The best camping near Placid Lake State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Placid Lake State Park adventure.

100% (3 reviews)
100% (3 reviews)

Discover Placid Lake State Park's serene beauty and outdoor fun.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Placid Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Placid Lake State Park

95%
(1371)

Primrose Meadows

13 sites · Tents28 acres · 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.
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$37
 / night
100%
(19)

Mile High Mountain Homestead

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · Helmville, MT
We are officially open for the 2024 season! Located in the Garnet Mountains of Montana, we offer beautiful views and wildlife viewing all the while providing you with a homestead experience . We offer a homestead tour of our place and enjoy some greens from our gardens and visit our goats and rabbits and purchase some fresh cheese and milk to take back to your tent too . The price includes the use of the wood fired hot tub for an evening soak with a beautiful private view of the mountains and small lake . Enjoy a hand made fresh baked pizza to order from our homestead, 15”for $35 , or just come and relax and enjoy your views We love to share our experiences with our guests! There is also a luxurious outdoor shower to wash off all that campfire smell , as well! So come enjoy some high mountain glamping with us and discover just how peaceful it is in our neck of the Garnet mountains! Visit us on instagram! @milehighmountainhomestead
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$85.50
 / night
89%
(19)

Blue Mountain BaseCamp

1 site · RV1 acre · Missoula, MT
Nestled at the base of the majestic Blue Mountain, our property offers a great opportunity to camp with just a brief 0.23-mile stroll to the trailhead, granting easy access to trails awaiting your exploration. Trailside Convenience: The convenience of having a trailhead within reach, complete with a pit toilet. Our site: Camping within city limits of Missoula is limited to the KOA. Our site is perfect for those wanting a convenient place to camp with plans to head out to the trails or to Missoula. Our home is nestled on one acre with Ponderosa pine trees, Aspen, and Birch. We are located in a neighborhood and we have two kids and two friendly dogs. There is a photo of how close our site is to our house letting you know that when the Aspen trees have no leaves, the site is not as private as when they do. Perfect Balance: Located just 1.5 miles beyond Missoula city limits, our site strikes the perfect balance between access to nature and the city. Start your day with a refreshing hike, revel in the natural beauty, and then seamlessly transition into town for the city's offerings, all within easy reach. Whether you seek a quiet morning walk along scenic trails or desire the vibrancy of city life, our property serves as the ideal base for your Blue Mountain adventure. Experience the best of both worlds at Blue Mountain BaseCamp !
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$45
 / night
80%
(63)

Rainbow Gulch Farm

6 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Clinton, MT
A small family farm working toward sustainability. Easy to access from I-90, drive in camping for a stop overnight or a home base while you explore the many attractions nearby. Learn more about this land: We are 20 miles east of Missoula, MT near the Kettlehouse Ampitheater in Bonner. Our location is halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Park. There are mountain bike paths, river access points for paddling, rafting or fishing within minutes of our land. We can even help you know where to go. Our land is surrounded by Nature Conservancy land with a public recreation easement, so you can hike and take your horse for a ride very easily, just let us know and we will point you in the right direction. Our child had a significant medical emergency that required a lot of travel to Seattle Children's and 3 brain surgeries all year, so we don't have the active garden going this year, but the chickens and sheep are happy. In a vehicle, you can pull into one of our pastures for your stay. Where you are depends on which field the sheep are eating! Tents also work in the field. We do not have any hookups. The fields are that - pasture fields. There are quiet neighbors across the fence. We are happy to offer advice about local attractions via messaging. This is pack it in, pack it out During the pandemic we ask that you wear a face covering if you have a reason to talk with us, even across the fence out of an abundance of caution since most of you are traveling from out of state. Tours are also temporarily suspended.
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$18
 / night
90%
(58)

God's Country Camping

1 site · RV, Tent12 acres · Lolo, MT
This property is so beautiful and peaceful no lights out here at night, just moonlight when it's out. 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. Learn more about this land: Completely private, borders 2000 acres of a bird sanctuary. Two blocks from Bitterroot river canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swim, trails, hiking, scenery, wildlife. Spring fed pond on property for fishing, swimming and adventures. 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. So as the summer goes on the pond levels go way down, please be aware of that.
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$35
 / night
100%
(9)

B4mc River Ranch

3 sites · Lodging80 acres · Clinton, MT
The B4mc River Ranch is a beautiful 80 acres, located in Clinton, MT. Our ranch borders over 1 mile of the Clark Fork river. It's just a short drive down the road to get to endless miles of forest service roads and less than a mile to the Cinton Market (local grocery store). Our 3 campsites are tucked away in the back part of the property and give you a secluded feeling, as if you were out camping in the mountains. Each campsite is only a few steps away from access to river, with a beautiful view of the mountains in the background. This peaceful little retreat provides endless amounts of fun outdoor activities. Enjoy fishing, hiking, floating the river with easy access to take out at your campsite, exploring the area of Clinton, or enjoy downtown Missoula (only a 19 minute drive from the property) and SO much more! We hope you enjoy this piece of paradise as much as we do!
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$118.75
 / night
99%
(36)

In The Pines: 5 off grids / folf

7 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Bonner, MT
6 hole folf course 0 electricity, appliances, or refrigeration 5 structures on the property Bring your own dishes and silverware 1 community outdoor shower spotty cell service 2 free standing restrooms 1 cafe 5 miles away 5 miles off main road, the last 2 are a bit bumpy It's just minimalism and simple quality. You're welcome to unwind at our little family escape on your way to wherever. Follow the written directions. Google maps is not always reliable. Our retreat is small and quiet with only two cabins; the 570 Sq/ft Beartooth and 200 sq/ft Trapper. And three tent platforms that have a propane fire feature. All experiences are listed separately through Hipcamp. Every traveler will experience… …a queen and full bed in each accommodation – with the exception of the Trapper which has one queen bed. Though you will need to make your own mealtime accommodations, you will find enough in-cabin water, coffee, and tea to start each day on the right foot. A small grill is also provided. Remember, it’s a simple retreat so don’t forget ample bottled water, paper plates, cutlery, and everything else you need before you come in from town. You're dusk and dawn can be lit by the solar lights and small propane heaters will take the chill from the early mornings. But hey - it's hybrid, right? We provide the shelter...you pack like a happy camper. This is a camping experience, but in the area… …you will find Potomac Bar and Grill just 10 minutes away where you will find a wonderful rural café that offers every meal of the day. Fifteen minutes north, you will find Paws Up which offers extravagant dining experiences. Twenty-five minutes further you will find the town of Seeley Lake which offers all you would expect from a quaint Montana rural community. And, of course, 35 minutes south you will find Missoula and all that Missoula is. You can learn more about In The Pines, MT through finding us on Instagram. A few regs for all of us to keep in mind: No RVs – parking is limited No pets Please no media cast through external speakers
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$40
 / night
93%
(47)

Geary Brothers Ranch

153 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Ovando, MT
Located in the Blackfoot Valley you will enjoy the endless views and access to some of the best public hunting and fishing the state has to offer. Plenty of room for the kids and dogs to play. You will stay at the historic Helmville Rodeo Grounds and enjoy the privacy and endless views. Can't wait!
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$20
 / night
99%
(68)

Bitterroot Panorama

1 site · RV20 acres · Stevensville, MT
**Have friends or family that want to tag along? I have added an extra to allow for extra campers at the same site. See the extras section for details.**    Resting in the foothills of the sapphire mountains, just outside the town of Stevensville Montana, this beautiful 20 acre property is conveniently located halfway between Hamilton and Missoula; it is also a good midway point between Yellowstone and Glacier national parks. The outdoor activities are endless. Biking, hiking, fishing, swimming, hunting, trail riding, snow skiing and more are all within reach. Deer, turkey, osprey, killdeer, nighthawks, and eagles frequent the property as well as the occasional elk herd; and the Lee Metcalf wildlife refuge is about 15 minutes away.    The property sits about 400’ above the valley floor; giving spectacular panoramic views of the bitterroot valley and mountains, as well as incredible sunsets.    The paved road ends about 1 mile before the property, the remaining mile is a gravel road. There is also a one lane bridge right before you get to the property. Firewood is available for use at no charge.  Sewer hookup has not been run to the site yet but if you have a portable tank, or want to pull the camper over to the house, it can be dumped as needed beside the garage; just ask and I can show you where the pipe is.  There is a nema 14-50 hookup providing 50 amp power at the site; if needed I do have a 50 to 30 amp adapter you can borrow during your stay.  Water hookup is also available at the site, but may be limited in freezing weather.  If temperatures are to cold we can turn on the water to fill your tank as needed and then blow the line back out.  If you need to borrow a potable water hose let me know as i keep those in the garage unless needed.  There is a non-potable water hose that is available at the site, with a spray nozzle, incase you need to rinse or wash off gear, vehicles, etc.   SpaceX Starlink high speed internet is available via WiFi. You can also charge your electric vehicle, if needed, with the power at the campsite or I have another nema 14-50 plug available at the garage of the main house. Be sure to let me know if you will need the plug at the garage so I can make sure it is accessible.  If you have other questions feel free to contact me and I will do my best to answer them. ****The first 10 photos were posted by me and are taken from the actual hipcamp spot. Photos posted by guests may be from the spot or surrounding areas****
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$55
 / night
96%
(70)

Ridgeline Retreat

2 sites · RVs, Tents70 acres · Missoula, MT
My wife, Nicole, and I were so very fortunate to have found this place. The homestead consists of 70 acres of mountainous forest in the wild lands of Montana. The cabin is totally off the grid but provides every creature comfort one could hope for.
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$60
 / night
100%
(10)

Mission Mtn Horse Ranch Retreat

5 sites · RVs, Tents212 acres · Saint Ignatius, MT
We are an operating Farm/Ranch and Horse Facility. We offer not only camping but horsemanship lessons 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!
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$30
 / night
100%
(2)

Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

1 site · RV1 acre · 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!
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$30
 / night

The best camping near Placid Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

It’s 6 a.m., the waters are sparkling in the morning sun and smooth as a stick of butter. It must be time for some waterskiing! Take advantage of the placid placidity of Placid Lake, the calmest water west of the Mississippi. Nestled into the nook of the Clearwater and Swan River valleys, this park is a boating and fishing paradise with mountain views so high and mighty you have to be careful not to hurt your neck as you take it all in. As you wander through the lakeside forest, marvel at the enormous larch stumps in your path—these are all that are left behind from long-ago logging practices. They’re so big, you can plop down on the stump with a picnic. End the day with a game of horseshoes or volleyball, and then rest your legs to take in the mountain vistas. With water so flat and calm reflecting the mountains, you won’t know which way is up or down.

Notable campgrounds

  • The Hike-Bike Campsite caters to cycling enthusiasts with bike racks, a maintenance stand, and a covered shelter.
  • Electric Campsites offer the convenience of power hookups, perfect for RV camping or charging your devices.
  • Family Campsites are spacious and equipped with fire rings and bear-resistant food lockers for a worry-free stay.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book early, especially for peak summer months, as sites at Placid Lake State Park fill up quickly.
  • Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for better availability and a quieter experience.
  • Keep an eye on cancellation policies and check back often for newly available spots.
  • Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding a great site.

When to go

The best time to visit Placid Lake State Park is during the summer season, from May 1 to November 30, when all facilities are open and the weather is most conducive for camping and water sports. Winter offers a serene, day-use only experience, with the park closed to motorized traffic.

Know before you go

  • Check for any special restrictions or closures before your visit, especially during road construction periods.
  • Remember to store all food and attractants in bear-resistant containers to keep wildlife and your family safe.
  • Accessibility is a priority, with ADA accessible options available for an inclusive experience.
  • Montana residents can enjoy free daily entrance with the state parks fee included in their vehicle registration.
  • Nonresidents should be prepared to pay a day use entrance fee, with discounts for walk-ins and cyclists.

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