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Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge

The best camping in Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge, MT

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Stories from the community

Santos

November 2025

Tent

1 night at Primrose Meadows

Very beautiful piece of land and very nice host. I would definitely recommend visiting.

Chris

October 2025

38 ft travel trailer

With pets

6 nights at Missoula Rest And Relaxation

Space is level and quiet. Plenty of space to set up solar panels and do dog training. Space is far enough away from structures that quiet generators can't be heard at all by neighbors. Also managed neighborhood dog walks without issue. Drivers were slow and courteous to pedestrians. Was quickly greeted by two curious cats and enjoyed watching a couple young deer play in the grass just 20 feet from my trailer. Would stay again.

Max

October 2025

16 ft car

Weekend Trip to Missoula Rest And Relaxation

Super nice yard with plenty of open space and fresh air, had a nice and peaceful night here

Brianna

October 2025

With pets

2 nights at Off The Beaten Path Glampground

The dome glamping experience was wonderful! The interior of the bison decor was very cute and the perfect set up for my two gal friends and I. Beautiful view of the plains and river, both from inside the dome and the wooden porch it sits on. The propane heater was much appreciated, and took the chill off inside the dome. Trina was a terrific host, greeting us when we first arrived and showed us to our dome. She made sure we had what we needed, and has done a great job setting up her property. Fantastic getaway for us gals!!

David

October 2025

16 ft car

1 night at Triple Bridges Campground

Everything was great, nice spot by the river. Hosts were responsive and communicative. Thanks!

Reagan

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Missoula Rest And Relaxation

Fun spot right next to the river and some cows! Great place to camp out, very quiet

Matt

October 2025

28 ft travel trailer

With kids

1 night at Rainbow Gulch Farm

Great stop over spot right off the interstate. We rolled in after dark and still found it without issue. Taller vehicles be aware there are some low hanging branches but they are pretty bendy so I pushed through just fine. The entrance to field number 1 was pretty tight for our travel trailer. The car parked next to the garage meant I had to take it slow and watch my mirrors. But for the price, totally worth it.

Sara

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Primrose Meadows

The views are excellent! I got in pretty late so it was maybe a little more difficult to navigate after dark, but I still managed to find a spot and the toilets pretty easily. Erin was very helpful and quick to respond.

Rachel

October 2025

39 ft pop-up camper

With pets

1 night at Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

We had a lovely stay at Nancy’s, the neighbor is very walkable and the spot is a close distance to go explore the town.

Justin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Primrose Meadows

Arrived late and left early. Easy to find and got some good sleep in a safe place. Exactly what we needed. Thanks.

Lawrence

October 2025

19 ft pop-up camper

Weekend Trip to Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

Absolutely perfect spot. Nancy provided very straightforward directions to her property and the site was level and very quiet.

Phil

October 2025

Tent

1 night at Primrose Meadows

my second time here and id recommend it to anyone looking for a chill place to camp!

Sophie

September 2025

22 ft Class A

1 night at Flower Farm w/Gorgeous Views-RV Pad

Molly has such a beautiful plot! We had a lovely evening at the farm, the plot is very clean and the views are incredible! Molly’s doggo Louis visited us also which we thoroughly enjoyed :) Thank you for a wonderful time, we wish we could have stayed longer! 🇬🇧

Dominic

September 2025

43 ft fifth wheel

With pets

Weekend Trip to MeadowSweet Farm

This is a great location with fantastic hosts. Bigfork has a ton of small town character, easy access to Glacier NP, and Tim was extremely helpful with a problem I had with my trailer! Will definitely stay here again next time I’m in the area.

Brendan

September 2025

1 night at Off The Beaten Path Glampground

BEST. I promise you, you will fall in love with Plains and the rest of Montana if you stay here. Trina and her boys are the best this country has to offer worked unbelievably hard to make this campsite one to remember. Please come

Amber

September 2025

1 night at Off The Beaten Path Glampground

I booked at the last moment, late in the evening and Trina (and her awesome son, Steele) was there to greet us right as we arrived. They showed us to the dome and brought us a several gallon jug of water to use. The buck dome was perfect with comfortable beds. There was a BBQ available to cook our dinner on so we didn't have to dig out our camp stoves. Clean shared portapotty and hot shower a short walk away. Trina thought of everything needed for a nice glamping stay on a gorgeous property. The views do not disappoint and Trina was so fun to chat with and filled with fantastic recommendations for places well outside of montana that are on our itenerary. Next time we come to Montana we will be sure to book a stay.

Ian

September 2025

Tent

1 night at Primrose Meadows

Great communication from the host. Place was well maintained and clean. Great views from the sites and a well night rest. Would recommend and plan to return in the future.

jessica

September 2025

19 ft campervan

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Missoula Rest And Relaxation

Great location! Near everything you need to do in town. Quiet peaceful meadow.

Jazzmine

September 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at God's Country Camping

Listen to those reviews because they are RIGHT! Booked a month ahead as we are on a long roadtrip. This place did not disappoint one bit and Dolly was an absolute gem! Maybe the porta potty is a complaint in other reviews but it’s super well maintained and clean. This is NOT a bougie campground. It is real camping. Hope to make it back again soon and excited to see the additions Dolly wants to make! Xoxo

Kyle

September 2025

With pets

1 night at Off The Beaten Path Glampground

My wife and I loved staying in the Bigfoot dome. We wish we started out road trip with this stay instead of making it our last stop so we could stay longer. The views are absolutely incredible and there were cows and deer wandering right outside. The sunrise and sunsets are amazing and the stars at night are incredible. Host is very nice and informative about things to do in the area and we'll definitely recommend and visit again.

Top-rated campgrounds

Primrose Meadows

95%

(1549)

34mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 23 sites · Tents · Missoula, MT

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 200 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 it’s 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.

Buck’s Paradise

93%

(51)

31mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 3 sites · Lodging · Seeley Lake, MT

Learn more about this land: This is a non-smoking, Family friendly dry cabin. 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.

Bucketlist #1

98%

(97)

26mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 2 sites · RVs · Big Arm, MT

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.

Sophia Springs

28mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 10 sites · RVs, Lodging · Hot Springs, MT

Hot Springs, Montana is a small quaint town that is home to less than 600 people, which really makes for the perfect getaway. We’re located just 30 minutes from Flathead Lake, three hours East from Spokane, Washington and less than two hours from Glacier National Park. There are also many activities nearby to enjoy if you’re looking for an adventure while staying with us. Our RV Park accommodations are perfect for short term and long term stays. We know that many of you travel with your fury friends and therefore we do allow two well behaved dogs per RV. All of our suites are spacious and comfortable, designed to accommodate two guests. For added convenience, they can also host up to four guests, featuring a queen-size bed and a full-size sofa sleeper.

Sanctuary Farm Yurt Glamping

99%

(78)

43mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 15 sites · Lodging · Alberton, MT

A sanctuary away from everyday life, where you can relax and reconnect with nature. Yurt has electricity, a wood stove for heat in winter, a beautiful outdoor kitchen and bathhouse, and a year round creek nearby. Only 45 minutes from Missoula Montana. Games and books in the yurt. Cedar outhouse. Lots of extras to make for a truly remarkable glamping experience. We offer breakfast and french press organic coffee for an additional fee. Mostly secluded, situated above our garden and raspberry patch, so we are on that side of the garden early on summer mornings.

MeadowSweet Farm

98%

(59)

48mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bigfork, MT

Historic farm acreage featuring rolling hills and a stunning view of the Swan Mountains. Centrally located to enjoy Flathead Valley - 10 minutes to Flathead Lake, 45 minutes to Glacier National Park, 15 minutes to Jewel Basin trailhead, 10 minutes to Historic downtown Bigfork and so much more. We light the community fire pit most evenings and children can enjoy a large swing set in the field. You'll find your hosts working on several projects as we're continuing to restore this 100 year old property. We enjoy sharing all the work we've done to turn the land and outbuildings into a great place to visit!

Outback Montana RV Park & Campground

91%

(68)

40mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 42 sites · Tents, RVs · Bigfork, MT

WELCOME TO OUTBACK MONTANA RV PARK! Nestled between Woods Bay and Downtown Bigfork, Outback Montana RV Park is in a prime location for you to explore the BEAUTY that is Flathead Lake and Montana’s most spectacular national forests. Our campsite is unique in that it is heavily forested, shaded, and outdoorsy. We’re not one of those paved glorified parking lots. Outback is an authentic camping experience. We provide everything from 50/amp pull-thru with full water and septic, to grassroots campsites where you can sit back and enjoy the stars. A stone's throw from Flathead Lake, our park is a short distance to several boat launches, and minutes from restaurants and activities ON THE WATER! Come and enjoy Montana with us, we offer exceptional service and our staff is here to help with every aspect of your vacation in paradise! OUR STORY Established in 1976, Outback has a rich history within the Bigfork community. Home to many craftsmen, artists, ranchers, and entrepreneurs. Bigfork was originally a frontier town, and has grown into what some refer to as “The Jewel of the Flathead Valley”. Minutes away, Outback has been a vital support system for the community for over 45 years, housing guests and locals year-round. Outback is proud to support our travelers from abroad, and introduce them to all of the colorful events and festivities that make Bigfork such a wonderful destination! Learn more about local events here. With so many opportunities, and resources yet untapped, we are always upgrading and growing. Learning new things, and new ways to create and support experiences within this beautiful space. Join us! We are so happy to meet you along the way. OUTBACK & BEYOND Outback is proud to support our travelers from abroad, and introduce them to all of the colorful events and festivities that make Bigfork such a wonderful destination! From Going to the Sun Road in Glacier National Park, boating on Flathead Lake, to running the Spartan Race, or braving the rapids in our Annual Category 4 Whitewater Festival! Outback is your base camp for mission MONTANA THINGS TO DO: •FLATHEAD LAKE Flathead Lake is the largest natural freshwater lake west of the Mississippi in the lower 48 states, with over 200 square miles of water and 185 miles of shoreline. Recreation on and around the lake includes sailing, power boating, waterskiing, swimming, fishing, picnicking, and camping. In the summer, roadside stands along the east shore offer a variety of locally grown cherries, apples, plums, and other fruits. •GLACIER NATIONAL PARK Experience Glacier's pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier is a hiker's paradise for adventurous visitors seeking wilderness and solitude. Relive the days of old through historic chalets, lodges, and the famous Going-to-the-Sun Road. Explore Glacier National Park and discover what awaits you. •FLY FISHING The Flathead River system of northwestern Montana offers memorable fishing opportunities. From sites of easy access to that remote wilderness, the Flathead waters can provide diverse fishing experiences. Three main branches, the North Fork, Middle Fork, and South Fork, eventually come together to form the main stem of the Flathead River that flows into the 28-mile-long Flathead lake. Access to the three forks and the main Flathead is readily available in places, but to effectively fish the best of the Flathead, floating is suggested. The hardest thing about fly fishing in this part of northwestern Montana is keeping your eye on your fly and not the spectacular scenery. •BIGFORK SUMMER PLAYHOUSE The Bigfork Summer Playhouse was founded in 1960 by Dr. Firman ‘Bo’ Brown and his wife Margery Hunter Brown as a place for University of Montana theatre students to perform in the summer. In the early days of the Bigfork Summer Playhouse, the company ate group meals, rehearsed, and lived in the same place. There were no facilities to build scenery, nor extra storage of any kind. As a matter of fact, the building didn’t even belong to the Bigfork Summer Playhouse — it was a Community Hall owned by the Masons and the Eastern Star and seated approximately 200 people. The summer group would rent the facility and bring in the stage, risers, and seats for the audience. We’re pleased to say that now the playhouse is a 435-seat air-conditioned theater with great fly space, a spacious lobby that contains a concession area, and wonderfully comfortable continental-style seating for hundreds of guests. Numerous spaces off-site to accommodate production needs including a dormitory facility for the actors; living quarters for the directors, technicians, and musicians; costume shop; scene shop; and rehearsal space. •SPARTAN RACE Spartan Race is a series of obstacle races of varying distance and difficulty ranging from 3 miles to marathon distances. They are held in the US and have been franchised to 30 countries including Canada, South Korea, Australia, and several European countries. The series includes the Spartan Sprint, the Spartan Super, the Spartan Beast, and the Spartan Ultra. •WHITEWATER FESTIVAL The Bigfork Whitewater Festival is celebrating 46 years of extreme whitewater action and community-oriented fun! This is the longest-running event in Bigfork and is one that the entire Flathead Valley looks forward to each year. Participants come from around the world to race. Spectators are also a huge part of this festival and come to enjoy the races and other events held in town. •BIGFORK FESTIVAL OF ARTS It was in May of 1978 when the idea of a Bigfork Festival of the Arts was first proposed. As so often happens in Bigfork, it started with a conversation on Electric Ave. between members of the community. The first festival was held on the first weekend in August of 1978. It was a resounding success despite the committee’s inexperience. The feedback from the community was very positive and the group agreed that it should become an annual event. Over the years, the festival has grown steadily to its current size. In 2019, there were more than 140 booths representing a wide variety of arts and crafts by nationally and internationally recognized artists and craftsmen. Festival attendance is estimated to be more than 6,000. •4TH OF JULY PARADE Bigfork knows how to throw a party. And when it’s our country’s birthday, Bigfork really knows how to celebrate. The centerpiece of the celebration is the annual parade through Bigfork which begins at noon. Bring your whole family to view our great parade to celebrate the birth of our country. The 4th of July Parade in Bigfork has been voted “Best Parade in the Flathead” year after year.

Missoula Rest And Relaxation

91%

(58)

39mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Missoula, MT

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.

Echoing View

99%

(37)

48mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Bigfork, MT

Learn more about this land:Private hillside camping with mountain views and available lake shore access. Recreation opportunities and secluded private camping area for groups or individuals.

God's Country Camping

90%

(77)

46mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · Tent, RV · Lolo, MT

I am one mile from Hwy 93 so you can hear traffic noise sometimes. Planes do fly over once in awhile as well. This is a dry camp and rustic camping, sites are fairly far apart. This property is so beautiful and peaceful out here at night. Seasonal Spring fed pond, Ponderosa pine trees, fallen white birch, rustic and gorgeous. Some of my camp spots are on rough terrain. I always suggest you get out and walk around to see what you can manage with your vehicle. The idea of my place is more wilderness camping, there is wildlife that comes around. RV camp spots on the east and west end of the pond. Camp spot out by the wooden round pen on the west side. Completely private, borders 2000 acres of a bird sanctuary. Two blocks from Bitterroot river canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swim, trails, hiking, scenery, wildlife. My pond is spring fed, which means that is goes up and down with the seasons and run off from the snow in the mountains and collects cotton from the trees when they shed. So as the summer goes on the pond levels go way down, please be aware of that.

Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

100%

(18)

39mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 1 site · RV · Missoula, MT

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 peace and tranquility, with the soothing 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 fully 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 picturesque 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!

Triple Bridges Campground

92%

(91)

39mi from Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · Alberton, MT

Primitive camping with no water or trash service, pack in / pack out. There is a portable toilet. 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.

The best camping in Ninepipe National Wildlife Refuge, MT 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.

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