The 26 Best Campgrounds in Montana: Top-Rated & Hidden Gems

From Montana’s Missouri River country to its breathtaking national parks to its wide open spaces in between, there’s no corner of Montana lacking spectacular natural beauty. Grandiose mountain ranges, vibrant lakes, and picturesque ruralscapes weave together to create some of the most spectacular sights in the country – and some of the most idyllic camping opportunities! Whether you’re on the hunt for a backcountry escape or a last-minute family getaway, nobody does camping like Big Sky Country. We’ve rounded up some of the best campgrounds in Montana in every corner of the state, perfect for that next adventure or for adding to that Montana bucket list. Ready to get out there?

Best State Park Campgrounds in Montana

For this list of top camping spots in Montana, we’re going to keep camping spots near Montana’s national parks to a minimum – after all, there’s a lot more to explore here! Starting with our state’s gorgeous state parks. For some equally phenomenal places to camp in Montana, sans the tourist crowds, these state park campsites are the perfect blend of beauty and privacy.

Lake Mary Ronan State Park Campground, 50623 Lake Mary Ronan Rd, Proctor, MT 59929, USA

Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks

• Location: Proctor, Montana
• Popularity: Moderate. May-November, with seasonal amenity restrictions.
• Park Info: On-site amenities include: picnic areas, trails, boat launches, and both vault and flush toilets.
• Price: $4-$34+/night. Seasonal amenity restrictions. In addition to campsite reservation fees, note that this state park requires each vehicle to have a Montana State Parks pass or pay the non-resident day-use fee.

Truth be told, Lake Mary Ronan State Park could easily fit into any of our "best campgrounds in Montana" categories. The spectacular waterfront campsites (plus crystal clear water to boot!), plenty of room for RVs, a fantastic setting just a few miles from Flathead Lake, a stunning treeline of Douglas Fir and Larch, and meandering trails are just the start of everything campers will find here. 25 campsites line the lake and boast impeccable views, and with so much to do right in the park, this is truly an idyllic all-in-one lakefront getaway.

Makoshika State Park, 1301 Snyder St, Glendive, MT 59330, USA

Dale Haflett/GoogleReviews

• Location: Glendive, Montana
• Popularity: Hidden Gem. Open year-round, Visitor Center hours vary by season.
• Park Info: Makoshika is the largest state park in Montana, and beautifully packed with both prehistoric and geologic wonders. ADA campsites are available. On-site amenities include: visitor center + exhibits, frisbee golf, hiking trails, picnic tables, firepits, and vault toilets.
• Price: $4-$34/night. In addition to campsite reservation fees, note that this park requires each vehicle to have a Montana State Parks pass or pay the non-resident day-use fee.

Tucked away in Eastern Montana away from the crowds, Makoshika State Park is a dream for stargazers, history buffs, and campers alike. 11,000 acres of scenic Badlands create incredible opportunities to nab a campsite with a view. The 28 picturesque sites are spaced out around multiple loops within this scenic park. Choose from Pine on Rocks, Valley View, Upper, and Cains Coulee, depending on your preference. All boast phenomenal views of wildflowers, rock formations, runoff creeks, and have pine trees for privacy. If you're feeling adventurous, you'll also find a teepee here too! For a more primitive (and secluded) experience, nab a campsite that's walk-up only.

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Placid Lake State Park, 5001 N Placid Lake Rd, Seeley Lake, MT 59868, USA

Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks

• Location: Seeley Lake, Montana
• Popularity: Moderate. May-November, with seasonal amenity restrictions.
• Park Info: Placid Lake State Park is located half an hour northeast of Missoula. While the park is open year-round, it is closed to motorized traffic during the winter season. ADA campsites are available. On-site amenities include both picnic areas, interpretive signage, boat launches, and both vault and flush toilets.
• Price: $4-$34+/night (depending on the season). In addition to campsite reservation fees, note that this park requires each vehicle to have a Montana State Parks pass or pay the non-resident day-use fee.

Set between the gorgeous Clearwater and Swan River Valleys, Placid Lake State Park is quiet, relaxing, and embodies everything that lake life was meant to be! The park itself is delightfully overlooked despite its scenic setting on a tributary of the Clearwater River. It boasts spectacular, towering trees and dense, woodsy surrounding, but the water here is the real showstopper! It's blissfully smooth and perfect for all sorts of water activities - you'll find boating here to be a gorgeous way to spend a weekend. There are 40 campsites at Placid Lake, 17 of which offer RV electrical hookups, plus a hike-bike campsite that can host up to nine tents. Whichever one you reserve, you're sure to have a fantastic view!

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Thompson Falls State Park, 2220 Blue Slide Rd, Thompson Falls, MT 59873, USA

Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks

• Location: Thompson Falls, Montana
• Popularity: Moderate. May-November, with seasonal amenity restrictions. State park opens for day use in March.
• Park Info: Thompson Falls State Park is a small state park in Western Montana that boasts a spectacular setting and multiple bodies of water to enjoy. On-site amenities include: camp hosts, picnic areas, trails, boat launches, a fishing pond, and vault toilets.
• Price: $4-$34+/night (depending on the season). In addition to campsite reservation fees, note that this state park requires each vehicle to have a Montana State Parks pass or pay the non-resident day-use fee.

Beautifully set within the rugged Clark Fork Valley, Thompson Falls State Park is as idyllic as it gets. While you won't be able to see the park/town's namesake falls from your campsite, you'll find a magnificent jewel-hued lake to splash around in and plenty of privacy at each of the park's 16 campsites, courtesy of the dense, mature pine trees that fill the area. RV and tent sites are both available. Boat launches for both large and small crafts can be found within the park, as well as a scenic lake trail that runs all the way into town.

Whitefish Lake State Park, 1615 W Lakeshore Dr, Whitefish, MT 59937, USA

Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks

• Location: Whitefish, Montana
• Popularity: Popular. Open season varies by year.
• Park Info: Whitefish Lake State Park is a small state park beautifully set near Whitefish, Montana. On-site amenities include picnic areas, bicycles, boat launches, and both vault and flush toilets.
• Price: $4-$34+/night (depending on the season). In addition to campsite reservation fees, note that this state park requires each vehicle to have a Montana State Parks pass or pay the non-resident day-use fee.

Often considered the recreation capital of Montana, Whitefish is treasured for its natural beauty. Whitefish Lake State Park sits nestled within some of the most beautiful landscapes that this slice of Montana has to offer, including mature trees, a gorgeous lake beach (see list of waterfront campgrounds below!), and scenic trains running nearby. Plenty of seclusion makes this stunning park feel like a completely separate world, but it's no secret that visitors come here for the water activities! Campers will find 25 sites to choose from with a mix of tent and RV options, as well as a hike-bike campsite.

Best Waterfront Camping in Montana

The best campsites in Montana should certainly come with a view, right? How about a waterfront view or a private corner of a lake beach? Yes, please! While you can find a plethora of stunning alpine lakes to camp by in Montana’s picturesque peaks, we’ve kept this list to some of the prettiest, easy-to-reach spots. Check out some of our favorite places for waterfront camping (yes, beach!) in Montana.

Big Arm / Flathead Lake State Park, 28031 Big Arm State Park Rd, Big Arm, MT 59910, USA

Travis Adams/GoogleReviews

• Location: Big Arm, Montana
• Popularity: Moderate. April-October, with seasonal amenity restrictions. Park is open for day use year-round.
• Park Info: Big Arm State Park is a small park arm on Flathead Lake that's big on water activities and boasts panoramic views of the Mission Mountains. On-site amenities include picnic areas, trails, boat launches, a fishing pond, and vault toilets.
• Price: $4-$34+/night (depending on the season and accommodation selection). In addition to campsite reservation fees, note that this state park requires each vehicle to have a Montana State Parks pass or pay the non-resident day-use fee.

The scenic pebble beaches and rocky shoreline of Big Arm State Park make for a picture-perfect sight to wake up. Nearly every campsite at this quiet corner of Flathead Lake boasts views of the water - and as the largest lake in Montana, there are plenty of corners to enjoy even outside of the park! Due to the size of the lake, water activities are even more abundant, so feel free to try your hand at windsurfing while you're here. Plenty of trees offer both shade and privacy, and for an extra dose of the great outdoors, nab a yurt! (Additional fees apply.)

Brush Lake State Park, Dagmar, MT 59219, USA

Montana Fish, Wildlife, and Parks

• Location: Glasgow, Montana
• Popularity: Moderate. May-January, depending on weather/snowfall. Seasonal amenity restrictions.
• Park Info: Brush Lake State Park is a small park that boasts wide open panoramic views, sandy beaches, and mirror-like water. On-site amenities include: fire pits, electricity, boat launch, dock, picnic area, vault toilets.
• Price: $4-$34/night (depending on the season and accommodation selection). In addition to campsite reservation fees, note that this state park requires each vehicle to have a Montana State Parks pass or pay the non-resident day-use fee.

Boasting wide open spaces, white sand beaches, unrestricted panoramic views, and some of the clearest water you've ever seen, Brush Lake State Park is dreamy in more ways than one. The lake offers over a mile of scenic shoreline, which makes it perfect for sun lovers and water lovers alike! Those looking to cast a line will need to search elsewhere; the high alkali content of the lake doesn't support underwater life. However, the 12 campsites at this petite Montana state park are just steps away from the most gorgeous sun-kissed views you could hope for!

Kintla Lake, Polebridge, MT 59928, USA

ebeneezer neveen/GoogleReviews

• Location: Glacier National Park, Montana
• Popularity: Moderate. May-September. Primitive camping available September-October.
• Park Info: Kintla Lake is located in a quiet, secluded corner of Glacier National Park, less than an hour from the small town of Polebridge. Limited amenities and emergency services can be found in town. Vehicles/trailers over 21 feet are prohibited from the campground.
• Price: $15+/night. National Park fees may apply as well.

Hidden away in the quiet North Fork of Glacier National Park, Kintla Lake is a mind-blowing slice of everything that Montana's largest national park has to offer. Due to its seclusion and difficulty to access, campers will find more solitude here than in most other sections of the park, but such privacy comes with a caveat: this first come, first served campground doesn't offer any amenities beyond vault toilets and a hand pump for water (which is only available during peak season). However, the winding route and lack of turnouts means trailers and larger vehicles are strictly prohibited from making the journey. But for those who make the trek and are willing to rough it, the scenery at Kintla Lake is unmatched and comes complete with crystal clear water, a dense, woodsy setting, and phenomenal mountain surroundings. Filtered views of the lake can be seen from most campsites.

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Lake Como, Montana 59829, USA

Randy Johnson/GoogleReviews

• Location: Glacier National Park, Montana
• Popularity: Moderate. May-September.
• Park Info: Lower Lake Como Campground is located within the Lake Como Recreation Area, a picturesque natural oasis nestled within Montana’s famous Bitterroot Valley. Lake levels vary throughout the year. As a primitive campground, there are no provided amenities other than vault toilets and fire rings, and there is no potable water at Lake Como at this time, so pack your own in and out. Leashed pets are welcome, but are not allowed on the beach.
• Price: $25+/night.

Popular for good reason, Lake Como is a spectacular lake tucked away in Western Montana that boasts a taste of the region's most iconic views, but without the heavy national park crowds. The Lake Como Lower Campground is primitive, with no extra amenities or features, but for a true Montana experience, it's no doubt exactly what you've been looking for! The water is stunning, and most of the 23 campsites (both tent and RV spots available) have picture-perfect views and easy access to the lake. However, there are no hookups or drinkable water sources at this time, so come prepared to rough it and share those breathtaking views with the local wildlife. Bear canisters are a must here! Camping at Lake Como is on a first-come, first-served basis, but you'll find that this spot makes an excellent base camp for many of the prettiest trails in the area.

Lonesomehurst Campground, 40 S Lonesomehurst Rd, West Yellowstone, MT 59758, USA

Christopher Nalley/GoogleReviews

• Location: West Yellowstone, Montana
• Popularity: Hidden Gem. May-October. FCFS.
• Park Info: Lonesomehurst Campground is located within the Custer-Gallatin National Forest on the shores of Hebgen Lake, and despite being so close to Yellowstone, is remarkably quiet. On-site amenities include: fire rings, picnic areas, boat ramps, drinking water, kayak rentals, trails, and vault toilets.
• Price: $24-$32/night.

Hebgen Lake is considered Montana's premier stillwater fishing lake, which means fishermen of all types will love this quiet camping area just 20 minutes from Yellowstone! Lonesomehurst Campground sits within thick lodgepole pines and boasts an abundance of shade, scenic views, and even cellphone service for those who want to stay on-grid. Four RV campsites are available with hookups, with the other 26 catering towards traditional campers. If you're looking for a view with your tent site, you'll certainly find it here! Hiking, biking, and off-road trails crisscross the area, which means you'll also find plenty of activities to enjoy over the course of your stay. Do note that there is a lot of wildlife in the area, so bear cannisters are a must.

Top Glamping in Montana

Forgo the traditional reflective tent and bear canister camping scene and opt for something a little more…chic. These upscale glampgrounds and glamping spots are definitely some of the best campgrounds in Montana but offer immersive experiences in the great outdoors without sacrificing creature comforts. Yurts, cabins, luxury tents… you name it, we’ve got it!

Montana Treehouse Retreat/Facebook

Montana Treehouse Retreat, 2215 Dillon Rd, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, USA

Montana Treehouse Retreat/Facebook

• Location: Columbia Falls, Montana
• Popularity: Popular. Year-round.
• Park Info: On-site amenities include: private forest, fire ring, balcony/patio), spiral staircase, full kitchen/bath, BBQ grill, cable/wifi. No pets allowed.
• Price: Approx. $400+/night

The Meadowlark Treehouse at the Montana Treehouse Retreat is three stories of spectacular. From the gorgeous, cozy interior to the stunning, secluded setting, this storybook escape is the best way to literally immerse yourself in Montana's great outdoors. Guests at the Meadowlark Treehouse will enjoy five acres of private woods, trails, and immaculate views from multiple balconies, plus all of the comforts of home. A cozy fireplace is just the start! And if this darling rental is all booked up, don’t worry - the Montana Treehouse Retreat has a second, equally gorgeous treehouse nearby. Bonus: you're only half an hour from Glacier National Park!

The Resort at Paws Up

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The Resort at Paws Up, 40060 Paws Up Rd, Greenough, MT 59823, USA

The Resort at Paws Up

• Location: Greenough, Montana
• Popularity: Popular. May-October, depending on accommodation.
• Park Info: All amenities included. Restaurant, all-ages activities, sports shooting range, spa, hiking trails, luxury furnishings, etc.
• Price: Approx. $1900+/night, depending on accommodation size and season.

The Resort at Paws Up is a 37,000-acre working ranch, home to thousands of elk, cattle, and a plethora of Montana's most spectacular wildlife. The ranch is truly set in the heart of authentic Montana: surrounded by 100 miles of trails, the gorgeous Blackfoot River, and a sea of pristine, untouched landscapes, seclusion is everything here! But while you escape into the great outdoors, escape into luxury as well - this is a ranch resort after all! When it comes to accommodations at Paws Up, you'll find traditional cabin homes as well as glamping tents, next-level glamping pavilions, and more, each option boasting unrivaled views of the canyons, trees, and river while keeping guests wrapped in high-end coziness and creature comforts. Fine dining, a spa, and a plethora of all-ages activities, trails, and outdoors experiences make Paws Up the perfect Montana glamping getaway!

Roam Beyond/Facebook

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ROAM Beyond Glacier, Montana, 2347 Middle Rd, Columbia Falls, MT 59912, USA

Roam Beyond/Facebook

• Location: Glacier/Whitefish, Montana
• Popularity: Popular. Year-round.
• Park Info: On-site amenities include: heated bedding, Tempurpedic mattresses, hot tub, dog-friendly areas, fire pit, full bathrooms, and more.
• Price: Approx. $569+/night, depending on accommodation

ROAM Beyond the square confines of a traditional camping space and experience a taste of the tiny house life in these one-of-a-kind glamping trailers! Located just a short drive from the jaw-dropping landscapes of Glacier National Park and the slopes of Whitefish, guests to this uniquely sustainable glampground will enjoy the traditional campfire and woodsy camp setting, intermingled with thoughtfully crafted getaway experiences. Think: fire pits, high-end cooking and dining areas, fantastic natural beauty and community experiences by day, plus heated bedding, plush mattresses, and private bathrooms and showers by night. The stargazing opportunities here are unreal! Fortunately, ROAM Beyond isn't your typical glamping resort, and the eco-friendly accommodations are delightful year-round, as well as flexible for any size group. No need to save this one just for summer!

Ranch at Rock Creek

The Ranch at Rock Creek, 79 Carriage House Ln, Philipsburg, MT 59858, USA

Ranch at Rock Creek

• Location: Philipsburg, Montana
• Popularity: Popular. May-September, depending on accommodation.
• Park Info: All amenities included. Restaurant, all-ages activities, pool and hot tub, gun/archery range, luxury furnishings, etc.
• Price: Approx. $1400+/night, depending on accommodation size and amenities.

At first glance, this might seem like a traditional camping cabin, but don't be fooled! It's actually a canvas glamping cabin, snugly tucked away on the historic The Ranch at Rock Creek in Philipsburg. This all-inclusive ranch stay offers a number of accommodation options (traditional cabins and pioneer wagons included), but their glamping cabins are a little extra special. There are 10 to choose from, some of which are open year-round. Inside you'll find stunning rustic-chic décor and luxurious, five-star touches. Cozy fireplaces, full bathrooms, woodsy surroundings… it doesn't get much better than this! Rock Creek also offers a bevy of activities for all ages, like shooting, horseback riding, panning, and cooking classes, just to start! But the homestead's stunning setting along the creek, immersed in wildflower meadows, and beautifully enveloped by five different mountains that is the real showstopper. All told, the Ranch At Rock Creek is the easiest way to have the dreamiest getaway imaginable!

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Under Canvas

Under Canvas Glacier, 101 Under Canvas Rd, Coram, MT 59913, USA

Under Canvas West Yellowstone, 890 Buttermilk Creek Road, West Yellowstone, MT 59758, USA

Under Canvas

• Location: West Yellowstone and Glacier, Montana
• Popularity: Popular. May-September.
• Park Info: On-site amenities include: organic bath products, restaurant, fire pits, community activities (yoga, kids' programming, live music, etc.), bedside charging stations, luxury furnishings, en suite bathroom, and more.
• Price: $344+/night, depending on tent size and amenities.

If glamping in Montana is what you want, glamping is what you're going to get! Under Canvas has made a name for itself with its stunning luxury tents, each beautifully decorated to feel like a home away from home…but with the great outdoors right outside your door. Tent sizes vary to accommodate a variety of family and group sizes, but all boast stunning high-end furnishings, plush bedding, and more luxury touches than you'll find in most hotels. With glampgrounds just minutes from both West Yellowstone and Glacier National Park, you can choose the spectacular setting that suits your plans best, and know that whichever Under Canvas location you choose, you'll be immersed in the trees, at the trailhead for numerous hiking and biking trails, and in peak stargazing country.

Best RV Camping Sites in Montana

Speaking of creature comforts…get your RV on! Back that thang right on up into one of these dreamy campsites. Some of the best places to camp in Montana offer both primitive camping and RV/trailer spaces, so on this list you’ll find a mix of both.

Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, 25 Lewis & Clark Caverns Road, Whitehall, MT 59759, USA

Alfonso Medeiros/GoogleReviews

• Location: Whitehall, Montana
• Popularity: Moderate. Year-round, with seasonal restrictions.
• Park Info: On-site amenities include: gift shop, interpretive signage, RV hookups, fire rings, drinking water, and both flush and vault toilets.
• Price: $4-$34+/night, depending on accommodation. In addition to campsite reservation fees, note that this park requires each vehicle to have a Montana State Parks pass or pay the non-resident day-use fee.

While many folks come to visit the fantastic and popular Lewis and Clark caverns, Montana's original state park has even more hiding beneath the surface! Specifically, epic camping. The unique, sweeping geologic landscapes of the caverns region offer unrivaled camping opportunities, and plenty of space for trailers (and tents) to space out. The extensive trail system means endless nooks and crannies to explore the fascinating formations and sights of the park, and your scenic RV space will make the perfect basecamp to enjoy it all! However, do note that shade is limited at Lewis and Clark Caverns State Park.

Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast, 11505 U.S. Rte 2, West Glacier, MT 59936, USA

Ilene Avella/GoogleReviews

• Location: West Glacier, Montana
• Popularity: Popular. May-September, B&B open through October
• Park Info: General store, restaurant, laundry, facilities/showers, communal campfire, horseshoes/lawn games, bike rentals, RV hookups
• Price: $52+/night, depending on accommodation. Reservations required.

Just minutes away from Glacier National Park, Bob Marshall Wilderness, Great Bear Wilderness, and the treasured Middle Fork of the Flathead River, the Moose Creek RV Resort is perfectly situated in the middle of everything while being secluded. This family-owned campground caters to traditional tent campers and RV-ers alike who crave a less primitive spot to kick back, and maybe a little extra community - not to mention hot breakfasts in the morning! For RVs, pull-thru and back-in sites are available, with or without utilities.

The Nugget RV Resort, 1037 West Old Highway 10 E, St Regis, MT 59866, USA

Frank Carolczak/GoogleReviews

• Location: St.Regis, Montana
• Popularity: Popular.
• Park Info: Hiking/biking trails, laundry, facilities/showers, game room, basketball court, horseshoes/lawn games, community events, clubhouse, pool, playground, kids' attractions, general store
• Price: $55+/night, varies by accommodation selection and season. Reservations required.

Enjoying the great outdoors doesn't have to mean pitching a tent and sleeping on the ground. Big rigs are welcome at the Nugget RV Resort! This amenity-packed campground in St. Regis, Montana is the perfect getaway for the whole family, and bursting with things to do for all ages. Kiddos can enjoy the playground, ghost town replica, pool, and the game room. Adults will love taking advantage of the trails, views, and even the swanky clubhouse (complete with big screen TV, of course!). Full facilities make staying here a breeze, in between bouts of kicking back and enjoying the breeze. But even if you don't own an RV, don't fret - the Nugget also has cabins available to rent as well.

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Rocky Mountain Hi Campground, 825 Helena Flats Rd, Kalispell, MT 59901, USA

Amy & Zach Winkler/GoogleReviews

• Location: Kalispell, Montana
• Popularity: Moderate. Winter stays available.
• Park Info: Lake/Creek, canoes, laundry, facilities/showers, kids' playground, basketball court, general store, wifi
• Price: $35+/night, depending on accommodation. Reservations required.

This small, family-owned RV campground in Kalispell, Montana lives up to its name - every guest is greeted with a friendly, "Hi!" upon arrival! Comfortable and memorable, guests will find their stay here to be a much-needed relaxing getaway, far away from the crowds, roads, and hustle, while still right in the middle of Western Montana's gorgeous landscapes. Spring Creek runs through the Rocky Mountain Hi Campground and beckons families to get out on the water, catch (and release) crawdads, or paddle around. Numerous game and play areas will keep the whole family entertained for hours! Or, use this peaceful spot as a basecamp for adventure. Your choice!

Saint Mary Campground, Glacier National Park, Parking lot, Lp C Rd, Browning, MT 59417, USA

Latiknow963/GoogleReviews

• Location: Browning, Montana
• Popularity: Popular. Year-round, with seasonal restrictions.
• Park Info: Note that this campground is currently closed due to increased bear activity. Check back regularly for updates. On-site amenities include: tent pads, fire pits, running water, restrooms, hiking trails
• Price: $20+/night, depending on the season and features. National park fees may apply.

This popular campground sits near the entrance of arguably Montana's most famous scenic byway, the Going-to-the-Sun Road. Fortunately, St. Mary Campground in Glacier National Park is also the largest campground in the entire park, with 128 sites to choose from. RVs are welcome with a total 21-foot limit in certain areas of the park. St. Mary is located on the east side of the park, which makes for easily some of the best hiking trail access in the area and absolutely spectacular views from every angle. Singleshot, East Flattop, and Red Eagle Mountains make for an iconic and unforgettable campground backdrop! Drinking water is available, and guests will find easy access to restaurants and amenities just down the road and outside of the main park.

45.04441551956876 N, 110.70644543947293 W

Danielrao/Getty

• Location: North Yellowstone
• Popularity: Hidden Gem. Year-round, FCFS
• Park Info: Dispersed campground - no services or amenities available.
• Price: No Cost

Just outside of Gardiner, MT and the West entrance to Yellowstone, the Travertine Road Campground is a diamond in the rough for campers looking for a true pack-in, pack-out experience in the great outdoors. Vibrant, panoramic landscapes are just a sneak peek at everything Yellowstone has to offer, but unlike camping in the park, you'll likely have this campground all to yourself! Note that there is limited shade in this area.

Best Primitive Tent Camping in Montana

While Montana’s most coveted campsites often offer an extra abundance of amenities, for the true outdoors enthusiast and camping purist, the best camping in Montana happens while sleeping under the stars and surrounded by nothing by nature itself. These rustic, primitive campgrounds in Montana are just what Mother Nature ordered.

Halfmoon Campground, Big Timber Canyon Rd, Big Timber, MT 59011, USA

James Duncan/GoogleReviews

• Location: Big Timber, Montana
• Popularity:Moderate. Open: year-round, with limited winter access due to snow. FCFS.
• Park Info: This is a primitive camping area, and amenities are limited to vault toilets and a hand pump for water in summer.
• Price: $12+/night, additional vehicle fees apply

The Halfmoon Campground is a woodsy campground tucked away in the Custer Gallatin National Forest, and nestled along Big Timber Creek on the east side of the Crazy Mountains. There are 12 campsites here, all set in a scenic forested canyon. This is a primitive area, which means amenities are limited to the basics: fire ring, water pump, etc. Campsites also have picnic tables, fire rings, and bear-proof food storage cabinets. But what Halfmoon lacks in creature comforts, it makes up for in incredible natural beauty. Take a stroll from your campsite and you'll find a wealth of forested geologic scenery and natural wonders to enjoy!

Holland Lake Campground, Condon, MT 59826, USA

Dalit Levy/GoogleReviews

• Location: Condon, Montana
• Popularity: Popular. Open: May-September.
• Park Info: On-site amenities include: boat rentals, educational programs, drinking water, fire rings, plumbing, trails, picnic areas, boat ramp, vault toilets
• Price: $20+/night, depending on site

Yes, you can find waterfront tent camping spots even outside of Glacier National Park! Holland Lake is a gorgeous 416-acre lake and scenic campground nestled among Tamarack, Ponderosa pine, and Douglas fir trees. While you won't find campsites right on the gravel beaches of the lake, most of the campground's 38 campsites do offer filtered views of the water or are just steps away. And speaking of things to do…the trailhead for the scenic Holland Falls Trail is right near the campground. The 1.6-mile trail follows the shoreline of Holland Lake to the base of Holland Falls waterfall. Anglers will find the lake to be prime for trout and Kokanee salmon! Do note that this is bear country, and proper food storage is a must.

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Red Shale Campground, Ashland, MT 59003, USA

Christopher S. Crawford/GoogleReviews

• Location: Ashland, Montana
• Popularity: Hidden Gem. April-December
• Park Info: Fire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets
• Price: No Cost

Tucked away in the Custer Gallatin National Forest, Red Shale Campground boasts mature trees, large campsites, and oodles of peace and quiet… just what the doctor ordered! While RVs will find plenty of room here to park their rigs for the night, the bumpy road into this rustic campground can pose issues for some. However, tent campers will appreciate the level pads, ideal spacing, and Big Sky stargazing opportunities through the trees. Spaces at Red Shale Campground are limited, however (only 14 total). Also note that no water is available.

Two Medicine Campground, East Glacier Park, MT 59434, USA

Moumita Kamal/GoogleReviews

• Location: East Glacier, Montana
• Popularity: Moderate. Peak Open: June-September, Primitive: September-October. FCFS
• Park Info: Camp store/gift shop, boat tours, hiking trails, fire rings, picnic tables, plumbing, amphitheater and special programming
• Price: $20/night

Once one of the only campground in Glacier National Park, Two Medicine Campground is a little more off the beaten path these days. However, it's a beautiful and scenic spot to catch some shut-eye before exploring the national park, or simply to enjoy all on its own. Campers will find 100 different sites to choose from, all just minutes away from Two Medicine Lake. Enjoy large, private campsites, special ranger-led programming at the Two Medicine amphitheater, modern plumbing, and (for tent campers looking for some quiet), generator-free areas. Exploring the local trails is as easy as popping as taking a stroll from your shaded campsite, with hikes leading to iconic spots like Running Eagle Falls. For birders and wildlife enthusiasts, this spot is quite the haven, so come prepared to ogle!

Quartz Flat Campground, I-90, Superior, MT 59872, USA

Lonnie Huffman/GoogleReviews

• Location: Superior, Montana
• Popularity: Hidden Gem. May-September
• Park Info: Nature trail, fire rings, picnic tables, vault toilets
• Price: $15+/night

This tiny hosted campground is a beautiful hidden gem tucked behind a rest area, but well worth the hunt for an overnight visit! Quartz Flat Campground is beautifully set along the Clark Fork River, and with multiple campsite loops for both RVs and tents, privacy and tranquility is a given. Sites are also wonderfully spacious with paved access. Stroll on down to the water, take the self-guided nature trail, or simply kick back and enjoy a roaring fire while toasting s'mores - this is camping as it should be!

Of course, these are only a few of the best campgrounds in Montana… there are plenty more to choose from (like these ultra-affordable campgrounds!). But whether you’re hiking in, or hiking around while you’re kicking back for the weekend, double-check that you have all the gear you need. Also, be sure to double-check your campground’s most recent seasonal updates and current guidelines/restrictions.

What are your favorite memories of camping in Montana? Do you have any tips on how to make the Big Sky camping experience even better?

You’ll notice we didn’t include any cabins on this list – but those are worth a best list of their own, don’t you think? For even more of our favorite places to camp, you can also check out our list of some of Montana’s coolest hidden gem camping spots.