The best ranch campgrounds near Helena, Montana

Looking to camp near Helena, Montana and indulge in some ranch activities? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 300 options available near Helena, Montana that cater specifically to ranch enthusiasts, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect spot. Whether you prefer a rustic camping experience or a more comfortable stay, Hipcamp has got you covered. Some popular campsites in the area include Gallatin River Getaway (159 reviews), VanGoBoon Campground (135 reviews), and Montana Red Devon Ranch (75 reviews). Plus, you'll find popular amenities like pet-friendly sites, toilets, and cooking equipment. And if you're into biking, off-roading (OHV), or whitewater paddling, you're in for a treat. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable ranch camping experience in Helena, Montana!

97% (287)

Top-rated campgrounds near Helena

Looking to camp near Helena, Montana and indulge in some ranch activities? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 300 options available near Helena, Montana that cater specifically to ranch enthusiasts, you'll have no trouble finding the perfect spot. Whether you prefer a rustic camping experience or a more comfortable stay, Hipcamp has got you covered. Some popular campsites in the area include Gallatin River Getaway (159 reviews), VanGoBoon Campground (135 reviews), and Montana Red Devon Ranch (75 reviews). Plus, you'll find popular amenities like pet-friendly sites, toilets, and cooking equipment. And if you're into biking, off-roading (OHV), or whitewater paddling, you're in for a treat. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable ranch camping experience in Helena, Montana!

97% (287)

Top-rated campgrounds near Helena

1. A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame

100%

(20)

39mi from Helena · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Experience an unforgettable getaway at our canyon retreat. Our property is located on 190+ acres, and is surrounded by mountain, canyon and river views. Find a secluded campsite or stay at our mini A-frame, with Blue-Ribbon trout fishing right nearby. Guests will find a private and peaceful setting to relax and connect. LOCATION DETAILS ☀ 2 min from I-15 exit on a private road ☀ 10 min to nearest grocery and gas station in Cascade, MT ☀ 5 min to nearest bar & grill, Missouri River Inn ☀ 3 min to nearest boat ramp/fishing access for the Missouri River ☀ 30 min to Holter Lake ☀ 12 min to fly fishing stores, restaurants and bar & grills in Craig, MT ☀ 18 min to fly fishing stores, restaurants and bar & grills, gas station in Wolf Creek, MT ☀ 45 min to downtown Helena, MT ☀ 3.5 hours to Yellowstone National Park ☀ 2.5 hours to Glacier National Park ☀ 30 min to Great Falls International Airport ☀ 50 min to Helena Regional Airport ☀ 2 hours to Bozeman International Airport ☀ 2.5 hours to Missoula International Airport Important notes: - Please bring your own water - 4WD recommended for closest access to our sites.

2. Geary Brothers Ranch

93%

(59)

49mi from Helena · 153 sites · Tents, RVs

Located in the Blackfoot Valley you will enjoy the endless views and access to some of the best public hunting and fishing the state has to offer. Plenty of room for the kids and dogs to play. You will stay at the historic Helmville Rodeo Grounds and enjoy the privacy and endless views. Can't wait!

3. Big-Enough Ranch

97%

(70)

21mi from Helena · 2 sites · Lodging

Horse ranch on 40 acres located just outside of Boulder, MT. Exceptional views and peace and quiet at this retreat cabin. 20 acres to the East has and old hunting cabin alongside a creek. Also an old mining test pit from the late 1800’s mining boom, as well as a hand built irrigation ditch that runs through the property.

4. Rockinon R.’s Land

100%

(1)

12mi from Helena · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to RockinonRanch, a peaceful 50-acre retreat nestled in the scenic North Valley—just 20 minutes from Helena, Montana. This is an authentic Montana homestead, rich with rustic charm and surrounded by trees, birds, and big-sky views. Whether you’re here to unplug, stargaze, or explore nearby wilderness, you’ll find the space and quiet you need. 🌿 A True Montana Homestead Experience Our property is an original homestead, and we’re continually working to restore and care for the land. While you’re here, you may notice signs of its historic roots. For example, there’s an old dump area on the property—not visible from the campsite—which will be clearly marked with signs. For safety and privacy, we kindly ask that guests do not enter that area, as well as avoid the house and barn zones, which are private. 🌌 Unmatched Tranquility & Natural Beauty Enjoy nights under crystal-clear skies with no traffic noise—just the occasional call of coyotes in the distance. It’s an ideal spot for stargazing, birdwatching, and total relaxation. 🛶 Private, Peaceful Campsite by the Pond Set near a quiet pond (note: swimming is not recommended), your campsite is surrounded by nature. You’ll be the only guests on the property during your stay—we offer two sites but only book one at a time to ensure complete privacy. 🐾 Pet & Wildlife Friendly You’re welcome to bring your dog(s), but please keep them leashed at all times. Our pets roam freely, including chickens, peacocks, sheep, alpacas, cats, and dogs. 🏕️ Amenities Include Fire pit Charcoal grill Portable toilet (“Little Jonny”) Kayak rentals available (with vests and dry bags) Shuttle service available for an additional cost 🧭 Nearby Attractions Marysville – 15 minutes Missouri River (Gates of the Mountains) – 25 minutes Plenty of nearby hiking, paddling, and outdoor activities 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for Families – With Caution Kids are welcome! However, please keep a close eye on them, especially around the pond and other natural features. 🚫 A Few Friendly Rules Respect marked areas (e.g. old dump, barn, and house) No wandering near private buildings Clean up after your pets Be kind to nature—leave no trace 🌟 We’re proud to share our quiet slice of Montana with you. Whether you’re staying for a night

5. Farm Land Escape

100%

(10)

5.1mi from Helena · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

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

6. Mile High Mountain Homestead

90%

(15)

49mi from Helena · 1 site · Tent, RV

Beautiful 20 acre homestead, surrounded by the Garnet Mountains. We have beautiful small lakes that are a beautiful water fowl sanctuary, where you can observe wild life and migratory water fowl and beautiful song birds and beautiful Mountain Views . Come prepared! We are in grizzly country , BE BEAR AWARE! All campers need to keep all ice chests and food away from their tents and in their cars when not using them! This is grizzly and black bear country, keep all cooking utensils , dog food and pans , in your vehicle when not in use! Also you pack it in, you pack it out, we do not dump your trash or take care of it for you. Very important to obey the bear rules and our rules for camping on our land to stay safe! Thank you and we want you to have a safe and enjoyable camp out! When you book with us , we will send you the directions to get to your campsite. GPS will get you lost!

7. White Bridge Lane Private Campsite

99%

(70)

29mi from Helena · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Dawson Family Ranch is a family-run business with a focus on sustainable land and agriculture practices. The ranch is located along a mile of the Boulder River between the Elkhorn and Bull Mountain Ranges. The river offers fishing for rainbow and brown trout. Public land access is within a short drive (2-7 miles depending on direction) and offers different recreational opportunities including hiking, hunting, and motorized recreation. Boulder Hot Springs is less than 4 miles away.

8. River's Bend RV

100%

(23)

28mi from Helena · 11 sites · RVs

The RV Park has 10 sites with full hookups except for campsite 10 which only has electric and water. These sites are pull through and most can accommodate large RVs. This is a dog friendly park, please keep your dog on a leash and pick up after your furry friend. Recreation Opportunities Close to the RV Park. The RV Park is within a 15 minute hike of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. The Boulder Hot Springs is approximately a 2-mile drive from the RV Park where you can soak in their pools always heated with thermal water. Fishing access to the Boulder River is a short drive from the RV Park. Access to off road recreation is approximately 2 miles going north or south. Helena Mt. the capital, is a 40-minute drive. Butte Mt. is about a 50-minute drive where you can see all the historic mining era. Boulder MT (RV Park) is halfway between Yellowstone NP and Glacier NP. Wildlife is abundant with mule deer and whitetails. Certain times of the year elk hang out in the hayfields which are adjacent to the park. Views of the mountains are very nice. Explore the Ghost town of Elkhorn 12 miles away. The Boulder Valley is an agricultural landscape, and with that comes Mosquitos. Please be prepared to handle them mostly June-July.

9. 》°☆Montana Family Camp☆°《

93%

(14)

9.2mi from Helena · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

PLEASE BE AWARE! There are no toilets onsite and no water available from October 1st to May 1st. We are open through the winter, but you'll need to be fully containted, and not need water or toilets. Fantastic Hauser Lake, causeway, and National forest basecamp or for a quick overnight stay when you're passing through. Sprawling 20 acres set in the center of 4 lakes in the Helena Valley. 1 1/2 miles from Lakeside, a haven for boaters, swimmers, and not much further to Helena National Forest, and York. Lakeside offers a gas station, convenience store, and wonderful bar/restaurant. Several boat launches and walking paths are also in the area. 9 miles from Helena. Experience a beautiful Prairie setting with awesome sunsets, chickens, roosters, horses, guinea fowl, and stunning views of Hauser Lake and several mountain ranges. Talk to Granny Julie about our horses, chickens, guinea fowl, and other fun stuff to view at the farm! Animals do make noise, and we do have roosters. Guinea Fowl are watchdogs and alert to danger, so they can be noisy from time to time. The horse likes to let us know she wants treats. :) We are a family farm, so children do visit Granny; please drive accordingly. Please note! We are adding picnic tables to the sites to better serve you.

10. The DET Place Hideaway

100%

(11)

32mi from Helena · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Unplug under the endless Montana sky at “The DET Place” — a private 12-acre retreat tucked away just a mile outside Townsend. Set up camp in wide open space with epic views of Mount Baldy, a cozy campfire, and frequent visits from whitetail deer, pheasants, and the occasional sandhill cranes. Perfect for tent campers and stargazers, the site is close to Canyon Ferry Lake, the Missouri River, and town conveniences - but feels like a world away. Watch the sunrise with the resident horses, visit with the barn cats, or just sit back and take in the silence. Whether you're paddling, fishing, hiking, or glamping out under the stars, The DET Place offers a Montana experience you'll never forget.

11. Ponderosa Pine Ranch camp

95%

(63)

49mi from Helena · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: Our property is in a close proximity to the Fairweather Fishing access on the Missouri River. Camping is not allowed at the access so we would be the closest camping site to this great outdoor playground. There is opportunity for fishing, floating, boating, hunting and swimming in the summer . There are groves of mature trees and open sites available. This is directly off of paved county road. The property adjacent to ours has the original ranch house and barn and other outbuildings that were part of the Ponderosa Pine Ranch which owned most of the valley we're in. The ranch house and buildings were divided away from our part of the property several years ago, so we have our home here and what was mostly pasture. The campsites are all pasture grass with trees for shade. We do not have cell phone service here. We have one site that has 30 amp electricity. Also we do not have trash service .

12. The Homestead

100%

(18)

8.5mi from Helena · 2 sites · Lodging

The Homestead is located in Clancy, Montana on a 600 acre portion of a private ranch. This is a camping experience...think upscale tent camping for the adventurous soul! The tents are nestled in the foothills of the Elkhorn Mountain Range and sit right above the Strawberry Creek trail. You will be surrounded by stunning views of Sheep Mountain to the west, Casey Peak to the east, and the Helena Valley and Gates of the Mountains Wilderness to the north. Mountain bike, hike, trail run, explore and/or relax! Just a short 20 minute drive to Helena, MT for more trails, dining or other activities. *** This mountain destination takes you one mile on a dirt, two track road though a field to reach the tents so AWD is highly recommended.

Camper favorites near Helena

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

White Bridge Lane Private Campsite

99%

(70)

29mi from Helena · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Dawson Family Ranch is a family-run business with a focus on sustainable land and agriculture practices. The ranch is located along a mile of the Boulder River between the Elkhorn and Bull Mountain Ranges. The river offers fishing for rainbow and brown trout. Public land access is within a short drive (2-7 miles depending on direction) and offers different recreational opportunities including hiking, hunting, and motorized recreation. Boulder Hot Springs is less than 4 miles away.

River's Bend RV

100%

(23)

28mi from Helena · 11 sites · RVs

The RV Park has 10 sites with full hookups except for campsite 10 which only has electric and water. These sites are pull through and most can accommodate large RVs. This is a dog friendly park, please keep your dog on a leash and pick up after your furry friend. Recreation Opportunities Close to the RV Park. The RV Park is within a 15 minute hike of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. The Boulder Hot Springs is approximately a 2-mile drive from the RV Park where you can soak in their pools always heated with thermal water. Fishing access to the Boulder River is a short drive from the RV Park. Access to off road recreation is approximately 2 miles going north or south. Helena Mt. the capital, is a 40-minute drive. Butte Mt. is about a 50-minute drive where you can see all the historic mining era. Boulder MT (RV Park) is halfway between Yellowstone NP and Glacier NP. Wildlife is abundant with mule deer and whitetails. Certain times of the year elk hang out in the hayfields which are adjacent to the park. Views of the mountains are very nice. Explore the Ghost town of Elkhorn 12 miles away. The Boulder Valley is an agricultural landscape, and with that comes Mosquitos. Please be prepared to handle them mostly June-July.

》°☆Montana Family Camp☆°《

93%

(14)

9.2mi from Helena · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

PLEASE BE AWARE! There are no toilets onsite and no water available from October 1st to May 1st. We are open through the winter, but you'll need to be fully containted, and not need water or toilets. Fantastic Hauser Lake, causeway, and National forest basecamp or for a quick overnight stay when you're passing through. Sprawling 20 acres set in the center of 4 lakes in the Helena Valley. 1 1/2 miles from Lakeside, a haven for boaters, swimmers, and not much further to Helena National Forest, and York. Lakeside offers a gas station, convenience store, and wonderful bar/restaurant. Several boat launches and walking paths are also in the area. 9 miles from Helena. Experience a beautiful Prairie setting with awesome sunsets, chickens, roosters, horses, guinea fowl, and stunning views of Hauser Lake and several mountain ranges. Talk to Granny Julie about our horses, chickens, guinea fowl, and other fun stuff to view at the farm! Animals do make noise, and we do have roosters. Guinea Fowl are watchdogs and alert to danger, so they can be noisy from time to time. The horse likes to let us know she wants treats. :) We are a family farm, so children do visit Granny; please drive accordingly. Please note! We are adding picnic tables to the sites to better serve you.

The DET Place Hideaway

100%

(11)

32mi from Helena · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Unplug under the endless Montana sky at “The DET Place” — a private 12-acre retreat tucked away just a mile outside Townsend. Set up camp in wide open space with epic views of Mount Baldy, a cozy campfire, and frequent visits from whitetail deer, pheasants, and the occasional sandhill cranes. Perfect for tent campers and stargazers, the site is close to Canyon Ferry Lake, the Missouri River, and town conveniences - but feels like a world away. Watch the sunrise with the resident horses, visit with the barn cats, or just sit back and take in the silence. Whether you're paddling, fishing, hiking, or glamping out under the stars, The DET Place offers a Montana experience you'll never forget.

Ponderosa Pine Ranch camp

95%

(63)

49mi from Helena · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Learn more about this land: Our property is in a close proximity to the Fairweather Fishing access on the Missouri River. Camping is not allowed at the access so we would be the closest camping site to this great outdoor playground. There is opportunity for fishing, floating, boating, hunting and swimming in the summer . There are groves of mature trees and open sites available. This is directly off of paved county road. The property adjacent to ours has the original ranch house and barn and other outbuildings that were part of the Ponderosa Pine Ranch which owned most of the valley we're in. The ranch house and buildings were divided away from our part of the property several years ago, so we have our home here and what was mostly pasture. The campsites are all pasture grass with trees for shade. We do not have cell phone service here. We have one site that has 30 amp electricity. Also we do not have trash service .

The Homestead

100%

(18)

8.5mi from Helena · 2 sites · Lodging

The Homestead is located in Clancy, Montana on a 600 acre portion of a private ranch. This is a camping experience...think upscale tent camping for the adventurous soul! The tents are nestled in the foothills of the Elkhorn Mountain Range and sit right above the Strawberry Creek trail. You will be surrounded by stunning views of Sheep Mountain to the west, Casey Peak to the east, and the Helena Valley and Gates of the Mountains Wilderness to the north. Mountain bike, hike, trail run, explore and/or relax! Just a short 20 minute drive to Helena, MT for more trails, dining or other activities. *** This mountain destination takes you one mile on a dirt, two track road though a field to reach the tents so AWD is highly recommended.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

C

Chelsea

September 2025

Weekend Trip to A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame

Absolutely beautiful property. Thoughtful accommodations(games, solar powered flashlight/radio, books, hiking poles). Truly a wonderful experience. We didn’t encounter any bears but we did get to see a few deer. I recommend getting there during the light hours so you can find your way. Easy to follow instruction. Hosts are responsive and welcoming. Propane fire pit was a nice bonus. Our indoor heater was out of propane but we were comfortable. Bathroom and shower are down a little ways from the a-frame but not a bad walk. Definitely set up for a camper ready for a little glamp :)

H

Heidi

September 2025

1 night at A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame

Secluded canyon stay near beautiful Cascade, MT. The scenery was amazing and we really enjoyed our stay at the mini A-frame.

D

Dominic

September 2025

43 ft fifth wheel

6 nights at River's Bend RV

Nice quiet location. Lori was great and even brought me muffins!!

K

Kevin

September 2025

With pets

2 nights at The Homestead

The tent was amazing! It was the perfect mix of wilderness and comfort. I had my 4 yr old daughter and we had a blast. Endless rocks and boulders to climb on and plenty of privacy. We heard an elk bugling on the second the morning as well, creating quite the experience. We also took a quick drive to the Hardware Cafe just a few miles down the road for some comfort food. We will definitely be staying again next year!

K

Kim

September 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at White Bridge Lane Private Campsite

These folks were so kind, and finding the space was easy with their published directions. The space is well maintained, and wonderfully peaceful, especially once the traffic on the highway dies down. They even had firewood set out. Awesome.

R

Rachel

September 2025

Weekend Trip to The Homestead

We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Jamie’s Elkhorn tent. She has curated the space beautifully and thought of every little detail. The property is beautiful and close to Helena. We got the mountain camping experience without having to drive far. Thank you for you hospitality!

A

Aaron

September 2025

15 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to White Bridge Lane Private Campsite

Awesome spot!! Super private. Excellent river access. Great views.

S

Sierra

August 2025

17 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to 》°☆Montana Family Camp☆°《

This is the perfect place for a quick overnight stay. I loved being woken up by the roosters to watch the beautiful sunrise! There scenery is beautiful no matter what direction you look. The host was very friendly and welcoming as well.

S

Shombuly

August 2025

Weekend Trip to A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame

What a wonderful spot in the world. Just outside cell reception is a little piece of heaven! Thank you so much for sharing it with us. As a couples weekend away, this was perfect. We will be back again.

J

Joshua

August 2025

1 night at A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame

Kate and Ben's A-frame was awesome. Just a few minutes from the highway, but still very secluded. No other buildings or anything around. The cabin was super cute and cozy. And with the side open, there's a great view of the canyon during the day and the stars at night. Highly recommend!

T

True Spirit

August 2025

21 ft pop-up camper

With pets

Weekend Trip to White Bridge Lane Private Campsite

Beautiful spot along the river. Mosquitos were t an issue. Would stay here again

T

Tricia

August 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame

Amazing spot! Extremely quiet and calm. Everything was clean and comfortable! Exactly what we needed after traveling the PNW for two weeks!

D

David

August 2025

31 ft travel trailer

1 night at River's Bend RV

Lori’s camp sites are new and very well kept. Nice quiet place with a great view of the mountains and valley.

The river spot a short walk from the campsite.

Elizabeth

August 2025

19 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Ponderosa Pine Ranch camp

What a perfect gem of a private spot! I needed to have a reset day on a long trip and plug into power and personally don’t like the crammed experience of rv parks (I’m in a campervan). I think another reviewer mentioned the view of the closeness of the mobile home and things around, and yes, you’ll see this when you first come in the driveway, but where you camp is private, covered by trees, and a little oasis. Patricia, the host, is completely lovely, quick to respond and be extra helpful. The stars at night incredible, and a walk across the street to have access to the river was priceless. I would definitely stay again!

C

Chantel

August 2025

Weekend Trip to The Homestead

We wanted to go somewhere, but had to be super close to home. Enter an Elkhorn Mountain adventure, just 20 minutes from our door in Helena, down the highway to Clancy to the Homestead Camp. We love camping ⛺️ and yet I didn’t feel up to all of the work required. And I’m really very extremely tired and wanted to sleep well. I found this gorgeous getaway on Hip-camp and with the hard work done, all I had to do was eat, drink, read, and sleep. And boy, did I sleep! Multiple times a day even! We watched clouds rolls by until the sky darkened and it was the stars’ turn. ✨ We fell asleep to rain drops kissing the canvas and woke to the rattle of thunder of deep in the mountains. ⛰️

S

Shaun

August 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to The DET Place Hideaway

We had a great time. We will be back for sure! Perfect for tent camping. Fire ring. Horses to watch. On sight water.

M

MJ

August 2025

28 ft fifth wheel

With pets

3 nights at River's Bend RV

outstanding hosts and the slots are double easy to access

F

Frances

August 2025

16 ft toy hauler

With pets

1 night at White Bridge Lane Private Campsite

Easy access; private enough, but yet close drive to Boulder Hot Springs.

M

Mark

August 2025

23 ft travel trailer

3 nights at White Bridge Lane Private Campsite

Neat spot, enjoyed our stay! We will use this spot again.

Eric

August 2025

Tent

With pets

1 night at The DET Place Hideaway

Beautiful, peaceful place to stay under the Montana night sky. The horses will keep you company and let you scratch their heads as long as you want. It's close to the quaint downtown of Townsend and the Missouri River. The host Mackenzie was FANTASTIC -- a great communicator and super helpful. Highly recommend!