The best camping in Montana

Name: Montana
Address: Montana
Rating: 4.796

Few places in the Lower 48 feel more wild and remote than Montana. This northwestern state on the border with Canada is home to both Glacier National Park and a section of Yellowstone National Park along with a wide range of state parks and recreation areas, friendly cities, spooky ghost towns, and more than its fair share of hot springs. While most visitors comein summer—when weather is pleasant enough for camping and hiking—the Treasure State offers unique experiences in every season, with fantastic winter skiing opportunities, spring wildflowers, and gorgeous fall colors.

96% (13.7K) • 9,829 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Montana

American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

1. American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

96%

(130)

Zortman, MT · 26 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Antelope Creek Campground sits just off Highway 191 between mile markers 96 and 97. While it is more accessible than other remote properties—you can reach us in a standard passenger car and park right by the bathhouse—the wilderness feels just as close. You can watch the local prairie dogs right from your lawn chair. This is also one of the premier stargazing locations in Montana. With minimal light pollution and wide-open horizons, the Milky Way is brilliantly visible on clear nights, and meteor showers put on a spectacular show. Wildlife & Exploration In the spring, sage grouse leks come alive within a short walk of the camp. Our permanent residents, the prairie dogs, provide a constant soundtrack to the plains. For those looking to explore, the Antelope Creek Wilderness Study Area is accessible through a pedestrian gate just west of the walk-in tent sites, offering coulees, ponderosa pines, and total solitude in every direction. The Surrounding Area Our "Mars Vista" point sits near the Fort Belknap Indian Reservation, offering views toward the towns of Hays and Lodgepole, as well as Mission Canyon in the Little Rocky Mountains. If you need supplies, the town of Malta is just 20 minutes away and has everything you might have forgotten to pack.

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

2. ❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

99%

(1942)

Coram, MT · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

WELCOME TO GLACIER HIPCAMP 🌲 🏕️ 🦌 Enjoy peace in the beautiful meadows near our home. Our 40-acre property features forested trails, a large pond, two smaller ponds, a creek, and frequent wildlife sightings—all under spectacular starlit skies. We offer a unique "Coolcation" experience as a peaceful alternative to crowded RV parks, located just 6 miles from the entrance to Glacier National Park! CHOOSING YOUR SITE ⛺ Please let us know if you have multiple tents or vehicles so we can recommend the best spot. 💧 DRY CAMPING: No hookups provided. Hydrants are available throughout the campground. 🚛 LARGE RIGS: Sites 1–6 are best for larger vehicles. These are in an open, flat meadow with views of the pond. ⛺ SECLUDED TENTS: We recommend the "Back Meadow" (Sites 7, 8, 10-17, 19-20) for more privacy, especially in July and August. 📏 LIMITS: Sites 7–20 accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 36 feet total length because of an access bridge. 🚻 AMENITIES: All sites are back-in (except 13 and 16, which are pull-through), offer partial shade, and have access to clean vault toilets. GOOD TO KNOW 📢 Due to our proximity to the National Park and the main highway, some traffic and train noise may be heard. To keep our environment pleasant and reduce dust on Greens Road, please keep driving speeds to a minimum. LOCAL ATTRACTIONS AND ESSENTIALS 📍 We are a short bike ride (2 mins by car) from the Whiskey Barn, Paul Bunyan Bar and Grill, Glacier Hi-Line Ropes Course, and the Amazing Fun Center. 🚲 BIKING: Easy access to the Gateway to Glacier Bike Path; E-bike rentals across the street. ⛽ GAS: Cenex in Coram (1.5 mi). 🛒 GROCERIES/LAUNDRY: Canyon Foods in Hungry Horse (3.5 mi). 🏥 SERVICES: Columbia Falls (9 mi) for large stores, cafes, and urgent care. 🚛 RV DUMP/WATER: Free landfill dump 2.2 mi away (9626 US Hwy 2 E). Full RV dump/water fill at Mike’s Conoco in Columbia Falls (8.9 mi). SAM AND MOLLY’S MERCANTILE 🪵 Located by our house in the middle of the property! We sell solar shower bags, sunscreen, swag, firewood, coffee, and more. EXPLORE THE GROUNDS 🎥 Watch our video tour to see the kid-friendly "Sand Pit" and our "Glamp Pod": https://youtu.be/EYYuGGWRtag If you have any other questions, contact us.

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Primrose Meadows

3. Primrose Meadows

95%

(1671)

Missoula, MT · 20 sites · Tents, RVs

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 300 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 its 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.

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Lolo National Forest

4. Lolo National Forest

94%

(16)

National forest in Montana · 395 sites

You are going to be filled to the brim with glee when you discover Lolo National Forest. Seriously; this is the kind of place you can stand with your feet in a crystal clear stream, bighorn sheep filling the meadow, with the sun setting behind snowcapped mountain peaks in the distance. And that’s just a roadside pull off! With over two million acres to explore, hikers, bikers and backcountry seekers will be stoked on the supa-lush forest, and trails like Cougar Peak Lookout and the Lolo Peak trail (which we assure you is not low-low). Boat for a day in Seeley Lake, or cast a line into pristine mountain streams for a try at the trout. Dinner is going to taste great over the campfire! Through the meadows or up the peaks, it’s easy enough to get your share of adventure at Lolo.

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Flathead National Forest

5. Flathead National Forest

80%

(27)

National forest in Montana · 300 sites

The Flathead National Forest is all about its geography. It lies in the heart of the Rockies, just west of the continental divide, and a pinch south of the Canadian Border. With geography like this, landscape magic is bound to occur, and it does. With over 2.4 million acres, the Flathead features three wilderness areas, impressive ski areas, commanding wild ranges, meandering streams, and raging rivers (this list could go on). Spend your days hiking, rafting, wildlife viewing, snowshoeing, and fishing. At night shack up in a Forest Service cabin or pitch a tent beneath the northern lights. Get the fire roaring, raise your bottle, and make a toast to the Flathead and her geographic magic!

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Jammin Jackalope Camping

6. Jammin Jackalope Camping

99%

(684)

Livingston, MT · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Welcome to Jammin Jackalope Camping, nestled in the heart of nature! Whether you prefer tent camping, van or truck camping, or staying in cabins or tipis, we have the perfect accommodation for your outdoor adventure. Located in a picturesque setting, our property boasts a small intermittant creek that meanders through the land, creating a serene atmosphere. With half of the property covered in an enchanting forest, you'll feel connected to the natural beauty that surrounds you. For music lovers, Pine Creek Lodge, a renowned music venue, sits adjacent to our property. Enjoy the lively tunes from the lodge while relishing in the tranquil ambiance of our camping grounds. While campfires are not permitted, you can still enjoy the great outdoors with your furry friends, as our property is pet-friendly. Additionally, we provide potable water, flush toilets, and sweet showers. One vehicle is included in your nightly rate. Additional vehicles and boat parking are $20 each and can be added online as an "extra guest" or paid on arrival. We are conveniently situated 45 miles from the North entrance of Yellowstone National Park and 12 miles from the quaint town of Livingston. If you're craving a city escape, the vibrant town of Bozeman is just 40 minutes away, offering a plethora of dining, shopping, and entertainment options. Embrace the call of the wild as you hike, fish, and commune with nature. The opportunities to connect with the great outdoors are endless, making your stay with us an unforgettable experience. Book your stay now and embark on a remarkable adventure in the heart of nature!

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VanGoBoon Campground

7. VanGoBoon Campground

84%

(952)

Bozeman, MT · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

PLEASE NOTE: VanGoBoon is a campground, not a RV Park! Much like a NFS campsites but close to town, with easy access off Hwy 90. There's water on the property available in several areas of the campground. Some sites have water at the site. Otherwise we are considered a "dry" campground. Welcome to our campground! We are a "Roadside" Campground that offers the convince of easy on/off access to Hwy 90 and the close proximity to Bozeman. We are adjacent to Hwy 90 and the Montana Rail System. We have a variety of options that should suit just about anyone. We are near Yellowstone National Park as well as Bozeman, MT which offers all types of recreational opportunities e.g. hiking, fishing, climbing, skiing, cycling and running trails. VanGoBoon is the perfect "Pull-in for the Night" as well as week-long stays! Most of our sites are SELF-CONTAINED. We have 4 sites that have electric and water hookups. (20,30,50amp) The lawn area has horseshoes, frisbee golf, and corn toss. We mostly offer dry campsites for overnight stays for vans, tents or RVs . Most sites are on concrete slabs so they are level and the property has grass areas with trees as well. FYI: Great site if you like trains! An important part of Montana’s commerce is transportation by rail so there will be highway and train noise. If you are a light sleeper, you may want to have noise-cancelation devices handy. Private spots between trees but near freeway for easy access. Our 2 horses have been a favorite with young campers along with the open yet private campsites! We look forward to welcoming you!

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Electrical hookup

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American Prairie Buffalo Camp

8. American Prairie Buffalo Camp

91%

(16)

Zortman, MT · 13 sites · Tents, RVs

This is a remote property—roughly 2.5 hours from the nearest paved road, deep in Phillips County. Sun Prairie is where our conservation bison herd is most visible. Bands of bison move across rolling shortgrass prairie, graze near prairie potholes, and shift with the weather and season. Watching them cross an open horizon is one of the defining experiences of this landscape. But bison aren't the only story. Prairie dog towns chirp with excitement. Telegraph Creek carves a riparian corridor that draws birds, mammals, and insects. Coyotes call at dusk. Larb Hills offer a sense of scale that photos can't quite capture. And at night, the stars are unreasonable. This is still a ranched landscape with active grazing operations and, in season, active hunting areas nearby. You'll share the roads with pickups, cattle, RVs with boats pulled behind, and the occasional gate that needs opening and closing. Go slow. Respect the neighbors. That's part of it.

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Glacier getaway 2.0

9. Glacier getaway 2.0

99%

(334)

Babb, MT · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Nestled on the shores of Ducklake this 2 acre parcel is an ideal location to kick back , enjoy and explore the eastern side of Glacier park. We are 20 mins from the park gates, 20 mins from Many Glacier and about 40 mins to Waterton park. The gradual sloping beach is perfect for all kinds of water sports and recreation. Many grassed areas or shady treed sites and the sites on the beach with breathtaking sunrises, sunsets and most amazing stars at night. Ducklake is well known for its trophy rainbow trout as well. We have 4 kayaks, a canoe, paddle boat, little fishing boat with electric motor, an assortment of rods and lures, propane BBQ, solo smokeless campfire pits ( firewood can be purchased on site) and also have propane fire pits available. All for guest to enjoy and use on a first come first serve basis.

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Glacier National Park

10. Glacier National Park

97%

(388)

National park in Montana · 809 sites

With over 700 miles of trails to explore, Glacier National Park is a hiker’s dream.

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Custer Gallatin National Forest

11. Custer Gallatin National Forest

84%

(60)

National forest in Montana · 936 sites

Find wilderness camping near Yellowstone National Park and beyond.

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Electrical hookup

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Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

12. Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

77%

(13)

National forest in Montana · 421 sites

It is only right that the land named after some of America’s raddest explorers would be totally epic! Covering a whopping seven mountain ranges, Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest is your front door to adventure in Montana. If winter is your happy place, then come make turns at Silver Crest Ski Area, or snowshoe trails through peaceful forests. In the summer, day trippers can roam among prairielands and flowering cacti on the Sulphur Springs Trail, while offroaders and bikers and zip down the OHV trails. Stay in an epic lookout tower on top of the Castle Mountains, or enjoy a remote campsite all to yourself. However you choose to spend your time at Lewis and Clark, you’ll find yourself thanking these two OG adventurers for discovering such an incredible place!

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Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

13. Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

94%

(8)

National park in Wyoming · 185 sites

Discover the rugged beauty of Bighorn Canyon's vast landscapes.

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Quartz Creek Retreat

14. Quartz Creek Retreat

100%

(15)

Gallatin Gateway, MT · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Enjoy a quiet night by the creek as well as our famous sand volleyball court, outdoor movie theater, horseshoe pits, yard games and acres of creekside hiking trails. Guided ziplining and river raft trips are offered just across the street at Montana Whitewater! Guided fly fishing is also offered just down the road. Hiking, mountain biking, rock climbing, and more all within a couple miles. Friday nights are yard game night here at Quartz Creek Retreat! Meet at the volleyball court at 6pm to join in on the fun! This property is just 35min to Bozeman, 35min to the airport, and 35min to Big Sky. *There is no cell service at Quartz Creek Retreat. Guests receive wifi login info after booking. Public wifi available in the yard game area. Wifi does not reach the tent sites.

Electrical hookup

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Campfires

Ennis RV Park by Starry Night Lodging

15. Ennis RV Park by Starry Night Lodging

94%

(35)

Ennis, MT · 94 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Discover the unique charm of Ennis RV Park, where you can immerse yourself in the beauty of Montana while enjoying a full-service RV experience. Located just a scenic 1 hour and 20 minutes from Yellowstone National Park, our RV park in Ennis, Montana, is designed to accommodate RVs of all sizes, ensuring that your stay is comfortable and convenient. At Ennis RV Park, we pride ourselves on offering a range of amenities that enhance your Montana getaway. Our park features spacious pull-thru sites, pristine restrooms, and endless hot showers, making it easy for you to relax after a day of exploring. Enjoy full hookups and fast wireless internet to stay connected during your visit. Our convenience store is tailored for RV owners, providing essential supplies to make your stay hassle-free. In addition to RV accommodations, we also offer tent sites and cabin rentals for those seeking a different camping experience. With easy access to nearby natural attractions, swimming holes, and outdoor activities, Ennis RV Park is the perfect base for your adventures. Explore local restaurants and shops in the charming town of Ennis, ensuring that you have everything you need for an unforgettable Montana experience.

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Glacier Park RV

16. Glacier Park RV

93%

(300)

Coram, MT · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

Welcome to my property, just a stones throw from Glacier Five minutes from Glacier National Park. Five minutes to grocery store. Property used to be the old Grizzly bear park that you could drive through to see the bears. Driveway is directly across from North American RV Park. Driveway is marked Hipcamp. Pets are allowed. Need to be leashed Please make sure you pick up after them.

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Full hookups

Camp A Way

17. Camp A Way

100%

(15)

Lincoln, NE · 45 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Located at the crux of Interstate 80 and Highway 34 in Lincoln, Nebraska, Camp A Way is the best-loved, year-round campground in the area. For over 50 years, Camp A Way has been the leader in providing the best guest experiences and amenities.

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Full hookups

Rainbow Gulch Farm

18. Rainbow Gulch Farm

84%

(102)

Clinton, MT · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

A small family farm working toward sustainability. Easy to access from I-90, drive in camping for a stop overnight or a home base while you explore the many attractions nearby. Learn more about this land: We are 20 miles east of Missoula, MT near the Kettlehouse Ampitheater in Bonner. Our location is halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Park. There are mountain bike paths, river access points for paddling, rafting or fishing within minutes of our land. We can even help you know where to go. Our land is surrounded by Nature Conservancy land with a public recreation easement, so you can hike and take your horse for a ride very easily, just let us know and we will point you in the right direction. Our child had a significant medical emergency that required a lot of travel to Seattle Children's and 4 brain surgeries recently, so we are just getting the garden back up and running and the sheep are happy. Unfortunately no chickens this year. In a vehicle, you can pull into one of our pastures for your stay. Where you are depends on which field the sheep are eating! Tents also work in the field. We do not have any hookups, but there is potable water in the blue hydrant by the yellow tube. The fields are that - pasture fields. There are quiet neighbors across the fence who now have goats on one side. We are happy to offer advice about local attractions via messaging. This is pack it in, pack it out.

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Potable water

Yellowstone City Guest Ranch

19. Yellowstone City Guest Ranch

99%

(163)

Pray, MT · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging

This is a wild property bordered by public land. No electricity, no plumbing. Just an exceptional piece of land, with a cold rushing creek to beat the heat, meadows with butterflies and flowers, privacy, and great views of the valley and surrounding mountains. We have three cabins spread across the lot. Enjoy the smell of fresh milled wood and the sounds of the nearby creek. The cabins are spread far enough apart to offer privacy to each party, but know that you may still see other travelers on the land during your stay. In addition to the cabins, enjoy the outdoor picnic and dining area, an outdoor gas stove, and a gas-powered fire pit. Outhouse with bucket toilet + cedar chips + bucket liners. Please pack it in, pack it out.

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Lost Pines site #1

20. Lost Pines site #1

100%

(11)

Anaconda, MT · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Located in Lost Creek outside of Anaconda Montana with full power, water and sewer. Relax and listen to the creek all day and night. Seven minutes into Anaconda and four miles up the road is Lost Creek state park with a waterfall, hiking and more. Try out our slice of heaven today. Can accommodate any size RV you have.

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Full hookups

The best family-friendly campsites in Montana

❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

99%

(1942)

Coram, MT · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

VanGoBoon Campground

84%

(952)

Bozeman, MT · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

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Camp A Way

100%

(15)

Lincoln, NE · 45 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Pheasant's Hideaway

99%

(146)

Billings, MT · 2 sites · Tents, RVs

Come enjoy a quiet night on 2 acres just outside of the busy city of Billings. It feels like country living but is just minutes to downtown shopping and everything else the city has to offer. Located with easy access to the I-90. Stop to rest your eyes or stay a while and enjoy the big city life and rich history of this part of Montana. We have a fire ring for those chilly evenings. 15, 30 and 50 amp electric hookups with Sewer and potable water connections at your site. Most mornings can be greated by pheasants, deer and rabbits. On the lucky occasion one might see an owl. DanWalt gardens just two houses down the road is the best way to enjoy your cup of coffee in the morning.

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Full hookups

Miner Creek Campground

97%

(229)

Wineglass, MT · 3 sites · Tents, RVs

Nestled on 60 acres you'll find a private campground in a cottonwood grove just across a log bridge over Miner creek. Across the gravel driveway you'll find a second campground that is tucked back in a secluded cottonwood grove, and further down the driveway, you'll find the 3rd campsite. The campgrounds are 5 minutes to the charming historic downtown of Livingston and the Yellowstone River, 20 minutes to Bozeman, 20 mins to Pine Creek Lodge and an hour to Yellowstone National Park. Dogs are welcome, as long as they are friendly to other dogs. Our dogs freely roam the property. *All sites share an outhouse located in the parking area by the trail to camp #2. It is only onsite from mid-May to end of September. #1: "Creekside Oasis" campsite has a picnic table, fire ring, a hammock, solar lighting, and a small portable charcoal grill. Although you can car camp at # 1, please note that the camper spot is just off the gravel driveway, and not across the creek where the tent site, picnic table and fire pit are located. #2: "Off the Beaten Path" campsite requires a short 1-2 minute walk on a tight, uneven path through the trees. It is a small campsite with a fire ring, 2 camp chairs, hammock, and solar lighting. Do NOT rent this tent site if you need to be close to your car. This site is not on the creek. Creek access is down a trail to the left off the parking area. #3: "Not for the Faint of Heart" campsite is a 1-2 minute walk from the parking spot on an uneven, tight trail through the trees. It has a fire ring, two camp chairs, solar lighting, hammock, and a small portable grill. Do NOT rent this tent site unless you are ready to explore and do not need to be close to your car. The creek is not right by the tent site like it is in campsite #1. There is a small break in the bushes that gives creek access. This site is bigger than #2. *NO Car camping is allowed at site 2 or 3. For all sites: * Quiet hours from 10pm-8am. *No parties. *We recommend you arrive before dark, although the trails are lit by solar lights even with headlamps it can be tricky to find your way thru the trees to camps 2 & 3. Closed-toed shoes are highly recommended for the trails. *We recommend storing your food in your vehicle overnight. *Bring your own firewood and charcoal.

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Wineglass Ranch

97%

(258)

Livingston, MT · 4 sites · Tents, RVs

We are a horse boarding ranch south of Livingston that caters to people traveling with horses or other people traveling and camping. We have an outdoor arena, indoor arena, a bathroom, a shower, barn stalls, barn stalls with runs and paddock areas for horses. Leashed dogs are welcome, but we ask that you clean up after your dog so another camper doesn't have the misfortune of stepping in it. We are located exactly 2 miles from the interstate south of the lovely town of Livingston. We will not allow large party gatherings for local concerts. I will give a forewarning that Livingston is a windy place, especially when storms are coming through. I try to help accommodate tents during these times by letting people set them up in the barn if needed. Please stay attention to checking the weather during your stay so I can try to hep accommodate. Learn more about this land: Quiet, private place with views of the Crazy mountains and the Absaroka mountains south of Livingston that caters to overnight people camping with their horses. We are allowing people to stay without horses. There is plenty of room for larger rigs. Electricity may be available depending on availability and the area you chose to camp in. We are 2 miles exactly from the interstate south of Livingston and 50 miles from Yellowstone Park. There is a bathroom with a sink and toilet along with a separate shower for usage by guests. We have a playground open for use by our guests. We offer a Keurig coffee station. We also have a microwave, a toaster oven, and a pay for use washer and dryer.

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The best dog-friendly campsites in Montana

American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

96%

(130)

Zortman, MT · 26 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

99%

(1942)

Coram, MT · 21 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Primrose Meadows

95%

(1671)

Missoula, MT · 20 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Jammin Jackalope Camping

99%

(684)

Livingston, MT · 13 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Showers

VanGoBoon Campground

84%

(952)

Bozeman, MT · 18 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

American Prairie Buffalo Camp

91%

(16)

Zortman, MT · 13 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Rachel

1 week ago

18 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Lost Pines site #1

Amazing weekend stay!

Cari

1 week ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Glacier getaway 2.0

Abby and Anna were amazing hosts. So personable and the amenities were more than we could have asked for!! 1000/10 stay. We will be back!

Barbara

2 weeks ago

24 ft campervan

1 night at Creekside at Liberty Acres Bozeman

What a hidden gem! A great place to park for the night in the middle of the Gallatin Valley.

Mike

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Glacier getaway 2.0

My teenage son and I enjoyed camping on Abby and Anna's property! It was clean (including the porta-potties), close to the water, and had a warm shower. We pitched our tent on lush, green grass and were able to have nice campfires each night. Abby and Anna were friendly and easy to contact for questions and assistance. Highly recommended!

Cameron

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to ❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

This is a true campsite with bench, outhouse and small metal fire pit. Campsite has small pond to fish and was nearby the city for gas and food. 10/10 can’t get much better than that

Todd

2 weeks ago

14 ft rooftop tent

Weekend Trip to ❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

Very clean and well maintained

DAVID

2 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

3 nights at Quartz Creek Retreat

This spot on Quartz Creek is spectacular! It is so cozy and beautiful. Sleeping next to the sound of the creek was lovely. We loved all the nice touches Spencer has available on site. We will definitely return.

Timothy

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Primrose Meadows

Very peaceful setting, though the train is frequent! We will definitely go again

American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

Kenneth

2 weeks ago

45 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

It’s a nice place, easy access to the road. Short hiking trail that was informative. There were more things to do and see but required some traveling. All in all a nice experience.

Barbara

2 weeks ago

22 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

We so enjoyed our stay at American Prairie. The campground is spotless with great sites, a clean bathroom and shower room and a really nice public space. The hosts were not only friendly but had great suggestions for local attractions. Most of all when we had a problem with our camper, they were there to help. Probably going back next year.

Kirsten

2 weeks ago

32 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to Primrose Meadows

Very spacious, absolutely beautiful, peaceful, We were there when there were very few other campers there, so it felt like we had a lot of privacy.

McCrae

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

Cabins were great, bathrooms were even better. Will stay here again. Camp hosts were super nice and helpful too!

Akatzin

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to ❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

Great spot to camp! The whole property is thought out perfectly. The campgrounds are well maintained. Restrooms are also clean. Definitely recommend.

David

2 weeks ago

12 ft Class B

2 nights at ❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

Great amenities, including hot showers and laundry facilities if needed. Although busy, sites occupied, wasn't noisy. You can here the highway but since most traffic is during peak park hours I didn't notice at nighttime.

Lisa

2 weeks ago

19 ft Class B

1 night at Glacier getaway 2.0

We had a lovely peaceful stay. Gorgeous sunset over Glacier. It was a nice break from the crowds.

George

2 weeks ago

22 ft campervan

With pets

2 nights at American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

My wife and i have visited quite a few Hipcamp locations and this is one of our favorites. Absolutely tranquil and perfectly managed. A big thanks to Sherry for going out of her way to make our stay very memorable!!

Owen

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Quartz Creek Retreat

Spencer's place was spectacular, it has everything. I tent-camped and the sites are well-made with benches, fire pit, and bear boxes, right next to the creek. The trails on the property allow for excellent views of the surrounding area. The property is curated in every way to retreat. Spencer was exceptionally friendly and easy to book with. I'd recommend to families, solo travelers and everyone in between!

Bill

2 weeks ago

26 ft Class B

1 night at Trees, Lake view, Rock buttes!

We stayed a night on our way west. I enjoyed the quiet and private nature of the site. The host was responsive and welcoming

Ethan

2 weeks ago

1 night at Yellowstone City Guest Ranch

Peaceful property with amazing views. We will definitely be returning next time we are in the area!

Autumn

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at VanGoBoon Campground

It was perfect for a spot to sleep while road tripping across I-90. Less than 10 minutes from downtown Bozeman so we went to get drinks and watch some stand up comedy. The horses on the property are gorgeous. There is highway noise, so I would just recommend ear plugs if you're sensitive to that. Perfect for a quick pit stop!

Montana camping guide

Where to go

Glacier Country

Northwestern Montana's Glacier Country is characterized by massive forests, craggy peaks, and long expanses of wilderness, with plenty of wildlife to boot. It's also home to Glacier National Park, where you'll find hundreds of miles of hiking trails along with tons of developed and backcountry camping options.

Southwest Montana

In the heart of Montana's Big Sky country, just west of Yellowstone National Park, this region is characterized by cute towns (notably Butte and Helena), historic ghost towns (a remnant of the region's historic mining industry), and relaxing hot springs. Popular camping areas include Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park and Bannack State Park.

Yellowstone Country

If you're headed to Yellowstone Country, it's likely with a visit to Yellowstone National Park in mind, but there's plenty more to do in the region, from hiking the Lake Fork Trail to checking out the restaurant and brewery scene in Bozeman. Yellowstone itself is, of course, a must-visit, but if you can’t find camping in the massive—and ever so popular—national park, you may have better luck snagging something in Custer Gallatin National Forest.

Central Montana

Central Montana offers all sorts of opportunities for outdoor recreation, rain or shine. Summer activities include fishing, horseback riding, and camping, while spots such as Showdown Mountain, Teton Pass Ski Resort, and Bear Paw Ski Bowl offer skiing and snowboarding. The region also has plenty of state parks, including Sluice Boxes State Park, Giant Springs State Park, and First Peoples Buffalo State Park.

Eastern Montana

Vast and expansive, eastern Montana features sparse landscapes dotted with the occasional herd of cattle, and plenty of room to get out and explore. You can take in views of the Badlands from Makoshika State Park or the Badlands Wilderness Study Area, or camp under the open sky in the expansive Custer National Forest. If you'd like to get out on the water, the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is the place to go, with boat rentals available.

Top camping destinations around Montana

Glacier National Park

Flathead National Forest

93 campgrounds

Custer Gallatin National Forest

19 campgrounds

Chico Hot Springs

40 campgrounds

Kootenai National Forest

130 campgrounds

Plentywood

0 campgrounds

Frequently Asked Questions

Is camping free in Montana?

While not all camping in Montana is free, you can find free camping options in Montana's national forests and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. Dispersed camping is allowed in these areas, but amenities are usually not available, so be prepared for primitive camping experiences. Some popular national forests in Montana include Lewis and Clark National Forest, Lolo National Forest, and Gallatin National Forest.

What are the top must-haves for camping in Montana?

When camping in Montana, it's essential to be prepared for a variety of weather conditions and outdoor activities. Here are some must-haves for your Montana camping adventure:

Tent and sleeping gear: A sturdy, weather-resistant tent, sleeping bag rated for the expected temperatures, and a sleeping pad or air mattress for comfort.
Clothing: Dress in layers, including moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layers, and waterproof outer layers. Don't forget hats, gloves, and sturdy hiking boots.
Backpack: A comfortable and spacious backpack to carry your essentials during hikes and outdoor activities.
Navigation tools: A map, compass, or GPS device to navigate Montana's vast wilderness areas.
Food and water: Bring enough food and water for your trip, plus extra in case of emergencies. A portable water filter or purifier can be helpful for longer trips.
Cooking gear: A portable stove, fuel, cookware, and utensils for preparing meals at your campsite.
First aid kit: A well-stocked first aid kit for treating minor injuries and ailments.
Bear safety: Montana is home to both black bears and grizzly bears. Bring bear-resistant food containers, bear spray, and follow proper food storage and bear safety guidelines.
Insect protection: Bug spray and possibly a bug net or screen for your tent to protect against mosquitoes and other insects.
Lighting: Headlamps, flashlights, and lanterns for navigating and setting up camp in the dark.
Emergency gear: A whistle, multi-tool, fire starter, and extra batteries for your electronic devices.
Camera or binoculars: Capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife of Montana with a camera or enjoy birdwatching and wildlife spotting with binoculars.

Remember to check the specific requirements and regulations for the area where you'll be camping, as different parks and campgrounds may have additional rules or recommendations.

Is wild camping legal in Montana?

Yes, wild camping is legal in Montana. Dispersed or primitive camping is allowed in national forests, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands, and some state lands. Some popular areas for wild camping in Montana include Missoula, West Yellowstone, and Roundup. Always follow Leave No Trace principles, camp at least 200 feet away from lakes and streams, and check for any local regulations or restrictions before setting up camp.