The best river, stream, or creek RV campgrounds near Columbus, Montana

Looking to camp with an RV near Columbus, Montana and enjoy a scenic riverfront? Hipcamp offers over 340 camping options that cater to your specific accommodation and terrain preferences. Some top-rated options with hyperlinks include Big Quiet Cowboy Camping (246 reviews), VanGoBoon Campground (135 reviews), and Ellison Ranch (107 reviews). Prices range from $14 to $50 per night, with popular amenities like showers, campfires, and potable water. Enjoy activities such as biking, boating, and horseback riding while soaking in the beautiful river views.

98% (357)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking to camp with an RV near Columbus, Montana and enjoy a scenic riverfront? Hipcamp offers over 340 camping options that cater to your specific accommodation and terrain preferences. Some top-rated options with hyperlinks include Big Quiet Cowboy Camping (246 reviews), VanGoBoon Campground (135 reviews), and Ellison Ranch (107 reviews). Prices range from $14 to $50 per night, with popular amenities like showers, campfires, and potable water. Enjoy activities such as biking, boating, and horseback riding while soaking in the beautiful river views.

98% (357)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Ellison Ranch

96%

(399)

47mi from Columbus · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Mc Leod, MT

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.

2. Montana Safari

92%

(12)

32mi from Columbus · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Billings, MT

Rolling high prairie, with some views, wildlife, and Texas Longhorns!! Hiking around the property, or on the neighboring square mile of state land. Bring your bicycles, or feet, and have fun!!

3. Cowtown Ranch

100%

(21)

28mi from Columbus · 8 sites · Tents, RVs · Bridger, MT

110 Acre ranch nestled between the Pryor Mountains & the Beartooth Mountains gateway to Yellowstone Nat'l Park

4. Tucker Ranch with amazing views

96%

(28)

29mi from Columbus · 11 sites · RVs · Red Lodge, MT

It is a peaceful, quiet 23 acres but located only minutes from downtown Red Lodge. This can be your base camp to explore beartooth pass and Yellowstone National Park....but back at camp you have mountain views and bubbling creeks right by your campsite. We do have cell phone service, as well, which can be tricky to find while dispersed camping in the area. Hiking, biking, fishing are all quick access.

5. Creek side retreat

94%

(8)

23mi from Columbus · 1 site · Tent, RV · Nye, MT

Quiet and peaceful DRY campsite with Midnight Creek running thru. Several fishing accesses within 2-5 miles. ATV / 4-wheeler riding distance to Picket Pin, Old Nye, Cliff Swallow, Benbow and Carters Camp. Tippet Rise Art Center 12 miles away. Campsite roughly 2 acres. 12 miles west of Absarokee, 45 miles north of Red Lodge. 2.5 hours from Yellowstone Park. Excellent views!

6. Chance, Montana

100%

(13)

44mi from Columbus · 1 site · Tent, RV · Belfry, MT

10 miles south of Belfry. Right on the Clark's Fork River. On the Meeteetse trail. Beartoith mtns out front. You can go fishing, take 4 wheelers across Meeteetse trail to Red Lodge. Enjoy the peaceful Ness of just being in the country. Quiet we are 37 miles to Cody wyoming, 25 miles to Red Lodge both have entrances to the Yellowstone park.

7. Kroney Island

94%

(17)

0.4mi from Columbus · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Columbus, MT

Property is on the Yellowstone river, with private fire pit. You can fish, kayak and raft right to campsite. There are two fishing access to launch your kayak or raft nearby. Walking distance to restaurants and brewery. Electricity, potable water available and a porta potty are available on site. Site is right off Highway 78. I do live on this property if you should need anything.

8. Creekside Camp at Prairie Skies

100%

(50)

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

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.

9. Rock Creek Retreat

100%

(14)

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

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!

10. Solitude on the Meadow by the River

100%

(27)

13mi from Columbus · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Absarokee, MT

The Stillwater River Wedding Ranch is a wedding venue on the Stillwater River. We also host wedding and cooprate retreats right on the beautiful Stillwater River. Learn more about this land: Surrounded by hay fields, stars, and the Stillwater River, this site is a little piece of heaven. The site has a clean portable outhouse. Spend the day fishing, hiking, and exploring the outdoors. There are lots of whitetail and mule deer to watch for, as well as geese, ducks, cranes, foxes, coyotes, turkeys, and raccoons. Every once in a while, a black bear might travel through camp. It is solitude.

11. Beautiful S Central Montana RV Stay

100%

(6)

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

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.

12. Stillwater River Beehive

100%

(1)

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.

13. Secluded Yellowstone River Camp

100%

(2)

7.7mi from Columbus · 1 site · Tent, RV · Columbus, MT

Our Yellowstone river edge is nestled at the bottom of our property. It is a seluded campnig area with beautiful veiws, swimming, rafting, fishing, with a propane fire pit and complete relaxation. We offer a 2-3 person small cabin with outdoor heated propane shower, propane grill, port-a-potty, wash sink, propane refridgerator, airconditioner, and a comfortable queen murrphy bed. There is plenty of room for tents and/or 5+ RVs for a family or friend get together!

Camper favorites near Columbus

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Kroney Island

94%

(17)

0.4mi from Columbus · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Columbus, MT

Property is on the Yellowstone river, with private fire pit. You can fish, kayak and raft right to campsite. There are two fishing access to launch your kayak or raft nearby. Walking distance to restaurants and brewery. Electricity, potable water available and a porta potty are available on site. Site is right off Highway 78. I do live on this property if you should need anything.

Creekside Camp at Prairie Skies

100%

(50)

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

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.

Rock Creek Retreat

100%

(14)

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

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!

Solitude on the Meadow by the River

100%

(27)

13mi from Columbus · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Absarokee, MT

The Stillwater River Wedding Ranch is a wedding venue on the Stillwater River. We also host wedding and cooprate retreats right on the beautiful Stillwater River. Learn more about this land: Surrounded by hay fields, stars, and the Stillwater River, this site is a little piece of heaven. The site has a clean portable outhouse. Spend the day fishing, hiking, and exploring the outdoors. There are lots of whitetail and mule deer to watch for, as well as geese, ducks, cranes, foxes, coyotes, turkeys, and raccoons. Every once in a while, a black bear might travel through camp. It is solitude.

Beautiful S Central Montana RV Stay

100%

(6)

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

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.

Stillwater River Beehive

100%

(1)

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.

Secluded Yellowstone River Camp

100%

(2)

7.7mi from Columbus · 1 site · Tent, RV · Columbus, MT

Our Yellowstone river edge is nestled at the bottom of our property. It is a seluded campnig area with beautiful veiws, swimming, rafting, fishing, with a propane fire pit and complete relaxation. We offer a 2-3 person small cabin with outdoor heated propane shower, propane grill, port-a-potty, wash sink, propane refridgerator, airconditioner, and a comfortable queen murrphy bed. There is plenty of room for tents and/or 5+ RVs for a family or friend get together!

Stories from the community

J

Jim

November 2025

19 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Ellison Ranch

Wonderful site by the river! I’ve stayed here a few times and it’s great!

A

Audrey

October 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at Chance, Montana

Beautiful spot right on the river. My dog got along really well with their dogs and little kittens. They have horses as well which was a lovely touch. Gracious hosts and lovely house to shower in. Thanks for the pizza!

T

Tim

October 2025

19 ft Class B

Weekend Trip to Ellison Ranch

Peaceful, isolated but always felt safe. Great stream fifty feet away.

E

Ellodee

September 2025

30 ft travel trailer

1 night at Montana Safari

This was a wonderful place to camp! We stayed 3 nights and added a 4th. Great views, very quiet, the dogs had room to run off-leash and play ball, and the greeters as we pulled in were a beautiful herd of about 20 Longhorns! We met Megan and her daughter - really nice folks. The road in is gravel but extremely well maintained. We were in a 30ft. pull trailer. Thanks so much to Ryan and Megan!! Great stay!!!

Monica

September 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at Ellison Ranch

The Ellison ranch is the epitome of hipcamping! Big ranch, lots of space and privacy. The dogs so enjoyed it!! They also loved when I would get in the river with them for fun :) Kent and his ranch hand are there if you need them! I've always enjoyed ranchers because I come from ranchers. Good people! The sights around the area are spectacular not to mention the wildlife!! Do not miss Natural Bridge Falls. It isn't far away at all. The drive alone is spectacular! I rode my bike for 13 miles from the ranch down a forest road and it was breath taking. I really enjoyed my time in Big Timber as well. I love small towns where people are polite, helpful and friendly. If you have an rv, Big Timber Tire has an rv dump even after hours.

Jim

September 2025

36 ft Class C

With pets

3 nights at Ellison Ranch

Beautiful valley and location. Host was great with regard to communication.

K

Kenneth

September 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ellison Ranch

Had a great time at Ellison Ranch! We were at spot #2 and it was amazing. Will definitely be back.

Lindsay

September 2025

20 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Ellison Ranch

Camping site #4 was very peaceful and tucked away along the river. We enjoyed the beautiful views and easy access to the river to hang out on the rocks, and our pup loved the wide open freedom. Thank you for sharing your amazing property with us!

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.

Todd

August 2025

45 ft fifth wheel

With pets

1 night at Kroney Island

What a beautiful spot on the Yellowstone River. Judy is a wonderful host, wants to be sure you've got what you need and her camp is a great stopping point. Really enjoyed our time here. Will come again if our travels take us west!

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.

d

darilyn

August 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Montana Safari

My new favorite Hipcamp!!! So beautiful, so secluded, so simple, so quiet.

D

Danielle

August 2025

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Kroney Island

Great spot by the river. The host was super friendly and helpful!

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

S

Sarah

August 2025

31 ft toy hauler

4 nights at Chance, Montana

Sandy and Jerry were excellent hosts and their property is beautiful! The setting along the river is very peaceful. Water on one side and mountains all around. They were very accommodating and had plenty of local suggestions. We were greeted upon our arrival and offered a hand with anything we needed. Very flexible with where we could park in the yard. Even offered use of their bathroom if we needed to. This was our first time using hipcamp and I would recommend it to anyone. Thanks Sandy and Jerry for all of your wonderful hospitality!!

Todd

August 2025

45 ft fifth wheel

With pets

1 night at Kroney Island

Judy is just an awesome lady. Friendly, helpful and so pleasant. And gotta say, it's a gold medal view on the Yellowstone River. What a peaceful place! We'll stop here on our way back home and so look forward to it.

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!

M

Melissa

August 2025

26 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Montana Safari

The campsite is located in bare prairie with some nice views of the countryside. We went for the longhorn feeding and this did not disappoint - it was a great experience. During our weekend stay we were graced by a full moon, which made a beautiful Montana sky even more stunning.