The best camping near Salmon Lake State Park

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

Discover the serene beauty of Salmon Lake State Park.

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Community favorites near Salmon Lake State Park

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Salmon Lake State Park

Salmon Lake Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents In Salmon Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Salmon Lake State Park

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Primrose Meadows

13 sites · Lodging, 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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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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Ridgeline Retreat

2 sites · Lodging, 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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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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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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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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Montana Safari Tent - Blackfoot

2 sites · Lodging43 acres · Bonner, MT

Experience the charm of Montana's wilderness while indulging in the comforts of home at P-7 Base Camp, named after our family's historic livestock brand. Nestled on 43 acres in the picturesque Potomac Valley, just minutes from Missoula and the famed Blackfoot River, our peaceful retreat offers a unique glamping experience unlike any other. With only 4 sites available, including 2 safari tents and 2 Conestoga Wagons, we invite you to immerse yourself in luxury with our thoughtfully curated accommodations. Each glamping tent features luxurious bedding, electricity, a heater, coffee bar, mini fridge, wine glasses, S'Mores roasting sticks, solar lanterns, heated mattress pads, a picnic table, and Adirondack chairs. Plus, enjoy the convenience of two communal bathrooms with hot showers and flush toilets. Our property, a working hay farm, offers a glimpse into rural life in Montana. During the summer months, you can witness the hay being irrigated, cut, baled, and stacked for winter use. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including deer, coyotes, herons, eagles, hawks, and sandhill cranes, who also call this property home. Explore the beauty of the Potomac Valley, one of Western Montana's best-kept secrets, with easy access to Missoula's vibrant downtown scene, hiking trails, museums, art galleries, and more. Spend your days floating, kayaking, or trout fishing on the Blackfoot River, or venture to nearby lakes for boating or paddleboarding. Dog-friendly trails at Lubrecht Forest are just a short drive away, while Garnet Ghost Town offers a glimpse into Montana's rich history. After a day of adventure, relax by the campfire and watch the sunset over the mountains, soaking in the tranquility of the Montana wilderness. Whether you're seeking outdoor thrills or simply a peaceful escape, P-7 Base Camp offers the perfect blend of luxury and nature in the heart of Big Sky Country.

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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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Full Bushel Farm

3 sites · RVs3 acres · Stevensville, MT

Full Bushel Farm is a sustainable farm specializing in cut flowers, herbs, edible flowers, and natural body & home care products. Located at the end of the road, just a few blocks off Eastside Highway, and only 3 miles from downtown Stevensville, this is a sweet spot with views of the Bitterroot Mountains. Farmstand with produce, eggs, fresh milk & cheeses, flowers, and herbs - all when seasonally available. Surrounded by the irrigation ditch and a private road for biking or walking on after dinner.

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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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Wildlight Yurt

1 site · Lodging24 acres · Alberton, MT

Our land is 24 acres set against Cinderella Mountain, facing the Clark Fork River. There are two houses and a yurt on the property. The yurt is available for rent on this site to stay the night in, 8 guests maximum. **For gatherings and up to 20-person events, please visit our website, wildlightmontana.com. Address: The maps program on HipCamp is outdated and our address, which was created during the Covid lockdown, does not show up here. If you use Google Maps you can search "Wildlight Montana" to find us or please direct message me for the address. The yurt is a beautiful open space utilized weekly for local yoga classes and private events. The space is therefore not set up with bedding; guests should bring their own camping pads, cots, sleeping bags, etc. A pro to staying here is that the space comes stocked with yoga props for stretching in the evening while you arrive, sitting and gathering, or maybe doing a private yoga class before you leave in the morning. Feel free to message us and book a private sound therapy, Reiki or yoga session while you are at the property! There is nice view of the valley surrounding, and a trail leading up into the woods behind the yurt to walk on. Wild turkeys, deer, elk and eagles right outside your door. There is a woodstove inside for cooler nights that we can instruct folks who feel comfortable to use, and a small firepit out front. Facilities: Outside, in front of the yurt, there is a back-to-back outhouse and hand washing station available for guests, stocked with toilet paper, paper towels and hand soap. An insulated out-building sits just to the west of the yurt entrance, right where the dirt driveway turns toward the yurt itself when you drive up. The out-building is equipped as a kitchenette, and includes a refrigerator, electric kettle and coffee maker. Please note: there is no running water inside this building, however we will have a 5 gallon jug of well water set up in a water dispenser for you to access there. We ask guests to clean up after themselves in these spaces. The handwashing area is set up for rinsing off dishes while you're here as well. We will make sure to provide a dish tub, cleaning supplies, enough dishes, utensils and mugs for up to 8 people (or compostable picnicware if necessary at the time of rental). Note about the train: There are train tracks that run along the river in front of our property. The tracks are dropped down low enough that you can just see the top of the train, with trees also blocking the sound. The train will only sound its horn here if there are animals on the tracks, a fairly rare occurrence after four years living here. All in all, it isn't bothersome feature to most who stay, and we've had positive feedback from renters. It still feels fair to note.

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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!

The best camping near Salmon Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

What do rainbows, cutthroats, and kokanees have in common? If you know the answer, grab your fishing pole and get your butt to Salmon Lake ASAP, because there’s nowhere better for endless fishing and swoon-worthy views. If fish aren’t swimming around in your cup of tea, just paddle out in the canoe and look to the sky for a spectacular variety of red-necked grebes, great blue herons, loons, osprey, and bald eagles. Tucked between the Mission and Swan Mountain Ranges, Salmon Lake is a little nest of woodland wildlife. Protected by high mountains blanketed in Douglas-firs and ponderosa pine trees, Salmon Lake is the department store of wildlife—a one-stop shop for all of your flora, fauna and fishing needs.

Notable campgrounds

The Hike-Bike Campsite caters to cycling adventurers with amenities like a bike rack, fire ring, and bear-resistant food lockers.
Woodland Campsites offer a serene retreat amid western larch, ponderosa pine, and Douglas-fir, perfect for tent and RV campers alike.
Lakeside Campsites provide stunning views and easy access to the water for those looking to wake up to the sound of gentle waves.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, especially for peak summer months, as sites at Salmon Lake State Park fill up quickly due to its popularity.
Consider mid-week stays for better availability and a quieter camping experience.
Keep an eye on cancellations, which can provide unexpected opportunities for last-minute trips.
Explore nearby camping options to ensure you have a backup plan in case the park is fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Salmon Lake State Park is during the summer season, when the park is fully open and all amenities are available. From May to late October, enjoy the full splendor of the park. Winter brings a quieter charm, with walk-in access and day-use only from November 1st to April 30th.

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 both wildlife and campers safe.
ADA accessible facilities ensure an inclusive experience for all visitors.
Non-resident visitors should be prepared to pay a day-use entrance fee of $8 with a vehicle or $4 as a walk-in.
Montana residents can enjoy the park without a daily entrance fee by paying the state parks fee with their annual vehicle registration.