- Custer Gallatin National Forest
The best camping in Custer Gallatin National Forest, MT
84% (59)
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Stories from the community
S
Steven
October 2025
Tent
We loved the chance to camp on this historic land. And even more, appreciated learning about the work being done to help the community. Peggy and her family are true peacemakers.
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Tracey
October 2025
Tent
Spending time at Wellknown Buffalo was a unique experience for us. We left more aware of the history of the local indigenous groups and appreciative of their collective resilience. It was good to know that the profit goes back to support local youth
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Carolyn
September 2025
With pets
Is was a great location to go to Little Big Horn. The cabin was very clean and bed was comfortable. Being pet friendly was our deciding factor.
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Matt
September 2025
Tent
If you’re looking for a truly unique camping experience while visiting the Little Bighorn Battlefield, this is the place. Just a short distance from the battlefield itself, the campsite is located where more than 2,000 Cheyenne once camped, and where women, children, and elders remained during the historic battle. Staying here offers a rare opportunity to connect with the land and its sacred history. While the site is close to I-90 and the railroad, you won’t find a camping experience this close to the battlefield—and with this much historical significance—anywhere else.
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Barbara
September 2025
25 ft Class C
With pets
Very convenient to the Little Bighorn Battlefield. The showers and the laundry service were conveniently located. We appreciated Laurie’s assistance!
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austin
September 2025
With pets
One of my favorite spots I stayed at on my roadtrip from Texas. Would definitely come back. It’s in a quiet and beautiful location still by a couple good towns with lots to do.
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Annette
September 2025
1 night at Little Bit Acres
Very sweet & cute little cabin with the amenities. Loved the llama greeting in the morning.
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Amber
September 2025
With pets
It was such a delight to take a very last minute reprieve in such a beautiful, bucolic place. My cat, Jiji, and I enjoyed the nature sounds and the relaxing chug of the train (we normally live in the city!). Lisa and Nate were very nice.
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Theresa
August 2025
3 nights at Little Bit Acres
Such a cute place! Lisa put a lot of love and effort into it. The shower and bathroom is new and just a short walk 30 sec walk from the cabin. The sounds of cows and nature was really beautiful at night. There is a train that runs several times in the night, earplugs might be helpful for those that are not used to trains. I only stayed one night but Lisa was very accommodating.
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Forrest
August 2025
Tent
Group trip
The hospitality of Peggy and her crew was amazing. They went above and beyond to make sure we were comfortable. It was the perfect location to what we wanted to do. Thank you for the experiences.
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Thomas
August 2025
Tent
With pets
Peggy and Mila were so welcoming and generous during our stay. The experience with them at their camp as they set up for Crow Fair was truly a once in a life time experience! The tipi was great and we really enjoyed learning about the history and culture of the Crow from the stories everyone shared. They went above and beyond in accommodating us and we would love to come back to stay anywhere with Peggy and Mila again!
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Sarah
August 2025
With pets
What a wonderful slice of heaven! Thank you for hosting us and for the evening of tranquility
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Abbie
July 2025
With pets
We enjoyed our stay at Lisa’s! Quaint little cabin at the corner of their property, everything seemed very private like you had your own space, including a private bathroom that had its own entrance. Perfect place to camp and hike during the day - 20 minutes away from Tongue River Canyon trail which is one of the most beautiful hikes I’ve ever done!
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Nic
July 2025
Tent
It’s a perfect location if you’re interested in the history of the area. Mila and Peggy were very kind, friendly and helpful. Great views and great atmosphere.
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Dennis
July 2025
Tent
If you a history buff, this is the place for you. Located on the banks of the Little Bighorn River you will camping on the spot where Native Americans camped during the battle. There are no “ designated campsites “ , just find a spot off the dirt road. We have a 26 ft travel trailer and had no problem getting into a spot. It’s serenely beautiful and quiet. The second night we were there the Native Americans held a Peyote’ ceremony, they drummed all through the night until dawn. It was a magical night! I look forward to returning in the future. One of my favorite places.
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Kevin
July 2025
Tent
My wife and I enjoyed our time at Medicine Tail Coulee. Though we were not fortunate enough to meet with the host, we had a really great time. This IS a working farm and so you have to accept that. The site was very large and quiet, it was really nice to have the horses come through camp (enjoyed watching them) and the cows nearby. There was a Peyote ceremony going on that weekend, and it was interesting to hear.
This area has its place in history and it was really powerful to feel. It was also amazing to learn about its people and their struggles even today.
Highly recommended especially for history buffs.
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B
Becky
June 2025
3 nights at Little Bit Acres
Very cozy and clean. View was great as were the hosts. Peaceful and quiet.
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M
Missy
May 2025
25 ft Class C
We actually used the gravel, back in lot, for our class C for full hook ups. The place has laundry facilities, electric, water and sewage. It’s easily accessible and was very centrally located, right across the street from coffee/beer/ wine/food shop. It’s also dog-friendly.
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R
Roben
May 2025
Tent
We wanted an authentic rustic tipi camping experience near a river and more isolated. We got that and loved it. We did each have a twin bed and there was a porta John. We had a stove, water, and camping supples, so we were very happy. I was even provided with worms and a fishing pole so I caught a catfish which we had for supper. Peggy Wellknown Buffalo and Mila Big Hair were very accommodating. This was our favorite place
See moreTop public campgrounds in the park
Stay at a public campground in Custer Gallatin National Forest
Top-rated campgrounds
The best camping in Custer Gallatin National Forest, MT guide
Overview
About
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.
Notable campgrounds
- 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.
Tips for snagging a campsite
- The national forest campgrounds offer a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites.
- Reservations are accepted online at Recreation.gov or by phone at 1-877-444-6777.
- Reservations open six months in advance on a rolling basis.
- Reservations are especially recommended for campgrounds near Yellowstone National Park and for weekends and holidays during the summer season.
- First-come, first-served sites may fill quickly. Arrive by early afternoon for the best selection.
- Some campgrounds are open year-round, while others close during the fall and winter.
When to go
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.
Know before you go
- 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.
84%
59 ratings · 27 reviews
Recommends
· November 2025
25 ft Class C · With kids ·
Baker's Hole Campground
Nice and peaceful place. It is close to the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Really impressive fire pit ring. The host is easy to communicte, welcoming and helpful.
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Singa G.
4 reviews
Recommends
· October 2025
Right off the highway and easy to find. It was a great spot on our way to Yellowstone.
J
Jamie W.
2 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· July 2025
26 ft travel trailer · With pets · With kids ·
Baker's Hole Campground
This is a beautiful campground with the best sites right on the Madison river. Super close to town and park entrance. Definitely some noise from the highway so if you are looking for perfect peace and quiet you won’t get it here but it wasn’t bad enough to bother us too much. There’s water spigot to fill your tanks at the park entrance and then non-threaded spigots in a few other locations.
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Ross G.
2 reviews
March 2018
Stayed at this little ranger station cabin for Christmas. Nice cozy little cabin, located near some hiking and and cross country trails. Fits up to 4 people in the bunks, but there's room for cots or sleeping bags on the floor. The cabin is drafty in the winter, so we moved the bunks closer to the wood stove in the night. There's also an oven and sink, as well as a pit toilet in the outhouse. Firewood available, and a fire pit during the summer as well. Highly recommend for a little getaway.
Rachel H.
7 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2017
Hike to Sac peak! It's an intense elevation gain, but so worth it.
Grace B.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2017
Palisade and Grotto are great short hikes near by. Of course check out the reservoir too!
Grace B.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· December 2017
The view is amazing!! If you can find someone with a four wheeler getting gear up there is a plus. Cross country skiing this mountain in winter is quite a trek but with so much quiet beauty.
Angela Y.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· November 2017
Secluded and beautiful camping area. Latrine style bathrooms where we were. There was a fire pit area too and a spot where we could chop our wood if needed. We stayed in a small cabin and used a wood burning stove to keep us warm. We drove over to Yellowstone each day to do some epic hiking. Bring plenty of water with you.
K
Kelsie L.
8 years on Hipcamp
August 2017
Loved this campground! Way more secluded and private than KOA. Really beautiful area, right up in the mountains! Very friendly hosts too.
Anzley H.
8 years on Hipcamp
August 2017
We stopped here while driving through Montana and it was excellent. The restrooms were clean, the spot for water was close by and the scenery was fantastic.
It is next to the road so expect traffic to start relatively early during the weekday.
J
John B.
4 reviews
Recommends
· May 2017
There is usually range cattle nearby.
A
Amma S.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· February 2017
Bring a propane cylinder and extra mantle for the Coleman lantern.
G
Graham G.
8 years on Hipcamp
Recommends
· February 2017
slow drive to lake
J
Jim L.
8 years on Hipcamp
December 2016
Quick and easy, and relatively close to town. Some classic creek fishing spots.
Seth N.
9 years on Hipcamp
December 2016
Fun place to camp, not too far away from Bozeman—about an hour's drive or so. The last seven miles to the trailhead (Sacagawea Peak) and the campground is pretty rough, but worth the effort. Cold lake, but swimmable. There used to be a rope swing—at least it was there last season... The hike up to Sacagawea is fun and also worth the effort. Goats for daaaaays.
Seth N.
9 years on Hipcamp
December 2016
I've spent a few nights here over the last few years, and it's a great spot to take larger groups, year-round. The cabin is in good shape and the stove does a good job of keeping things toasty.
Seth N.
9 years on Hipcamp
August 2016
Great campground. Camp hosts are wonderful. They have had several baby black bears this summer though, so come prepared! The views driving in are absolutely stunning!!
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Kate S.
9 years on Hipcamp
July 2016
Super happy with Sheridan - it was just a small drive from downtown Red Lodge and was nice and private. The hosts were wonderful and kept everything very clean, including the bathroom!
M
Melanie S.
10 years on Hipcamp
June 2016
Excellent camping option just outside of Yellowstone National Park. Just north of/minutes from West Yellowstone where you can get supplies, if needed. Campground takes check/cash. Be bear smart. Food lockers provided sporadically throughout loops. At least three hosts who have firewood for $6 a bundle ($5.99 plus tax in town). Beach sometimes has high levels of algae - has been fatal to dogs. Swimming allowed - precautions for swimmers itch are posted. Shallow boat launch/dock available. Wonderful beach to watch sunset. Picnic tables & fire rings at each site. Sites with electric available. Deep sites for trailers. Vault toilets, bear safe trash, and water available. Poorly graded gravel roads to enter. Dusty roads inside camp.
Emma S.
8 reviews
February 2016
Halfmoon campground is epic. Very off the beaten path, you have to drive through much farmland, even passing through a private cow gate to get there. Just be sure to close it behind you. The campground was very quiet, which is understandable as it is quite a drive. Very well kept though and the views and sounds were magnificent.
Nathan B.
9 years on Hipcamp
December 2015
The campsite itself is breathtaking! The sites are well spaced and each one has amazing views of the towering peaks surrounding the campground. We pretty much had the grounds to ourselves mid-week, but I hear it can get busy on the weekends. There is a rewarding, short hike to Big Timber falls from the grounds, and also further hikes to alpine lakes. We tried hiking to the lakes but in June, there was still too much snow on the ground and we lost the trail. Overall, this is one of my favorite camping spots in Montana. It is a real gem! Quiet, beautiful, and in the heart of the Crazy Mountains....a must see! (sidenote: dogs are allowed on-leash in the campground)
Meredith B.
19 reviews
September 2015
Great campground, quiet and access to potable water! We camped right on the river and it was so quiet and beautiful. Lots of camping and exploring can be done right from the campground, and everyone should go up on the Beartooth pass at least once while they are here!
M
Megan W.
10 years on Hipcamp
September 2015
Pretty far up the Boulder is this wonderful gem of a campground. Pretty close to the quiet dirt road going up the canyon with large sites and pit toilets. Beautiful sites and the sunset over the river is to die for! We were extra bear aware as the end of the summer camping season saw a lot of black bears in the area and grizzlies up on the plateau.
M
Megan W.
10 years on Hipcamp
September 2015
Really pretty campsite right on the river! Fairly secluded campsites with all the brush and trees so you have a bit of privacy. Small campground, so get there early for a good spot! Awesome fishing right on the Boulder if the season is right, too!
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Megan W.
10 years on Hipcamp
September 2015
The campground is right off the highway, which can be a bit of a bummer if you are a light sleeper and don't like the hum of cars driving by through the night. The campground is located near a couple great fishing spots and is about a 10 min drive from Gardiner and the entrance to Yellowstone Park. The spots are pretty spacious, but not all of them have a great tent spot so get there early!
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Megan W.
10 years on Hipcamp
August 2015
We camped there the first weekend it was open. It was awesome. Road up there is not great but had a wonderful time. We actually stayed here not Gypsy Lake. Ooops. It was great.
Hiedi V.
10 years on Hipcamp
August 2015
The description says it's "remote as it gets." True, you won't see any lights or houses around here, but you're a quick few miles up a mountain road from Gardiner--easy access to the town and the park entrance.
Jenny W.
10 years on Hipcamp