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Helena National Forest

The best camping in Helena National Forest, MT

100% (3)

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Stories from the community

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.

Campsite in foreground with outdoor table, secondary clearing down below. Seasonal/dry creek runs along the right

Jeff

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame

Great spot, exactly as described. Private, quiet, beautiful. Instructions were incredibly specific and helpful. Will absolutely book again if I'm headed back in this direction.

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.

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!

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.

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 :)

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

Jason

September 2025

1 night at The DET Place Hideaway

McKenzie was great. She was very quick to reply to questions and super accommodating. Our check in time changed a couple of times d/t unforeseen delays getting to Montana - but she was really easy to work with and understanding. The 5th wheel was great. Lots of space and well kept. Bedrooms were a nice surprise (bigger than appeared in the pics). Shower was hot and plenty large enough for me (6 ft and 245lbs) to clean up. Water and heat were included and welcome. The view of the mountains out of the camper door were a pleasant way to wake up and her property was secluded enough and well kept. Easy instructions and only about an hour north of Bozeman. Would def stay with her again if we made it back up this way.

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.

Tim

September 2025

16 ft car

1 night at A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame

Very simple camp site with clean amenities and quiet surroundings

Tim

September 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame

Great little site to sleep and regroup along the way.

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!!

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!

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!

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.

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!

RV site next to solar panel, & pull through exit.

William

September 2025

26 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Campsite at the Causeway

Appreciated the power hookup. Was close to the road to the lake and there was a fair amount of traffic heading that way. Down by the lake was a dump station ($5). Also only 15 minutes to Helena. There is no water and the RV spot is not level but workable. besides a tiny rental home you get it to yourself. Oh but there is a trail cam on the tree by the RV spot so no peeing on his trees. Thanks Eric

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!

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.

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.

Top public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in Helena National Forest

100%

(1)

Vigilante Campground

8.2mi from Helena National Forest · 14 sites · Tents, RVs · in Helena National Forest

100%

(1)

Copper Creek Campground

42mi from Helena National Forest · 17 sites · Tents, RVs · in Helena National Forest

100%

(1)

Cromwell Dixon Campground

37mi from Helena National Forest · 15 sites · Tents, RVs · in Helena National Forest

Aspen Grove Group Use Campground

36mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Helena National Forest

Moose Creek Cabin

28mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site · in Helena National Forest

Kading Cabin

41mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site · in Helena National Forest

Indian Flats Cabin

6.5mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site · in Helena National Forest

Cummings Cabin

34mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site · in Helena National Forest

Rillway Cabin

43mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site · in Helena National Forest

Bar Gulch Cabin

12mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site · in Helena National Forest

Eagle Guard Station

34mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site · in Helena National Forest

Coulter Campground

24mi from Helena National Forest · 7 sites · in Helena National Forest

Kading Campground

41mi from Helena National Forest · 11 sites · Tents, RVs · in Helena National Forest

Moose Creek Campground

28mi from Helena National Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · in Helena National Forest

A thunderstorm fast approaching the campground in the evening.

Park Lake Campground

30mi from Helena National Forest · 22 sites · in Helena National Forest

Gipsy Lake Campground

35mi from Helena National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · in Helena National Forest

Skidway Campground

46mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · in Helena National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds

The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!

98%

(132)

16mi from Helena National Forest · 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.

A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame

100%

(20)

24mi from Helena National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Cascade, MT

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.

Relax Inn Montana

98%

(32)

12mi from Helena National Forest · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging · Helena, MT

Half way between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park - Perfect place to stop and rest between adventures : ) Outdoor Living at its finest : )) 2 Acres of unique quiet spaces in a park like setting - Tent Site 1 - has 2 Secluded improved Spaces Tent Site 2 - Open field unimproved 3 or 4 tent spaces Bld 1 is pet friendly and has 2 cabins with a pass through door for larger groups - Cabin 1 - sleeps 2 Cabin 2 - sleeps 5 Bld 2 is pet free and has 2 cabins with a pass through door for larger groups Cabin 3 - sleeps 4 Cabin 4 - sleeps 2 10 miles outside of Helena, the Capital of Montana 5 miles from 3 lakes ( Canyon Ferry Lake - Lake Helena - Hauser Lake ) Surrounded by prime hunting areas - 45 min to skiing A set of cast iron tubs that are always nice to take a soak after a hot days hike - a yin yang patio with gas firepit for a relaxing evening of sharing - a quiet (phone free) gazebo great for reflection - a covered BBQ pavilion with gas grill and gas firepit to gather round - a real fire pit area with picnic table (local wind and fire restrictions apply accordingly) - purest of potable well water on spigot in fire ring area - Solars that light the paths in the night - Pets are welcome just need to pick up after them ! A Greenhouse full of games camping chairs and tents if needed - An oversized porta potty between the cabins making it easier for families with kids 5 miles from 3 lakes for those who love to fish, boat, hike, float or just toss rocks - also around the corner you can dig for sapphires - 4 hours to Glacier National Park - 4 hours to Yellowstone National Park - Crystal Park or maybe a boat ride at The Gates of the Mountains - A tour train of downtown Helena - Too much to list around here - I am new at this so bear with me as I navigate this process and continue to improve spaces for your enjoyment - as always your feedback is appreciate for future improvements - and a guest book is in each cabin and the Gazebo for your comments : ) It is Rustic but not Crazy roughin' it - Great family space : ) This is my private sanctuary that I have the honor of sharing with those who appreciate simple rustic outdoor living at its finest - I invite you, my friends and family to Relax Inn Helena and make your own amazing memories

Rockinon R.’s Land

100%

(1)

18mi from Helena National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Helena, MT

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

Date Street Cabin @ C Lazy M Meadow

92%

(6)

20mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site · Lodging · MT

A small cabin sleeps 4 with 2 queen beds and room to stake a tent or park a camper. Sits on 6 acres with a creek bed under large trees and overlooks a meadow. Includes an outhouse, potable water, grill, picnic table and a "smokeless" fire pit. Dishes, utensils, firewood and bedding included. Come stay in MT City; only 5 miles from all historic Helena has to offer! 4 restaurants/bars within walking distance(.5 mi.). 3 large lakes w/in 10 miles with beaches, boating and sight seeing opportunities; the Missouri river within 15 miles for fishing, boating, paddle boarding, hiking and biking. Come relax! Sleeps 4 in beds. Additional guests allowed with permission and fee (tents and/or or campers). While exploring Helena, we recommend the Walking Mall and the lower end of Last Chance Gulch for shopping and dining. You can also do a self guided tour of the Capitol building and then ride the tour train through Helena to get a quick history lesson. If you want to do something outside, we suggest Houser Lake at Lakeside with a bar and grill, a beach, fire pit, volley ball, etc. There is also guided boat rides at Gates of the Mountains on Holter Lake (about 20 miles towards Great Falls). If you are looking to go hiking, Mount Helena is a nice hike, but maybe a bit much for small kiddos, unless you have a backpack. If you'd like additional suggestions, please don't hesitate to reach out. Hope you enjoy your stay! Party (or Wedding) Tent available at additional charge for all rentals. If you are looking for a place for a small wedding, (50 guests) let us know. We can accommodate your needs with minimal decorations, a party tent and a place for the bridal party to dress. As well as the Date Street Cabin for the new couple’s honeymoon night! Let us know if you would like to stay with us, We would love to host you. (Additional charges apply for weddings based on needs and services provided).

River's Bend RV

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(23)

44mi from Helena National Forest · 11 sites · RVs · Boulder, MT

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.

Big-Enough Ranch

97%

(70)

37mi from Helena National Forest · 2 sites · Lodging · Boulder, MT

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.

Untouchable

100%

(2)

25mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV · Cascade, MT

This property sits in the Adel Volcano in the Big Belt Mountains along the Missouri river just outside Cascade, Montana. It is famous for being used by the production company in the movie “The Untouchables “. Just like the production company you can set up your trailer or tents along the property. We are located just over a couple hours between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park. Lewis and Clark’s footsteps are all around us here on the property. Get out and enjoy!

White Bridge Lane Private Campsite

99%

(70)

45mi from Helena National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Boulder, MT

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.

Monarch Ski and Bike Cabin

100%

(3)

35mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site · Lodging · Elkhorn, MT

The Monarch Cabin sits at an elevation of approximately 8,600 feet on the west side of Elkhorn Peak. It is surrounded by more than 300,000 acres of public land with 80,000 acres of that being designated as a roadless area. The nearest human inhabitance is in the Historic Town of Elkhorn situated a bit more than 3 miles to the south and a drop of about 2,000 feet of elevation. During the Summer, enjoy hiking, mountain biking, and trail running on maintained and unmaintained trails. Climb peaks with incredible views and fish in mountain lakes. Spring time provides opportunity to experience the splendor of the wild flower season. There are so many flowers that the whole area is alive with the aroma and multitude of colors. If you are lucky, you may see new born wildlife such as deer, elk, mountain goats, fox, moose and many others. Winter time lends to incredible back country skiing, split boarding, and snowshoeing. The sunsets are typically spectacular while enjoying the views and solitude. Book for a time of full moon and with a clear sky a moonlight ski or walk is amazing. From the West there is the Muskrat/Tizer Lakes trail which is a maintained, designated hiking/biking trail. To the south is an unmaintained, extremely rough forest service road leading to the cabin. To the east there is a trail to the top of Elkhorn Peak and to Crow Peak, the two highest peaks in the Elkhorn mountains. To the north there are trails leading to most anywhere in the Elkhorn Mountains. Tizer lakes are only about 3 miles away on an easy maintained trail. From there there are too many destinations to name. Hiking and biking is limited only by one's own ambition and skills. The Elkhorn endurance run is a well known event that has it's longer race route run right through the property. At the end of a hard day of adventure, relax in the wood fired sauna and enjoy the amazing sunsets. If you are lucky, you might even hear elk bugling in the valley below (September/October). Most people access the cabin by hiking, biking, snowshoes or ski's. If one choose to drive, a 4 WD truck would be a must and would still be difficult. Areas above the cabin are for non-motorized use only.

The Homestead

100%

(18)

23mi from Helena National Forest · 2 sites · Lodging · Clancy, MT

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.

York Montana Hideaway

83%

(6)

6.4mi from Helena National Forest · 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.

The best camping in Helena National Forest, MT guide

Overview

About

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!

100%

3 ratings · 1 review

August 2015

Gipsy Lake Campground

We camped there the first weekend it was open. It was awesome. Road up there is not great but had a wonderful time.