Discover the best lakeside campgrounds in Montana with campfires

United States
—
Montana

92% (1555 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Montana

Dog-friendly getaways

Available this weekend

100%

(1)

BnR Horse Ranch

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents161 acres · Libby, MT

Are you looking for an adventure and opportunities to explore the wilderness and Lake Koocanusa? Come experience camping off grid in the true beautiful nature and wildlife of Montana. I have an off grid ranch on 161 acres bordered by the Kootenai National Forest and Lake Koocanusa just down the dirt road. It's very wooded but does have a few open meadows. My land is very private surrounded by beautiful mountains, forestry, wildlife and streams/creeks. The lake has a great beach front for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, etc. There's a boat launch 3 miles away for bigger boats or pontoons. My property also provides direct access to hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, horse trail riding, biking, snowmobiling and 4-wheeling. Want to bring your horse? We also offer horse camping, trail riding with overnight trail camping options and stall boarding. Round pen and outdoor arena available soon. Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent or park your RV next to the creek or anywhere on our 161 acres surrounded by the Kootenai National Forest. Full access to Lake Koocanusa for kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, etc. Immediate access to Kootenai National Forest with hundred miles of trails for hiking, 4-wheeling, biking, etc. Tour Libby Dam and visitor center located about 4 miles away. Also offer horse camping and trail riding.

88%

(28)

Mad RIver Farm Camping

7 sites · Tents40 acres · Ennis, MT

Please read bullet points below before you book with us. Wake up to the impressive scenery of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and the sun shining over the Madison range on this nearly 50 acre farm in McAllister, Montana. You'll be camped in a wide open grass pasture JUST OFF Hwy 287, 1.5 miles from Ennis Lake and the Madison River which offers some of the most diverse fly fishing in Montana. The Madison River runs through this scenic valley and is flanked by the towering Madison, Gravelly and Tobacco Root ranges which are all visable from our campsites. Our land is filled with wildlife including fox, coyotes, sandhill cranes, bald eagles, osprey, deer and antelope. Horses in the pasture to the North and cattle to the South. Crash in our field and you're only about 1 hour from Yellowstone, without the Yellowstone prices and congestion. The town of Ennis is 7 miles and the best steakhouse in the valley is 2 minutes north up HWY 287. Plan an easy afternoon trip to the historic Old West town of Virginia City (20 miles). We are surrounded by endless trails for hiking, 4 wheeling and trail riding. Big Sky Ski Resort is an hour and 30 minutes over the Madison Range. Take an evening to go to Norris Hotsprings (9 miles). Lewis and Clark Caverns one of the most highly decorated limestone caverns in North America is only 28 miles away. The list of activities goes on and on, but there is always the option to just relax and feel comfortable doing nothing. This is the perfect place to choose to be disconnected and unplugged for a while, but not to far off the beaten path so its an easy camp. 45°26'15.5"N 111°43'53.8"W https://goo.gl/maps/i7jR4qSxP4SkU1QTA -Parking is just off HWY 287, very easy access by bike or vehicle. Vehicles will stay in the designated parking are and campers will walk to any area of the pasture they wish to set up camp! -This is a field, a pasture where grass grows to feed cattle. The views of the Madison Range and Tobacco Root Mountains is incredible. There are a few areas of trimmed grass, but for the most part this is a pasture with long grass. This area is not maintained like a KOA. This is not at all what would call "roughing it" but I grew up in Montana and we have different standards here. -We ask that you please give room to other campers, you'll have so much room it should never be an issue. -There is now a porta potty and fire pit! both of which are for all campers to use. Please do not set up camp right next to the firepit, right next to the porta potty or in the parking area. -This is a pasture alongside the road in Montana. There are no parking lot lights. There is no wifi. There are no trees or shelters. It is not private because it is an open field along HWY 287. That being said there are rarely ever more than 1-2 camping groups at a time. -The Campfire is communal. Everyone needs to be able to enjoy. There are several area to set up camp. We usualy will only have 1-2 campers at any given time. The most we have ever had at once is 4. -You're free to walk around and find your perfect spot. You can walk through the tall grass or you can camp in one of the spots that is trimmed down. You have that freedom! We trim down the "road", the firepit, a couple campsites and the area around the garbage and porta potty. We dont want to completely mow down our pasture. We like to keep it wild. When Hipcampers are not using the area its a place for deer, antelope, cyotes and sandhill cranes. If you want to have a campground with manicured walkways/camping spots this is not the green pasture for you. 🇺🇸 July 4th update FYI the 2 track road down to the canvas wall tent has irrigation water covering it. Don’t go down the path to the tent, you will get stuck. There are plenty of places to camp without driving down toward the canvas tent. There is a saw horse blocking the road. Please do not move the saw horse or drive down the road.

Glacier getaway 2.0

6 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Babb, MT

Nestled on the shores of Ducklake this 2 acre parcel is an ideal location to kick back , enjoy and explore the eastern side of Glacier park. We are 20 mins from the park gates, 20 mins from Many Glacier and about 40 mins to Waterton park. The gradual sloping beach is perfect for all kinds of water sports and recreation. Many grassed areas or shady treed sites and the sites on the beach with breathtaking sunrises, sunsets and most amazing stars at night. Ducklake is well known for its trophy rainbow trout aswell. We have 2 kayaks, a canoe, little fishing boat with electric motor, an assortment of rods and lures, propane BBQ, and solo smokeless campfire pits. All for guest to enjoy and use on a first come first serve basis.

97%

(106)

Shameless Oasis Lodging and Camping

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Troy, MT

Located in Yaak, MT, along the PNT (pacific northwest trail), deep in the Kootenai National Forest, in the Northwestern corner of Montana. Pick your campsite in the trees or in the grass, shade or sun. The 2 acre grounds extend to Yaak River, with a shared dock, and communal outdoor kitchen, (propane grill and fire pit, small fridge, some pans and utensils). Camp fire wood is available for purchase, or bring your own local firewood. Camping fee includes Hot outdoor shower, outdoor kitchen, outhouses, fire pits, WiFi, trash cans. In Summer, we have an on-site espresso/ice cream shop and fresh chicken eggs for sale. Roads and trails to explore are endless. Rivers, waterfalls, alpine lakes, Kootenai Falls and Lake Kookanusa are all close by. In Winter, explore groomed snowmobile/cross country ski trails, or go back country. Also, Turner Mountain Ski Area is only 17 miles away. Come set up your tent, or car camp. Also, we can accommodate your small camper/RV, with water and 110 power hookups. The Oasis can also be rented for parties and events, up to 100 people. Package includes exclusive use of the grounds, dock, outdoor kitchen, outdoor shower, firepits, and grills. Message for more information. Come Enjoy the true Montana experience here!

93%

(123)

Trees, Lake view, Rock buttes!

14 sites · RVs, Tents1000 acres · Lockwood, MT

4 miles from Billings. 1000 acres. We try to keep things as natural as possible except we do mow the common area in the trees. For security reasons, we will meet you at the gates and escort you to your camping spot upon 1st arrival. Fire wood available for sale $10 - needs to be discussed before hand. Camping available on the butte for viewing of northern lights. Lots of room to explore. Long term camping is available. 1 porta-potty on site. Great view of Billings fireworks from our hill on the 4th of July. We will also have a spot for your own fireworks. There is 1 mile of dirt road after leaving the pavement. We are 6 miles from Walmart. This is a working cattle ranch and the cows come through time to time. The listing computer keeps putting us in LOCKWOOD but we are actually 3 miles north of Billings. Last minute bookings are fine, if we are around -we will let you stay. We live 1 mile from the camp site and 2 miles from the gates where we will meet you.

12 top lakeside campgrounds in Montana with campfires

99%

(1212)

❤️ Glacier Park HipCamp 🏕️

23 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Coram, MT

Come enjoy peace and quiet in the beautiful meadows near our home. We are located on 40 acres that include forested trails, a large pond, two small ponds, a creek, and frequent wildlife as well as spectacular stargazing at night. All sites have a campfire ring and picnic table. We provide a unique eco-camping experience in contrast to the crowded campground/RV park, and we are only 6 miles away from the entrance to Glacier National Park! Please let us know if you have multiple tents or vehicles as some sites may be a better choice for you than others. No hookups are provided – dry camping only. Parking for larger vehicles/trailers is available at sites 1-6 - an open, flat meadow with the pond on the other side of the road. Tents are welcome in all sites; although, we recommend the back meadow sites (7 and up) for more secluded tent campers (especially in July) as it has less traffic and more privacy. Sites 7-20 (the back meadow sites) have parking for vehicles 26' or less in total length. All sites have access to vault toilets, and all sites are back-in sites with partial shade. Because of the proximity to Glacier National Park and the main HWY, traffic noise and train noise can be heard at the campsites. Visitors are ask to keep their speed to a minimum to reduce dust on the dirt on Greens Road. We are just a short bike ride away (two minutes by car) from attractions such as the Whiskey Barn, Josephine’s Speak Easy, Glacier Hi-Line Ropes Course, Glacier Grill Restaurant and the Amazing Fun Center, maze, and mini golf. It is also easy access to the Gateway to Glacier Bike path. E-bike rentals are across the street from us. Closest Gas station is the Cenex in Coram (1.5 mi away). Closest public (free) landfill dump is 2.2 miles toward Columbia Falls at 9626 Us HWY 2 E. Near Paul Bunyan Bar and Grill (which is also a good restaurant near us). Look for the gated entry and small sign marking Flathead Landfill. Closest grocery is in Hungry Horse at Canyon Foods Grocery (3.5 miles away). There is a laundromat next to this grocery store. Closest dump and water fill up for a vehicle with a holding tank is Mikes Conoco at 1645 9th st W in Columbia Falls (8.9 mi away). Closest town with wifi, cafes, restaurants, urgent care and larger grocery stores is Columbia Falls (9 miles away). We sell solar shower bags, sun screen, lemonade, card games, cream soda, frisbees, bug spray, coffee, firewood, and more at Sam and Molly's mercantile by our house in the middle of our property. To watch a video tour of the campground: https://youtu.be/EYYuGGWRtag

Duck Lake Lodge

20 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents50 acres · Babb, MT

Duck Lake Lodge is a family friendly and down to earth outdoorsman's lodge located just outside of Babb. Mt in the heart of North America's Backbone, Glacier National Park. Our location is surrounded by woods in a safe, cozy rustic and serene environment, just minutes from the park, on the Blackfeet Indian Reservation rich with history and amazing culture. Our camping spots have wooded surroundings, secure bathrooms, showers, coin laundry for guest only, and camper trash facilities. The sites are nestled in the trees with picnic tables, campfire rings at each Tent site location. Pop up tents, camp vans, Rooftop tent should reserve an RV Lane Spot We have RV/Tent Full Hook Up Lane with water, sewer, 30-amp electric back in sites. We recommend surge protectors used at each site as well as a minimum water/sewer/electric hoses of 30 feet. Maximum length for RV/Trailer/Campvan is 21 ft in any of the RV Lane sites. Our main lodge features a Cafe and Snack Bar, there is also WIFI. It is quiet, safe and family friendly area, pets are welcome as well. You can also access a community bonfire area on the main lawn, as well as a pond area with numerous waterfowl. You could see deer, moose, ducks, beavers, various bird species, as well as hummingbirds that welcome you to the main lodge. The sunset is breathtaking. We invite you to come and explore Glacier's pristine forests, alpine meadows, rugged mountains, and spectacular lakes. With over 700 miles of trails, Glacier National Park is a paradise for adventurous visitors seeking wilderness and solitude. It's a real home away from home Glacier Base Camp. The property is privately owned, and management reserves the right to refuse service to anyone, and will not be responsible for accidents or injury to guest or for loss of money, jewelry or valuables of any kind.

Glacier getaway 2.0

6 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Babb, MT

Nestled on the shores of Ducklake this 2 acre parcel is an ideal location to kick back , enjoy and explore the eastern side of Glacier park. We are 20 mins from the park gates, 20 mins from Many Glacier and about 40 mins to Waterton park. The gradual sloping beach is perfect for all kinds of water sports and recreation. Many grassed areas or shady treed sites and the sites on the beach with breathtaking sunrises, sunsets and most amazing stars at night. Ducklake is well known for its trophy rainbow trout aswell. We have 2 kayaks, a canoe, little fishing boat with electric motor, an assortment of rods and lures, propane BBQ, and solo smokeless campfire pits. All for guest to enjoy and use on a first come first serve basis.

The Mooseshroom

14 sites · Lodging, Tents9 acres · Coram, MT

The Mooseshroom is an awesome camping community that is just 7 miles from the west side of Glacier National Park. Community fire pits near the Commons are a short walk from whichever tent spot guests are assigned. The Commons also houses the bathrooms and inside/outside kitchen areas. There is plenty of seating, hammocks and picnic tables for guests to use as well. We also have two yurts available for booking on our property. The Mooseshroom is a licensed business that is limited to hosting 18 guests per night. Guests should expect a quiet, peaceful camping experience with plenty of room to enjoy their surroundings. ***This property is adjacent Highway 2 and there is a fair amount of road noise. There's also a train that's fairly close. The noise kinda comes with the territory, guests are also 10 minutes from the west entrance to the park. The noise does tend to subside considerably at night, but for those bothered by this type of noise, you might consider an alternate location. Most guests are truly fine with it.

Grey Sandy Campground & Store

7 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Helena, MT

Our campground is centrally located between Black Sandy State Park and White Sandy State Park. Our store is packed with everything you need to make your stay unforgettable! From camping essentials and cozy firewood to a wide array of candy, snacks, beer, wine, and refreshing drinks, we've got you covered. Need some last-minute fishing gear or a fun souvenir? We've got those too! Swing by and discover all the amazing things we have in store for you!

Trees, Lake view, Rock buttes!

14 sites · RVs, Tents1000 acres · Lockwood, MT

4 miles from Billings. 1000 acres. We try to keep things as natural as possible except we do mow the common area in the trees. For security reasons, we will meet you at the gates and escort you to your camping spot upon 1st arrival. Fire wood available for sale $10 - needs to be discussed before hand. Camping available on the butte for viewing of northern lights. Lots of room to explore. Long term camping is available. 1 porta-potty on site. Great view of Billings fireworks from our hill on the 4th of July. We will also have a spot for your own fireworks. There is 1 mile of dirt road after leaving the pavement. We are 6 miles from Walmart. This is a working cattle ranch and the cows come through time to time. The listing computer keeps putting us in LOCKWOOD but we are actually 3 miles north of Billings. Last minute bookings are fine, if we are around -we will let you stay. We live 1 mile from the camp site and 2 miles from the gates where we will meet you.

Mad RIver Farm Camping

7 sites · Tents40 acres · Ennis, MT

Please read bullet points below before you book with us. Wake up to the impressive scenery of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem and the sun shining over the Madison range on this nearly 50 acre farm in McAllister, Montana. You'll be camped in a wide open grass pasture JUST OFF Hwy 287, 1.5 miles from Ennis Lake and the Madison River which offers some of the most diverse fly fishing in Montana. The Madison River runs through this scenic valley and is flanked by the towering Madison, Gravelly and Tobacco Root ranges which are all visable from our campsites. Our land is filled with wildlife including fox, coyotes, sandhill cranes, bald eagles, osprey, deer and antelope. Horses in the pasture to the North and cattle to the South. Crash in our field and you're only about 1 hour from Yellowstone, without the Yellowstone prices and congestion. The town of Ennis is 7 miles and the best steakhouse in the valley is 2 minutes north up HWY 287. Plan an easy afternoon trip to the historic Old West town of Virginia City (20 miles). We are surrounded by endless trails for hiking, 4 wheeling and trail riding. Big Sky Ski Resort is an hour and 30 minutes over the Madison Range. Take an evening to go to Norris Hotsprings (9 miles). Lewis and Clark Caverns one of the most highly decorated limestone caverns in North America is only 28 miles away. The list of activities goes on and on, but there is always the option to just relax and feel comfortable doing nothing. This is the perfect place to choose to be disconnected and unplugged for a while, but not to far off the beaten path so its an easy camp. 45°26'15.5"N 111°43'53.8"W https://goo.gl/maps/i7jR4qSxP4SkU1QTA -Parking is just off HWY 287, very easy access by bike or vehicle. Vehicles will stay in the designated parking are and campers will walk to any area of the pasture they wish to set up camp! -This is a field, a pasture where grass grows to feed cattle. The views of the Madison Range and Tobacco Root Mountains is incredible. There are a few areas of trimmed grass, but for the most part this is a pasture with long grass. This area is not maintained like a KOA. This is not at all what would call "roughing it" but I grew up in Montana and we have different standards here. -We ask that you please give room to other campers, you'll have so much room it should never be an issue. -There is now a porta potty and fire pit! both of which are for all campers to use. Please do not set up camp right next to the firepit, right next to the porta potty or in the parking area. -This is a pasture alongside the road in Montana. There are no parking lot lights. There is no wifi. There are no trees or shelters. It is not private because it is an open field along HWY 287. That being said there are rarely ever more than 1-2 camping groups at a time. -The Campfire is communal. Everyone needs to be able to enjoy. There are several area to set up camp. We usualy will only have 1-2 campers at any given time. The most we have ever had at once is 4. -You're free to walk around and find your perfect spot. You can walk through the tall grass or you can camp in one of the spots that is trimmed down. You have that freedom! We trim down the "road", the firepit, a couple campsites and the area around the garbage and porta potty. We dont want to completely mow down our pasture. We like to keep it wild. When Hipcampers are not using the area its a place for deer, antelope, cyotes and sandhill cranes. If you want to have a campground with manicured walkways/camping spots this is not the green pasture for you. 🇺🇸 July 4th update FYI the 2 track road down to the canvas wall tent has irrigation water covering it. Don’t go down the path to the tent, you will get stuck. There are plenty of places to camp without driving down toward the canvas tent. There is a saw horse blocking the road. Please do not move the saw horse or drive down the road.

Shameless Oasis Lodging and Camping

9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents2 acres · Troy, MT

Located in Yaak, MT, along the PNT (pacific northwest trail), deep in the Kootenai National Forest, in the Northwestern corner of Montana. Pick your campsite in the trees or in the grass, shade or sun. The 2 acre grounds extend to Yaak River, with a shared dock, and communal outdoor kitchen, (propane grill and fire pit, small fridge, some pans and utensils). Camp fire wood is available for purchase, or bring your own local firewood. Camping fee includes Hot outdoor shower, outdoor kitchen, outhouses, fire pits, WiFi, trash cans. In Summer, we have an on-site espresso/ice cream shop and fresh chicken eggs for sale. Roads and trails to explore are endless. Rivers, waterfalls, alpine lakes, Kootenai Falls and Lake Kookanusa are all close by. In Winter, explore groomed snowmobile/cross country ski trails, or go back country. Also, Turner Mountain Ski Area is only 17 miles away. Come set up your tent, or car camp. Also, we can accommodate your small camper/RV, with water and 110 power hookups. The Oasis can also be rented for parties and events, up to 100 people. Package includes exclusive use of the grounds, dock, outdoor kitchen, outdoor shower, firepits, and grills. Message for more information. Come Enjoy the true Montana experience here!

BnR Horse Ranch

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents161 acres · Libby, MT

Are you looking for an adventure and opportunities to explore the wilderness and Lake Koocanusa? Come experience camping off grid in the true beautiful nature and wildlife of Montana. I have an off grid ranch on 161 acres bordered by the Kootenai National Forest and Lake Koocanusa just down the dirt road. It's very wooded but does have a few open meadows. My land is very private surrounded by beautiful mountains, forestry, wildlife and streams/creeks. The lake has a great beach front for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, etc. There's a boat launch 3 miles away for bigger boats or pontoons. My property also provides direct access to hundreds of miles of trails for hiking, horse trail riding, biking, snowmobiling and 4-wheeling. Want to bring your horse? We also offer horse camping, trail riding with overnight trail camping options and stall boarding. Round pen and outdoor arena available soon. Learn more about this land: Pitch a tent or park your RV next to the creek or anywhere on our 161 acres surrounded by the Kootenai National Forest. Full access to Lake Koocanusa for kayaking, canoeing, swimming, fishing, etc. Immediate access to Kootenai National Forest with hundred miles of trails for hiking, 4-wheeling, biking, etc. Tour Libby Dam and visitor center located about 4 miles away. Also offer horse camping and trail riding.

94%

(9)

Nature Resort on the Bighorn River

33 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents17 acres · Fort Smith, MT

Cottonwood Camp is nestled under towering cottonwood trees on 17 historical acres, overlooking 3 Mile Access on the legendary Bighorn River. These hallowed grounds are surrounded by 300 wildlife filled acres of Bighorn Canyon National Rec' Area land. Excellent boating, water sports, and additional fishing opportunities are a short 15 minute drive away at Bighorn Canyon Lake. Our 14 cabins all have a personality of their own with occupancy capacity ranging from 2 all the way up to 18! All feature a fully equipped kitchen + outdoor social space w/ bbq grill. In addition we have FHU & W/E RV sites and plenty of pitch tent sites that have use of our two bathhouses. Guests are greeted in our full service fly shop that can get you hooked up on a guided trip, shuttle, or drift boat rental. Whether you want an action packed day on the Bighorn, a relaxing day on the Lake or just wanna escape your day to day to hear the sights & sounds of Big Sky Country, you can't go wrong with Cottonwood Camp!

100%

(8)

Mile High Mountain Homestead

2 sites · Lodging20 acres · Helmville, MT

We are officially open for the 2024 season! Located in the Garnet Mountains of Montana, we offer beautiful views and wildlife viewing all the while providing you with a homestead experience . We offer a homestead tour of our place and enjoy some greens from our gardens and visit our goats and rabbits and purchase some fresh cheese and milk to take back to your tent too . The price includes the use of the wood fired hot tub for an evening soak with a beautiful private view of the mountains and small lake . Enjoy a hand made fresh baked pizza to order from our homestead, 15”for $35 , or just come and relax and enjoy your views We love to share our experiences with our guests! There is also a luxurious outdoor shower to wash off all that campfire smell , as well! So come enjoy some high mountain glamping with us and discover just how peaceful it is in our neck of the Garnet mountains! Visit us on instagram! @milehighmountainhomestead

93%

(48)

The Ponderosa

4 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Turtle Lake, MT

This property sits on a ridge line that ties into the Mission Mountains. Very close to town but definitely in the wild. Our views span the entire length of Flathead Lake and the Mission Mountains. A clear day shows the beautiful Glacier Park in the distance.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

Flathead National Forest

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99%

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Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

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Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Wyoming

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Kootenai National Forest

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Bitterroot National Forest

Conner, Montana

Site A21 is one of the largest (non-electric) sites you'll find anywhere. It's right on the Flathead Lake, with westward views to incredible sunsets and an "AWWWW!"-inspiring panorama.

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(3)

Flathead Lake State Park - Big Arm Unit

Big Arm, Montana

Flathead Lake State Park - Finley Point Unit

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Flathead Lake State Park - Finley Point Unit

Finley Point, Montana

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Placid Lake State Park

Seeley Lake, Montana

Lakeside camping in Montana with campfires guide

Overview

Few places in the Lower 48 feel more wild and remote than Montana. This northwestern state on the border with Canada is home to both Glacier National Park and a section of Yellowstone National Park along with a wide range of state parks and recreation areas, friendly cities, spooky ghost towns, and more than its fair share of hot springs. While most visitors comein summer—when weather is pleasant enough for camping and hiking—the Treasure State offers unique experiences in every season, with fantastic winter skiing opportunities, spring wildflowers, and gorgeous fall colors.

Where to go

Glacier Country

Northwestern Montana's Glacier Country is characterized by massive forests, craggy peaks, and long expanses of wilderness, with plenty of wildlife to boot. It's also home to Glacier National Park, where you'll find hundreds of miles of hiking trails along with tons of developed and backcountry camping options.

Southwest Montana

In the heart of Montana's Big Sky country, just west of Yellowstone National Park, this region is characterized by cute towns (notably Butte and Helena), historic ghost towns (a remnant of the region's historic mining industry), and relaxing hot springs. Popular camping areas include Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park and Bannack State Park.

Yellowstone Country

If you're headed to Yellowstone Country, it's likely with a visit to Yellowstone National Park in mind, but there's plenty more to do in the region, from hiking the Lake Fork Trail to checking out the restaurant and brewery scene in Bozeman. Yellowstone itself is, of course, a must-visit, but if you can’t find camping in the massive—and ever so popular—national park, you may have better luck snagging something in Custer Gallatin National Forest.

Central Montana

Central Montana offers all sorts of opportunities for outdoor recreation, rain or shine. Summer activities include fishing, horseback riding, and camping, while spots such as Showdown Mountain, Teton Pass Ski Resort, and Bear Paw Ski Bowl offer skiing and snowboarding. The region also has plenty of state parks, including Sluice Boxes State Park, Giant Springs State Park, and First Peoples Buffalo State Park.

Eastern Montana

Vast and expansive, eastern Montana features sparse landscapes dotted with the occasional herd of cattle, and plenty of room to get out and explore. You can take in views of the Badlands from Makoshika State Park or the Badlands Wilderness Study Area, or camp under the open sky in the expansive Custer National Forest. If you'd like to get out on the water, the Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area is the place to go, with boat rentals available.