The best camping in Helena National Forest, MT

·
100% (3)

The best camping in Helena National Forest, MT

Vigilante Campground

1. Vigilante Campground

100%
(1)
Campground in Helena National Forest · 14 sites · Tents, RVs
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Get ready for a big camping adventure in the Big Belt Mountains when you stay at Vigilante Campground
Public campgrounds in Helena National Forest are often sold-out.
Copper Creek Campground

2. Copper Creek Campground

100%
(1)
Campground in Helena National Forest · 17 sites · Tents, RVs
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Location, location, location
Cromwell Dixon Campground

3. Cromwell Dixon Campground

100%
(1)
Campground in Helena National Forest · 15 sites · Tents, RVs
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Cromwell Dixon Campground is located right on the Continental Divide
Aspen Grove Group Use Campground

4. Aspen Grove Group Use Campground

Campground in Helena National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Afraid of heights? Then you’ll probably want to avoid Aspen Grove Campground at all costs—or try and face your phobia
Moose Creek Cabin

5. Moose Creek Cabin

Lodging in Helena National Forest · 1 site
Moose Creek Cabin is a stunning little white-topped wonder with plenty of adventure out the back door
》°☆Montana Family Camp☆°《

6. 》°☆Montana Family Camp☆°《

93%
(14)
9mi from Helena National Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
PLEASE BE AWARE! There are no toilets onsite and no water available from October 1st to May 1st. We are open through the winter, but you'll need to be fully containted, and not need water or toilets. Fantastic Hauser Lake, causeway, and National forest basecamp or for a quick overnight stay when you're passing through. Sprawling 20 acres set in the center of 4 lakes in the Helena Valley. 1 1/2 miles from Lakeside, a haven for boaters, swimmers, and not much further to Helena National Forest, and York. Lakeside offers a gas station, convenience store, and wonderful bar/restaurant. Several boat launches and walking paths are also in the area. 9 miles from Helena. Experience a beautiful Prairie setting with awesome sunsets, chickens, roosters, horses, guinea fowl, and stunning views of Hauser Lake and several mountain ranges. Talk to Granny Julie about our horses, chickens, guinea fowl, and other fun stuff to view at the farm! Animals do make noise, and we do have roosters. Guinea Fowl are watchdogs and alert to danger, so they can be noisy from time to time. The horse likes to let us know she wants treats. :) We are a family farm, so children do visit Granny; please drive accordingly. Please note! We are adding picnic tables to the sites to better serve you.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Relax Inn Montana

7. Relax Inn Montana

98%
(32)
12mi from Helena National Forest · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Half way between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park - Perfect place to stop and rest between adventures : ) Outdoor Living at its finest : )) 2 Acres of unique quiet spaces in a park like setting - Tent Site 1 - has 2 Secluded improved Spaces Tent Site 2 - Open field unimproved 3 or 4 tent spaces Bld 1 is pet friendly and has 2 cabins with a pass through door for larger groups - Cabin 1 - sleeps 2 Cabin 2 - sleeps 5 Bld 2 is pet free and has 2 cabins with a pass through door for larger groups Cabin 3 - sleeps 4 Cabin 4 - sleeps 2 10 miles outside of Helena, the Capital of Montana 5 miles from 3 lakes ( Canyon Ferry Lake - Lake Helena - Hauser Lake ) Surrounded by prime hunting areas - 45 min to skiing A set of cast iron tubs that are always nice to take a soak after a hot days hike - a yin yang patio with gas firepit for a relaxing evening of sharing - a quiet (phone free) gazebo great for reflection - a covered BBQ pavilion with gas grill and gas firepit to gather round - a real fire pit area with picnic table (local wind and fire restrictions apply accordingly) - purest of potable well water on spigot in fire ring area - Solars that light the paths in the night - Pets are welcome just need to pick up after them ! A Greenhouse full of games camping chairs and tents if needed - An oversized porta potty between the cabins making it easier for families with kids 5 miles from 3 lakes for those who love to fish, boat, hike, float or just toss rocks - also around the corner you can dig for sapphires - 4 hours to Glacier National Park - 4 hours to Yellowstone National Park - Crystal Park or maybe a boat ride at The Gates of the Mountains - A tour train of downtown Helena - Too much to list around here - I am new at this so bear with me as I navigate this process and continue to improve spaces for your enjoyment - as always your feedback is appreciate for future improvements - and a guest book is in each cabin and the Gazebo for your comments : ) It is Rustic but not Crazy roughin' it - Great family space : ) This is my private sanctuary that I have the honor of sharing with those who appreciate simple rustic outdoor living at its finest - I invite you, my friends and family to Relax Inn Helena and make your own amazing memories
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
Farm Land Escape

8. Farm Land Escape

100%
(10)
12mi from Helena National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Please contact me through here 1-2 days prior to your arrival so I can get your area ready. As there may be one other camper from time to time as well. I want you to have the privacy and the experience as if it was only you and you’re family staying. This 53 acres use to be owned by a guy named John Helberg which is who the road is named after. It’s the original homestead land dated over 100 years ago where they farmed for there dairy cows and other livestock. This is right off a dead end road. You will have a view of a Montana farm field with the Rocky Mountains in the background. Dark nights out of the town means the stars will be out and about! This is a quiet secluded area there is a house near by, he is an older gentlemen you won’t even know he’s there. Depending on time of year there will be a field full of crop or the farm getting farmed. There very well could be some horses near by to pet!! Located 10 minutes from the lakes. 5 minutes from a reservoir. 10 minutes from town. 15 min to closest hiking areas. Helena really is the heart of fun very centralized for all directions of fun! Very easy pull in and pull out area. Please not there may be other campers enjoying as well Black Sandy State Park and Helena National Park are both under 15 miles away. Enjoy hiking and If you’re the boating type, head down the Missouri river in search of a rumored rope swing or jump off the boat for a dip in the crystal waters of Hauser Lake. Looking to avoid all the crowds or enjoy a solitary weekend under the endless Montana sky? Just head to Black Sandy during the winter months! You’ll find the same great stunning views and an ice skating experience that will put your grandparents’ childhood tales to shame. I do have power 50 amp, fresh water, grey water hook up, no black water. This option may not be available all of the time. Nearby is a brown shop this is area is rented out and off limits to camp stayers. The patio area on shop is not for the hipcampers thank you
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from 
$80
 / night
The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!

9. The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!

98%
(132)
16mi from Helena National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This five-acre oasis was once a landscape nursery. So given the close proximity to downtown we are a hidden sanctuary from the outside world, secluded by cottonwood trees and mature foliage. The site now serves as a wedding venue and offers views of Mount Helena to the South and the Sleeping Giant to the North. Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent in our aspen grove or park your camper/RV in the grassland field. You're close to downtown with lots of privacy/scenery. You'll have views of regal Mount Helena to the South and The Sleeping Giant to the North. The South Hill trail complex is a great place to explore as well as the Scratchgravels. The Missouri River is only 20 minutes away as well as Lake Hauser and Canyon Ferry. If new to the area and interested in history, we recommend the Tour Train. We also have several great breweries - our favorites include Ten Mile and Blackfoot Breweries (a perfect stop you can ride to after a trail ride/hike in the South Hills). This site is perfect for those wanting to explore Downtown Helena, it's renowned trail systems, but still sleep under the stars. Pets are allowed. Please make sure you pick up after them. There is water throughout the property that you are welcome to use for cleaning, but it is not potable.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$45
 / night
Mountain Biker's Getaway

10. Mountain Biker's Getaway

100%
(19)
20mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site
We have a 20 acre parcel where we live that is right next to the trail system and also 5 minutes from downtown Helena. We love hosting our friends who come to mountain bike and enjoy Helena and are happy to host you! We have a small trail cut into the property that is available for your use and a forest for you to play in
Pets
from 
$29
 / night
Kading Cabin

11. Kading Cabin

Lodging in Helena National Forest · 1 site
Wanna take a dog sled up to a log cabin for a winter weekend getaway? Kading Cabin is looking good for you then, friend
Indian Flats Cabin

12. Indian Flats Cabin

Lodging in Helena National Forest · 1 site
Indian Flats Cabin is so close to incredible hiking you might only rest your head here
Cummings Cabin

13. Cummings Cabin

Lodging in Helena National Forest · 1 site
Feel home on the range and deep in the forest at Cummings Cabin
Rillway Cabin

14. Rillway Cabin

Lodging in Helena National Forest · 1 site
Rillway Cabin is your year-round go-to spot for relaxation in Helena National Forest
Bar Gulch Cabin

15. Bar Gulch Cabin

Lodging in Helena National Forest · 1 site
Bar Gulch Cabin was originally built in the 1930s as a base for mining operations
Eagle Guard Station

16. Eagle Guard Station

Lodging in Helena National Forest · 1 site
Situated in the grasslands of the Elkhorn Mountains, Eagle Guard Station is prime real estate in Big Sky country
Coulter Campground

17. Coulter Campground

Campground in Helena National Forest · 7 sites
Calling all kayakers and canoeists
Kading Campground

18. Kading Campground

Campground in Helena National Forest · 11 sites · Tents, RVs
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Kading Campground sits next to the Little Blackfoot River
Moose Creek Campground

19. Moose Creek Campground

Campground in Helena National Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Moose Creek Campground is a small campground within walking distance of the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, and you'll want to bring your best hiking boots and camera for this one
Park Lake Campground

20. Park Lake Campground

Campground in Helena National Forest · 22 sites
Pitch your tent at Park Lake Campground, near the shores of the lake
100% (3)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Helena National Forest adventure.

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Top-rated campgrounds near Helena National Forest

》°☆Montana Family Camp☆°《

》°☆Montana Family Camp☆°《

93%
(14)
9mi from Helena National Forest · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
PLEASE BE AWARE! There are no toilets onsite and no water available from October 1st to May 1st. We are open through the winter, but you'll need to be fully containted, and not need water or toilets. Fantastic Hauser Lake, causeway, and National forest basecamp or for a quick overnight stay when you're passing through. Sprawling 20 acres set in the center of 4 lakes in the Helena Valley. 1 1/2 miles from Lakeside, a haven for boaters, swimmers, and not much further to Helena National Forest, and York. Lakeside offers a gas station, convenience store, and wonderful bar/restaurant. Several boat launches and walking paths are also in the area. 9 miles from Helena. Experience a beautiful Prairie setting with awesome sunsets, chickens, roosters, horses, guinea fowl, and stunning views of Hauser Lake and several mountain ranges. Talk to Granny Julie about our horses, chickens, guinea fowl, and other fun stuff to view at the farm! Animals do make noise, and we do have roosters. Guinea Fowl are watchdogs and alert to danger, so they can be noisy from time to time. The horse likes to let us know she wants treats. :) We are a family farm, so children do visit Granny; please drive accordingly. Please note! We are adding picnic tables to the sites to better serve you.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Relax Inn Montana

Relax Inn Montana

98%
(32)
12mi from Helena National Forest · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Half way between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park - Perfect place to stop and rest between adventures : ) Outdoor Living at its finest : )) 2 Acres of unique quiet spaces in a park like setting - Tent Site 1 - has 2 Secluded improved Spaces Tent Site 2 - Open field unimproved 3 or 4 tent spaces Bld 1 is pet friendly and has 2 cabins with a pass through door for larger groups - Cabin 1 - sleeps 2 Cabin 2 - sleeps 5 Bld 2 is pet free and has 2 cabins with a pass through door for larger groups Cabin 3 - sleeps 4 Cabin 4 - sleeps 2 10 miles outside of Helena, the Capital of Montana 5 miles from 3 lakes ( Canyon Ferry Lake - Lake Helena - Hauser Lake ) Surrounded by prime hunting areas - 45 min to skiing A set of cast iron tubs that are always nice to take a soak after a hot days hike - a yin yang patio with gas firepit for a relaxing evening of sharing - a quiet (phone free) gazebo great for reflection - a covered BBQ pavilion with gas grill and gas firepit to gather round - a real fire pit area with picnic table (local wind and fire restrictions apply accordingly) - purest of potable well water on spigot in fire ring area - Solars that light the paths in the night - Pets are welcome just need to pick up after them ! A Greenhouse full of games camping chairs and tents if needed - An oversized porta potty between the cabins making it easier for families with kids 5 miles from 3 lakes for those who love to fish, boat, hike, float or just toss rocks - also around the corner you can dig for sapphires - 4 hours to Glacier National Park - 4 hours to Yellowstone National Park - Crystal Park or maybe a boat ride at The Gates of the Mountains - A tour train of downtown Helena - Too much to list around here - I am new at this so bear with me as I navigate this process and continue to improve spaces for your enjoyment - as always your feedback is appreciate for future improvements - and a guest book is in each cabin and the Gazebo for your comments : ) It is Rustic but not Crazy roughin' it - Great family space : ) This is my private sanctuary that I have the honor of sharing with those who appreciate simple rustic outdoor living at its finest - I invite you, my friends and family to Relax Inn Helena and make your own amazing memories
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
Farm Land Escape

Farm Land Escape

100%
(10)
12mi from Helena National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Please contact me through here 1-2 days prior to your arrival so I can get your area ready. As there may be one other camper from time to time as well. I want you to have the privacy and the experience as if it was only you and you’re family staying. This 53 acres use to be owned by a guy named John Helberg which is who the road is named after. It’s the original homestead land dated over 100 years ago where they farmed for there dairy cows and other livestock. This is right off a dead end road. You will have a view of a Montana farm field with the Rocky Mountains in the background. Dark nights out of the town means the stars will be out and about! This is a quiet secluded area there is a house near by, he is an older gentlemen you won’t even know he’s there. Depending on time of year there will be a field full of crop or the farm getting farmed. There very well could be some horses near by to pet!! Located 10 minutes from the lakes. 5 minutes from a reservoir. 10 minutes from town. 15 min to closest hiking areas. Helena really is the heart of fun very centralized for all directions of fun! Very easy pull in and pull out area. Please not there may be other campers enjoying as well Black Sandy State Park and Helena National Park are both under 15 miles away. Enjoy hiking and If you’re the boating type, head down the Missouri river in search of a rumored rope swing or jump off the boat for a dip in the crystal waters of Hauser Lake. Looking to avoid all the crowds or enjoy a solitary weekend under the endless Montana sky? Just head to Black Sandy during the winter months! You’ll find the same great stunning views and an ice skating experience that will put your grandparents’ childhood tales to shame. I do have power 50 amp, fresh water, grey water hook up, no black water. This option may not be available all of the time. Nearby is a brown shop this is area is rented out and off limits to camp stayers. The patio area on shop is not for the hipcampers thank you
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from 
$80
 / night
The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!

The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!

98%
(132)
16mi from Helena National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This five-acre oasis was once a landscape nursery. So given the close proximity to downtown we are a hidden sanctuary from the outside world, secluded by cottonwood trees and mature foliage. The site now serves as a wedding venue and offers views of Mount Helena to the South and the Sleeping Giant to the North. Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent in our aspen grove or park your camper/RV in the grassland field. You're close to downtown with lots of privacy/scenery. You'll have views of regal Mount Helena to the South and The Sleeping Giant to the North. The South Hill trail complex is a great place to explore as well as the Scratchgravels. The Missouri River is only 20 minutes away as well as Lake Hauser and Canyon Ferry. If new to the area and interested in history, we recommend the Tour Train. We also have several great breweries - our favorites include Ten Mile and Blackfoot Breweries (a perfect stop you can ride to after a trail ride/hike in the South Hills). This site is perfect for those wanting to explore Downtown Helena, it's renowned trail systems, but still sleep under the stars. Pets are allowed. Please make sure you pick up after them. There is water throughout the property that you are welcome to use for cleaning, but it is not potable.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$45
 / night
Mountain Biker's Getaway

Mountain Biker's Getaway

100%
(19)
20mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site
We have a 20 acre parcel where we live that is right next to the trail system and also 5 minutes from downtown Helena. We love hosting our friends who come to mountain bike and enjoy Helena and are happy to host you! We have a small trail cut into the property that is available for your use and a forest for you to play in
Pets
from 
$29
 / night
The Homestead

The Homestead

100%
(18)
23mi from Helena National Forest · 2 sites
The Homestead is located in Clancy, Montana on a 600 acre portion of a private ranch. This is a camping experience...think upscale tent camping for the adventurous soul! The tents are nestled in the foothills of the Elkhorn Mountain Range and sit right above the Strawberry Creek trail. You will be surrounded by stunning views of Sheep Mountain to the west, Casey Peak to the east, and the Helena Valley and Gates of the Mountains Wilderness to the north. Mountain bike, hike, trail run, explore and/or relax! Just a short 20 minute drive to Helena, MT for more trails, dining or other activities. *** This mountain destination takes you one mile on a dirt, two track road though a field to reach the tents so AWD is highly recommended.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$115
 / night
A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame

A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame

100%
(20)
24mi from Helena National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience an unforgettable getaway at our canyon retreat. Our property is located on 190+ acres, and is surrounded by mountain, canyon and river views. Find a secluded campsite or stay at our mini A-frame, with Blue-Ribbon trout fishing right nearby. Guests will find a private and peaceful setting to relax and connect. LOCATION DETAILS ☀ 2 min from I-15 exit on a private road ☀ 10 min to nearest grocery and gas station in Cascade, MT ☀ 5 min to nearest bar & grill, Missouri River Inn ☀ 3 min to nearest boat ramp/fishing access for the Missouri River ☀ 30 min to Holter Lake ☀ 12 min to fly fishing stores, restaurants and bar & grills in Craig, MT ☀ 18 min to fly fishing stores, restaurants and bar & grills, gas station in Wolf Creek, MT ☀ 45 min to downtown Helena, MT ☀ 3.5 hours to Yellowstone National Park ☀ 2.5 hours to Glacier National Park ☀ 30 min to Great Falls International Airport ☀ 50 min to Helena Regional Airport ☀ 2 hours to Bozeman International Airport ☀ 2.5 hours to Missoula International Airport Important notes: - Please bring your own water - 4WD recommended for closest access to our sites.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$23
 / night
The DET Place Hideaway

The DET Place Hideaway

100%
(11)
37mi from Helena National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Unplug under the endless Montana sky at “The DET Place” — a private 12-acre retreat tucked away just a mile outside Townsend. Set up camp in wide open space with epic views of Mount Baldy, a cozy campfire, and frequent visits from whitetail deer, pheasants, and the occasional sandhill cranes. Perfect for tent campers and stargazers, the site is close to Canyon Ferry Lake, the Missouri River, and town conveniences - but feels like a world away. Watch the sunrise with the resident horses, visit with the barn cats, or just sit back and take in the silence. Whether you're paddling, fishing, hiking, or glamping out under the stars, The DET Place offers a Montana experience you'll never forget.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
White Bridge Lane Private Campsite

White Bridge Lane Private Campsite

99%
(70)
45mi from Helena National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Dawson Family Ranch is a family-run business with a focus on sustainable land and agriculture practices. The ranch is located along a mile of the Boulder River between the Elkhorn and Bull Mountain Ranges. The river offers fishing for rainbow and brown trout. Public land access is within a short drive (2-7 miles depending on direction) and offers different recreational opportunities including hiking, hunting, and motorized recreation. Boulder Hot Springs is less than 4 miles away.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$45
 / night
Hardda Farm Site

Hardda Farm Site

100%
(10)
49mi from Helena National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Hardda Farm is our family homestead and flower farm. We raise animals, vegetables and flowers using regenerative agriculture practices. You may meet our family dairy cow, our milk & wool sheep, and a variety of poultry and waterfowl. We are very near the Sun River and less than an hour’s drive to the Missouri River or the Rocky Mountain front. We enjoy fly-fishing, climbing, and hiking and are happy to recommend some great spots.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
Ray’s Trout Pond

Ray’s Trout Pond

1.2mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
This grass covered wooded retreat is on Beaver Creek in the almost ghost town of Nelson,Mt. “The Cribbage Capital of the World “. 2 swimming/fishing large fire pit and plenty of lawn games. Nestled in the little Belt mountains you are close to miles of hiking and biking trails and some of Montana's Famous trout fishing. Property is bordering NFS on 3 sides so head out directly from camp.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$16
 / night
York Montana Hideaway

York Montana Hideaway

83%
(6)
6.4mi from Helena National Forest · 1 site
As opposed to the thousands of runoff creeks in Western Montana, the unique Trout Creek Canyon has one of the few spring fed streams. It's rather large volume of water flows from several groups of canyons and drainages in the Little Belt mountains, bubbling out of the ground six miles up at the foot of the beautiful Vigilante canyon and terminating in the Missouri River three miles further down. Over the last 150 years a  number of gold and silver mines have operated in the gulches at the side of the canyon. A pictorial history is available at the community park and in the social hall. If you're lucky you might even still see a few mountain goats on your way up the canyon.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$45
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

The best camping in Helena National Forest, MT guide

Overview

About

The Helena National Forest straddles the continental divide and offers adventurers a whirlwind of majestic scenery and recreation. Nicknamed the “million acre backyard” you’re gonna love exploring the hiking, biking and off roading trails in Gates of the Mountains and the Helena River Valley, which boasts jaw dropping views of the Big Belt Mountains. Anglers will need to be yanked out of the crystal clear Missouri River—the trout are just begging to be caught. Campgrounds are close by and backcountry lovers will find plenty of chances to explore the trails and see incredible wildlife. Don’t pass up a chance to hop the Continental Divide trail or visit Helena National Forest. You’re gonna feel like you’re on top of the world!

100%
3 ratings · 1 review