The best camping near Council Grove State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Council Grove State Park adventure.

Walk along the Clark Fork River where history and nature combine in a tranquil landscape.

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Council Grove State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Council Grove State Park

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Primrose Meadows

13 sites · Tents28 acres · Missoula, MT

We can’t wait to share our land with you! Get away from it all and get under the Big Sky. Close to the freeway for easy access but adjacent to over 200 acres of beautiful farmland, you’ll experience Montana’s wildlife and have beautiful Mountain views when you stay at Primrose Meadows. There are few trees in the property, it’s mostly rolling hills with some trails to walk and plenty of space between sites! This property has a railroad track that runs next to the property that sometimes toots it’s horn, if you’re a light sleeper this is something you should consider!We are close to Council Grove and Frenchtown Pond which are both great swimming holes! You can also coordinate with us for cross-country skiing or head to Snowbowl for local downhill skiing! We are close to Missoula should you need any services in town.

Booked 1 time

Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

1 site · RV1 acre · Missoula, MT

Welcome to our no-frills, convenient stopover spot on the edge of Missoula! Situated just a mile from town, our property offers a quiet and scenic retreat for travelers passing through or exploring the area. While parked on our driveway pad, you'll enjoy peace and tranquility, with the soothing sounds of Rattlesnake Creek nearby. Although the creek isn't visible from your parking spot, you're welcome to take a short walk around the house to fully experience its beauty. For those looking to stretch their legs and explore, the Rattlesnake Valley offers excellent walking opportunities just moments away. Take in the picturesque surroundings and unwind in nature's embrace. Our property spans half an acre, providing ample space for you to relax and recharge during your journey. Whether you're passing through Missoula or planning to stay awhile, our convenient location and serene setting make it the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate. Thank you for considering our property for your stay. We look forward to welcoming you and ensuring your visit is comfortable and enjoyable!

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Blue Mountain BaseCamp

1 site · RV1 acre · Missoula, MT

Nestled at the base of the majestic Blue Mountain, our property offers a great opportunity to camp with just a brief 0.23-mile stroll to the trailhead, granting easy access to trails awaiting your exploration. Trailside Convenience: The convenience of having a trailhead within reach, complete with a pit toilet. Our site: Camping within city limits of Missoula is limited to the KOA. Our site is perfect for those wanting a convenient place to camp with plans to head out to the trails or to Missoula. Our home is nestled on one acre with Ponderosa pine trees, Aspen, and Birch. We are located in a neighborhood and we have two kids and two friendly dogs. There is a photo of how close our site is to our house letting you know that when the Aspen trees have no leaves, the site is not as private as when they do. Perfect Balance: Located just 1.5 miles beyond Missoula city limits, our site strikes the perfect balance between access to nature and the city. Start your day with a refreshing hike, revel in the natural beauty, and then seamlessly transition into town for the city's offerings, all within easy reach. Whether you seek a quiet morning walk along scenic trails or desire the vibrancy of city life, our property serves as the ideal base for your Blue Mountain adventure. Experience the best of both worlds at Blue Mountain BaseCamp !

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God's Country Camping

2 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Lolo, MT

This property is so beautiful and peaceful no lights out here at night, just moonlight when it's out. Spring fed pond, Ponderosa pine trees, fallen white birch, rustic and gorgeous. Some of my camp spots are on rough terrain. I always suggest you get out and walk around to see what you can manage with your vehicle. The idea of my place is more wilderness camping, there is wildlife that comes around. RV camp spots on the east and west end of the pond. Camp spot out by the wooden round pen on the west side. Learn more about this land: Completely private, borders 2000 acres of a bird sanctuary. Two blocks from Bitterroot river canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swim, trails, hiking, scenery, wildlife. Spring fed pond on property for fishing, swimming and adventures. My pond is spring fed, which means that is goes up and down with the seasons and run off from the snow in the mountains. So as the summer goes on the pond levels go way down, please be aware of that.

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Ridgeline Retreat

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · Missoula, MT

My wife, Nicole, and I were so very fortunate to have found this place. The homestead consists of 70 acres of mountainous forest in the wild lands of Montana. The cabin is totally off the grid but provides every creature comfort one could hope for.

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(3)

Mission Mtn Horse Ranch Retreat

5 sites · RVs, Tents212 acres · St Ignatius, MT

We are an operating Farm/Ranch and Horse Facility. We offer not only camping but horsemanship lessons and incredible hospitality. We have not only a view of the mission mountains but the BEST view with both waterfalls in view. Our property sits off the road next to our peaceful hay field with wildlife, horses, donkeys, mules, milk cows and chickens galore! We cannot wait to meet you!

92%

(6)

Secluded "Ranchette" @ Waylon's Way

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Clinton, MT

On a case-by-case basis, I can pasture your horses. Currently, I only have grass available for them as I don't have a corral yet. Additionally, I can rent out my 15' camper to you on a case-by-case basis. Please feel free to contact me to discuss these options further. My property is located on 10 acres and has only one visible neighbor. It is situated on the edge of the Lolo National Forest and accessed through a private road. There is a creek running through the property, which is home to little native cuthroat trout and is suitable for fishing CATCH AND RELEASE ONLY! The location of the property is fantastic, with the Clark Fork River and numerous other high-quality fishing spots like Rock Creek just minutes away. Moreover, the Kettlehouse Amphitheater, known for its impressive lineup, is only 7.5 miles away via a frontage road. It is a convenient 22-minute drive from downtown Missoula, although staying here offers its own unique charm and appeal. We are dog-friendly and offer full hook-ups for your convenience.

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(16)

The Holmestead

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Frenchtown, MT

Quiet getaway in the pines! Welcome to the Holmestead, our own little slice of Montana that we are really excited to bring back to life and share with YOU! We are small town Kansas natives who fell in love with Montana over 15 years ago. This property is equal parts privacy and concience, you can enjoy the peace and quite of nature while also having the ability to hop over a few miles to our little town for groceries, a local beer, or to gas up your car! The Holmestead is a rustic dry cabin on 5 acres nestled between Mill Creek and a seasonal run off stream with easy access to the highway and only a 10 min drive to Missoula. A queen bed, futon and air mattress are available for sleeping! Family and pet friendly property with plenty of space to pitch a tent next to the cabin if you have more guests in your party (tents will be an additional fee, $10 per person in addition to the 4 person cabin max). Excellent cell service if you have Verizon or carriers that pull from those towers. Attractions: Walking distance to forestry service roads. 15 minutes to the Missoula Airport and an additional 10 minutes to the heart of Missoula and all it has to offer. If you are looking for more adventure there is always an endless amount of recreation near, whether you want to drive 5 minutes to mountain bike or 3 hours to Glacier National Park, there is something for everyone! If you have questions about fun things to do please reach out to us! Parking: Reserved parking for guests in the main driveway or in the clearing near the cabin. Water: Portable toilet onsite, sealson warm shower and sink also available, we recently upgraded to a JOOLCA hot water system so guests can have running water and a warm outdoor shower. We provide 5 gal of potable water in the colder months and have running water nearby for easy refill of water containers if needed in the warmer months. We look forward to sharing our piece of Montana with you! Pets allowed. We do have 2 very frienly dogs that roam the property freely, if you pet is reactive please let us know so we can monitor our dogs when letting them outside to do their business. Please be sure to pick up after your animals.

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Sanctuary Farm Yurt Glamping

14 sites · Lodging25 acres · Alberton, MT

A sanctuary away from everyday life, where you can relax and reconnect with nature. Yurt has electricity, a wood stove for heat in winter, a beautiful outdoor kitchen and bathhouse, and a creek. Only 45 minutes from Missoula Montana. Games and books in the yurt. Cedar outhouse. Lots of extra to make for a truly remarkable glamping experience.

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Pine Forest Recreation & Berry Farm

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · Missoula, MT

Learn more about this land:This campsite is near Forest Service hiking, biking and horseback riding. Drive or mountain bike 4 miles to Snowbowl Montana for zip line adventures, more mountain biking, folfing or chair lift rides. There is an abundance of fishing and OHV options near by as well. Less than 10 miles away you will find numerous breweries, wineries and concert venues. During July we also offer options for you pick berries. Relaxing here provides lovely views with abundant wildlife and plenty other recreation opportunities nearby.

Booked 2 times

Montana Safari Tent - Blackfoot

2 sites · Lodging43 acres · Bonner, MT

Experience the charm of Montana's wilderness while indulging in the comforts of home at P-7 Base Camp, named after our family's historic livestock brand. Nestled on 43 acres in the picturesque Potomac Valley, just minutes from Missoula and the famed Blackfoot River, our peaceful retreat offers a unique glamping experience unlike any other. With only 4 sites available, including 2 safari tents and 2 Conestoga Wagons, we invite you to immerse yourself in luxury with our thoughtfully curated accommodations. Each glamping tent features luxurious bedding, electricity, a heater, coffee bar, mini fridge, wine glasses, S'Mores roasting sticks, solar lanterns, heated mattress pads, a picnic table, and Adirondack chairs. Plus, enjoy the convenience of two communal bathrooms with hot showers and flush toilets. Our property, a working hay farm, offers a glimpse into rural life in Montana. During the summer months, you can witness the hay being irrigated, cut, baled, and stacked for winter use. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including deer, coyotes, herons, eagles, hawks, and sandhill cranes, who also call this property home. Explore the beauty of the Potomac Valley, one of Western Montana's best-kept secrets, with easy access to Missoula's vibrant downtown scene, hiking trails, museums, art galleries, and more. Spend your days floating, kayaking, or trout fishing on the Blackfoot River, or venture to nearby lakes for boating or paddleboarding. Dog-friendly trails at Lubrecht Forest are just a short drive away, while Garnet Ghost Town offers a glimpse into Montana's rich history. After a day of adventure, relax by the campfire and watch the sunset over the mountains, soaking in the tranquility of the Montana wilderness. Whether you're seeking outdoor thrills or simply a peaceful escape, P-7 Base Camp offers the perfect blend of luxury and nature in the heart of Big Sky Country.

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Triple Bridges Campground

3 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Alberton, MT

Primitive camping with no water or trash service, pack in / pack out. There is a portable toilet. Located in the Alberton Gorge on the Clark Fork River, this is a premier location for the whitewater enthusiast. Take advantage of the class II, III rapids in your kayak or raft, or even surf. Alternatively, enjoy the relaxing Sandy Beach just a few minutes walk from the campground to swim and gaze at the beautiful argilite cliffs. The campground is near both the Interstate and a railroad so there is some ambient noise.

The best camping near Council Grove State Park guide

Overview

About

The Clark Fork River runs through downtown Missoula before spreading out in a wide river bottom area called Kelley Island. Here, Council Bluffs State Park is in the river bottom zone that hosts abundant wildlife and lush meadows. Although a day-use only park with no camping, visitors can follow walking paths to spot whitetail deer and wild turkeys, and read interpretive displays to learn about local flora and fauna and the park’s historical significance. Camping is limited in Missoula, but exploring any direction from town will lead to abundant camping opportunities on public and private lands.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Campsites in Missoula city limits are private, and it’s best to make reservations in advance, as the city is busy with events—especially in summer.
For public camping alternatives to Council Grove, look to Rock Creek, Lolo National Forest, and Alberton, all close to Missoula and surrounded by public lands. Developed campgrounds are often operated on a first-come, first-served basis. Weekends are busier than weekdays, so try snagging a spot mid-week if possible.
Dispersed camping is another option when the developed spaces are busy. Highway 12 in the Lolo National Forest is a great option with many logging roads that lead to remote campsites.

When to go

Council Grove is great to visit year-round, although visitors should be cautious during high water, which typically occurs sometime during May and June. The Clark Fork River is a large volume watershed with dangerous currents. This is still a great time to visit the park, however, as the weather is nice and the river bottom vibrant. Council Grove has plenty of parking with trails that are generally flat and accessible, even with snow on the ground.

Know before you go

This is a day-use only park so no camping is available in the park itself. It is, however, open year-round during daylight hours. Fees apply for residents and non-residents at Montana State Parks.
Council Grove is ADA accessible with toilets and water available. The park can become muddy and difficult to maneuver on unpaved areas when wet or covered in snow.
This is a dog-friendly park with plenty of space to walk and enjoy nature. Leashes are required and you must clean up after pets. Be considerate when wildlife is present.