The best forest camping near Columbus

46mi from Columbus · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Billings, MT

(50)

Learn more about this land:Close to many amenities in Billings but far enough away to feel secluded. Must check in with owner. Generators are okay but MUST be elevated. 15 min to downtown Billings.

3. Sasquatch Sanctuary

95%

(10)

34mi from Columbus · 1 site · RV · Billings, MT

Learn more about this land:Park your RV/camper on a cement pad close to electrical hookup. We have 10 acres to roam and wildlife that visit regularly. The site also features a view of the Billings City skyline. We are on a gravel drive with pull through and back in parking onto a cement pad. We have electrical hook up but no sweat. Water is possible for a fee.

4. Rock Creek Retreat

34mi from Columbus · 1 site · Tent, RV · Red Lodge, MT

(14)

Nestled in the picturesque valley of Rock Creek near Red Lodge, Montana, lies your perfect getaway destination. This property is a nature lover's paradise, offering a serene and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The property is surrounded by stunning mountain views and is in close proximity to some of the best hiking trails and fishing spots in the area. Whether you're an avid hiker or a fishing enthusiast, you'll find something to love about this property. The nearby Beartooth Highway is a must-see destination, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can spend your days exploring the many hiking trails in the area, taking in the beauty of the natural surroundings and breathing in the fresh mountain air. If you prefer to fish, you'll find plenty of opportunities to cast your line and catch some of the local trout. While the area is known for its abundance of wildlife, it's important to be aware of the potential dangers that come with being in bear & moose country. As such, we strongly advise all guests to take the necessary precautions when exploring the property and surrounding areas. This includes carrying bear spray and making noise while hiking to avoid surprising any bear and/or moose. Additionally, it's IMPORTANT to keep all food and trash properly stored AT ALL TIMES! to avoid attracting bears and other wildlife. At night, you can relax and unwind in your cozy tent or RV, listening to the soothing sounds of the nearby creek as you drift off to sleep. Wake up to the crisp mountain air and enjoy your morning coffee while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Come experience the beauty and tranquility of Rock Creek and create memories that will last a lifetime!

5. Stillwater River Beehive

25mi from Columbus · 1 site · Tent, RV · Nye, MT

Land available for your camper or RV next to our cabin which is on a half acre located on the beautiful Stillwater River between Absarokee and Nye! Great fishing opportunities, campfire by the river (firewood available), white water rafting companies nearby, hiking or relaxing by the campfire under the stars! Hiking trails nearby at Beehive Rock, Woodbine Falls Trail and Sioux Charley are 20 minutes away, Mystic Lake (1 hour to Trailhead), 42 miles to East Rosebud hiking, and 1 hour to Red Lodge, MT! ATV and 4-wheeler trails at Picket Pin and Benbow. No toilets, showers or potable water available at this Hipcamp. WiFi IS available upon request.

6. Beautiful S Central Montana RV Stay

22mi from Columbus · 2 sites · RVs · Greycliff, MT

(6)

Park your RV and relax among rolling hills, spacious property and spectacular views that include mountains, horses, cows and Montana's amazing wildlife. Includes water and electric. There is a dump station in Livingston, MT. RV SITE: The RV site is located in an acre fenced area that houses a shop and barn and sits next to a fence with a Ranch House on another fenced acre that serves as a short-term rental (airbnb/vrbo). Enjoy a short hike to access Bridger Creek which runs through the property or hike to the top of the property "on top of the world" and enjoy spectacular views of the Crazy Mountains, Beartooth Mountains and the Yellowstone River. Just minutes from BLM, national forest and Yellowstone River fishing access, 1.5 hours from the North entrance of Yellowstone National Park and only 15 minutes from the quaint town of Big Timber, this property has everything families, hikers, hunters, anglers, cattlemen and rodeo goers could want. This property really does have it all. The property can accommodate horse and stock trailers too, for an additional fee. Cattle and horses can graze, roam and be worked in the round pen with reservations, depending on weather, and an additional fee. Hipcamp now requires that either the camper or the host has a toilet. Our RV sites have water and electricity but no sewage. If you choose to stay on our property, you must have your own toilet facility. GENERAL: Free WiFi ACCESS: ¾ of a mile from highway on level gravel road to property IT’S A WORKING RANCH: Livestock and horses onsite, often in view from the Ranch House, barn cats next door and wildlife all around. When available, bunnies, chickens, cats, cows and horses may be shown/visited with reservation. You’ll likely see ranch hand/family members around the property feeding and caring for animals, riding horses or quads, cleaning-up, etc.

7. Lazy JR Ranch Retreat

18mi from Columbus · 4 sites · Lodging · Absarokee, MT

Welcome to the Lazy JR ranch retreat! We offer a unique Montana glamping experience. Whether you want to relax with a loved one or take a group hunting, we have it all and everything in between! The hopeless Romantic-$300 Queen Bed with all bedding Inside and Outside Decor and Seating Table for two Smores Bar Fire Pit and Fire wood Hot Coffee and Muffin/Scone Basket doorstep delivered in the Morning Can Add: Chocolate Covered Strawberries- $50 Bottle of Wine or Champagne - $25 Fresh Flowers - $50 Camp Cook Stove and Cookware - $75 Come experience the tranquility the Lazy JR ranch has to offer. You will be set up with a tent furnished inside and out with panoramic mountain views and all the privacy of the country. Come see why Montana is called the Big Sky Country while you star gaze around the fire pit. Fly Fish the Rosebud-$300 One Queen Bed or 2 Full Beds or 4 Twin Beds Inside Decor and Furnishings Outdoor seating Fire Pit with Fire wood Camp Cook stove with cookware French Coffee Press Add ons: Fly pole and Reel with flies - $75 Hot Coffee and Breakfast Delivered Door Step - $75 Breakfast Board - $50 Relax and Recharge in this quiet tent down by the river. Nestled in the aspen trees next to west Rosebud Creek with an unshared 40 acres makes for the perfect getaway. You will have full access to the Rosebud Creek running through the ranch. If you feel like venturing out we are close to the stillwater and yellowstone rivers and just a few miles from scenic hiking trails Hunting Party-$600 Two full size beds or 4 Twin Beds Inside Decor and Furnishings Inside Camp stove for warmth Outside Fire pit and fire wood Cook Stove and Cookware Outside Seating Coffee and Coffee Pot Access to 700 Huntable Acres Add ons: Smores bar - $25 Hot coffee and breakfast brought to door step in the Morning - $75 Extra Bed Rolls (bedding not included) Nestled in the Absarokee Valley we are offering a unique hunting tent already set up and furnished on huntable acres. These tents offer exactly what you need for a few days of hunting, quiet and private yet close to town for food and drink, or bring your food and use our camp cook stove. Glamp with Mini Cows-$200 One Full bed or two twin Beds Inside décor and furnishings Can add extra bed rolls Treat Jar for the Mini Cows Add ons: Outdoor seating and furnishings - $100 Fire Pit - $20 Smores Bar - $25 Camp cook stove and cookware - $75 Bottle of Wine - $25 Chocolate Covered Strawberries-$50 Breakfast Board - $50 Come experience the uniqueness of glamping with mini cows! You will be fenced in and protected but have full views and petting abilities of these fuzzy little loves. We supply you with a jar of their favorite treats which is sure to win their hearts over. Please keep in mind you will be staying on a fully operational working ranch.

Camper favorites near Columbus

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Rock Creek Retreat

34mi from Columbus · 1 site · Tent, RV · Red Lodge, MT

(14)

Nestled in the picturesque valley of Rock Creek near Red Lodge, Montana, lies your perfect getaway destination. This property is a nature lover's paradise, offering a serene and peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. The property is surrounded by stunning mountain views and is in close proximity to some of the best hiking trails and fishing spots in the area. Whether you're an avid hiker or a fishing enthusiast, you'll find something to love about this property. The nearby Beartooth Highway is a must-see destination, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. You can spend your days exploring the many hiking trails in the area, taking in the beauty of the natural surroundings and breathing in the fresh mountain air. If you prefer to fish, you'll find plenty of opportunities to cast your line and catch some of the local trout. While the area is known for its abundance of wildlife, it's important to be aware of the potential dangers that come with being in bear & moose country. As such, we strongly advise all guests to take the necessary precautions when exploring the property and surrounding areas. This includes carrying bear spray and making noise while hiking to avoid surprising any bear and/or moose. Additionally, it's IMPORTANT to keep all food and trash properly stored AT ALL TIMES! to avoid attracting bears and other wildlife. At night, you can relax and unwind in your cozy tent or RV, listening to the soothing sounds of the nearby creek as you drift off to sleep. Wake up to the crisp mountain air and enjoy your morning coffee while taking in the stunning views of the surrounding mountains. Come experience the beauty and tranquility of Rock Creek and create memories that will last a lifetime!

Stillwater River Beehive

25mi from Columbus · 1 site · Tent, RV · Nye, MT

Land available for your camper or RV next to our cabin which is on a half acre located on the beautiful Stillwater River between Absarokee and Nye! Great fishing opportunities, campfire by the river (firewood available), white water rafting companies nearby, hiking or relaxing by the campfire under the stars! Hiking trails nearby at Beehive Rock, Woodbine Falls Trail and Sioux Charley are 20 minutes away, Mystic Lake (1 hour to Trailhead), 42 miles to East Rosebud hiking, and 1 hour to Red Lodge, MT! ATV and 4-wheeler trails at Picket Pin and Benbow. No toilets, showers or potable water available at this Hipcamp. WiFi IS available upon request.

Beautiful S Central Montana RV Stay

22mi from Columbus · 2 sites · RVs · Greycliff, MT

(6)

Park your RV and relax among rolling hills, spacious property and spectacular views that include mountains, horses, cows and Montana's amazing wildlife. Includes water and electric. There is a dump station in Livingston, MT. RV SITE: The RV site is located in an acre fenced area that houses a shop and barn and sits next to a fence with a Ranch House on another fenced acre that serves as a short-term rental (airbnb/vrbo). Enjoy a short hike to access Bridger Creek which runs through the property or hike to the top of the property "on top of the world" and enjoy spectacular views of the Crazy Mountains, Beartooth Mountains and the Yellowstone River. Just minutes from BLM, national forest and Yellowstone River fishing access, 1.5 hours from the North entrance of Yellowstone National Park and only 15 minutes from the quaint town of Big Timber, this property has everything families, hikers, hunters, anglers, cattlemen and rodeo goers could want. This property really does have it all. The property can accommodate horse and stock trailers too, for an additional fee. Cattle and horses can graze, roam and be worked in the round pen with reservations, depending on weather, and an additional fee. Hipcamp now requires that either the camper or the host has a toilet. Our RV sites have water and electricity but no sewage. If you choose to stay on our property, you must have your own toilet facility. GENERAL: Free WiFi ACCESS: ¾ of a mile from highway on level gravel road to property IT’S A WORKING RANCH: Livestock and horses onsite, often in view from the Ranch House, barn cats next door and wildlife all around. When available, bunnies, chickens, cats, cows and horses may be shown/visited with reservation. You’ll likely see ranch hand/family members around the property feeding and caring for animals, riding horses or quads, cleaning-up, etc.

Lazy JR Ranch Retreat

18mi from Columbus · 4 sites · Lodging · Absarokee, MT

Welcome to the Lazy JR ranch retreat! We offer a unique Montana glamping experience. Whether you want to relax with a loved one or take a group hunting, we have it all and everything in between! The hopeless Romantic-$300 Queen Bed with all bedding Inside and Outside Decor and Seating Table for two Smores Bar Fire Pit and Fire wood Hot Coffee and Muffin/Scone Basket doorstep delivered in the Morning Can Add: Chocolate Covered Strawberries- $50 Bottle of Wine or Champagne - $25 Fresh Flowers - $50 Camp Cook Stove and Cookware - $75 Come experience the tranquility the Lazy JR ranch has to offer. You will be set up with a tent furnished inside and out with panoramic mountain views and all the privacy of the country. Come see why Montana is called the Big Sky Country while you star gaze around the fire pit. Fly Fish the Rosebud-$300 One Queen Bed or 2 Full Beds or 4 Twin Beds Inside Decor and Furnishings Outdoor seating Fire Pit with Fire wood Camp Cook stove with cookware French Coffee Press Add ons: Fly pole and Reel with flies - $75 Hot Coffee and Breakfast Delivered Door Step - $75 Breakfast Board - $50 Relax and Recharge in this quiet tent down by the river. Nestled in the aspen trees next to west Rosebud Creek with an unshared 40 acres makes for the perfect getaway. You will have full access to the Rosebud Creek running through the ranch. If you feel like venturing out we are close to the stillwater and yellowstone rivers and just a few miles from scenic hiking trails Hunting Party-$600 Two full size beds or 4 Twin Beds Inside Decor and Furnishings Inside Camp stove for warmth Outside Fire pit and fire wood Cook Stove and Cookware Outside Seating Coffee and Coffee Pot Access to 700 Huntable Acres Add ons: Smores bar - $25 Hot coffee and breakfast brought to door step in the Morning - $75 Extra Bed Rolls (bedding not included) Nestled in the Absarokee Valley we are offering a unique hunting tent already set up and furnished on huntable acres. These tents offer exactly what you need for a few days of hunting, quiet and private yet close to town for food and drink, or bring your food and use our camp cook stove. Glamp with Mini Cows-$200 One Full bed or two twin Beds Inside décor and furnishings Can add extra bed rolls Treat Jar for the Mini Cows Add ons: Outdoor seating and furnishings - $100 Fire Pit - $20 Smores Bar - $25 Camp cook stove and cookware - $75 Bottle of Wine - $25 Chocolate Covered Strawberries-$50 Breakfast Board - $50 Come experience the uniqueness of glamping with mini cows! You will be fenced in and protected but have full views and petting abilities of these fuzzy little loves. We supply you with a jar of their favorite treats which is sure to win their hearts over. Please keep in mind you will be staying on a fully operational working ranch.

Public campgrounds near Columbus

West Bridger Cabin

28mi from Columbus · 1 site · in Custer Gallatin National Forest

Pine Grove Campground

31mi from Columbus · 1 site · in Custer Gallatin National Forest

Deer Creek Cabin

32mi from Columbus · 1 site · in Custer Gallatin National Forest

Cascade Campground

33mi from Columbus · 30 sites · Tents, RVs · in Custer Gallatin National Forest

34mi from Columbus · 29 sites · Tents, RVs · in Custer Gallatin National Forest

Basin Montana Campground

Meyers Creek Cabin

34mi from Columbus · 1 site · in Custer Gallatin National Forest

88%

(4)

Emerald Lake Campground

34mi from Columbus · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · in Custer Gallatin National Forest

Campsite #2 tucked back into the woods, close to the creek!

Sheridan Campground

37mi from Columbus · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Custer Gallatin National Forest

Rattin Campground

38mi from Columbus · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · in Custer Gallatin National Forest

40mi from Columbus · 28 sites · Tents, RVs · in Custer Gallatin National Forest

(3)

Parkside Campground

41mi from Columbus · 18 sites · Tents, RVs · in Custer Gallatin National Forest

Greenough Lake Campground

Limber Pine Campground

41mi from Columbus · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · in Custer Gallatin National Forest

Stories from the community

J

Joanita

September 2025

21 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Tucker Ranch with amazing views

Perfect spot for a last minute getaway! Really quiet and closer to town. Plenty of room and private. Loved the sunset and sunrise! Would recommend! And super friendly hosts!

T

Travis

September 2025

18 ft toy hauler

With pets

Weekend Trip to Tucker Ranch with amazing views

Excellent place. Love the area and surrounding trees. Will be back soon.

Lianne

August 2025

22 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Rock Creek Retreat

Rock Creek frontage is a rarity. Undeveloped property with smooth access and good proximity to Red Lodge that is made available for camping -even more rare. View is beautiful.

C

Clayton

August 2025

17 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Tucker Ranch with amazing views

Great place just as advertised. It was perfect for our stay. Quiet and peaceful, close to town and easy to find.

Z

Zach

August 2025

35 ft fifth wheel

With pets

3 nights at Creekside Camp at Prairie Skies

Nice area easy to find nice place to stay friendly host

K

Kelly

August 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Rock Creek Retreat

Jarod couldn’t have been a nicer/better host! We had a great time and the location is PRIME! Super close to town but feels very private with plenty of trees and the fantastic Rock Creek water right there!

amy

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Loved camping here. It was nice and quiet. My dog loved laying in the creek to cool off and playing in the yard. The sites are very well maintained by the host and the host was very helpful in directing me to the site and communication.

A

Ashley

August 2025

16 ft car

With pets

I got caught in a storm while on Stephen’s land so I couldn’t make the most of it, but the property was beautiful and Stephen was a kind host! I even saw some fawns while heading to my site.

M

Mary Ann

August 2025

35 ft fifth wheel

With pets

3 nights at Tucker Ranch with amazing views

We really enjoyed our stay at Tucker Ranch. It was a beautiful spot…big open field with wildflowers everywhere. It had a good view of the mountains, streams running through it and was close to town. The hosts were very nice and responded quickly to all of my questions. We would definitely recommend it.

Tina

July 2025

35 ft fifth wheel

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Tucker Ranch with amazing views

Second summer in a row that we've stayed at Tucker Ranch. Beautiful area, quiet, wildflowers still blooming, and three deer wandered through in the evening and mornings. Will definitely book again. It's just a lovely place to camp.

b

bruce

July 2025

26 ft Class A

4 nights at Tucker Ranch with amazing views

Fantastic stay and Becky was very helpful and responsive to a few requests. Great location. Would highly recommend for a secure and quiet stay in red lodge.

K

Kayla

July 2025

Tent

With pets

We loved camping on Stephen’s property! It was grassy, which was great for our pup to run around on. Also very peaceful with it being creekside. Stephen was very responsive and organized with his check in and check out instructions.

K

Kurt

July 2025

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Rock Creek Retreat

Such a great spot. Made us feel alone and secluded in the outdoors while being close enough to Red lodge to enjoy all that it has to offer. We loved the place and will definitely be back.

Charlotte

July 2025

21 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Sasquatch Sanctuary

We only stayed the night but we found everything to be comfortable and safe. We didn't get a chance to meet Elaine but the pad was level and their was electric which we nice since it was hot and we needed the AC.

Volkan

July 2025

33 ft Class C

With kids

2 nights at Beautiful S Central Montana RV Stay

We enjoyed camping at Debi's farm. The location is easy to find, close to the freeway. The location was beautiful and private. Debi welcomed us extremely warmly. My kids enjoyed exploring the farmland. We also traveled to Greycliff Mills by bike, which was about 5 miles away.

K

Kate

July 2025

22 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to Tucker Ranch with amazing views

Absolutely gorgeous spot, perfect location for exploring Red Lodge and the surrounding amazing area. We had a genuine Disney moment with a white tail deer shyly grazing by shortly after we arrived - fields of flowers, babbling brooks, and mountains in the distance made it feel unbelievable. Highly recommend, thank you for letting us visit!!

K

Kory

July 2025

22 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Tucker Ranch with amazing views

We had a wonderful time at Tucker Ranch over the 4th of July. Great spot for dispersed camping in an open field with 2 creeks surrounding the area. Saw a few deer and tons of wildflowers!!! Was super convenient and just a quick drive into town.

E

Emmy

June 2025

Tent