Our Guide to Montana Camping
From the Great Plains to the Rocky Mountains, Montana is a land full of geographic and ecological diversity. If you’re headed to Montana, camping is a fantastic way to immerse yourself in all that it has to offer. The eastern half of the state provides the opportunity to explore open prairie, while the western half gives you access to sweeping mountain vistas. We’ve assembled this guide to some of the best campsites in Montana to help you plan your trip.
The Best Time of Year to Go Camping in Montana
While you can have fun regardless of when you visit, Montana camping is most popular between the months of June and August. This period of time tends to bring the sunniest and warmest weather. If you’re looking to avoid the crowds, the early fall can provide good camping weather as well. And for skiing and ice fishing enthusiasts, the good news is that some Montana campgrounds are open during the winter months. Wintertime availability can depend on the severity of the weather though, so you’ll want to keep this in mind if you’re planning a trip during the cold months.
Things to Know About Montana Campgrounds
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Watch Out for Wildlife
Be sure to respect all food storage and waste rules while at Montana campgrounds, as in some cases there are bears living nearby. Many Montana campgrounds are equipped with food storage lockers to make sure that furry residents can’t get into your supplies.
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Bring Layers to Wear
While the summer months generally bring warm weather to Montana, temperatures can still vary quite a bit throughout the day, and snow in June isn’t out of the question. Particularly at higher elevations, overnight cooling can drop the temperature significantly. It’s worth making the space in your luggage for warmer clothes – you may start your day wearing all of them, and then slowly peel off layers as the sun rises higher in the sky.
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Follow Invasive Species Regulations
Montana requires that all watercraft must be inspected for aquatic invasive species before they can enter any body of water in the state. If you’re bringing in a boat from out of state, you’ll need to purchase a Vessel AIS Prevention Pass. Fees are 10-30 dollars depending on the type of watercraft, and you can learn more about the process here.
Our Picks for Best Campsites in Montana
Montana campsites and campgrounds are spread all throughout the state – each location has its own charm, local attractions and set of amenities. Here are some of our favorite places to stay in Big Sky Country.
Tongue River State Park
Located in southwestern Montana, Tongue River State Park sits next to the 12 mile long Tongue River Reservoir. Tongue River is a very popular destination for boaters, anglers, and campers. In fact, several “state record” size fish have been caught at this location. You can cast out a line from land or your boat and try to catch bass, walleye, crappie, and northern pike. If fly fishing is your passion, the river below the dam provides a great spot to wade in and attempt to land some supper.
While the reservoir is a focal point of the park, there’s plenty to do off the water as well. For hiking enthusiasts, the prairie hills surrounding the reservoir offer ample space for exploration. Across the border in Wyoming, the town of Sheridan is full of classic western town architecture and charm. At a little under 40 minutes away from Tongue River, Sheridan is a great spot to grab a bite or drink and soak up the local culture.
Tongue River State Park is divided up into 6 different campgrounds that are distributed throughout the park. All sites at the park are ADA compatible, and you can bring a boat and RV as long as it falls within Tongue River’s size regulations. Amenities at the park include a boat launch, boat rentals, RV hookups, toilets, a playground, and a dump station. Pets are allowed in the park, but they need to stay on a leash.
Placid Lake State Park
A favorite destination for camping in Montana, Placid Lake State Park is known for its calm waters, plentiful wildlife, and great trout fishing. You’re welcome to bring your boat and launch it from the park’s boat ramp. There are also a few boat slips available for rent – a convenient way to keep your boat in the water for the duration of your stay. The park has a lot to offer visitors off the water as well. Bring your binoculars and keep an eye out for osprey, loons, and other local birds, or bring your bike and explore local trails.
The park has a total of 40 campsites – this includes some ADA accessible sites which are available with proof of eligibility. Amenities here include showers and toilets, trash removal, electricity (at some sites), and water.
Cooney State Park
Situated on the shore of the Cooney Reservoir, Cooney State Park is a Montana camping mecca during the summer months. While you’re here, you’ll want to take advantage of the park’s trout and walleye fishing, refreshing water, and waterfront views. Ringed by rolling hills, the reservoir is a playground from sunup to sundown. During the wintertime, Cooney remains a fertile place to enjoy ice fishing, cross country skiing, and snowshoeing.
If you’d like to explore the surrounding area while at Cooney, the city of Billings, Montana is approximately 40 minutes away. Visit the Western Heritage Center, take a trip back in time at the Moss Mansion, or head to Dehler Park to watch the local minor league baseball team play.
Cooney State Park has 82 campsites spread out across 5 different campgrounds on the property. Electricity is available on 19 of these sites – so if this is a priority for you, you’ll want to make sure that you book well in advance. Other available amenities at Cooney include a boat launch, playground, restrooms and showers, water, and trash removal.
Thompson Lakes Christian Retreat
Thompson Lakes Christian Retreat is located just off of Highway 2 in the northwest part of the state. The retreat offers quiet woodlands and serene lakefront views. A popular summer camp destination, there are RV sites, tent sites, and cabins located on the property. The cabins at Thompson Lakes are equipped with showers, sinks, a microwave, and two bunk beds. Amenities at the retreat include a bathhouse and electrical hookups. It’s worth noting that there is no dump station onsite – so if you’re bringing your RV, make sure to take this into account when booking your stay.
It’s Time to Plan Your Trip!
Ready to explore Montana? We’ll help you plan your next adventure. With an enormous inventory of campgrounds and seamless booking process, ReserveAmerica is your first stop on a great trip outdoors.