The best great views 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.

97% (5.9K) 362 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Montana

❤️ Glacier Park HipCamp 🏕️

1. ❤️ Glacier Park HipCamp 🏕️

99%
(1728)
Coram, MT · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
WELCOME TO GLACIER HIPCAMP 🌲 Enjoy peace and quiet 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. What hydrants are available throughout 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 7–20) for more privacy, especially in July. 📏 LIMITS: Sites 7–20 accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 26 feet total length. 🚻 AMENITIES: All sites are back-in (except 13 and 17, 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 & ESSENTIALS 📍 We are a short bike ride (2 mins by car) from the Whiskey Barn, Paul Bunyan Bar & 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: Free landfill dump 2.2 mi away (9626 US Hwy 2 E). Full RV dump/water fill at Mike’s Conoco in Columbia Falls (8.9 mi). SAM & MOLLY’S MERCANTILE 🪵 Located by our house in the middle of the property! We sell solar showers, sunscreen, bug spray, firewood, coffee, cream soda, and card games. EXPLORE THE GROUNDS 🎥 Watch our video tour to see the kid-friendly "Sand Pit" and our "Glamp Pod": https://youtu.be/EYYuGGWRtag
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Electrical hookup
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Duck Lake Lodge & Campground

2. Duck Lake Lodge & Campground

92%
(471)
Babb, MT · 20 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Duck Lake Lodge Campground is a family friendly and down to earth outdoorsman's lodge and property located just outside of Babb. Mt in the heart of North America's Backbone, Glacier National Park. Our location is surrounded by woods in a safe, cozy rustic and serene environment, just minutes from the park, on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation rich with history and amazing culture. Our camping spots have wooded surroundings, secure bathrooms, showers-$5, coin laundry for and campers, trash facilities. Sites are nestled in the trees with picnic tables, campfire rings at each Tent site location. Pop up tents, camp vans, Rooftop tent should reserve an Electric Avenue Spot We have Electric Sites available for Car, Campvan, Rooftop tents, tents We recommend surge protectors. Our main lodge features a Breakfast Cafe Tuesday thru Saturday 7a-10a Wife access is available at the main lodge. We strive to maintain a quiet, safe and family friendly area, pets are welcome as well. You can also access a community bonfire area on the main lawn, as well as a pond area with numerous waterfowl. The lodge is open 7a-11a and 5p-8p Tuesday thru Saturday. On site staff may be reached thru Hipcamp messaging. Rich with wildlife you can see deer, moose, ducks, beavers, various bird species, as well as hummingbirds that are here to welcome you. Even the occasional bear or moose sighting. The sunset and sunrises are breathtaking. We invite you to come and explore Glacier's pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier National Park is a paradise for adventurous visitors seeking wilderness and solitude. It's a real home away from home Glacier Base Camp. The property is privately owned, and management reserves the right to refuse service to anyone, and will not be responsible for accidents or injury to guest or for loss of money, jewelry or valuables of any kind. We are in bear and wildlife country. Be aware, store food items away from tents, keep sites free from debris. Extinguish camp fires when not in use. Enjoy the beauty around us and all the areas of Glacier National Park. Thank you for camping with us. We love sharing our home with you!
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Full hookups
Primrose Meadows

3. Primrose Meadows

95%
(1561)
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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Bitterroot Farm Getaway

4. Bitterroot Farm Getaway

100%
(9)
Corvallis, MT · 1 site
Immerse yourself in the serene beauty of the Bitterroot Valley and embrace the farm life experience on our small family farm. Nestled on the East side of the valley, slightly above the valley floor, our farm offers breathtaking vistas of sunrises over the Sapphire Mountains and sunsets over the Bitterroot Mountain Range. Situated in a rural farming area, our 5-acre property sits at the end of a private road, providing a tranquil and secluded retreat. Explore our expansive yard and pasture, where you'll encounter a delightful array of farm animals including horses, chickens, ducks, rabbits, farm cats, and friendly farm dogs. Wander through our bountiful vegetable garden and vibrant flower gardens, and keep an eye out for local wildlife such as deer, hawks, owls, killdeer, and other resident birds. Choose from several campsites tailored to accommodate RVs, trailers, tents, and LQ horse trailers. Our grassy, open pasture area offers easy access and flexibility for various setups. While leveling your trailer may be necessary depending on your chosen spot, rest assured that power and water hookups are available from the pedestal. Although sewer hookups are not currently available, we're happy to provide information and assistance as needed. Unwind in the evenings around the firepit, where wood is provided for your enjoyment under the starlit sky. The Bitterroot Valley beckons with a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, fishing, swimming, boating, golfing, trail riding, and wildlife and bird watching. The nearby Bitterroot River offers fantastic fishing opportunities just 10 minutes from our farm, while hiking trails are conveniently located within 5 to 20 minutes. Explore charming towns such as Corvallis, Hamilton, and Stevensville, each offering their own historic charm and attractions, including the Lee Metcalf Wildlife Refuge. Winter activities include downhill skiing at Lost Trail Ski Area, cross country skiing at Chief Joseph Pass, and snowshoeing which are about an hour away. For groups of friends or family traveling together, please refer to the extras section for additional accommodations. If you're traveling with your horses, rest assured there's plenty of room—simply check out the extras section for more details.
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Glacier getaway 2.0

5. Glacier getaway 2.0

98%
(220)
Babb, MT · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled on the shores of Ducklake this 2 acre parcel is an ideal location to kick back , enjoy and explore the eastern side of Glacier park. We are 20 mins from the park gates, 20 mins from Many Glacier and about 40 mins to Waterton park. The gradual sloping beach is perfect for all kinds of water sports and recreation. Many grassed areas or shady treed sites and the sites on the beach with breathtaking sunrises, sunsets and most amazing stars at night. Ducklake is well known for its trophy rainbow trout as well. We have 4 kayaks, a canoe, paddle boat, little fishing boat with electric motor, an assortment of rods and lures, propane BBQ, solo smokeless campfire pits ( firewood can be purchased on site) and propane fire pits. All for guest to enjoy and use on a first come first serve basis.
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Electrical hookup
Toilets
Jammin Jackalope Camping

6. Jammin Jackalope Camping

99%
(555)
Livingston, MT · 12 sites · Tents, RVs
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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VanGoBoon Campground

7. VanGoBoon Campground

83%
(868)
Bozeman, MT · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
BEFORE MAKING A RESERVATION IN MAY: The main bathroom/shower is not available until the first of June. There is porta potty on property however. PLEASE NOTE: VanGoBoon is a campground, not a RV Park! Much like a NFS campsites but close to town, with easy access off Hwy 90. There's water on the property available in several areas of the campground. Some sites have water at the site. Otherwise we are considered a "dry" campground. Welcome to our campground! We are a "Roadside" Campground that offers the convince of easy on/off access to Hwy 90 and the close proximity to Bozeman. We are adjacent to Hwy 90 and the Montana Rail System. We have a variety of options that should suit just about anyone. We are near Yellowstone National Park as well as Bozeman, MT which offers all types of recreational opportunities e.g. hiking, fishing, climbing, skiing, cycling and running trails. VanGoBoon is the perfect "Pull-in for the Night" as well as week-long stays! Most of our sites are SELF-CONTAINED. We have 4 sites that have electric and water hookups. (20,30,50amp) The lawn area has horseshoes, frisbee golf, and corn toss. We mostly offer dry campsites for overnight stays for vans, tents or RVs . Most sites are on concrete slabs so they are level and the property has grass areas with trees as well. FYI: Great site if you like trains! An important part of Montana’s commerce is transportation by rail so there will be highway and train noise. If you are a light sleeper, you may want to have noise-cancelation devices handy. Private spots between trees but near freeway for easy access. Our 2 horses have been a favorite with young campers along with the open yet private campsites! We look forward to welcoming you!
Pets
Electrical hookup
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Creekside getaway

8. Creekside getaway

99%
(249)
Victor, MT · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Stunning creekside campsites, glamping on a working ranch with views of the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains, and stunning star gazing. Historic homeland of the Salish (Flathead) tribe. Eighty acres featuring an old apple orchard, boulders, two creeks, and open areas for hiking, birding, stargazing, and wildlife watching. Bathroom provided next to RV site. Potable water at nearby well head and table provided. Numerous hiking and farm experiences are nearby. Some of the property could have cows grazing, depending on the time of the year. We also have wildlife come through including deer, elk and eagles. This mostly applies to the RV spot we have. Pets are welcome, so bering them along! You are also allowed to have campfires so snuggle up with your favorites by the warm glow at night!
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Electrical hookup
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Trees, Lake view, Rock buttes!

9. Trees, Lake view, Rock buttes!

94%
(226)
MT · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
4 miles from Billings. 1000 acres. We try to keep things as natural as possible except we do mow the common area in the trees. For security reasons, we will meet you at the gates and escort you to your camping spot upon 1st arrival. Fire wood available for sale $10 - needs to be discussed before hand. Camping available on the butte for viewing of northern lights. Lots of room to explore. Long term camping is available. 1 porta-potty on site. There is 1 mile of dirt road after leaving the pavement. We are 6 miles from Walmart. This is a working cattle ranch and the cows come through time to time. The listing computer keeps putting us in LOCKWOOD but we are actually 4 miles north of Billings. Last minute bookings are fine, if we are around -we will let you stay. We live 1 mile from the camp site and 2 miles from the gates where we will meet you. If you are looking for a RV park or campground - this is not it. We have cows, birds, wild animals and dirt roads. There is no power but we could hook you up to a generator if needed. The morning of you arrival, please send an ETA so we know how to plan our day, then give us a 30 minute heads up before arrival so we can meet you at the gates. Sometimes we also are 30 minutes away. A lot of the time you may be the only campers out here. We now have an area for SCOUT TROOPS / CHURCH CAMPS in Hipcamp for large groups of tent campers
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Campfires
7 Point Guest Ranch

10. 7 Point Guest Ranch

78%
(150)
Emigrant, MT · 22 sites · Tents, RVs
7 Point Ranch is a beautiful property where families and friends come together. Furnished Rooms available for rent in the private lodge along the Yellowstone River. This is a great place to get close to nature, find some peace and quiet, and have a nice private place to stay and enjoy. Also bordering Fridley creek, there are are some great nature sights and extraordinary fishing and hunting access close by. Just 29 miles north of Yellowstone Park. Close to horseback riding at Chico hot Springs, Sage lodge, the Old Saloon, and Pine Creek, 7 Point Ranch is the perfect place to visit and enjoy while passing through Paradise Valley, MT.
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Ellison Ranch

11. Ellison Ranch

96%
(401)
Mc Leod, MT · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
This ranch was homesteaded in 1896 by a German immigrant, and has been in the family for 120 years. We enjoy sharing that history with anyone who is interested. We have 5 designated drive-in sites along the West Boulder River. Each is separate and well spaced. Only #1 has any close traffic - and that is occasional ranch vehicles.
Pets
Potable water
Wineglass Ranch

12. Wineglass Ranch

97%
(226)
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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Home Gun Ranch Primitive Camping

13. Home Gun Ranch Primitive Camping

96%
(211)
Starr School, MT · 40 sites · Tents, RVs
Clyde Home Gun of the Blackfeet Tribe has established this primitive cultural campground to host traveling tourists. The primitive cultural campground serves recreational needs such as campers, bikers and hikers seasonally beginning in the spring and into the early fall. The Home Gun primitive ranch cultural campground also serves as an educational, cultural center for tourists that features Native American storytelling, craft making, dancing and singing. The campground is located adjacent to Glacier National Park off Montana State highway 89 west and Starr School Road (B.I.A 8 West). "Primitive Camp" is defined as a camping area with no utilities, such as electrical, sewer and running water. The project is a design and a build development project by Clyde Home Gun, a tribal member, on land held in Trust by the United States Government. Learn more about this land: Neighbors Glacier Park to the west, Canada to the north, is on the Blackfeet Tribal Nation,  spectacular views of White Calf, Hudson Bay, Red Eagle, and Mad Wolf mountains, Fishing Cut Bank Creek and Milk River, grassy meadows, wildlife, pet friendly, primitive, rural, trees, creeks.
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Yellowstone Holiday

14. Yellowstone Holiday

100%
(37)
West Yellowstone, MT · 51 sites · RVs, Lodging
Located on the north shore of beautiful Hebgen Lake Montana, Yellowstone Holiday RV Campground & Marina has all of the ingredients to create a spectacular summer vacation. Open early May through the end of September (weather permitting), visitors can stay in a cozy cabin, or park their RV at one of our 36 sites. Only 15 minutes from the West Entrance to Yellowstone National Park, Yellowstone Holiday is the perfect base camp to explore some of the most incredible sights in the world. We welcome you and your family to come play, and relax, in one of the most beautiful corners of the Great Outdoors. Whether you want a comfortable bed and a private bathroom, or just a beautiful setting to park your RV, Yellowstone Holiday has accommodations to suit your needs. Our resort includes a campground with 36 big-rig RV sites and 16 cozy cabins. All of the accommodations are within walking distance of the lakeshore and have fantastic views of the mountains and Hebgen Lake. Wherever you choose to stay, we want your vacation to be a pleasant one. Please feel free to discuss your needs with our friendly staff. Settle in and make Yellowstone Holiday a comfortable home-away-from-home as you explore this beautiful country. Each of our 36 RV sites is full hookups (electric 20/30/50 amp, water, sewer). Because of the resort’s smaller size, you will enjoy privacy and a relaxed pace during your stay.
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Full hookups
Robinson’s Roost

15. Robinson’s Roost

99%
(534)
Columbia Falls, MT · 4 sites
Welcome to Robinson's Roost! My husband and I bought 3 acres of land and built our retirement home 19 years ago. We have chickens, fruit trees and a giant garden, and have 4 campsites in the wooded area of our property. We are excited to offer a bathroom and a hot shower! Each campsite also has its own picnic table and there is a communal fire pit. We have a beautiful piece of property with the Columbia mountain range in our back yard. Great views, wildlife, garden, chickens. Situated on a dead end dirt road that is very peaceful and quiet. Hiking and water sports are also close by and we are only 6 miles from town. We are 20 miles to Glacier National Park, where the beauty and activities are endless. I have plenty of shopping, dining, hiking and activity ideas while visiting. We look forward to your visit!
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Acres about 10 miles from Glacier

16. Acres about 10 miles from Glacier

98%
(58)
Columbia Falls, MT · 14 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.
Pets
Potable water
Picnic table
Big Sky Vistas

17. Big Sky Vistas

99%
(172)
Columbus, MT · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Peaceful and quiet surrounded by lots of wildflowers, wildlife, and the pleasant aroma of sagebrush. Parking area is reasonably flat. Remote subdivision on a 4500-foot ridge, 10 miles from Columbus exit 408, off of Interstate 90. Your camping spot is near the road for easy access, but the road is private and dead-ends just beyond my property, so traffic is very minimal. I aim to treat all my guests as if you were a long-time friend. I try to be your personal concierge, so anything you need or want to know, just ask.
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Potable water
Sewer hookup
Montana Basecamp near Yellowstone

18. Montana Basecamp near Yellowstone

96%
(72)
Pray, MT · 1 site · Tent, RV
Learn more about this land: Welcome to your serene retreat in Emigrant, Montana, nestled alongside the picturesque Yellowstone River. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of nature while enjoying modern comforts at our charming property. Perched beside the Yellowstone River, our site offers breathtaking views and the soothing sounds of flowing water. Step outside and embark on a canoeing adventure right on our private pond, surrounded by lush greenery and the grandeur of the Montana landscape. Whether you're an avid angler, a wildlife enthusiast, or simply seeking solace, the Yellowstone River provides an idyllic backdrop for your escape. Convenience meets rustic charm as our property boasts proximity to local gems. Just a stone's throw away, the renowned Chico Hot Springs invites you to unwind in its soothing mineral waters, providing the perfect après-canoe experience. For a taste of history and local flavor, the Old Saloon is your go-to spot, where you can savor hearty meals and live entertainment. Craving variety? Explore the plethora of eateries dotting the area, each offering a unique culinary experience that caters to every palate. As the day winds down, gather around with your family & friends and exchange stories under the starlit Montana sky. The tranquility of the river, the charm of the property, and the convenience of the location make our Emigrant haven an ideal choice for your Montana getaway. Book your stay today and experience the magic of the Yellowstone River from the comfort of your own private retreat. Your adventure begins here.
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Off The Beaten Path Glampground

19. Off The Beaten Path Glampground

98%
(21)
Plains, MT · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located in Beautiful Western Montana on the hill above the town of Plains, with Spectacular views of the mountains and Clark Fork River. We have 3 off grid Glamping domes for rent, for those who prefer a unique experience. They are fully outfitted and have nice comfortable beds. Our extra large camping sites have no size restrictions. We have on site porta potty, hand washing stations. All camp sites are off grid. Pets are welcome at your campsite. There is a fee for pets in the domes. We currently offer 6 camp sites on 21 acres. Our Location is midway between Kalispell and Missoula off of highway 200 and Hwy 28. 45 minutes to Flathead Lake, 90 minutes to Kalispell and Missoula. Less than 2 hours to Coeur d' Alene. Only 18 minutes to Quinn's Hot Springs. Come stay where the stars are your nightlights.
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Bucketlist #1

20. Bucketlist #1

98%
(97)
Big Arm, MT · 2 sites
Drive-in, park, and begin enjoying all the crazy, fun, or just relaxing things you want out of your private lakefront property. You're on the shores of Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake, this side of the Mississippi, and home of Wildhorse Island, where the Boone and Crocket world record Bighorn Sheep was discovered, killed by winter weather. This 2160 acre island is also the home of deer, mountain lions, bears, several species of eagles, and wild horses. Day hiking is allowed and is a 5-minute boat ride from your beach spot. Just slightly over an hour to Glacier National Park and access to all the mountain lakes, rivers and streams to explore, you won't be bored. Right around the corner, you have access to a boat ramp at one of the state-owned Parks with public showers, if the lake water is too cold. If you want to make her an honest women, while you're here, you're staying on our wedding and event venue (www.flatheadlakeforevers) and we will help make that happen too. Tell us what you want and we'll help you make it happen. Pictures posted on this site are all from this 34 acre, 900 ft. of lake frontage venue. Don't miss this one. Sorry no more instant booking, we don't ever want another Tod on our property.
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Full hookups

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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.

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