The best camping in Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge, MT

·

Discover the natural splendor of Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge. 

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge adventure.

Top-rated campsites near Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge

Peaceful Mission Mountain Paradise

1. Peaceful Mission Mountain Paradise

98%
(33)
6.7mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site
Learn more about this land:Comfortable RV spot with quiet clean spot (no tent camping due to bear activity). Lots of hiking and biking within a mile of the location. Lots of wildlife to view. Be bear aware and no food items can be left outdoors and that includes trash. One hour from Glacier Park and 5 Hours from Yellowstone. 16 miles from beautiful Flathead Lake. Fishing and recreation is in your back yard. National Bison Range close by along with the majestic St. Ignatius Mission. Lots and lots to do and see. A conservation license is required  to recreate on the reservation.  We have 2 Australian Shepards who love to great everyone.  We hope your stay with us is amazing! 
Full hookups
Private 10 acres in the country

2. Private 10 acres in the country

100%
(10)
7.8mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · Tent, RV
🌲 Crow Creek Homestead | Private Montana Camping with Pond, Creek & Mission Mountain Views Escape to your own private camping area on our peaceful 20-acre working homestead at the base of Montana's beautiful Mission Mountains. Guests enjoy exclusive access to 10 acres of private camping space with multiple primitive sites available for tents, vans, and RVs up to 30 feet. Choose a site nestled among shaded trees, in the open pasture, beside the creek, or near our private pond. Need more space? RV accommodations for vehicles longer than 30 feet may be possible on a case-by-case basis with advance notice and approval. We can also accommodate larger groups of 20+ guests with advance planning and host approval to ensure we can provide a safe, comfortable, and enjoyable experience for everyone. A flowing creek winds through the property, and our private 1-acre pond is perfect for swimming, floating, relaxing, and enjoying Montana’s peaceful outdoors. Wildlife commonly seen on the property includes deer, wild turkeys, and many species of birds, with occasional foxes, coyotes, and bears passing through. Although we are only 4 miles from Ronan, Crow Creek Homestead feels quiet, remote, and surrounded by nature. 🔒 Private, Peaceful & Secure Your campsite is accessed through a separate private entrance at the end of the road, providing a quiet and secluded camping experience with limited traffic and exceptional privacy. The camping area is completely separate from the main residence, while still offering the comfort and security of having the main house within easy walking distance should you need anything during your stay. Enjoy the feeling of being away from it all while knowing your hosts are nearby and available to help make your visit comfortable and memorable. 🐐 Meet Our Friendly Farm Animals Crow Creek Homestead is a working family homestead and home to: Four rescue horses Three bottle-raised goats who love going on walks Friendly miniature Hereford cattle that enjoy treats and attention A livestock guardian dog who watches over the animals Guests are welcome to observe the animals or request a scheduled meet-and-greet. For everyone's safety, please do not feed the animals or enter animal areas unless invited, the fence is electric. 🥚 Farm Fresh Organic Eggs Fresh organic eggs are often available from our homestead. Availability varies daily and is offered on a first-come, first-served basis. 💧 POTABLE WATER 💧 DRINKING WATER AVAILABLE Potable drinking water (near the corral) – Guests can pull up or back their RV to within approximately 10 feet of the hydrant for easy filling. A 50-foot hose is available for guest use. Please note that the hose is not rated as a drinking water hose, so guests may prefer to bring their own drinking-water-safe hose for filling fresh water tanks. 🔧 Amenities Clean, regularly serviced porta-potty Fire pits Limited complimentary firewood No hookups Pet-friendly (dogs must remain leashed) 🚻 Porta-Potty We work hard to keep our on-site porta-potty clean, well-stocked, and regularly serviced for our guests’ comfort. Please help us keep it that way by using it only for its intended purpose. Please do not dump RV holding tanks, portable toilets, or any other waste into the porta-potty. Thank you for helping us maintain a clean and enjoyable amenity for everyone. 🎣 Enjoy the Property Swim or float in the private pond Walk beside Middle Crow Creek Fish the pond (catch and release with a valid CSKT fishing permit) Stargaze under dark Montana skies Watch wildlife throughout the property 📍 Places to Explore Nearby 🦬 Bison Range (formerly National Bison Range) Approximately 20 minutes away. Drive one of Montana’s most scenic wildlife routes and look for bison, elk, pronghorn, deer, bear and many species of birds. 🚤 Flathead Lake About 25 minutes north. The largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi offers swimming, boating, fishing, paddleboarding, and beautiful lakeside parks. 🏔️ Mission Mountains Wilderness Just minutes away. Enjoy breathtaking mountain scenery, hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and excellent photography opportunities. 🦢 Ninepipes National Wildlife Refuge Approximately 15 minutes away. A peaceful refuge known for waterfowl, bald eagles, osprey, and excellent birdwatching. ⛪ St. Ignatius Mission About 15 minutes south. Visit one of Montana’s oldest and most beautiful historic missions, famous for its stunning interior murals. 🏞️ Séliš Ksanka Qĺispé Dam (formerly Kerr Dam) Around 30 minutes away. Enjoy scenic overlooks and views of the impressive Flathead River. 🚗 National Parks Glacier National Park – Approximately 2 hours north Yellowstone National Park – Approximately 5½ hours southeast ☕ Favorite Coffee & Chai Spots Nearby Dobson Creek Coffee A cozy local stop known for great coffee, chai, and friendly service. The Great Gray at Ninepipes Located near Ninepipes National Wildlife Refuge, this charming café offers excellent coffee, chai, and light bites in a peaceful setting. 🍽️ Places to Eat Nearby Sweet Cakes by Melissa A local favorite for homemade baked goods, desserts, sandwiches, and burgers. Ronan Café A welcoming small-town café known for hearty breakfasts and classic comfort food. Lakeview Dining and Spirits ("The Shoe") – Polson An upscale dining experience offering steaks, seafood, cocktails, and beautiful lake views. 400 Horse Casino A nearby option for dining, drinks, gaming, and evening entertainment. 🚐 Nearby RV Services Cenex Ronan 📍 63932 US Highway 93 S, Ronan, MT 59864 Free potable drinking water Propane sales and fills Please note: Their free RV dump station is currently out of service. Diamond S RV Park & Campground 📍 46711 Old US Highway 93, Ronan, MT 59864 RV dump station – $10 Potable drinking water – $10 🎟️ Guest Bonus Planning to visit the Bison Range? Ask us about borrowing our Bison Range pass during your stay, subject to availability. A CSKT Conservation Permit is required for recreation on most Tribal lands within the Flathead Reservation, including fishing. A permit is not required for access to Flathead Lake. ✅ Good to Know Your reservation includes exclusive use of the camping area—only one guest group is booked at a time. This is a working homestead, and our livestock guardian dog may bark while protecting the animals, especially at night. We are in bear country. Please store food securely and never leave food unattended. Children must always be supervised around livestock, the pond, and the creek. Pets are welcome but must remain leashed at all times. Please do not feed the animals unless invited during a scheduled visit. 💚 Welcome to Crow Creek Homestead We’re a homesteading family who love sharing this special place with others. Whether you’re floating in the pond, walking along the creek, stargazing around the campfire, or taking a stroll with our curious goats, we hope your stay at Crow Creek Homestead is peaceful, relaxing, and unforgettable. We look forward to welcoming you!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Mission Falls Ranch

3. Mission Falls Ranch

98%
(30)
9.9mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites
A 154 acre working ranch that has been operating over 100 years, situated in a wildlife corridor joining the Mission Mountain wilderness with the Flathead River and Bison Range. The camping site is located along 300 feet of the Mission Creek with scattered 100 year old pine trees. A nature walk to 3 walking bridges, with spectacular mountain views, an old cedar grove and a bald eagle nest is available. Access to the creek is possible from the camp site, although some areas of the ranch are off-limits due to ranch operation and private dwellings.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Mission Mtn Horse Ranch Retreat

4. Mission Mtn Horse Ranch Retreat

97%
(19)
11mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
We are an operating Farm/Ranch and Horse Facility. We offer not only camping but a real ranch feel and experience and incredible hospitality. We have not only a view of the mission mountains but the BEST view with both waterfalls in view. Our property sits off the road next to our peaceful hay field with wildlife, horses, donkeys, mules, milk cows and chickens galore! We cannot wait to meet you!
Showers
Water hookup
Potable water
Mud Lake RV

5. Mud Lake RV

100%
(25)
13mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites
Bring your RV and escape the hustle and bustle of town. Enjoy waking up to a beautiful mountain view from our 7-acre property. Just off the main highway we are in a quiet area and only a few minutes from downtown Polson and Flathead Lake. We have two RV sites available with water & 30/50 amp service. (No Sewer-must be self contained) Gravel parking for your RV, concrete patio, and picnic table. Large field to play or throw a ball for your dog. If you're looking for adventure, there is plenty to do in the area with white water rafting, hiking, boat rentals & Mission Valley Speedway close by. We are approximately 100 miles from Glacier National Park and 25 miles from the National Bison Range. Sewer dumps are at Cenex in Ronan or Polson Bay next to Pizza Hut in Polson.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Sage Oasis Garden Retreat

6. Sage Oasis Garden Retreat

98%
(42)
25mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Sage Oasis is a permaculture garden retreat center with a variety of lodging options located just outside the town of Hot Springs, Montana, an area known for its sweeping high desert views and unique mineral-rich hot soaking options. Evolving as a model of self-sufficient living in support of personal health and well-being at the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual levels. Sage Oasis hosts small hands-on workshops and retreat experiences for individuals and groups. We are located mid-way between Missoula and Kalispell, hot mineral soaks just minutes away in the Hot Springs valley of western Montana. It is 30 minutes from Flathead Lake, 45 minutes to the National Bison Range, and under 2 hours to Glacier National Park. All the activities and features listed here are within an hour's drive. We allow one pet per unit for a fee of $15 per trip, which you may kindly add to your payment. Please request permission for additional pets, as we often have several on the property and try to limit the numbers. Thank you.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Bucketlist #1

7. Bucketlist #1

98%
(115)
26mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites
Drive-in, park, and begin enjoying all the crazy, fun, or just relaxing things you want out of your private lakefront property. You're on the shores of Flathead Lake, the largest freshwater lake, this side of the Mississippi, and home of Wildhorse Island, where the Boone and Crocket world record Bighorn Sheep was discovered, killed by winter weather. This 2160 acre island is also the home of deer, mountain lions, bears, several species of eagles, and wild horses. Day hiking is allowed and is a 5-minute boat ride from your beach spot. Just slightly over an hour to Glacier National Park and access to all the mountain lakes, rivers and streams to explore, you won't be bored. Right around the corner, you have access to a boat ramp at one of the state-owned Parks with public showers, if the lake water is too cold. If you want to make her an honest women, while you're here, you're staying on our wedding and event venue (www.flatheadlakeforevers) and we will help make that happen too. Tell us what you want and we'll help you make it happen. Pictures posted on this site are all from this 34 acre, 900 ft. of lake frontage venue. Don't miss this one. Sorry no more instant booking, we don't ever want another Tod on our property.
Pets
Full hookups
Hot Springs Campground & RV

8. Hot Springs Campground & RV

95%
(19)
26mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 20 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled among natural mineral hot springs in Hot Springs, MT, our campground offers a relaxing retreat with multiple lodging options. We provide dry camping with electric service for RVs and vans, plus tent sites, cabins, an army-style tent, and a yurt. Guests can choose between full-service accommodations with bathhouse access or primitive camping for tents and campers. Our bathhouse features refreshing showers, and the picnic area includes a barbecue, tables, and an inviting campfire pit. We look forward to welcoming you! 🏕️💧♨️
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Camp Ka Papa Old US Hwy 93

9. Camp Ka Papa Old US Hwy 93

99%
(80)
29mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
We are a family-oriented eco-friendly campsite located on the beautiful Flathead Lake of Elmo, Montana. With direct access to the lake and an hour's drive to Glacier National Park. Whether you are a family or only one person, we are here to make your stay at our campground an enjoyable one. Our campground is one of the last places along the shores of Flathead Lake that is pristine and undeveloped.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
The Holmestead Cabin

10. The Holmestead Cabin

100%
(37)
29mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Quiet getaway in the pines! Welcome to the Holmestead, our own little slice of Montana that we are really excited to bring back to life and share with YOU! We are small town Kansas natives who fell in love with Montana over 15 years ago. This property is equal parts privacy and concience, you can enjoy the peace and quite of nature while also having the ability to hop over a few miles to our little town for groceries, a local beer, or to gas up your car! The Holmestead is a rustic dry cabin on 5 acres nestled between Mill Creek and a seasonal run off stream with easy access to the highway and only a 10 min drive to Missoula. A queen bed, futon and air mattress are available for sleeping! Family and pet friendly property with plenty of space to pitch a tent next to the cabin if you have more guests in your party (tents will be an additional fee, $10 per person in addition to the 4 person cabin max). Excellent cell service if you have Verizon or carriers that pull from those towers. Attractions: Walking distance to forestry service roads. 15 minutes to the Missoula Airport and an additional 10 minutes to the heart of Missoula and all it has to offer. If you are looking for more adventure there is always an endless amount of recreation near, whether you want to drive 5 minutes to mountain bike or 3 hours to Glacier National Park, there is something for everyone! If you have questions about fun things to do please reach out to us! Parking: Reserved parking for guests in the main driveway or in the clearing near the cabin. Water: Portable toilet onsite, sealson warm shower and sink also available, we recently upgraded to a JOOLCA hot water system so guests can have running water and a warm outdoor shower. We provide 5 gal of potable water in the colder months and have running water nearby for easy refill of water containers if needed in the warmer months. We look forward to sharing our piece of Montana with you! Pets allowed. We do have 2 very frienly dogs that roam the property freely, if you pet is reactive please let us know so we can monitor our dogs when letting them outside to do their business. Please be sure to pick up after your animals.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Buck’s Paradise

11. Buck’s Paradise

94%
(60)
31mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 3 sites · RVs, Lodging
Learn more about this land: This is a non-smoking property, with two Family friendly dry cabins. Pets are allowed as long as you clean up after them and don't allow them on the furniture. We love our fur babies! Property is located just north of Seeley Lake Beach. Lots of room to ride bikes with trails accessible nearby. Access to Deer Creek as well. Owner will be on the property from time to time staying at their cabin, so you may see them here and there. Excellent property to set up folf nets or just enjoy the quiet scenery of deer and listen to the birds. We just ask that you keep the property clean and be respectful. Pack in pack out.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Ridgeline Retreat

12. Ridgeline Retreat

96%
(97)
33mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 2 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.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
Primrose Meadows

13. Primrose Meadows

95%
(1678)
35mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
Flower Farm w/Gorgeous Views-RV Pad

14. Flower Farm w/Gorgeous Views-RV Pad

93%
(22)
35mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site
This RV pad, located 1.5 miles from Exit 77 on I-90, has breathtaking views the Clark Fork valley and is located near whitewater rafting, fishing, hunting and hiking amenities. Located at functioning food and flower farm (Crescent Ridge Farm), the RV pad is located 400 feet from the farm house and a few hundred feet from the large flower garden. This stay offers a farm experience so you may see farming in action. We welcome you to self tour our food and flower garden, watch the free-range chickens and simply enjoy the view on the outdoor patio. The gravel RV pad is 28 feet in length (plus additional grass area) and includes a potable water and sewer hookups along with electricity. Fires are allowed (pending no restrictions) in the fire pit. A concrete pad with table and chairs offers outdoor amenities. The site is located 30 mins from Missoula and 5 mins from Alberton. There are three food options in Alberton including River's Edge, Trax Bar (pizza), and Sporty's Bar (burgers). A fishing access is available at Petty Creek (1.5 miles).
Pets
Full hookups
Seeley Creek Sites 1&2

15. Seeley Creek Sites 1&2

97%
(34)
35mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Tranquil and peaceful Seeley Creek RV sites on two acres with historic log cabins. Let the sounds of the creek lull you to sleep each night. Walkable to town, very close to the beaches and boat launches and endless wilderness access. We are a "mom and pop" operation with only the two sites on the back of our two acre property. We are in the process of putting new siding on the main house, so you will see some construction materials for the next couple weeks. Details about the spaces: -Firm gravel road base- can handle heavy rigs -50amp (we will have some plug adapters to use soon, but you will need your own adapter if you are less than 50 amp) -Potable water -Laundry access -Large loop driveway- ample space and parking for trailers, rigs, boats, sleds and other toys. Our property is on the border of the national forest and walking distance to town (multiple restaurants, shops and a golf course). Less than one mile to the Seeley Lake beaches or boat launches. Wilderness hiking, hunting, huckleberry picking are half a mile above the property. The forest behind the place has direct access to the Bob Marshall wilderness. The Mission Mountain wilderness is a 30-40 minute drive. In winter, the area is ideal for cross-country skiing (trails behind the property), snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Campfires
Off The Beaten Path Glampground

16. Off The Beaten Path Glampground

99%
(35)
35mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Located in Beautiful Western Montana on the hill above the town of Plains, with Spectacular views of the mountains and Clark Fork River. We have 3 off grid Glamping domes for rent, for those who prefer a unique experience. They are fully outfitted and have nice comfortable beds. Our extra large camping sites have no size restrictions. We have on site porta potty, hand washing stations. All camp sites are off grid. Pets are welcome at your campsite. There is a fee for pets in the domes. We currently offer 6 camp sites on 21 acres. Our Location is midway between Kalispell and Missoula off of highway 200 and Hwy 28. 45 minutes to Flathead Lake, 90 minutes to Kalispell and Missoula. Less than 2 hours to Coeur d' Alene. Only 18 minutes to Quinn's Hot Springs. Come stay where the stars are your nightlights.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Triple Bridges Campground

17. Triple Bridges Campground

92%
(98)
39mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Primitive camping with no water or trash service, pack in / pack out. There is a portable toilet. Note, work has begun on the nearby highway bridge. Located in the Alberton Gorge on the Clark Fork River, this is a premier location for the whitewater enthusiast. Take advantage of the class II, III rapids in your kayak or raft, or even surf. Alternatively, enjoy the relaxing Sandy Beach just a few minutes walk from the campground to swim and gaze at the beautiful argilite cliffs. The campground is near both the Interstate and a railroad so there is some ambient noise. Note: we have cameras on the surf shack (container) that can see the entrance and the portable toilet area. We're happy to share the images with anyone concerned.
Pets
Toilets
Picnic table
Cabins on Montana's Ocean

18. Cabins on Montana's Ocean

98%
(23)
39mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites
These are great sleeping cabins nestled in the trees, with easy access. They are just steps away from a large pebble beach on beautiful Flathead Lake. Flathead Lake is surrounded by Swan Range in the north, the Salish Mountains in the west and the Mission Mountains in the east. Relax on the beach chairs or bring your kayak and enjoy a great day on the Lake. Sit around the camp fire in the evening, and watch the sunset. The Lake delivers firewood daily. There are numerous other adventures waiting for you in the area. Drinking water is available, barbecue & grill on the beach, with power in the cabins, port-a-potty . Fun restaurants, bars & music are within walking distance. Flathead National Forest is just east of us. Enjoy hiking and amazing site seeing. For mountain biking you have Jewel Basin Road, Intermediate, 16.0 ; Legacy Bike Park, 5 ; Old Bigfork Canyon Road, Easiest, 4.0 ; Peters Ridge Trail #37. Bring your kayak, canoe, & paddle boat, or rent one near by. Glacier Park West entrance is only 48 miles away, where you can find climbing and hiking as well. We also have snow sports cover with Ski area Big Mtn &Whitefish Mtn 45miles, Nordic trails Junction Foothills and, Jewel Basin Rd, Bigfork, MT 59911. No pets allowed.
Toilets
Potable water
Cooking equipment
Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

19. Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

99%
(34)
39mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 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!
Pets
Missoula Rest And Relaxation

20. Missoula Rest And Relaxation

91%
(96)
39mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Hello, we have three acres with ClarkFork River access . Easy access to everything in Missoula. Very close to bike trails. Just a block west of Reserve Street. 10 minute drive to university. We are excited to share our wonderful property and excellent location with you. We welcome tents, RVs and campers. Non-vicious dogs are allowed. You must pick up after your dog. We are located in a part of town that is near Eco compost so on occasion if they turn a pile or if the wind shifts it is noticeably. If you use google maps it will direct you to our neighbors property. Please look for orange construction cone next to blue house to turn into the property.
Pets
Picnic table

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge camping guide

Overview

About

Camping near Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge, an exceptional wetland complex in Montana, is an experience rich with remarkable sights and sounds. The refuge spans over a 1,770-acre reservoir and includes more than 800 glacial potholes, making it a haven for waterfowl and shorebirds. Here, a vast range of wildlife thrives thanks to dedicated conservation efforts. As a testament to this, around 200 bird species grace the skies above the refuge. Ease of access is a highlight of the Ninepipe refuge. An access road and a barrier-free paved trail lead you to a jointly managed viewing area located just off US Highway 93, on the eastern side of the reservoir. From there, campers can observe the thriving birdlife in their natural habitat. On the west side of the refuge, the road presents another opportunity: the chance to observe nesting great blue herons and double-crested cormorants. Travel along SR 212 on the refuge's north shore for 2 miles and you'll find a dike entrance. Here, you can spot ducks, grebes, and even short-eared owls. For an equally intriguing experience, Duck Road provides a 2-mile route offering views of the unique pothole ponds. Amid the symphony of bird calls and the rustling of the prairie grass, camping near Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge is sure to thrill all campers who seek the tranquility of nature.

When to go

The best time to visit Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge is from July 15 to the start of the waterfowl season, when the entire refuge is open for exploration. Winter offers a unique charm with opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. However, access is limited during the breeding season from March 1 to July 14 and during the waterfowl season for wildlife protection.

Know before you go

  • Be mindful of seasonal access restrictions to protect nesting birds and other wildlife.
  • Check for special closures due to events like low water or fire danger before your visit.
  • Walking and wading are the primary means of exploring the refuge; off-road vehicles are not permitted.
  • Pets must be leashed and controlled at all times within the refuge.
  • Remember that Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge is open from sunrise to sunset, with no public use permitted at night.

Reviews for Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge Campgrounds

Be the first to review
Share your experience here to help other campers.
Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.