The best camping in Placid Lake State Park, MT

Name: Placid Lake State Park
Address: Placid Lake State Park
Rating: 5

100% (3)

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

100% (3)

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

Top-rated campgrounds in Placid Lake State Park

Placid Lake Campground

1. Placid Lake Campground

100%

(3)

Campground in Placid Lake State Park · 40 sites · Tents, RVs

The word "placid" doesn't usually carry an exciting connotation, but you'll be at a great advantage at Placid Lake Campground

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Top-rated campsites near Placid Lake State Park

Seeley Creek Sites 1&2

1. Seeley Creek Sites 1&2

100%

(15)

4.5mi from Placid Lake State Park · 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

Water hookup

Buck’s Paradise

2. Buck’s Paradise

93%

(52)

6.6mi from Placid Lake State Park · 2 sites

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

Hawk And Fox Ranch

3. Hawk And Fox Ranch

100%

(26)

25mi from Placid Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

Just a little piece of paradise just minutes from the Clark Fork and Rock Creek. 17 miles from downtown Missoula . We back up to 33,000 acres of state and federal land with endless possibilities. We have two ponds and hiking trails from fire roads to back country bushwhacking.. we have access to drift boats or rental cars. Anything to make your trip great

Pets

Campfires

Full hookups

B4mc River Ranch

4. B4mc River Ranch

100%

(13)

26mi from Placid Lake State Park · 3 sites

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!

Pets

Toilets

Showers

Ridgeline Retreat

5. Ridgeline Retreat

97%

(74)

26mi from Placid Lake State Park · 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

Grey Wolf Camping

6. Grey Wolf Camping

97%

(103)

27mi from Placid Lake State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs

2 acres of field and trees. Right across the highway from the largest casino in Montana!

Pets

Toilets

Full hookups

Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

7. Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

100%

(20)

27mi from Placid Lake State Park · 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 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!

Pets

Mission Mtn Horse Ranch Retreat

8. Mission Mtn Horse Ranch Retreat

97%

(17)

28mi from Placid Lake State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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!

Toilets

Showers

Water hookup

Mission Falls Ranch

9. Mission Falls Ranch

98%

(20)

29mi from Placid Lake State Park · 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

Missoula Rest And Relaxation

10. Missoula Rest And Relaxation

90%

(62)

30mi from Placid Lake State Park · 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

Geary Brothers Ranch

11. Geary Brothers Ranch

93%

(60)

30mi from Placid Lake State Park · 153 sites · Tents, RVs

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!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

The Holmestead Cabin

12. The Holmestead Cabin

100%

(30)

33mi from Placid Lake State Park · 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

Primrose Meadows

13. Primrose Meadows

95%

(1561)

34mi from Placid Lake State Park · 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

Mile High Mountain Homestead

14. Mile High Mountain Homestead

90%

(15)

34mi from Placid Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

Beautiful 20 acre homestead, surrounded by the Garnet Mountains. We have beautiful small lakes that are a beautiful water fowl sanctuary, where you can observe wild life and migratory water fowl and beautiful song birds and beautiful Mountain Views . Come prepared! We are in grizzly country , BE BEAR AWARE! All campers need to keep all ice chests and food away from their tents and in their cars when not using them! This is grizzly and black bear country, keep all cooking utensils , dog food and pans , in your vehicle when not in use! Also you pack it in, you pack it out, we do not dump your trash or take care of it for you. Very important to obey the bear rules and our rules for camping on our land to stay safe! Thank you and we want you to have a safe and enjoyable camp out! When you book with us , we will send you the directions to get to your campsite. GPS will get you lost!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

Willow Point

15. Willow Point

97%

(69)

36mi from Placid Lake State Park · 1 site

Learn more about this land: Come join us at our favorite riverfront getaway camping spot. Your visit will take you to the end of the road, 6 miles outside of Missoula to the shore of the Bitterroot River. Take your pick of activities: swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking, or lounging and reading in sunny or shaded areas. Lots of room out here for social distancing, fresh mountain air, and the sounds nature. 

Pets

Campfires

Toilets

Montana Roots Adventure Company

16. Montana Roots Adventure Company

98%

(27)

36mi from Placid Lake State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

Get away from it all when you stay under the stars! Located on a working cattle ranch in the secluded Flint Creek Valley, our hand built ranch offers 360 degree breathtaking mountain views and lush fields of free range grazing livestock. Come experience a true Montana “glamping” experience, away from all the hustle and bustle where you can unwind and take in the sunrises and sunsets in beautiful Big Sky Country. We have our brand-new yurt available as well as a 30amp plug-in. Your stay can be a simple stay, or for extra fees can include farm-2-table meals (with reserve wine pairings if desired), guided fly/ice fishing experiences, short backpacking trips and backcountry skiing! Conveniently located 45 mins outside Missoula, 25 mins from Philipsburg and 50 mins from Discovery Ski Mtn. Some things to note: this is a working ranch, meaning there are cows and family members tending to the animals (not in the yurt’s private area, but surrounding it); in the winter, the concrete pad the yurt stands on can be slippery, so please be aware and utilize the provided ice melt in the bucket by the side door when needed. In spring, the ranch can quite muddy; please keep vehicles on the rock driveway only. Boot trays are provided by both doors. Extra cleaning fees apply if pets are staying in the yurt.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

God's Country Camping

17. God's Country Camping

90%

(78)

36mi from Placid Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV

Campground is on private property, not a traditional campground, campsites are well spaced apart and each is different. One mile from Hwy 93, possible noise. This is a dry camp and rustic camping, sites are fairly far apart, ground is uneven. Two blocks from the Bitterroot river fishing access. 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 come through. 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, and 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. As the summer goes by the pond levels go way down, please be aware of that.

Pets

Toilets

Potable water

Peaceful Mission Mountain Paradise

18. Peaceful Mission Mountain Paradise

98%

(28)

37mi from Placid Lake State Park · 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

Bitterroot Cat Ranch

19. Bitterroot Cat Ranch

100%

(15)

40mi from Placid Lake State Park · 1 site

We live on ten acres tucked in the pines at the foot of the Sapphire mountains with views west of the broad Bitterroot Valley and the stunning Bitterroot Mountains. Only a mile behind our house is a state wildlife management area and beyond that National Forest and then the Welcome Creek Wilderness. We have a greenhouse and garden on site but our major vegetable growing operation is down in the valley. Lots of wildlife travel through our lot, including a number of owls. In our first five years here we have seen five different owl species, which gives the cabin its name! We have two resident cats and a blue heeler, along with chickens who free roam and you will likely meet.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

Mud Lake RV

20. Mud Lake RV

100%

(17)

45mi from Placid Lake State Park · 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

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Camp JJJ. A secluded rustic site to make your basecamp.

Kathleen

1 day ago

1 night at Ridgeline Retreat

Between the mapping and the directions given, it was easy to get to. I was on a cross country trip and got in at just about midnight on a rainy night, but still had no problem finding it. Nice and private, perfect for my dogs to run around while I set up camp in my truck. About 12 minutes from the freeway, I enjoyed driving just enough off the main road to get to some seclusion.

Susie

1 week ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Ridgeline Retreat

We loved this peaceful place! The Airstream is beautifully done and very comfortable. We stayed for 3 nights and loved every second of it! We mostly hung out by the outside fireplace soaking up the views and fresh air. Our dogs were in heaven and it was nice they could just hang out and be dogs:) The location makes you feel like you’re away from it all, yet you’re close enough to Missoula to get anything you need. Corey is a great host and made sure we were comfortable. We definitely feel well rested and restored after our stay. I can’t recommend this place enough, we will be back!

Wendy

2 weeks ago

27 ft toy hauler

With pets

4 nights at Missoula Rest And Relaxation

This was are second time staying here. Close to everything in Missoula, I feel it’s very quiet being that close to everything. Felt very safe leaving our trailer while we were gone most of the day for baseball. I recommend this, we will be back again.

Robert

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Primrose Meadows

We loved the wide open spaces, the alfalfa field and being able to wonder the grounds.

Tammy

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Primrose Meadows

My husband stayed here for the night and he loved it! Quiet, spacious, the tables and burn pits were well maintained!

Holly

2 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Primrose Meadows

Beautiful and private and easy to find and we found the train sound pleasant!

Gabi

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Primrose Meadows

I loved camping with my dog and husband here! It’s stunning, especially at sunset. Alton was communicative and great to work with.

Dyan

3 weeks ago

With pets

2 nights at Mission Falls Ranch

The host Geof went beyond what was expected and made sure my stay with my 3 dogs went smoothly They offered me a more private campsite so my one sometimes reactive dog could be undisturbed. The setting with the various farm animals and wild animals was nice. 👍

Loren

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Mission Falls Ranch

Geof really is a super-star host and his land is a dream! We stayed in the A Frame right next to the creek and listened to the water and owls hooting at night. We loved watching piggies, petting donkeys and playing with the sweet dogs. Geof was super accommodating and we can’t wait to go back!

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Primrose Meadows

Primrose is a special location; you feel lucky the family shares their lovely property with you. Taking a morning stroll on the farm’s dirt roads through the wildflowers and taking in the views was a highlight. Alden is very quick to respond and an excellent host. We’d stay at Primrose again.

Yu (Luke)

May 2026

Tent

Weekend Trip to God's Country Camping

Dolly was very friendly at the site was fantastic for a wildlife lover. There were deer, woodpeckers, nuthatches, and lots of butterflies!

Meg

May 2026

19 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

Marmot & Stars were lovely hosts! (Nancy was out of town.) Felt welcome and safe and would stay again in a heartbeat!

Tony

May 2026

Tent

1 night at Primrose Meadows

Amazing setup and hosts. The views are amazing, truly big sky. And yet, reasonably close to town. Great hosts. Stop here is you are in the area

Justin

April 2026

3 nights at Ridgeline Retreat

Incredibly beautiful spot to look out at the mountains. The airstream has all the necessities & was very comfortable to sleep in. Would recommend & go back again for sure!

Shaney

April 2026

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Primrose Meadows

Pleased to have this space to return to countless times!

Parker

April 2026

Weekend Trip to Buck’s Paradise

Great place to get away while still having some great amenities! My wife, dog and I had such a blast making fires and enjoying some time outside! Highly recommend

Autumn

April 2026

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Seeley Creek Sites 1&2

Beautiful and peaceful spot. Private enough and the host was fantastic

Matt

March 2026

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Primrose Meadows

We had such a great camping experience at Primrose. It was early in the year, so we had the place all to ourselves. We had a big group but there was lots of room to spread out. It is close to Missoula but on a peaceful chunk of land away from town. John went way out of his way to make us feel welcome, even taking our Scouts to see the animals. The add-on eggs were insanely good for breakfast the next morning and I got a package of chorizo to bring home. There was a little noise from the trains and airport early in the morning but it wasn't a problem at all for our group. The sunset was glorious! We highly recommend Primrose Meadows to people looking for a spot to land near Missoula yet far enough away from it all to find some peace. We will definitely be back.

Colleen

March 2026

With pets

Weekend Trip to Montana Roots Adventure Company

Our stay at Justin’s place was great! It’s the perfect place to escape from the busyness of everyday life and enjoy the more simple moments we can often overlook. The yurt is cozy and clean and the facilities are pretty cute too! Thank you, Justin and family, for your hospitality!

Joshua

March 2026

20 ft campervan

1 night at Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

Easy to pull in and great location. No hassles, great communication.

Placid Lake State Park camping 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.