The best campgrounds near Craig, Montana with wildlife watching

Looking for the perfect camping spot near Craig, Montana to indulge in some wildlife watching? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 290 options specifically tailored for wildlife watching in the Craig, Montana area, you're sure to find the ideal accommodation for your outdoor adventure. From cozy cabins to secluded campsites, Hipcamp has it all. And with popular campsites like Hidden Meadow Ranch (108 reviews), Rusty Nail Farm (146 reviews), and Gallatin River Getaway (159 reviews), you can be sure to find a spot that comes highly recommended. Plus, with popular amenities like trash, toilets, and showers, and activities like surfing, historic sites, and fishing, your camping experience will be as comfortable and entertaining as it is adventurous. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable wildlife watching experience in Craig, Montana!

98% (266)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for the perfect camping spot near Craig, Montana to indulge in some wildlife watching? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 290 options specifically tailored for wildlife watching in the Craig, Montana area, you're sure to find the ideal accommodation for your outdoor adventure. From cozy cabins to secluded campsites, Hipcamp has it all. And with popular campsites like Hidden Meadow Ranch (108 reviews), Rusty Nail Farm (146 reviews), and Gallatin River Getaway (159 reviews), you can be sure to find a spot that comes highly recommended. Plus, with popular amenities like trash, toilets, and showers, and activities like surfing, historic sites, and fishing, your camping experience will be as comfortable and entertaining as it is adventurous. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable wildlife watching experience in Craig, Montana!

98% (266)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Montana Country & Stone Barns

97%

(138)

43mi from Craig · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Great Falls, MT

Our 100 year old stone barns are on 20 acres just a few miles from Great Falls. Next to us is an alfalfa field with a great view of our maple tree and cottonwoods. Our home is nestled in trees with a patio deck for a picnic or drink.

2. Mountain Biker's Getaway

100%

(19)

36mi from Craig · 1 site · RV · Helena, MT

We have a 20 acre parcel where we live that is right next to the trail system and also 5 minutes from downtown Helena. We love hosting our friends who come to mountain bike and enjoy Helena and are happy to host you! We have a small trail cut into the property that is available for your use and a forest for you to play in

3. The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!

98%

(132)

31mi from Craig · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Helena, MT

This five-acre oasis was once a landscape nursery. So given the close proximity to downtown we are a hidden sanctuary from the outside world, secluded by cottonwood trees and mature foliage. The site now serves as a wedding venue and offers views of Mount Helena to the South and the Sleeping Giant to the North. Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent in our aspen grove or park your camper/RV in the grassland field. You're close to downtown with lots of privacy/scenery. You'll have views of regal Mount Helena to the South and The Sleeping Giant to the North. The South Hill trail complex is a great place to explore as well as the Scratchgravels. The Missouri River is only 20 minutes away as well as Lake Hauser and Canyon Ferry. If new to the area and interested in history, we recommend the Tour Train. We also have several great breweries - our favorites include Ten Mile and Blackfoot Breweries (a perfect stop you can ride to after a trail ride/hike in the South Hills). This site is perfect for those wanting to explore Downtown Helena, it's renowned trail systems, but still sleep under the stars. Pets are allowed. Please make sure you pick up after them. There is water throughout the property that you are welcome to use for cleaning, but it is not potable.

4. Helena National Forest

100%

(3)

109 sites · Helena Valley Northeast, Montana

The Helena National Forest straddles the continental divide and offers adventurers a whirlwind of majestic scenery and recreation. Nicknamed the “million acre backyard” you’re gonna love exploring the hiking, biking and off roading trails in Gates of the Mountains and the Helena River Valley, which boasts jaw dropping views of the Big Belt Mountains. Anglers will need to be yanked out of the crystal clear Missouri River—the trout are just begging to be caught. Campgrounds are close by and backcountry lovers will find plenty of chances to explore the trails and see incredible wildlife. Don’t pass up a chance to hop the Continental Divide trail or visit Helena National Forest. You’re gonna feel like you’re on top of the world!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Black Sandy State Park

34 sites · Helena Valley Northeast, Montana

Discover Black Sandy State Park's scenic shores and outdoor fun.

Pets

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

6. MT Keene Life is Good Lodge

5.6mi from Craig · 1 site · Lodging · Craig, MT

Wade the Dearborn in the back yard of this 3-bedroom house (fourth bedroom/living room or guide cabin next door ($150/stay to open) on 10 acres of the former Gary Cooper Ranch. Don’t be surprised to see deer, geese and ducks in the window nudging their way near the deck, especially at the spring waterfall that cascades down the slope. if you are especially quiet and observant, the hundreds of acres of park and ranch across the river also have mountain goats, bears, antelope and even the mountain lion. Help yourself to the library, watch satellite television or DVD movies, or read from the house’s library. The public put-in is an 11 hour trip; private access to two shorter put-ins make this a recommended site for many Montana guides. Launch from the back yard and float one half mile down the Dearborn River to the Missouri River or from anywhere on the Dearborn to your own private fishing hole among some of nature’s oldest rock outcroppings. Only few miles from the Missouri Inn over the bridge where the Untouchables was filmed, enjoy the canyon or visit the Lewis and Clark’s Tower Rock and surrounding Park. From this base, see the spectacular Glacier Park or the continent’s largest dinosaur digs to the northwest, float the Lewis and Clark Trail by pontoon boat and lunch at the island where one of the nation's most famous fires occurred, or travel south to Yellowstone National Park or Jackson Hole, each an easy day’s visit. Bring your dogs to the kennel behind the house, hang on the deck with river and tremendous rock views, play pool or light the outside fire pit for a campfire. BBQ or enjoy the new, custom kitchen and fisherman’s décor. In the evening, take your pick of 3 spacious bedrooms where at the end of the day 6 extra long beds await or tie a few at the fly-tying table.

7. Hardda Farm Site

100%

(10)

31mi from Craig · 1 site · Tent, RV · Fort Shaw, MT

Hardda Farm is our family homestead and flower farm. We raise animals, vegetables and flowers using regenerative agriculture practices. You may meet our family dairy cow, our milk & wool sheep, and a variety of poultry and waterfowl. We are very near the Sun River and less than an hour’s drive to the Missouri River or the Rocky Mountain front. We enjoy fly-fishing, climbing, and hiking and are happy to recommend some great spots.

8. Mount Helena Hideaway

100%

(5)

33mi from Craig · 1 site · RV · Helena West Side, MT

Quiet, wooded acre on the west side of Mount Helena trail system. You will have privacy, as well as beautiful views of the Helena Valley and access to miles and miles of hiking and biking trails. You are 20-25 minutes to Canyon Ferry Lake, Hauser Lake and Lake Helena. There is water and power available, but no dump or garbage. Perfect location to park while you enjoy all that Helena has to offer. 2 miles to downtown. 2 miles from Carroll College and 4 miles from the Capital!

9. York Montana Hideaway

83%

(6)

26mi from Craig · 1 site · RV · Helena Valley Northeast, MT

As opposed to the thousands of runoff creeks in Western Montana, the unique Trout Creek Canyon has one of the few spring fed streams. It's rather large volume of water flows from several groups of canyons and drainages in the Little Belt mountains, bubbling out of the ground six miles up at the foot of the beautiful Vigilante canyon and terminating in the Missouri River three miles further down. Over the last 150 years a number of gold and silver mines have operated in the gulches at the side of the canyon. A pictorial history is available at the community park and in the social hall. If you're lucky you might even still see a few mountain goats on your way up the canyon.

10. Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

73%

(11)

421 sites · Alberton, Montana

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

11. Lolo National Forest

92%

(12)

395 sites · Alberton, Montana

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

12. Helena West Side Wonder!

100%

(7)

33mi from Craig · 1 site · RV · Helena, MT

Bring your camper and park where everything about Helena is accessible! If your goal is to hear the wind in the trees and enjoy the outdoors - this is your spot! You can bike/hike on Mount Helena or head into downtown and enjoy sporting events, breweries and all things Helena has to offer. We are 2 miles from downtown Helena and at the base of the Mount Helena hiking/biking trails. This is a private lot with trees that includes water and power. You take what you came with (including garbage) and leave our spot the same as you found it. This is a residential community, so quiet hours start at 10 pm and no large groups are allowed. We do not have a dump station, but there is one within 4 miles. Beautiful location with amazing star gazing, wildlife and outdoor adventures. Quiet neighborhood - so no parties! Less than 1/2 mile of dirt road off the level and paved (just above Montana Wild and Spring Meadow Lake) and easy access to Mount Helena. Plenty of room for large campers!

13. Farm Land Escape

100%

(10)

29mi from Craig · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Helena, MT

Please contact me through here 1-2 days prior to your arrival so I can get your area ready. As there may be one other camper from time to time as well. I want you to have the privacy and the experience as if it was only you and you’re family staying. This 53 acres use to be owned by a guy named John Helberg which is who the road is named after. It’s the original homestead land dated over 100 years ago where they farmed for there dairy cows and other livestock. This is right off a dead end road. You will have a view of a Montana farm field with the Rocky Mountains in the background. Dark nights out of the town means the stars will be out and about! This is a quiet secluded area there is a house near by, he is an older gentlemen you won’t even know he’s there. Depending on time of year there will be a field full of crop or the farm getting farmed. There very well could be some horses near by to pet!! Located 10 minutes from the lakes. 5 minutes from a reservoir. 10 minutes from town. 15 min to closest hiking areas. Helena really is the heart of fun very centralized for all directions of fun! Very easy pull in and pull out area. Please not there may be other campers enjoying as well Black Sandy State Park and Helena National Park are both under 15 miles away. Enjoy hiking and If you’re the boating type, head down the Missouri river in search of a rumored rope swing or jump off the boat for a dip in the crystal waters of Hauser Lake. Looking to avoid all the crowds or enjoy a solitary weekend under the endless Montana sky? Just head to Black Sandy during the winter months! You’ll find the same great stunning views and an ice skating experience that will put your grandparents’ childhood tales to shame. I do have power 50 amp, fresh water, grey water hook up, no black water. This option may not be available all of the time. Nearby is a brown shop this is area is rented out and off limits to camp stayers. The patio area on shop is not for the hipcampers thank you

14. The Mountaintop Disconnect

100%

(3)

12mi from Craig · 1 site · Lodging · Wolf Creek, MT

We don't know much about the history of our property but we can tell you that we plan on keeping it forever. It has absurdly good views at the top and is the perfect amount of remote and accessible for us.Learn more about this land:The property begins at the base of a small mountain and goes straight to the 6000' peak (and a little past). Great views, silent surroundings. You will very much be in the middle of nowhere. Enjoy it. There is a natural spring on the property from which you may get your water. Please no relieving yourself within 100 feet of the spring or uphill from it.

15. Alhambra RV Park

43mi from Craig · 101 sites · Clancy, MT

Alhambra RV Park in Clancy, MT, is a unique destination steeped in history, located on the grounds of former sanitariums and hot springs that once attracted visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. In the early 1900s, travelers arrived via the Great Northern Railroad at Alhambra station to experience the therapeutic benefits of the Alhambra and Sunnyside Sanatoriums. For decades, guests enjoyed the natural beauty of the area, soaking in mineral-rich waters until a fire in 1959 led to the closure of the facilities. Today, Clancy remains a charming community just 10 miles south of Helena, the state capital. Conveniently situated off Interstate I-15 at exit 182, Alhambra RV Park offers a tranquil escape with sites nestled around the picturesque Prickly Pear stream. Guests can unwind in a serene environment while enjoying fishing opportunities and a peaceful stay during their travels through Montana. The park is equipped with essential amenities, including electricity, fire pits, picnic tables, a dump station, pull-through sites, propane refills, and clean restrooms. While visiting, take advantage of the various outdoor activities available, such as fishing, golfing, and hiking. Additionally, explore the nearby attractions, including the Lewis & Clark County Fair

Camper favorites near Craig

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

York Montana Hideaway

83%

(6)

26mi from Craig · 1 site · RV · Helena Valley Northeast, MT

As opposed to the thousands of runoff creeks in Western Montana, the unique Trout Creek Canyon has one of the few spring fed streams. It's rather large volume of water flows from several groups of canyons and drainages in the Little Belt mountains, bubbling out of the ground six miles up at the foot of the beautiful Vigilante canyon and terminating in the Missouri River three miles further down. Over the last 150 years a number of gold and silver mines have operated in the gulches at the side of the canyon. A pictorial history is available at the community park and in the social hall. If you're lucky you might even still see a few mountain goats on your way up the canyon.

Helena West Side Wonder!

100%

(7)

33mi from Craig · 1 site · RV · Helena, MT

Bring your camper and park where everything about Helena is accessible! If your goal is to hear the wind in the trees and enjoy the outdoors - this is your spot! You can bike/hike on Mount Helena or head into downtown and enjoy sporting events, breweries and all things Helena has to offer. We are 2 miles from downtown Helena and at the base of the Mount Helena hiking/biking trails. This is a private lot with trees that includes water and power. You take what you came with (including garbage) and leave our spot the same as you found it. This is a residential community, so quiet hours start at 10 pm and no large groups are allowed. We do not have a dump station, but there is one within 4 miles. Beautiful location with amazing star gazing, wildlife and outdoor adventures. Quiet neighborhood - so no parties! Less than 1/2 mile of dirt road off the level and paved (just above Montana Wild and Spring Meadow Lake) and easy access to Mount Helena. Plenty of room for large campers!

Farm Land Escape

100%

(10)

29mi from Craig · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Helena, MT

Please contact me through here 1-2 days prior to your arrival so I can get your area ready. As there may be one other camper from time to time as well. I want you to have the privacy and the experience as if it was only you and you’re family staying. This 53 acres use to be owned by a guy named John Helberg which is who the road is named after. It’s the original homestead land dated over 100 years ago where they farmed for there dairy cows and other livestock. This is right off a dead end road. You will have a view of a Montana farm field with the Rocky Mountains in the background. Dark nights out of the town means the stars will be out and about! This is a quiet secluded area there is a house near by, he is an older gentlemen you won’t even know he’s there. Depending on time of year there will be a field full of crop or the farm getting farmed. There very well could be some horses near by to pet!! Located 10 minutes from the lakes. 5 minutes from a reservoir. 10 minutes from town. 15 min to closest hiking areas. Helena really is the heart of fun very centralized for all directions of fun! Very easy pull in and pull out area. Please not there may be other campers enjoying as well Black Sandy State Park and Helena National Park are both under 15 miles away. Enjoy hiking and If you’re the boating type, head down the Missouri river in search of a rumored rope swing or jump off the boat for a dip in the crystal waters of Hauser Lake. Looking to avoid all the crowds or enjoy a solitary weekend under the endless Montana sky? Just head to Black Sandy during the winter months! You’ll find the same great stunning views and an ice skating experience that will put your grandparents’ childhood tales to shame. I do have power 50 amp, fresh water, grey water hook up, no black water. This option may not be available all of the time. Nearby is a brown shop this is area is rented out and off limits to camp stayers. The patio area on shop is not for the hipcampers thank you

The Mountaintop Disconnect

100%

(3)

12mi from Craig · 1 site · Lodging · Wolf Creek, MT

We don't know much about the history of our property but we can tell you that we plan on keeping it forever. It has absurdly good views at the top and is the perfect amount of remote and accessible for us.Learn more about this land:The property begins at the base of a small mountain and goes straight to the 6000' peak (and a little past). Great views, silent surroundings. You will very much be in the middle of nowhere. Enjoy it. There is a natural spring on the property from which you may get your water. Please no relieving yourself within 100 feet of the spring or uphill from it.

Alhambra RV Park

43mi from Craig · 101 sites · Clancy, MT

Alhambra RV Park in Clancy, MT, is a unique destination steeped in history, located on the grounds of former sanitariums and hot springs that once attracted visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. In the early 1900s, travelers arrived via the Great Northern Railroad at Alhambra station to experience the therapeutic benefits of the Alhambra and Sunnyside Sanatoriums. For decades, guests enjoyed the natural beauty of the area, soaking in mineral-rich waters until a fire in 1959 led to the closure of the facilities. Today, Clancy remains a charming community just 10 miles south of Helena, the state capital. Conveniently situated off Interstate I-15 at exit 182, Alhambra RV Park offers a tranquil escape with sites nestled around the picturesque Prickly Pear stream. Guests can unwind in a serene environment while enjoying fishing opportunities and a peaceful stay during their travels through Montana. The park is equipped with essential amenities, including electricity, fire pits, picnic tables, a dump station, pull-through sites, propane refills, and clean restrooms. While visiting, take advantage of the various outdoor activities available, such as fishing, golfing, and hiking. Additionally, explore the nearby attractions, including the Lewis & Clark County Fair

Public campgrounds near Craig

Indian Flats Cabin

22mi from Craig · 1 site · in Helena National Forest

Black Sandy Campground

23mi from Craig · 34 sites · Tents, RVs · in Black Sandy State Park

Cummings Cabin

26mi from Craig · 1 site · in Helena National Forest

100%

(1)

Vigilante Campground

26mi from Craig · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Helena National Forest

Aspen Grove Group Use Campground

27mi from Craig · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Helena National Forest

Bar Gulch Cabin

30mi from Craig · 1 site · in Helena National Forest

100%

(1)

Copper Creek Campground

31mi from Craig · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in Helena National Forest

Moose Creek Campground

40mi from Craig · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Helena National Forest

Moose Creek Cabin

40mi from Craig · 1 site · in Helena National Forest

Monument Peak Lookout

41mi from Craig · 1 site · in Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

Double Falls Campground

42mi from Craig · 4 sites · in Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

Coulter Campground

43mi from Craig · 7 sites · in Helena National Forest

Stories from the community

D

Darci

October 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountain Biker's Getaway

Jamie's land was perfect for our last camping trip of the season. The spot is beautiful and so peaceful. It is close enough to downtown to be convenient, yet feels like you are out in the country. Jamie was super helpful and attentive. We will definitely be back next time we are in Helena.

M

Michael

September 2025

19 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Hardda Farm Site

Exactly as advertised. This is a great stop if heading north to the GNP area. We loved it.

B

Brett

September 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Mountain Biker's Getaway

Beautiful property, excellent hosts, fantastic area to explore around. We visited with two kids (9 and 12) and two dogs. Will be back next season!

Krystl

September 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Montana Country & Stone Barns

The hayloft was closed for maintenance, but the bunkhouse was very comfortable and beautifully decorated. The heater kept my little dog and I cozy all night. A great place to stay!

R

Robert

September 2025

40 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Mountain Biker's Getaway

Lovely quiet spot. We had our dog so we took several walks - on the Host's land and along the quiet gravel road. Easy to find a flat spot to park. We had a great chat with the Host, who was quite helpful.

V

Victoria

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Hardda Farm Site

The land looked very nice, but I was only there for a few hours to sleep before leaving again. Seemed great, but didn’t get to spend a lot of time there

M

Megan

September 2025

Tent

With kids

1 night at Hardda Farm Site

Elicia and her family were wonderful and very welcoming! My two young sons (2 & 4) and I were passing through while on an extended road trip just after my husband deployed. I felt very safe, and my boys loved interacting with the farm animals! I hope we have another opportunity to pass through, so we can stay again!

N

Nathan

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Hardda Farm Site

Was awesome!!! So peaceful and pretty. Very nice people that own the property as well! Definitely would go back!

L

Lynnell

August 2025

29 ft campervan

With kids

1 night at The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!

Ana's property is absolutely perfect. A quiet and safe space just minutes from the main streets. Easy to navigate with a large unit in tow!

Jaimee

August 2025

28 ft travel trailer

With kids

Weekend Trip to Mount Helena Hideaway

What a hidden gem! We would definitely stay here again!

S

Suzanne

August 2025

23 ft travel trailer

With pets

1 night at Mountain Biker's Getaway

The area was beautiful and far away from town. Lots of trees and quite. Jamie was so hospitable. They even helped us back in to our area.

Leslie

August 2025

26 ft Class C

2 nights at Helena West Side Wonder!

We very much enjoyed camping on Annette's land. It's close to trails and downtown Helena. We parked and used our bikes and ebikes to get around. The spot is tucked into trees on a quiet rural street. We found Helena to be very charming and welcoming. We spent an afternoon at Broadwater Hot Springs, just a few miles away. $17 day use fee and you can use their various pools, sauna, and gym. Poolside snack service too!

Daniel & Renee

August 2025

18 ft pop-up camper

1 night at York Montana Hideaway

This is our second time this summer on Christian's land, so obviously it's a big thumbs up! Christian is a super great and amiable host who enjoys sharing this little paradise; Campsite was on lush green grass adjacent to a perennial spring-fed creek. Lots of birds and wild flowers! This is a beautiful location, but please be sure you are 100% self-contained as there is no power, or waste disposal. Overall, one of the nicest places We've hipcamped in Montana!

Gwendolyn

August 2025

19 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Mountain Biker's Getaway

The hosts were absolutely delightful, and the site for us to rest our heads was simply sublime. Great access to all of the nearby trails; we didn’t have to drive to any trailhead, just started riding from our camp. We highly recommend this Hipcamp site!

M

Matthew

August 2025

23 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to York Montana Hideaway

Great spot on a cool creek. Christian is a wonderful host. He showed exceptional hospitality.

E

Elena

July 2025

24 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to York Montana Hideaway

We loved Christian’s property for our two night stay in our camper. He was a pleasure to meet and made sure we had everything we needed including potable water. The beautiful spring creek is a treat to have at your front door, and you’re minutes away from Hauser Lake. Convenient place to stay to explore the area including lots of hiking opportunities.

P

Paul

July 2025

28 ft travel trailer

6 nights at Helena West Side Wonder!

Great site close to plenty of biking ………………………………..

A

Andrea

July 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Hardda Farm Site

This was a great place for a night’s stopover on my way across the country. Hosts were super nice and pleasant to chat with. I ordered firewood and they had paper and matches to get it started which was a nice touch.

S

Stacey

July 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!

Loved this place! Great location that is right in Helena but private and beautiful.

Lindy

July 2025

27 ft travel trailer

With pets

4 nights at York Montana Hideaway

York is a little gem! We were able to do Hauser Lake and Canyon Ferry. We rode our bikes and had a burger at the York bar. Fantastic location right on Trout Creek!