The best river, stream, or creek RV camping near Virginia City

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In the heart of Madison County, Virginia City delivers history on the edge of the Rocky Mountains. The town’s gold rush past offers a view into the Old West, with heritage buildings and local museums revealing how residents lived in the 18th century. Head outside Virginia City’s borders to Yellowstone, America’s first national park, to witness active geysers and see some of the country’s most iconic nature spots. Then check out Beaverhead-Deerlodge and Helena-Lewis and Clark national forests for hiking trails, scenic drives, and spectacular mountain views. Park the RV in a national forest, pitch a tent among Christmas trees, or rent a cabin with toilets and drinking water—any way is a good way to enjoy natural beauty near Virginia City.

91% (417)

Top-rated campgrounds

Cloud Nine Equine Ranch

1. Cloud Nine Equine Ranch

100%
(12)
40mi from Virginia City · 1 site · Tent, RV · Gallatin Gateway, MT
10 acre private hobby farm located in Gallatin gateway less than half a mile from the Gallatin River. Campsite is accessible by a separate entrance up by our shop and can accommodate travel trailer, tents, or rv. Breathtaking 360 mountain views including the Spanish peaks, the Gallatin Range, and the Bridgers. There is a seasonal ditch running through the property along the camp space that runs spring to fall. Walking distance to the Gallatin River, Stacey's Famous bar and steakhouse, and state land for hiking, riding, biking and hunting. 45 minutes to the town of Big sky and 1 1/2 hours to West Yellowstone. Easy access to town for shops, groceries and restaurants. Minutes from Bozeman Hot Springs. Potable water available. Flat level ground mix of gravel and native grasses. We are happy to help book any excursions or restaurants or just give advice on things to do around town and in Yellowstone!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$70
 / night
Sunset from Campsite

2. Gallatin River Getaway

97%
(538)
47mi from Virginia City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Three Forks, MT
This property has been a farm and ranch since 1863 it was used as a stage stop for travelers going to the gold fields in Bannock and Virginia City Montana. Come check us out.We offer two private campsites on the Gallatin River near Logan, Montana, 1/4 mile apart on a working farm and ranch. Ranch also is located below ATT and Verizon cell towers. Five minutes from entrance gate to interstate ninety. We are thirty minutes from Bozeman, six miles from Three Forks, MT, three miles from Headwaters State Park (Headwaters of the Missouri River), 12 minutes from the Copper City Mountain biking trails, 20 minutes from Lewis and Clark Caverns, eight miles from Madison Buffalo Jump. Yellowstone National Park is two hours south of the property. Easy full recreational access to the Gallatin River, including fishing if you follow Montana FWP rules and regulations. Gallatin River is a blue-ribbon trout stream and there are four additional blue-ribbon trout streams that are within close proximity. Inhabited by most major indigenous species of Montana, except bison and mountain goats. This is a working farm and ranch and equipment and activities related to the operation should be expected also a train runs close to property. Host lives on the property and is available to contact. 
Pets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Creekside at Liberty Acres Bozeman

3. Creekside at Liberty Acres Bozeman

96%
(25)
50mi from Virginia City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bozeman, MT
Enter campsites at bottom of the hill where Hidden Valley Road takes a sharp right turn. Picnic tables and fire rings are in clear view. Camp along Baxter Creek in Bozeman, enjoy sunrise over the Bridger mountains, sunset over the Spanish Peaks, the sound of a babbling creek, serenity of the countryside complete with grazing cattle, migrant deer and birds of many kinds. Stroll down to creek through grassy access near cabin or cross the bridge to the "wild side". If you have a fishing license, drop a line in for catch and release or just cool your feet in the running water. Creek has been restored for fish habitat by renowned fish habitat designer, Joe Urbani. It is part of Liberty Acres Aquatic Ecosystem, a non-profit established to protect and enhance the wildlife habitat at Liberty Acres. Enjoy hundreds of miles of near-by hiking trails, Blue Ribbon trout fishing, ziplining, adventure rafting on the Gallatin River or a lazy float on the Madison. Or, opt for city life. In just a few minutes you can be in the center of vibrant downtown Bozeman with boutique shopping and an abundance of resturants and craft breweries. Ask about overnighting horses, llamas and other grazing livestock.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$59
 / night
Madison River tiny house/camp site

6. Madison River tiny house/camp site

35mi from Virginia City · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Three Forks, MT
Our property is close to town but far enough out that you feel secluded. We have wonderful dark nights with amazing views of stars. There is a fishing access a mile down the road, or you can hike to the river which is approximately 1000 feet to the river. The river isn't a real deep river, a lot of people use it to float on tubes, but it has been known to have some nice fish also. The area always gets afternoon wind gusts that happen daily and don't last long but something you'll want to be aware of. On site we have available for rent 2 tiny houses and 4 Rv hook up spots. Our property also has a yurt, an additional tiny house, a skoolie and a motorhome. If you’re wanting to just get away to a beautiful spot, take a hike along the river, float the river or fish this is your place. It’s beautiful and quiet.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Big Hole Boondockin'

7. Big Hole Boondockin'

99%
(41)
43mi from Virginia City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Melrose, MT
Big Hole Boondockin' is located in Southwest Montana along the beautiful banks of the Big Hole River. River View Livestock, a 300 acre working cattle ranch, surrounds our camping areas which gives you the opportunity to enjoy a real Montana ranch experience. If you're not into the ranch lifestyle, hop on a raft, inner tube or kayak and float down the river enjoying a cold beverage. We also offer bank fishing on our private property. Stressed? Book some time with our emotional support animals and snuggle one of the pigs or cows to take some stress out of your life. These animals are part of our family and love to sit and relax with humans, begging for belly scratches and giving kisses. The cell service & wi-fi are very iffy here. T-Mobile works great. If you have Verizon or AT&T you will not have service right at the campsite. You may have to walk or drive a bit to get a signal or the local restaurant & bar has free wi-fi for patrons. Whatever your camping dream is, our focused, friendly staff will work to achieve it. We look forward to hosting you and your family and friends and sharing our day to day dream life.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night
Old Town River Ranch

8. Old Town River Ranch

92%
(74)
47mi from Virginia City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Three Forks, MT
Old Town River Ranch is a serine river front escape located in beautiful Three Forks Montana. We offer a private off grid camping experience directly on the Jefferson riverfront. We provide a limited number of campsites to maintain privacy for our guests, with just three riverfront spots and three creekside spots. Large aspens and willows span the property. Plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming and wildlife viewing including bird watching. We do have a portable toilet on-site that is serviced weekly, otherwise this is a pack-in-pack-out site. Located just minutes off Interstate 90 (Exit 278) Old Town River Ranch offers a secluded getaway that’s close to all that Three Forks Montana has to offer, Sacajawea, farmers markets, shopping and Bridger Brewing for concerts and just 30 minutes to Bozeman. Stop by to see our friends at the Old Town Farm Stand just before the entry to our Ranch to get your fresh home baked goods & farm raised produce. Come stay a night, or a few, we think you'll enjoy it. Campsite & Camper Sizes. Campsites #1 #2 & #3 can accommodate large campers (up to 35 feet) with fair amount of room to maneuver. Campsite #4 is limited to Truck Campers, Sprinters or very small towables. Campsites #5 (up to 20ft) and Campsite #6 (up to 25ft) can accommodate mid-sized campers with limited but manageable room to maneuver. Notice. We implemented a comprehensive weed management program so campgrounds should be dramatically improved this year. Believe it or not some people don't know this. This is a campground on a river bottom in Montana. We keep it well but its fairly "raw" here. There can be wildlife - large & small game, maybe a few lost cows at times. There can be bugs - mosquitoes & spiders. There can be weeds. Water levels in the river vary dramatically depending on the time of year - sometimes high & fast other times low & slow. Sometimes it'll be really hot, dry & dusty, other times humid & muddy, maybe even flooded in areas, sometimes it can be cold & icy. If these things concern you it might be best to find an alternative. For everyone else, come on in and enjoy, we welcome you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Beaverhead River RV Pad

11. Beaverhead River RV Pad

100%
(2)
34mi from Virginia City · 1 site · RV · Dillon, MT
Come spend some time with us on the Beaverhead River! Our small family wants to share our slice of heaven with you all. The RV Pad is 27 ft long and can typically fit up to a 45 ft trailer. A 30 AMP hookup is available with water supplied and a waste hookup available. You will need to provide all of the waste disposal/sewer hose necessary to hookup to the waste disposal as well as your electrical cord to hookup to the 30 amp outlet. My husband and I live on the property with our 1 year old and our mid size dog. Dogs are welcome with the understanding that the property is not fenced in and that our dog may establish some boundaries with your dog as she is an unfixed alpha female. We live in the log cabin next to the the RV pad and are currently renovating the house on the property. The RV pad is about 100 feet from the Beaverhead River where you have full access to recreate and fish. This property is on the eastern edge of Dillon and just upstream from Selway Bridge. Many birds migrate through here in the Summer time and are a joy to watch on bank of the river. There is a large fire pit on the property that may be used as long as it is not very windy out and you put the fire out after you are done. I will tell you that you cannot have a fire if it is too windy. The property is next to a property with horses and we have have few chickens that roam around our property. I do not want you on the property with dogs if they are going to go after the chickens or if they are obnoxious barkers. Of course reach out with any questions. We look forward to meeting you!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Madison Islands

12. Madison Islands

78%
(29)
46mi from Virginia City · 15 sites · RVs · Three Forks, MT
This property is located on the Madison River at the headwaters of the Missouri River! It has views of surrounding mountain ranges including the Bridgers, Tobacco Roots, & the Spanish Peaks. It is also minutes from downtown Three Forks, MT for dining and shopping. On-site activities include fishing , swimming, hiking, biking, boating/floating, wildlife viewing, bird watching, and stargazing under the big sky. The camping area even has enough space to accommodate grazing horses. With open grassy fields and a large wooded area there is plenty to be explored in this Montana outdoor paradise. Address and Directions: On I-90 exit on 278 you will be on "Frontage Rd" go east to "Old Town Road" than turn east on "Old Town Main Street" LOOK FOR THE YELLOW ARROWS (they say Madison Islands). Once you’re off the freeway and on old town Road come to an intersection which is old town Main Street. Turn right at old town Main Street and very quickly on your left. You’ll see an old rustic building on your left with a fifth wheel parked next to the fence. You enter the property between the old rustic building and the fifth wheel RV to get into the field and you’ll see several reflectors with numbers on them. Easiest entry is off of Main Street. Enter just in front of the Parked RV and make your way into and through the field.
Pets
from 
$35
 / night
Southside RV Park

15. Southside RV Park

35mi from Virginia City · 50 sites · Dillon, MT
Nestled in the heart of Dillon, MT, Southside RV Park stands out as a unique destination for travelers seeking a blend of comfort and adventure in Southwest Montana’s Gold West country. Our park features spacious, shaded sites that provide a serene atmosphere, allowing guests to unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of the area. With meticulously maintained facilities and the picturesque Blacktail Creek flowing through the park, we take great pride in creating a welcoming environment for all our visitors. Just nine blocks from downtown Dillon, our location offers easy access to local shops, restaurants, and attractions, while still providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. We are here to assist you in planning your stay, whether it’s arranging fly fishing trips or exploring other exciting outdoor activities. Our strong connections with local businesses enable us to help with everything from haircuts to windshield repairs, ensuring a hassle-free experience. At Southside RV Park, we cherish the opportunity to meet new friends and foster a sense of community. Join our family of satisfied guests who return year after year to experience the charm and beauty of this remarkable part of Montana.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

In the heart of Madison County, Virginia City delivers history on the edge of the Rocky Mountains. The town’s gold rush past offers a view into the Old West, with heritage buildings and local museums revealing how residents lived in the 18th century. Head outside Virginia City’s borders to Yellowstone, America’s first national park, to witness active geysers and see some of the country’s most iconic nature spots. Then check out Beaverhead-Deerlodge and Helena-Lewis and Clark national forests for hiking trails, scenic drives, and spectacular mountain views. Park the RV in a national forest, pitch a tent among Christmas trees, or rent a cabin with toilets and drinking water—any way is a good way to enjoy natural beauty near Virginia City.

91% (417)

Top-rated campgrounds

Cloud Nine Equine Ranch

1. Cloud Nine Equine Ranch

100%
(12)
40mi from Virginia City · 1 site · Tent, RV · Gallatin Gateway, MT
10 acre private hobby farm located in Gallatin gateway less than half a mile from the Gallatin River. Campsite is accessible by a separate entrance up by our shop and can accommodate travel trailer, tents, or rv. Breathtaking 360 mountain views including the Spanish peaks, the Gallatin Range, and the Bridgers. There is a seasonal ditch running through the property along the camp space that runs spring to fall. Walking distance to the Gallatin River, Stacey's Famous bar and steakhouse, and state land for hiking, riding, biking and hunting. 45 minutes to the town of Big sky and 1 1/2 hours to West Yellowstone. Easy access to town for shops, groceries and restaurants. Minutes from Bozeman Hot Springs. Potable water available. Flat level ground mix of gravel and native grasses. We are happy to help book any excursions or restaurants or just give advice on things to do around town and in Yellowstone!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$70
 / night
Sunset from Campsite

2. Gallatin River Getaway

97%
(538)
47mi from Virginia City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Three Forks, MT
This property has been a farm and ranch since 1863 it was used as a stage stop for travelers going to the gold fields in Bannock and Virginia City Montana. Come check us out.We offer two private campsites on the Gallatin River near Logan, Montana, 1/4 mile apart on a working farm and ranch. Ranch also is located below ATT and Verizon cell towers. Five minutes from entrance gate to interstate ninety. We are thirty minutes from Bozeman, six miles from Three Forks, MT, three miles from Headwaters State Park (Headwaters of the Missouri River), 12 minutes from the Copper City Mountain biking trails, 20 minutes from Lewis and Clark Caverns, eight miles from Madison Buffalo Jump. Yellowstone National Park is two hours south of the property. Easy full recreational access to the Gallatin River, including fishing if you follow Montana FWP rules and regulations. Gallatin River is a blue-ribbon trout stream and there are four additional blue-ribbon trout streams that are within close proximity. Inhabited by most major indigenous species of Montana, except bison and mountain goats. This is a working farm and ranch and equipment and activities related to the operation should be expected also a train runs close to property. Host lives on the property and is available to contact. 
Pets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Creekside at Liberty Acres Bozeman

3. Creekside at Liberty Acres Bozeman

96%
(25)
50mi from Virginia City · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Bozeman, MT
Enter campsites at bottom of the hill where Hidden Valley Road takes a sharp right turn. Picnic tables and fire rings are in clear view. Camp along Baxter Creek in Bozeman, enjoy sunrise over the Bridger mountains, sunset over the Spanish Peaks, the sound of a babbling creek, serenity of the countryside complete with grazing cattle, migrant deer and birds of many kinds. Stroll down to creek through grassy access near cabin or cross the bridge to the "wild side". If you have a fishing license, drop a line in for catch and release or just cool your feet in the running water. Creek has been restored for fish habitat by renowned fish habitat designer, Joe Urbani. It is part of Liberty Acres Aquatic Ecosystem, a non-profit established to protect and enhance the wildlife habitat at Liberty Acres. Enjoy hundreds of miles of near-by hiking trails, Blue Ribbon trout fishing, ziplining, adventure rafting on the Gallatin River or a lazy float on the Madison. Or, opt for city life. In just a few minutes you can be in the center of vibrant downtown Bozeman with boutique shopping and an abundance of resturants and craft breweries. Ask about overnighting horses, llamas and other grazing livestock.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$59
 / night
Madison River tiny house/camp site

6. Madison River tiny house/camp site

35mi from Virginia City · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Three Forks, MT
Our property is close to town but far enough out that you feel secluded. We have wonderful dark nights with amazing views of stars. There is a fishing access a mile down the road, or you can hike to the river which is approximately 1000 feet to the river. The river isn't a real deep river, a lot of people use it to float on tubes, but it has been known to have some nice fish also. The area always gets afternoon wind gusts that happen daily and don't last long but something you'll want to be aware of. On site we have available for rent 2 tiny houses and 4 Rv hook up spots. Our property also has a yurt, an additional tiny house, a skoolie and a motorhome. If you’re wanting to just get away to a beautiful spot, take a hike along the river, float the river or fish this is your place. It’s beautiful and quiet.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
Big Hole Boondockin'

7. Big Hole Boondockin'

99%
(41)
43mi from Virginia City · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Melrose, MT
Big Hole Boondockin' is located in Southwest Montana along the beautiful banks of the Big Hole River. River View Livestock, a 300 acre working cattle ranch, surrounds our camping areas which gives you the opportunity to enjoy a real Montana ranch experience. If you're not into the ranch lifestyle, hop on a raft, inner tube or kayak and float down the river enjoying a cold beverage. We also offer bank fishing on our private property. Stressed? Book some time with our emotional support animals and snuggle one of the pigs or cows to take some stress out of your life. These animals are part of our family and love to sit and relax with humans, begging for belly scratches and giving kisses. The cell service & wi-fi are very iffy here. T-Mobile works great. If you have Verizon or AT&T you will not have service right at the campsite. You may have to walk or drive a bit to get a signal or the local restaurant & bar has free wi-fi for patrons. Whatever your camping dream is, our focused, friendly staff will work to achieve it. We look forward to hosting you and your family and friends and sharing our day to day dream life.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night
Old Town River Ranch

8. Old Town River Ranch

92%
(74)
47mi from Virginia City · 7 sites · Tents, RVs · Three Forks, MT
Old Town River Ranch is a serine river front escape located in beautiful Three Forks Montana. We offer a private off grid camping experience directly on the Jefferson riverfront. We provide a limited number of campsites to maintain privacy for our guests, with just three riverfront spots and three creekside spots. Large aspens and willows span the property. Plenty of opportunities for fishing, swimming and wildlife viewing including bird watching. We do have a portable toilet on-site that is serviced weekly, otherwise this is a pack-in-pack-out site. Located just minutes off Interstate 90 (Exit 278) Old Town River Ranch offers a secluded getaway that’s close to all that Three Forks Montana has to offer, Sacajawea, farmers markets, shopping and Bridger Brewing for concerts and just 30 minutes to Bozeman. Stop by to see our friends at the Old Town Farm Stand just before the entry to our Ranch to get your fresh home baked goods & farm raised produce. Come stay a night, or a few, we think you'll enjoy it. Campsite & Camper Sizes. Campsites #1 #2 & #3 can accommodate large campers (up to 35 feet) with fair amount of room to maneuver. Campsite #4 is limited to Truck Campers, Sprinters or very small towables. Campsites #5 (up to 20ft) and Campsite #6 (up to 25ft) can accommodate mid-sized campers with limited but manageable room to maneuver. Notice. We implemented a comprehensive weed management program so campgrounds should be dramatically improved this year. Believe it or not some people don't know this. This is a campground on a river bottom in Montana. We keep it well but its fairly "raw" here. There can be wildlife - large & small game, maybe a few lost cows at times. There can be bugs - mosquitoes & spiders. There can be weeds. Water levels in the river vary dramatically depending on the time of year - sometimes high & fast other times low & slow. Sometimes it'll be really hot, dry & dusty, other times humid & muddy, maybe even flooded in areas, sometimes it can be cold & icy. If these things concern you it might be best to find an alternative. For everyone else, come on in and enjoy, we welcome you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Beaverhead River RV Pad

11. Beaverhead River RV Pad

100%
(2)
34mi from Virginia City · 1 site · RV · Dillon, MT
Come spend some time with us on the Beaverhead River! Our small family wants to share our slice of heaven with you all. The RV Pad is 27 ft long and can typically fit up to a 45 ft trailer. A 30 AMP hookup is available with water supplied and a waste hookup available. You will need to provide all of the waste disposal/sewer hose necessary to hookup to the waste disposal as well as your electrical cord to hookup to the 30 amp outlet. My husband and I live on the property with our 1 year old and our mid size dog. Dogs are welcome with the understanding that the property is not fenced in and that our dog may establish some boundaries with your dog as she is an unfixed alpha female. We live in the log cabin next to the the RV pad and are currently renovating the house on the property. The RV pad is about 100 feet from the Beaverhead River where you have full access to recreate and fish. This property is on the eastern edge of Dillon and just upstream from Selway Bridge. Many birds migrate through here in the Summer time and are a joy to watch on bank of the river. There is a large fire pit on the property that may be used as long as it is not very windy out and you put the fire out after you are done. I will tell you that you cannot have a fire if it is too windy. The property is next to a property with horses and we have have few chickens that roam around our property. I do not want you on the property with dogs if they are going to go after the chickens or if they are obnoxious barkers. Of course reach out with any questions. We look forward to meeting you!
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Madison Islands

12. Madison Islands

78%
(29)
46mi from Virginia City · 15 sites · RVs · Three Forks, MT
This property is located on the Madison River at the headwaters of the Missouri River! It has views of surrounding mountain ranges including the Bridgers, Tobacco Roots, & the Spanish Peaks. It is also minutes from downtown Three Forks, MT for dining and shopping. On-site activities include fishing , swimming, hiking, biking, boating/floating, wildlife viewing, bird watching, and stargazing under the big sky. The camping area even has enough space to accommodate grazing horses. With open grassy fields and a large wooded area there is plenty to be explored in this Montana outdoor paradise. Address and Directions: On I-90 exit on 278 you will be on "Frontage Rd" go east to "Old Town Road" than turn east on "Old Town Main Street" LOOK FOR THE YELLOW ARROWS (they say Madison Islands). Once you’re off the freeway and on old town Road come to an intersection which is old town Main Street. Turn right at old town Main Street and very quickly on your left. You’ll see an old rustic building on your left with a fifth wheel parked next to the fence. You enter the property between the old rustic building and the fifth wheel RV to get into the field and you’ll see several reflectors with numbers on them. Easiest entry is off of Main Street. Enter just in front of the Parked RV and make your way into and through the field.
Pets
from 
$35
 / night
Southside RV Park

15. Southside RV Park

35mi from Virginia City · 50 sites · Dillon, MT
Nestled in the heart of Dillon, MT, Southside RV Park stands out as a unique destination for travelers seeking a blend of comfort and adventure in Southwest Montana’s Gold West country. Our park features spacious, shaded sites that provide a serene atmosphere, allowing guests to unwind while enjoying the natural beauty of the area. With meticulously maintained facilities and the picturesque Blacktail Creek flowing through the park, we take great pride in creating a welcoming environment for all our visitors. Just nine blocks from downtown Dillon, our location offers easy access to local shops, restaurants, and attractions, while still providing a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle. We are here to assist you in planning your stay, whether it’s arranging fly fishing trips or exploring other exciting outdoor activities. Our strong connections with local businesses enable us to help with everything from haircuts to windshield repairs, ensuring a hassle-free experience. At Southside RV Park, we cherish the opportunity to meet new friends and foster a sense of community. Join our family of satisfied guests who return year after year to experience the charm and beauty of this remarkable part of Montana.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best river, stream, or creek RV camping near Virginia City guide

Where to go

Yellowstone National Park

With 2.2 million acres of parkland, Yellowstone is home to active geysers, waterfall hikes, scenic drives, and cozy campsites. The 12 campgrounds offer group camping and tent camping, with one RV campground featuring 50-amp hookups and a dump station. After setting up camp, admire Yellowstone’s unique geology from the comfort of the roads with a trip around the Grand Loop. Or, hike the expansive trail system to see Yellowstone Lake, multiple backcountry waterfalls, and spring wildflower blooms. If you can’t snag a campsite in the park, consider a Hipcamp just outside the Yellowstone entrance.

Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest

The largest national forest in Montana, Beaverhead-Deerlodge offers a scenic escape for camping, paddling, mountain hikes, and lakeside lounging. A host of campgrounds fill this 3.3 million-acre forest, with everything from cabin rentals and group camping to dispersed tent camping and RV campsites. Enjoy stunning mountain views in every season, but check campground amenities to see which spots offer winter access if visiting in the colder months.

Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

Spanning seven mountain ranges, Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest is an outdoor hub for camping, hiking, horseback riding, and snow sports. Chase adrenaline in the winter with skiing and snowmobiling along the peaks, or wander through the meadows on scenic summer walking trails. For a unique holiday celebration, pick up a permit to cut a Christmas tree from the national forest. Find easy access to natural beauty with a stay at one of the forest’s many campgrounds, where most tent camping, RV campsites, and cabins offer basic amenities like toilets and drinking water.

When to go

Camping near Virginia City is most popular from June to September, when warm summer days make it inviting to explore mountain trails and lakeside hikes. Temperatures average in the low 80s. Nights can get chilly during the shoulder season, so bring extra layers to keep evenings around the campfire fun and cozy. Snowy winters make Montana an exciting destination for snow sports and winter scenery. Check up on Montana’s road condition report to plan a route through parks and forests.