The best camping in Montana

Name: Montana
Address: Montana
Rating: 4.8

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) • 9,598 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds in Montana

Primrose Meadows

1. Primrose Meadows

95%

(1683)

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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Campfires

Ridgeline Retreat

2. Ridgeline Retreat

96%

(97)

Missoula, MT · 3 sites

Perched on a secluded ridge, Ridgeline Retreat offers a peaceful escape surrounded by Forest Service land and wilderness. This completely off-grid property spans 70 private acres, providing space, privacy and a true back to nature experience. The land includes a main cabin along with several thoughtfully spaced campsites, making it ideal for quiet getaways, small gatherings or simply unplugging from the busyness of everyday life. Take in expansive views overlooking the Missoula Vally, enjoy star-filled skies, and settle into the quiet, undisturbed nights. Whether you're here to relax, explore or reconnect, Ridgeline Retreat offers a unique secluded Montana experience.

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Showers

American Prairie Buffalo Camp

3. American Prairie Buffalo Camp

89%

(23)

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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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Lolo National Forest

4. Lolo National Forest

94%

(17)

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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Campfires

Flathead National Forest

5. Flathead National Forest

79%

(28)

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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Campfires

❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

6. ❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

98%

(1476)

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. Non-Potable 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: Full RV dump/water fill at Mike’s Conoco in Columbia Falls (8.9 mi). 🗑️ TRASH: Pack in Pack out: Free landfill dump 2.2 mi away (9626 US Hwy 2 E). SAM AND MOLLY’S MERCANTILE 🪵 Located by our house in the middle of the property! We sell sunscreen, swag, firewood, coffee, and more. If you have any other questions, contact us.

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

7. Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

99%

(34)

Missoula, MT · 1 site

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 a quiet space, with the 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 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 beautiful 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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American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

8. American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

97%

(192)

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

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Acres about 10 miles from Glacier

9. Acres about 10 miles from Glacier

99%

(76)

Columbia Falls, MT · 20 sites · Tents, RVs

Enjoy a landscape connected to Montana Fish, Wildlife and Parks property thus providing walking access to waters edge of the Flathead River. A quick ride to Columbia Falls, Bigfork, Whitefish, or Kalispell will provide you with numerous coffee shops, restaurants, saloons, breweries, and shopping. For an afternoon of adventure bike rentals, ziplining, and water slides within minutes as well as Hungry Horse Reservoir, Glacier National Park, and Flathead Lake.

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Glacier National Park

10. Glacier National Park

97%

(390)

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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Toilets

Campfires

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.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

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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Campfires

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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Boulder Creek Lodge & RV Park

14. Boulder Creek Lodge & RV Park

98%

(28)

Hall, MT · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Located in a valley halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks, you’ll find Boulder Creek Lodge and RV Park. Our place is special for what surrounds it, but it’s also special for what we have right here on the property. We offer travelers RV sites (with hookup), tent and van camping sites, and ten fully furnished, clean and comfortable cabins, Tipis and Conestoga Wagon for the glamping (glamorous camping) experience. Bedding provided for cabins, tipis and wagon. Guests have access to the shower house (showers, toilets, sinks) with laundry facilities (2 coin-op washers - 2 dryers), property playground, and the Lodge with game room, sitting room, communal kitchen and recently updated bathrooms/showers. All guests are welcome to use horseshoe pit, community fire pits and wi-fi access. Our guests can unplug, kick back, and relax with their families in one of the country's most beautiful locations.

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Full hookups

Creekside getaway

15. Creekside getaway

99%

(269)

Victor, MT · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Stunning creekside campsites, glamping on a working ranch with views of the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains, and stunning star gazing. Historic homeland of the Salish (Flathead) tribe. Eighty acres featuring an old apple orchard, boulders, two creeks, and open areas for hiking, birding, stargazing, and wildlife watching. Bathroom provided next to RV site. Potable water at nearby well head and table provided. Numerous hiking and farm experiences are nearby. Some of the property could have cows grazing, depending on the time of the year. We also have wildlife come through including deer, elk and eagles. This mostly applies to the RV spot we have. Pets are welcome, so bering them along! You are also allowed to have campfires so snuggle up with your favorites by the warm glow at night!

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Electrical hookup

Toilets

Yellowrock Campground

16. Yellowrock Campground

100%

(6)

Lolo, MT · 58 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Discover the charm of our family-owned campground, a unique destination celebrating nearly 50 years of creating unforgettable memories along the serene banks of Lolo Creek. Nestled among majestic Ponderosa Pines, our campground offers both full hook-up RV sites and inviting tent camping options, providing the perfect escape into nature. Lolo Creek, the northernmost tributary of the Bitterroot River, is teeming with vibrant wildlife, including Cutthroat Trout, river otters, and Canada geese, making it an ideal spot for nature enthusiasts and fishing aficionados alike. Experience the beauty of Big Sky Country in Montana, where you can find your own peaceful corner to relax and unwind. In addition to our picturesque campsites, we feature a stunning dance hall with cushioned maple floors, available for rent for special events. This hall has a rich history of hosting square dance activities that draw guests from all over the country. We are now accepting bookings for event and venue rentals, ensuring your special occasion is memorable and unique. Come join us for a delightful camping experience that combines nature, community, and celebration!

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Toilets

Full hookups

Lost Paddle and Pole

17. Lost Paddle and Pole

99%

(99)

Columbia Falls, MT · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Lost Paddle and Pole is conveniently located between Whitefish and Columbia Falls. Lost Paddle and Pole is great for a quick night while passing through, or as a base camp while exploring Glacier Park, Whitefish, and the north end of Flathead County. There is some highway noise, but it usually isn't too bothersome. Please contact us to check on pet status, trailers, or other questions. Thanks, Don and Bree

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Toilets

Stillwater Getaway

18. Stillwater Getaway

86%

(44)

Olney, MT · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Family and pet friendly lakeside cabins, wall tents, and campsites. Come enjoy a true Montana experience at Stillwater Getaway, located 15 miles North of Whitefish on Lower Stillwater Lake bring your paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes to explore the lake. There is a bath house with showers and toilets and outhouses around the property as well. We have a shared Mess Hall with a full kitchen with a BBQ grill, coffee, and WiFi.

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Toilets

Campfires

Blue Mountain BaseCamp

19. Blue Mountain BaseCamp

89%

(33)

Missoula, MT · 1 site

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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This Old Frat House

20. This Old Frat House

100%

(1)

Missoula, MT · 2 sites

Welcome to This Old Frat House! A little urban camping, a little Missoula history, and a whole lot of Montana charm! Park your camper van or small RV at our historic 1936 former fraternity house, located directly across from the University of Montana in Missoula’s beautiful University District. Our property features mature trees, a welcoming backyard, outdoor seating, and convenient access to everything Missoula has to offer. Leave your vehicle parked and explore! The free Mountain Line bus stops nearby, and downtown Missoula, local breweries, restaurants, the Clark Fork River, and University of Montana events are all within easy reach. We offer two designated camper parking spaces with convenient access to household electricity and seasonal fresh water connections. Please coordinate with your host before connecting to utilities. This is an urban camper stopover, not a traditional RV campground. Guests should arrive in self-contained vehicles. We do not provide sewer hookups, a dump station, or dedicated campground bathrooms. Whether you’re visiting the university, catching a Griz game, exploring Western Montana, or simply passing through, come park with us! STAY • GATHER • EXPLORE

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

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The best family-friendly campsites in Montana

❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

98%

(1476)

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Boulder Creek Lodge & RV Park

98%

(28)

Hall, MT · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Camp A Way

100%

(16)

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.

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Wineglass Ranch

97%

(219)

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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Toilets

Showers

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.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Pheasant's Hideaway

99%

(149)

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.

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

The best dog-friendly campsites in Montana

Primrose Meadows

95%

(1683)

Missoula, MT · 20 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Ridgeline Retreat

96%

(97)

Missoula, MT · 3 sites

Pets

Toilets

Showers

American Prairie Buffalo Camp

89%

(23)

Zortman, MT · 13 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

98%

(1476)

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

99%

(34)

Missoula, MT · 1 site

Pets

American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

97%

(192)

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

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Whitley

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Acres about 10 miles from Glacier

It was awesome and very peaceful. Hosts were very respectful.

Marjorie

2 weeks ago

27 ft Class B

With pets

1 night at Creekside getaway

This place is amazing ! We booked the place last minute (like 20 minutes before we show up to the ranch, we were trying of driving and got lucky to find this place). Don was a great host. This is a really beautiful spot, great views of the mountain. Lots of nice grass for my dog to walk on. Clean bathroom. I highly recommend this place if you are in the area. Thanks for having us !

Doug

2 weeks ago

26 ft travel trailer

1 night at Back Of The Moon

Loved my stay here. Quiet and tucked away at the end of the road behind the Haymoon Resort. Great location to stretch the legs and walk to and through the beautiful resort grounds.

Anna

2 weeks ago

10 ft travel trailer

4 nights at Primrose Meadows

Few campers in the month of October, as the weather can be quite chilly & we had multiple frosty mornings. Although, the property was infrequently traveled which allowed for more privacy! There are sites located all over the property, most nearest the two vault toilets. We felt comfortable leaving our camper & belongings behind during the day, as the land is private. Multiple trains pass by throughout the day & night, they are out of sight, but can be quite loud. There are also the sounds of engines, children, dogs, gunshots, etc… as the campground is near many roads, properties, and a shooting range. *not a campground for those hoping to escape the sounds of town.* A few of the upper sites are overgrown with weeds, but the rolling hills are beautiful during sunset! A simple campground about 20 minute drive from Missoula town center!

American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

Thomas

2 weeks ago

20 ft travel trailer

With pets

13 nights at American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

A great place and great hosts to boot.

Scott

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

It was just fine.

Doug

2 weeks ago

26 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Back Of The Moon

Stayed two nights here and found it to be quiet and peaceful. Nice site among the pines.

Grant

2 weeks ago

45 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

well kept, clean campsites, quiet surroundings

Mark

2 weeks ago

24 ft travel trailer

With pets

2 nights at Creekside getaway

Camp was clean, quiet and dark.

Erin

3 weeks ago

20 ft truck camper

2 nights at American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

Thanks for hospitality

J-Money

3 weeks ago

16 ft car

3 nights at Lost Paddle and Pole

Really enjoyed it the hosts were extremely friendly and facilities were all up kept highly recommend if your going to glacier.

Kristian

3 weeks ago

45 ft travel trailer

1 night at Creekside getaway

Clean and quiet

Holly

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Boulder Creek Lodge & RV Park

Beautiful property and clean fresh cabins. Very friendly hosts, clean bathrooms and great game room!

Erin

3 weeks ago

20 ft truck camper

With pets

2 nights at American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

Very nice hosts , very clean nice facilities

Ryan

3 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at ❤️ Glacier HipCamp 🏕️

Very good campground/campsite! Only issue was train noise.

Erin

3 weeks ago

20 ft truck camper

3 nights at American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

Very nice

Flynn

3 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Cottonwood Camp

Gus was a great host, very welcoming and helpful. Campsite was flat and maintained, amenities were good. Would recommend!

McCrae

3 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

Sherri was a great camp host. Super friendly and very knowledgeable on local wildlife, the mission of American prairie, and thing and places to see! Will be back

Those big Montana skies! RV site 1 at sunset ☺️

Courtney

3 weeks ago

31 ft Class C

5 nights at Aspen Hollow

Our family stayed at Aspen Hallow in our 30’ class c RV for a week and could not have been happier. The property was clean, well thought out, and comfortable. The property offered privacy and convenience! We will be back! Brad and Sarah are excellent hosts!

Elizabeth

3 weeks ago

24 ft Class C

Weekend Trip to American Prairie Antelope Creek Campground

Loved the open space and quiet spot. Dark skies! The elk were amazing to see!!

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

96 campgrounds

Flathead National Forest

93 campgrounds

Chico Hot Springs

40 campgrounds

Custer Gallatin National Forest

19 campgrounds

Lolo National Forest

90 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.