water, septic, with 50 amp electric on site #2 and 30 & 50 amp electric on site #3. Garbage receptacle is located at the entrance of the property. Plenty to see and do in the Flathead Valley. Lots of wonderful local restaurants, pubs, breweries and wineries. Tons of trails to hike, rivers to raft, lakes to boat and parks to stroll. We have a list of our favorites, don’t hesitate to ask!

Bitterroot Getaways

1 site · Lodging40 acres · Hamilton, Ravalli

--Enjoy the quiet of a small treed clearing and follow a path down to the banks of the beautiful Bitterroot River--Nature-lover's paradise: Hear sand hill cranes calling as they fly over, watch kingfishers and osprey dive for fish, admire the resident elk herd as they graze in the hills --World-class fly fishing opportunities on the Bitterroot River

Primrose Meadows

12 sites · Lodging, Tents28 acres · Missoula, Missoula

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 200 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 it’s 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.

Big-Enough Ranch

2 sites · Lodging40 acres · Boulder, Jefferson

Horse ranch on 40 acres located just outside of Boulder, MT. Exceptional views and peace and quiet at this retreat cabin. 20 acres to the East has and old hunting cabin alongside a creek. Also an old mining test pit from the late 1800’s mining boom, as well as a hand built irrigation ditch that runs through the property.

Available this weekend

98%

(46)

Big-Enough Ranch

2 sites · Lodging40 acres · Boulder, Jefferson

Horse ranch on 40 acres located just outside of Boulder, MT. Exceptional views and peace and quiet at this retreat cabin. 20 acres to the East has and old hunting cabin alongside a creek. Also an old mining test pit from the late 1800’s mining boom, as well as a hand built irrigation ditch that runs through the property.

Yellowstone City Guest Ranch

4 sites · Lodging, RVs80 acres · Pray, Park

This is a wild property bordered by public land. No electricity, no plumbing. Just an exceptional piece of land, with a cold rushing creek to beat the heat, meadows with butterflies and flowers, privacy, and great views of the valley and surrounding mountains. We have three cabins spread across the lot. Enjoy the smell of fresh milled wood and the sounds of the nearby creek. The cabins are spread far enough apart to offer privacy to each party, but know that you may still see other travelers on the land during your stay. In addition to the cabins, enjoy the outdoor picnic and dining area, an outdoor gas stove, and a gas-powered fire pit. Outhouse with bucket toilet + cedar chips + bucket liners. Please pack it in, pack it out.

100%

(1)

Chuck’s Place in the Swan

1 site · LodgingCondon, Missoula

Named Chuck’s Place after our dad, this cabin is owned by my brother, sister and I. We are fourth generation Montanans and and spent our childhoods in the Swan Valley, hiking and boating at Salmon, Seeley, Flathead and Holland Lake, picking huckleberries, fishing and hiking in the Bob Marshall Wilderness. We are now scattered from Bozeman/Big Sky to Missoula, Montana and Washington, D.C., but this area of Montana has our heart. The views from the cabin are breathtaking and there are beautiful hikes and trails to be found just minutes away.This property, ideally situated between two majestic mountain ranges and just a short drive to Holland Lake was love at first sight for us. We had looked for awhile and knew immediately when we saw this cabin that it was the one for us. We have young boys who love exploring the woods and marshland around the property, watching the deer and elk come through and sitting around the campfire at night.Learn more about this land:Experience the Rocky Mountains of western Montana in this log cabin centrally located in the Swan Valley. Enjoy magnificent views of the Swan Range of the Bob Marshall Wilderness to the east and Mission Mountains Wilderness to the west. The log cabin overlooks a spring-fed wildlife pond and wetlands. The Swan River is a five minute walk down a rustic nature trail. Elk, native trout, great blue herons, frogs, deer, ducks, geese, and moose are among the frequent inhabitants. Located in a region of dozens of pristine lakes, waterfalls, rivers, and mountain trails, there are ample opportunities for recreation.The cabin is perfectly situated for wildlife viewing opportunities and the enjoyment of the outdoors. Holland Lake is just six miles away where you can take a short hike to a waterfall, enjoy canoeing/kayaking/paddle boarding, go horseback riding or boating. End the day at the historic Holland Lake Lodge for dinner or a drink. Other outdoor opportunities include fly-fishing the Swan River, hiking, hunting, huckleberry picking, mountain biking, snow mobiling or cross country skiing the myriad of trails and roads on public lands in the region. For the more adventurous - excursions into the Bob Marshall and Mission Mountains Wilderness areas.Relax in the cozy living room next to the fireplace and wood stove with leather and log furniture under a vaulted ceiling. Or sit outside around the fire pit under the stars. The kitchen is fully stocked with everything you need to cook a mountain meal in luxury. The dining table seats six and three more can fit on the stools at the bar. For those who'd rather be outside, there is a charcoal grill and multiple picnic tables on the property. Sit around the fire pit at night to roast s'mores and watch the stars. The master bedroom has a full log bed and private bathroom. The second bedroom has a bunk with full-size bed on bottom and twin on top. The second bathroom is in the hallway. The downstairs is carpeted and has three twins and one double bed. There is a TV and DVD/VHS in the basement, along with a wood stove.The cabin is fully furnished for all of your needs during your stay. If interested in kayaking, paddle boarding, canoeing, snow mobiling, cross country skiing, etc, the Holland Lake Lodge and Seeley Lake businesses offer rentals if you don't have your own. If interested in fishing, the cabin has access to the Swan River, just a 5 minute walk down our private nature trail. Great fishing holes are just a short drive down the road.Holland Lake is the entrance to the Bob Marshall Wilderness, just a 6 mile drive. Here you can rent canoes/kayaks/paddleboards, hike into waterfalls or enjoy a great meal or drink at the historic lodge.The closest downhill ski area is Blacktail in Lakeside, MT about an hour away. Whitefish Mountain (Big Mountain), is about 1 hr 40 mins away. Glacier National Park is also less than a 2 hour drive. Bigfork and Flathead Lake are a 45 minute drive. Flathead is the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi and offers fishing, boating, etc. Bigfork and Whitefish are great Montana towns with good restaurants and breweries if you are interested in day tripping.

Primrose Meadows

12 sites · Lodging, Tents28 acres · Missoula, Missoula

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 200 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 it’s 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.

100%

(15)

The Holmestead

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Frenchtown, Missoula

Quiet getaway in the pines! Welcome to the Holmestead, our own little slice of Montana that we are really excited to bring back to life and share with YOU! We are small town Kansas natives who fell in love with Montana over 15 years ago. This property is equal parts privacy and concience, you can enjoy the peace and quite of nature while also having the ability to hop over a few miles to our little town for groceries, a local beer, or to gas up your car! The Holmestead is a rustic dry cabin on 5 acres nestled between Mill Creek and a seasonal run off stream with easy access to the highway and only a 10 min drive to Missoula. A queen bed, futon and air mattress are available for sleeping! Family and pet friendly property with plenty of space to pitch a tent next to the cabin if you have more guests in your party (tents will be an additional fee, $10 per person in addition to the 4 person cabin max). Excellent cell service if you have Verizon or carriers that pull from those towers. Attractions: Walking distance to forestry service roads. 15 minutes to the Missoula Airport and an additional 10 minutes to the heart of Missoula and all it has to offer. If you are looking for more adventure there is always an endless amount of recreation near, whether you want to drive 5 minutes to mountain bike or 3 hours to Glacier National Park, there is something for everyone! If you have questions about fun things to do please reach out to us! Parking: Reserved parking for guests in the main driveway or in the clearing near the cabin. Water: Portable toilet onsite, sealson warm shower and sink also available, we recently upgraded to a JOOLCA hot water system so guests can have running water and a warm outdoor shower. We provide 5 gal of potable water in the colder months and have running water nearby for easy refill of water containers if needed in the warmer months. We look forward to sharing our piece of Montana with you! Pets allowed. We do have 2 very frienly dogs that roam the property freely, if you pet is reactive please let us know so we can monitor our dogs when letting them outside to do their business. Please be sure to pick up after your animals.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Flathead National Forest

Swan Lake, Montana

99%

(235)

Glacier National Park

Babb, Montana

81%

(50)

Custer Gallatin National Forest

Lodge Grass, Montana

75%

(10)

Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

Alberton, Montana

94%

(8)

Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Wyoming

77%

(13)

Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest

Wisdom, Montana

71%

(14)

Kootenai National Forest

Yaak, Montana

100%

(11)

Bitterroot National Forest

Conner, Montana

Site A21 is one of the largest (non-electric) sites you'll find anywhere. It's right on the Flathead Lake, with westward views to incredible sunsets and an "AWWWW!"-inspiring panorama.

100%

(3)

Flathead Lake State Park - Big Arm Unit

Big Arm, Montana

Camping in Montana guide

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.

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:

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.
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.
Backpack: A comfortable and spacious backpack to carry your essentials during hikes and outdoor activities.
Navigation tools: A map, compass, or GPS device to navigate Montana's vast wilderness areas.
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.
Cooking gear: A portable stove, fuel, cookware, and utensils for preparing meals at your campsite.
First aid kit: A well-stocked first aid kit for treating minor injuries and ailments.
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.
Insect protection: Bug spray and possibly a bug net or screen for your tent to protect against mosquitoes and other insects.
Lighting: Headlamps, flashlights, and lanterns for navigating and setting up camp in the dark.
Emergency gear: A whistle, multi-tool, fire starter, and extra batteries for your electronic devices.
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.