The best camping near Custer Gallatin National Forest

Whether you are coming to the region to explore the grandeur of Yellowstone National Park or the expansive landscapes of Montana’s Big Sky Country, Custer Gallatin National Forest can add to your adventures and provide a scenic camping spot. Over 60 designated campgrounds are located within the three million acres of forests, mountains, and waterways, offering a range of services and amenities. Dispersed camping is also allowed, as long as you follow the guidelines. The campgrounds may be busier than many other national forest campgrounds due to the proximity to Yellowstone National Park, with several options mere minutes from the park’s entrance gates.

• Best for dry camping near Yellowstone: Eagle Creek Campground is just two miles from the north entrance to Yellowstone and has wide-open views of Big Sky Country.
• Best for camping with hookups near Yellowstone: Baker’s Hole Campground, three miles from the west entrance to Yellowstone, is popular with RVers and campers desiring electric hookups. 
• Best for outdoor action: Red Cliff Campground has a river, cave, and trails easily accessible from tree-covered campsites.

1. The national forest campgrounds offer a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites. 
2. Reservations are accepted online at Recreation.gov or by phone at 1-877-444-6777.
3. Reservations open six months in advance on a rolling basis.
4. Reservations are especially recommended for campgrounds near Yellowstone National Park and for weekends and holidays during the summer season.
5. First-come, first-served sites may fill quickly. Arrive by early afternoon for the best selection.
6. Some campgrounds are open year-round, while others close during the fall and winter.

Camping conditions vary greatly by location across the Custer Gallatin National Forest, thanks to the varied elevations and terrain. Summer is generally pleasant and prime time for outdoor recreation, but it is the busy season, with some campground reservations and first-come, first-serve sites in limited supply. Spring and fall are cooler and much quieter, with the potential for freezing temperatures. The national forest campgrounds begin closing after Labor Day, though some are open through December or year-round. Expect snow and freezing temperatures in late fall and winter.

• Camping in bear country requires extra preparation for storing food and scented items.
• Cell signal varies greatly and may be unavailable or limited in some areas.
• Amenities vary by campground. Potable water, electric hookups, vault toilets, firewood and more may or may not be available or may vary by season. Check the campground details online for current information.