Most wildfires are preventable. Be fire safe

The best lakeside camping in Montana

·

Picture yourself stretched out on a tranquil lake with mountain peaks reflected on the water. Montana lake camping is a favorite pastime for locals and visitors—primarily because the opportunities are nearly endless. Major lake destinations like Flathead and Seeley Lake draw visitors for the scenery, water sports, fishing, and great summer swimming, but the state map is dotted with blue spots offering a large array of reservoirs and natural lakes to explore. Clean, cold water is perfect for cooling off in the summer heat with lakefront public and private campgrounds across the state. The spring thaw and fall months also offer few crowds and quiet campsites at some of the most coveted lakeside destinations. When you’re not roasting s'mores over a fire or casting a line, grab supplies or a cold beer at one of the state’s many famous breweries in towns like Bigfork, Helena, Ennis, Dillon, and more.

97% (3.3K) 3,490 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Montana

❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

1. ❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

99%
(1863)
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. 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: 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 AND MOLLY’S MERCANTILE 🪵 Located by our house in the middle of the property! We sell solar shower bags, sunscreen, swag, firewood, coffee, and more. EXPLORE THE GROUNDS 🎥 Watch our video tour to see the kid-friendly "Sand Pit" and our "Glamp Pod": https://youtu.be/EYYuGGWRtag If you have any other questions, contact us.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Glacier getaway 2.0

2. Glacier getaway 2.0

98%
(304)
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 also have propane fire pits available. All for guest to enjoy and use on a first come first serve basis.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Duck Lake Lodge & Campground

3. Duck Lake Lodge & Campground

93%
(546)
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 (pre-purchase with booking), coin laundry for campers, trash facilities. Sites are nestled in the trees with picnic tables, campfire rings at each Tent site . Pop up tents, camp vans, Rooftop tent should reserve an Electric Avenue Spot We have Electric Sites ( 21ft max) available for Car, Sprinter Van , Rooftop tents, tents We recommend surge protectors. Our main lodge features a Breakfast Cafe Monday thru Saturday 7a-9:30a Wife access is available at the main lodge. We strive to maintain a quiet, safe and family friendly area. 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!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Lolo National Forest

4. Lolo National Forest

94%
(16)
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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Flathead National Forest

5. Flathead National Forest

80%
(27)
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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Stillwater Getaway

6. Stillwater Getaway

92%
(38)
Olney, MT · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Family and pet friendly lakeside cabins, wall tents, and campsites. Come enjoy a true Montana experience at Stillwater Getaway, located 15 miles North of Whitefish on Lower Stillwater Lake bring your paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes to explore the lake. There is a bath house with showers and toilets and outhouses around the property as well. We have a shared Mess Hall with a full kitchen with a BBQ grill, coffee, and WiFi.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Glacier Basecamp 🏕️

7. Glacier Basecamp 🏕️

100%
(10)
Coram, MT · 1 site · Tent, RV
Glacier Basecamp is a secluded and tranquil RV site nestled in the pines just minutes from Glacier. Located in the back of our Glacier Hip Camp Tent Sites, this spot is secluded with plenty of shade and songbirds. You'll see glimpses of the lake on the property through the pines. Also included on the site is a fire pit, wood picnic table, and full hookup for electric (20 amp 120 plug, 30 amp 120 plug, and a 50 amp 240 plug - 25 amps max draw), water, and sewer. The Basecamp site is located in a tree-lined area and requires backing in. Please arrive during daylight hours to be able to back into this site. Max vehicle length (Truck and Trailer) is 35 Feet. Site is not suitable for Class A RV or Large Trailers. The Basecamp site is the only full-hookup site at the Glacier HipCamp; dry campsites are also available and share use of the vault toilet, gazebo, and pond. Amenities available for purchase onsite: Firewood, Solar Shower Bags, Bear Spray Rental, Coffee
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Boulder Creek Lodge & RV Park

8. Boulder Creek Lodge & RV Park

98%
(26)
Hall, MT · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located in a valley halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, you’ll find Boulder Creek Lodge and RV Park. Our place is special for what surrounds it, but it’s also special for what we have right here on the property. We offer travelers RV sites (with hookup), tent and van camping sites, and ten fully furnished, clean and comfortable cabins, Tipis and Conestoga Wagon for the glamping (glamorous camping) experience. Bedding provided for cabins, tipis and wagon. Guests have access to the shower house (showers, toilets, sinks) with laundry facilities (2 coin-op washers - 2 dryers), property playground, and the Lodge with game room, sitting room, communal kitchen and recently updated bathrooms/showers. All guests are welcome to use horseshoe pit, community fire pits and wi-fi access. Our guests can unplug, kick back, and relax with their families in one of the country's most beautiful locations.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Camp Chicory in Paradise Valley

9. Camp Chicory in Paradise Valley

99%
(283)
Pray, MT · 1 site
We purchased our 6-acre home in Paradise Valley in 2010 and have our own little slice of paradise nestled between the Absaroka and Gallatin Mountain Ranges. * 38 miles north of Yellowstone National Park * 10-minute drive to music venues * 360-degree mountain views * 5 minutes from Chico Hot Springs * 20 minutes to Dailey lake / 5 minutes to the Yellowstone River
Toilets
Potable water
Glacier National Park

10. Glacier National Park

97%
(380)
National park in Montana · 809 sites
With over 700 miles of trails to explore, Glacier National Park is a hiker’s dream.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

11. 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!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

12. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

94%
(8)
National park in Wyoming · 185 sites
Discover the rugged beauty of Bighorn Canyon's vast landscapes.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Whitefish Lake State Park

13. Whitefish Lake State Park

100%
(4)
State park in Montana · 23 sites
Discover Whitefish Lake State Park's serene beauty and outdoor fun.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Mooseshroom

14. The Mooseshroom

96%
(620)
Coram, MT · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
The Mooseshroom is an awesome camping community that is just 7 miles from the west side of Glacier National Park. Community fire pits near the Commons are a short walk from whichever tent spot guests are assigned. The Commons also houses the bathrooms and inside/outside kitchen areas. There is plenty of seating, hammocks and picnic tables for guests to use as well. We also have two yurts available for booking on our property. The Mooseshroom is a licensed business that is limited to hosting 18 guests per night. Guests should expect a quiet, peaceful camping experience with plenty of room to enjoy their surroundings. ***This property is adjacent Highway 2 and there is a fair amount of road noise. There's also a train that's fairly close. The noise kinda comes with the territory, guests are also 10 minutes from the west entrance to the park. The noise does tend to subside considerably at night, but for those bothered by this type of noise, you might consider an alternate location. Most guests are truly fine with it.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Bucketlist #1

15. Bucketlist #1

99%
(112)
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.
Pets
Full hookups
Lakeshore Cabins & Campground

16. Lakeshore Cabins & Campground

100%
(2)
Mcallister, MT · 49 sites · RVs, Lodging
Lakeshore Cabins and Campground (established as Lake Shore Lodge) first opened its gates under the original owners, ES and Helyn Carroll, in 1971. Linn and Kevin Krieg, ranchers in the Madison Valley, bought Lakeshore in 1981, and their family retains ownership today. In the early days, Lakeshore felt hidden away: a short drive down a dirt road, tucked away in a stand of mature cottonwood trees. Lakeshore soon became a family summer retreat where guests returned year after year. The seclusion and shade of the cottonwood trees, the proximity to Bozeman and Yellowstone National Park, and the extraordinary outdoor sporting opportunities made Lakeshore a perfect getaway—not too far away but far enough to escape and enjoy the beauty of the Madison Valley. In October 2022, Lakeshore closed for property-wide renovations. It reopened in July 2024 with updated utilities, beautifully appointed cabins, and a new General Store. We remain the only lakefront RV campground with mature trees, plentiful shade, a private marina, and the finest guest cabins on the lake. Lakeshore Cabins and Campground, as it was in the early days, is a perfect getaway—not too far away but far enough to escape.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
Wildiron Bigfork

17. Wildiron Bigfork

98%
(192)
MT · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We live on 10 acres of mixed forest and field. In the summer we have an active blacksmithing school and flower farm here. The idea of a sustainable, self reliant lifestyle has always been part of our life and passing it down to others is a joy for us. We sustainably manage our food and forest to be the best stewards we can for our environment and our neighbors. Our Cabin and structures were built primarily of materials that were recycled or milled on site. which makes them warm and inviting. The Cabin is located close to our shop which houses an active blacksmithing school in the summer months where the rest of the structures are separate and in an area tucked away on the edge of the woods. Jeffrey and Betsy work to make your stay as welcoming as possible. Please note there are no pets as the wildlife could be disturbed..both human and otherwise, thanks. We maintain a small orchard of fruit trees, a garden which feeds us year round and a small flower farm on the property. Avid skiers, bikers, paddlers and hikers, offering the property for others to enjoy was a conscious decision made when planning all of our infrastructure. Come and enjoy all the beautiful Flathead Valley has to offer.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Trees, Lake view, Rock buttes!

18. Trees, Lake view, Rock buttes!

94%
(248)
MT · 15 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
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Flathead Lake Cherry Farm Camping

19. Flathead Lake Cherry Farm Camping

92%
(135)
Polson, MT · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Learn more about this land: Enjoy lake view camping on an all Organic Cherry Farm. This 20-acre farm is nestled in the forest on Finley Point on Flathead Lake. It gives you a wide-open and cradled feeling at the same time. There is a view of the lake and mountains from almost all the camp spots. There are deer and turkeys that continuously roam the orchard. Enjoy the Big Montana Sky at night with an amazing view of the stars. You can pick your own fresh organic cherries for only $2 a pound. You can also just snack on some from your campsite. Cherry season this year will be from July 18th to Aug 5th. Nearby attractions include: Access to Flathead Lake is less than a 1/2 mile down the driveway. Flathead Lake (Finley Point) State Park is only 2 miles away. At the entrance to Finley Point, we have two great Restaurants, Finley Point Grill and the Smokehouse (Highly Recommended!). The town of Polson is 20 minutes away. You can find everything you need from supplies, to bars, restaurants, boat rentals, public parks, and even a casino. The town of Big Fork is only 45 minutes away and is a must-see. This town has an old-west feel with great shops, restaurants, a live theater, and an old iron bridge over the river. Glacier National Park is an hour and twenty minutes away. The driveway up to the orchard is made of gravel and is a bit steep at the beginning, At times there can be a few ruts so be cautious. Most standard passenger cars can make it up the driveway with no problem. Due to campers having trouble navigating the driveway with trailers we no longer allow trailers or RV's over 22 feet. Lowered vehicles are not recommended.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Camp Lazy Bear

20. Camp Lazy Bear

100%
(3)
Stryker, MT · 14 sites · Tents, Lodging
Choice of Community Camping, or Glamping privately and in comfort with basic furniture and bedding. Surrounded by mature trees, beautiful clearings for camping spots, and at night, lights turn on like a fairy-tale come life. The 10 acres property borders State and National Forrest Grounds. Nearby you will find Trails, Mount Marston, Stillwater River, State and National Forrest, Lakes, Creeks, and anything else nature. It's the ideal staging area for climbing, swimming, ATV, hiking, motor boating, fishing, and much more. * 30 mins to Eureka, Lake Koocanusa, Canadian Border * 30 mins to Whitefish, Ideal for Big Sky Festival * 5 mins to Dickey Lake * 60 mins to Glacier West Entrance
Pets
Toilets
Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

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