The best camping in Spring Meadow Lake State Park, MT

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Spend a family-friendly day on the water at Spring Meadow Lake State Park in Helena. 

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

Top-rated campsites near Spring Meadow Lake State Park

The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!

1. The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!

98%
(138)
2mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This five-acre oasis was once a landscape nursery. So given the close proximity to downtown we are a hidden sanctuary from the outside world, secluded by cottonwood trees and mature foliage. The site now serves as a wedding venue and offers views of Mount Helena to the South and the Sleeping Giant to the North. Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent in our aspen grove or park your camper/RV in the grassland field. You're close to downtown with lots of privacy/scenery. You'll have views of regal Mount Helena to the South and The Sleeping Giant to the North. The South Hill trail complex is a great place to explore as well as the Scratchgravels. The Missouri River is only 20 minutes away as well as Lake Hauser and Canyon Ferry. If new to the area and interested in history, we recommend the Tour Train. We also have several great breweries - our favorites include Ten Mile and Blackfoot Breweries (a perfect stop you can ride to after a trail ride/hike in the South Hills). This site is perfect for those wanting to explore Downtown Helena, it's renowned trail systems, but still sleep under the stars. Pets are allowed. Please make sure you pick up after them. There is water throughout the property that you are welcome to use for cleaning, but it is not potable.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
Mountain Biker's Getaway

2. Mountain Biker's Getaway

100%
(23)
4.6mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
We have a 20 acre parcel where we live that is right next to the trail system and also 5 minutes from downtown Helena. We love hosting our friends who come to mountain bike and enjoy Helena and are happy to host you! We have a small trail cut into the property that is available for your use and a forest for you to play in
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
Farm Land Escape

3. Farm Land Escape

100%
(10)
6.8mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
Please contact me through here 1-2 days prior to your arrival so I can get your area ready. As there may be one other camper from time to time as well. I want you to have the privacy and the experience as if it was only you and you’re family staying. This 53 acres use to be owned by a guy named John Helberg which is who the road is named after. It’s the original homestead land dated over 100 years ago where they farmed for there dairy cows and other livestock. This is right off a dead end road. You will have a view of a Montana farm field with the Rocky Mountains in the background. Dark nights out of the town means the stars will be out and about! This is a quiet secluded area there is a house near by, he is an older gentlemen you won’t even know he’s there. Depending on time of year there will be a field full of crop or the farm getting farmed. There very well could be some horses near by to pet!! Located 10 minutes from the lakes. 5 minutes from a reservoir. 10 minutes from town. 15 min to closest hiking areas. Helena really is the heart of fun very centralized for all directions of fun! Very easy pull in and pull out area. Please not there may be other campers enjoying as well Black Sandy State Park and Helena National Park are both under 15 miles away. Enjoy hiking and If you’re the boating type, head down the Missouri river in search of a rumored rope swing or jump off the boat for a dip in the crystal waters of Hauser Lake. Looking to avoid all the crowds or enjoy a solitary weekend under the endless Montana sky? Just head to Black Sandy during the winter months! You’ll find the same great stunning views and an ice skating experience that will put your grandparents’ childhood tales to shame. I do have power 50 amp, fresh water, grey water hook up, no black water. This option may not be available all of the time. Nearby is a brown shop this is area is rented out and off limits to camp stayers. The patio area on shop is not for the hipcampers thank you
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
The Homestead

4. The Homestead

100%
(18)
11mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 2 sites
The Homestead is located in Clancy, Montana on a 600 acre portion of a private ranch. This is a camping experience...think upscale tent camping for the adventurous soul! The tents are nestled in the foothills of the Elkhorn Mountain Range and sit right above the Strawberry Creek trail. You will be surrounded by stunning views of Sheep Mountain to the west, Casey Peak to the east, and the Helena Valley and Gates of the Mountains Wilderness to the north. Mountain bike, hike, trail run, explore and/or relax! Just a short 20 minute drive to Helena, MT for more trails, dining or other activities. *** This mountain destination takes you one mile on a dirt, two track road though a field to reach the tents so AWD is highly recommended.
Pets
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Potable water
Campsite at the Causeway

5. Campsite at the Causeway

100%
(10)
11mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 1 site
This 6 acre property is perfectly situated to accommodate lake fun, river boating and just 10 minutes to all the conveniences of Helena. The RV site has plenty of space to bring you boat for a perfect summer camp out with the family and tons of access to multiple bodies of water within minutes of the property, and the Causeway Chalet Bar n’ Grill is within walking distance. There is a tiny house on site which can also be rented, otherwise you will have the place to yourself.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Hilltop Camp near Hauser Lake

6. Hilltop Camp near Hauser Lake

93%
(14)
11mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs
Hilltop Camp near Hauser Lake sits on 20 acres in the Helena Valley, surrounded by four lakes and open views of Hauser Lake and several mountain ranges. Three sites on a gentle hill with views all around. A genuine working farm: horses, chickens, roosters, guinea fowl, and a Hereford steer. Talk to Granny Julie about the animals. Nine miles from Helena. A mile and a half from Lakeside, where you'll find a gas station, convenience store, boat launches, and a good bar and restaurant. Easy access to Helena National Forest and York beyond that. A solid basecamp or a straightforward overnight when you just need a good night's rest. Hosts live on the property. Children visit Granny regularly and there are animals around - please drive slowly on the property. The animals do make noise so please be aware of that when booking.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
Relax Inn Montana

7. Relax Inn Montana

98%
(32)
14mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 7 sites · Tents, Lodging
Half way between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park - Perfect place to stop and rest between adventures : ) Outdoor Living at its finest : )) 2 Acres of unique quiet spaces in a park like setting - Tent Site 1 - has 2 Secluded improved Spaces Tent Site 2 - Open field unimproved 3 or 4 tent spaces Bld 1 is pet friendly and has 2 cabins with a pass through door for larger groups - Cabin 1 - sleeps 2 Cabin 2 - sleeps 5 Bld 2 is pet free and has 2 cabins with a pass through door for larger groups Cabin 3 - sleeps 4 Cabin 4 - sleeps 2 10 miles outside of Helena, the Capital of Montana 5 miles from 3 lakes ( Canyon Ferry Lake - Lake Helena - Hauser Lake ) Surrounded by prime hunting areas - 45 min to skiing A set of cast iron tubs that are always nice to take a soak after a hot days hike - a yin yang patio with gas firepit for a relaxing evening of sharing - a quiet (phone free) gazebo great for reflection - a covered BBQ pavilion with gas grill and gas firepit to gather round - a real fire pit area with picnic table (local wind and fire restrictions apply accordingly) - purest of potable well water on spigot in fire ring area - Solars that light the paths in the night - Pets are welcome just need to pick up after them ! A Greenhouse full of games camping chairs and tents if needed - An oversized porta potty between the cabins making it easier for families with kids 5 miles from 3 lakes for those who love to fish, boat, hike, float or just toss rocks - also around the corner you can dig for sapphires - 4 hours to Glacier National Park - 4 hours to Yellowstone National Park - Crystal Park or maybe a boat ride at The Gates of the Mountains - A tour train of downtown Helena - Too much to list around here - I am new at this so bear with me as I navigate this process and continue to improve spaces for your enjoyment - as always your feedback is appreciate for future improvements - and a guest book is in each cabin and the Gazebo for your comments : ) It is Rustic but not Crazy roughin' it - Great family space : ) This is my private sanctuary that I have the honor of sharing with those who appreciate simple rustic outdoor living at its finest - I invite you, my friends and family to Relax Inn Helena and make your own amazing memories
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White Bridge Lane Private Campsite

8. White Bridge Lane Private Campsite

99%
(72)
30mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Dawson Family Ranch is a family-run business with a focus on sustainable land and agriculture practices. The ranch is located along a mile of the Boulder River between the Elkhorn and Bull Mountain Ranges. The river offers fishing for rainbow and brown trout. Public land access is within a short drive (2-7 miles depending on direction) and offers different recreational opportunities including hiking, hunting, and motorized recreation. Boulder Hot Springs is less than 4 miles away.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
The DET Place Hideaway

9. The DET Place Hideaway

100%
(12)
34mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Unplug under the endless Montana sky at “The DET Place” — a private 12-acre retreat tucked away just a mile outside Townsend. Set up camp in wide open space with epic views of Mount Baldy, a cozy campfire, and frequent visits from whitetail deer, pheasants, and the occasional sandhill cranes. Perfect for tent campers and stargazers, the site is close to Canyon Ferry Lake, the Missouri River, and town conveniences - but feels like a world away. Watch the sunrise with the resident horses, visit with the barn cats, or just sit back and take in the silence. Whether you're paddling, fishing, hiking, or glamping out under the stars, The DET Place offers a Montana experience you'll never forget. *Everyone is welcome here!*
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Campfires
A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame

10. A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame

96%
(23)
39mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience an unforgettable getaway at our canyon retreat. Our property is located on 190+ acres, and is surrounded by mountain, canyon and river views. Find a secluded campsite or stay at our mini A-frame, with Blue-Ribbon trout fishing right nearby. Guests will find a private and peaceful setting to relax and connect. LOCATION DETAILS ☀ 2 min from I-15 exit on a private road ☀ 10 min to nearest grocery and gas station in Cascade, MT ☀ 5 min to nearest bar & grill, Missouri River Inn ☀ 3 min to nearest boat ramp/fishing access for the Missouri River ☀ 30 min to Holter Lake ☀ 12 min to fly fishing stores, restaurants and bar & grills in Craig, MT ☀ 18 min to fly fishing stores, restaurants and bar & grills, gas station in Wolf Creek, MT ☀ 45 min to downtown Helena, MT ☀ 3.5 hours to Yellowstone National Park ☀ 2.5 hours to Glacier National Park ☀ 30 min to Great Falls International Airport ☀ 50 min to Helena Regional Airport ☀ 2 hours to Bozeman International Airport ☀ 2.5 hours to Missoula International Airport Important notes: - Please bring your own water - 4WD recommended for closest access to our sites.
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Showers
Hidden Meadow Ranch

11. Hidden Meadow Ranch

98%
(349)
39mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
Small irrigated ranch in the Deer Lodge Valley, surrounded by mountains, access to public lands and beautiful scenery. East side of acreage has the Clark Fork River running through it, even though the neighbors are close still lots of privacy. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent or park your RV on a very basic flat field with 360 views all around, (note my River camp site and access to the River is closed due to state reclaimation and cleanup of the River). Site is 7 miles from Deer Lodge, MT. Small fire pit, not great but available for guests unless fireban is on during dry conditions short drive to several acres of public ground, ATV access, hiking, and mountain biking and fishing This is an 80-acre working ranch with cows, irrigation and hay so you may have to drive through the cows and there will be cowpies :-). Great cell service and private property on both sides, easy access to campsite. 10-minute drive to historic Grant Kohrs Ranch, old prison museum and many other unique Montana experiences.
Pets
Campfires
Mile High Mountain Homestead

12. Mile High Mountain Homestead

90%
(15)
46mi from Spring Meadow 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
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Campfires
Geary Brothers Ranch

13. Geary Brothers Ranch

93%
(60)
46mi from Spring Meadow 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
Pipestone Ringingrocks Rv & Cabins

14. Pipestone Ringingrocks Rv & Cabins

96%
(24)
49mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 5 sites
Welcome DIRECTIONS These Campsites are in Pipestone so Take Pipestone exit heading west take a immediate right on gravel rd. (Road to Ringing Rocks theres a sign Pipestone Ringing rocks RV and Cabins with red arrow pointing east follow it for about a 1 1/2 miles crossing 3 cattle gaurds and a railroad track go another 50 yards and there a gate # 234 on post and the RV spots are just past the cabins. enjoy the views and to take in the fresh Montana air there's also a fire pit (fire wood for sale) and a picnic table set up ( potable Water fill available, there are no public Bathrooms so Rv must have Bathrooms in them) ,for you and your family to enjoy a nice outing and look at the Montana stars in Big Sky country there are also hundreds of miles of trails to enjoy utv,dirt bike,peddle bike. or just a nice nature walk all these trails are shared in them
Water hookup
Sewer hookup
Pets
Mount Helena Hideaway

15. Mount Helena Hideaway

100%
(6)
0.6mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 1 site
Quiet, wooded acre on the west side of Mount Helena trail system. You will have privacy, as well as beautiful views of the Helena Valley and access to miles and miles of hiking and biking trails. You are 20-25 minutes to Canyon Ferry Lake, Hauser Lake and Lake Helena. There is water and power available, but no dump or garbage. Perfect location to park while you enjoy all that Helena has to offer. 2 miles to downtown. 2 miles from Carroll College and 4 miles from the Capital!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
Helena West Side Wonder!

16. Helena West Side Wonder!

94%
(8)
0.7mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 1 site
Bring your camper and park where everything about Helena is accessible! If your goal is to hear the wind in the trees and enjoy the outdoors - this is your spot! You can bike/hike on Mount Helena or head into downtown and enjoy sporting events, breweries and all things Helena has to offer. We are 2 miles from downtown Helena and at the base of the Mount Helena hiking/biking trails. This is a private lot with trees that includes water and power. You take what you came with (including garbage) and leave our spot the same as you found it. This is a residential community, so quiet hours start at 10 pm and no large groups are allowed. We do not have a dump station, but there is one within 4 miles. Beautiful location with amazing star gazing, wildlife and outdoor adventures. Quiet neighborhood - so no parties! Less than 1/2 mile of dirt road off the level and paved (just above Montana Wild and Spring Meadow Lake) and easy access to Mount Helena. Plenty of room for large campers!
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
HWY 12

17. HWY 12

1.4mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 1 site
Escape to our serene spot just a short walk from Broadwater Hot Springs along the scenic US Highway 12. Whether you’re here to soak, hike, or ride, you’ll love our convenient location—Ten Mile Creek is nearby, Helena’s famous mountain biking and hiking trails are just minutes away, and downtown Helena is only 12 minutes from your campsite. We are also located 15 miles from The Great Divide, a fantastic ski and snowboard mountain. Nestled at the base of McDonald Pass, our property offers the perfect mix of adventure and relaxation in Montana’s beautiful outdoors.
Pets
Date Street Cabin @ C Lazy M Meadow

18. Date Street Cabin @ C Lazy M Meadow

92%
(6)
7.6mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 1 site
A small cabin sleeps 4 with 2 queen beds and room to stake a tent or park a camper. Sits on 6 acres with a creek bed under large trees and overlooks a meadow. Includes an outhouse, potable water, grill, picnic table and a "smokeless" fire pit. Dishes, utensils, firewood and bedding included. Come stay in MT City; only 5 miles from all historic Helena has to offer! 4 restaurants/bars within walking distance(.5 mi.). 3 large lakes w/in 10 miles with beaches, boating and sight seeing opportunities; the Missouri river within 15 miles for fishing, boating, paddle boarding, hiking and biking. Come relax! Sleeps 4 in beds. Additional guests allowed with permission and fee (tents and/or or campers). While exploring Helena, we recommend the Walking Mall and the lower end of Last Chance Gulch for shopping and dining. You can also do a self guided tour of the Capitol building and then ride the tour train through Helena to get a quick history lesson. If you want to do something outside, we suggest Houser Lake at Lakeside with a bar and grill, a beach, fire pit, volley ball, etc. There is also guided boat rides at Gates of the Mountains on Holter Lake (about 20 miles towards Great Falls). If you are looking to go hiking, Mount Helena is a nice hike, but maybe a bit much for small kiddos, unless you have a backpack. If you'd like additional suggestions, please don't hesitate to reach out. Hope you enjoy your stay! Party (or Wedding) Tent available at additional charge for all rentals. If you are looking for a place for a small wedding, (50 guests) let us know. We can accommodate your needs with minimal decorations, a party tent and a place for the bridal party to dress. As well as the Date Street Cabin for the new couple’s honeymoon night! Let us know if you would like to stay with us, We would love to host you. (Additional charges apply for weddings based on needs and services provided).
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Sagebrush Mountain View

19. Sagebrush Mountain View

9.6mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 4 sites
Wide open space with natural landscape and amazing view of the Helena Valley and surrounding mountain ranges. This land is undisturbed, aside from the road and parking pull-throughs that have been created for RV parking. Self contained units only and as they say, "Pack it in, pack it out". See what Lewis and Clark traveled through as they made their way west from the Missouri River. Prickly Pear Cactus, sagebrush and natural grasses are prevalent. Helena, the capital of Montana is a mere 20 minute drive, where all the amenities of a small town exist. National Forest abounds to the west and Canyon Ferry Reservoir is 20 minutes to the east. Access to the property is 4.25 miles from Interstate 15. This is a high mountain dessert with an elevation of 4090' above sea level. Average rainfall is 6", so campfires are not allowed due to the dry grasses and sagebrush. Pets are allowed on leashes and quiet time is from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM. We are located approximately half way between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks.
Pets
Rockinon R.’s Land

20. Rockinon R.’s Land

100%
(1)
9.6mi from Spring Meadow Lake State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Welcome to RockinonRanch, a peaceful 50-acre retreat nestled in the scenic North Valley—just 20 minutes from Helena, Montana. This is an authentic Montana homestead, rich with rustic charm and surrounded by trees, birds, and big-sky views. Whether you’re here to unplug, stargaze, or explore nearby wilderness, you’ll find the space and quiet you need. 🌿 A True Montana Homestead Experience Our property is an original homestead, and we’re continually working to restore and care for the land. While you’re here, you may notice signs of its historic roots. For example, there’s an old dump area on the property—not visible from the campsite—which will be clearly marked with signs. For safety and privacy, we kindly ask that guests do not enter that area, as well as avoid the house and barn zones, which are private. 🌌 Unmatched Tranquility & Natural Beauty Enjoy nights under crystal-clear skies with no traffic noise—just the occasional call of coyotes in the distance. It’s an ideal spot for stargazing, birdwatching, and total relaxation. 🛶 Private, Peaceful Campsite by the Pond Set near a quiet pond (note: swimming is not recommended), your campsite is surrounded by nature. You’ll be the only guests on the property during your stay—we offer two sites but only book one at a time to ensure complete privacy. 🐾 Pet & Wildlife Friendly You’re welcome to bring your dog(s), but please keep them leashed at all times. Our pets roam freely, including chickens, peacocks, sheep, alpacas, cats, and dogs. 🏕️ Amenities Include Fire pit Charcoal grill Portable toilet (“Little Jonny”) Kayak rentals available (with vests and dry bags) Shuttle service available for an additional cost 🧭 Nearby Attractions Marysville – 15 minutes Missouri River (Gates of the Mountains) – 25 minutes Plenty of nearby hiking, paddling, and outdoor activities 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Great for Families – With Caution Kids are welcome! However, please keep a close eye on them, especially around the pond and other natural features. 🚫 A Few Friendly Rules Respect marked areas (e.g. old dump, barn, and house) No wandering near private buildings Clean up after your pets Be kind to nature—leave no trace 🌟 We’re proud to share our quiet slice of Montana with you. Whether you’re staying for a night
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Campfires

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Spring Meadow Lake State Park camping guide

Overview

About

Spring Meadow Lake State Park is a beautiful day-use park in Helena, Montana. The lake is a popular spot for kayaking, canoeing, paddle boarding, and swimming, while its 0.8-mile trail laps the lake, giving visitors a chance to glimpse the park’s water birds, turtles, and muskrats. Fishers can cast for bass and trout from the park’s ADA-accessible dock in the warm months, but during winter, the lake freezes over and hosts ice skating and ice fishing. Although there is no campground here, there are a variety of Hipcamps and RV parks with full hookups in Helena, and many scenic campgrounds nearby in the nearby Helena National Forest.

When to go

Spring Meadow Lake State Park is fun to visit year-round. Spring visitors may see scruffy Canada gGeese goslings chasing their moms. Come summer, the lake is a popular way to beat the heat among locals. Because of its urban location, the park tends to be more accessible in winter than more remote parks in Montana, making it a great place to try ice fishing and ice skating close to town.

Know before you go

  • Dogs are not permitted at Spring Meadow Lake State Park from April 15 to October 15.
  • There are no lifeguards present at Spring Meadow Lake.
  • The park has a large covered pavilion that can be rented out for day use.

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