The best camping near Black Sandy State Park

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

Discover Black Sandy State Park's scenic shores and outdoor fun.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Black Sandy State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Black Sandy State Park

89%
(14)

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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
98%
(87)

The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Helena, MT
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(1)

A Creek runs through it!

6 sites · RVs5 acres · Garrison, MT
Beautiful 5 acres bordering the Clark fork River with Warm Springs Creek running right though it. Spend Your days fly fishing right outside your RV door, or go for a walk down many beautiful country roads, or go put your feet in the creek and read a book. Lots of activities to do including rafting, fishing, hunting, mining(so I am told) motorcycle or mountain bike riding, and snowmobiling. It is centrally located between Missoula, Butte, and Helena just outside Deer lodge. 6 RV sites(2-50 amp and 4-30 amp) and access to a black and grey water dump out. Non potable water is on site for maintenance use. This property is perfect for a group gathering or a great place to stay on your way to Yellowstone National Park with the family or on your way to Your favorite hunting spot. Using the Phosphate Exit 170 is best for entering the property.No advance notice needed! Last minute campers welcome! Come stay for a night or a month. 2 minutes to I-90 in Garrison MT. Each hook up is $50 a night or rent the entire property for $300 a night for a group. Please call 425-330-1314 for special requests!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(35)

White Bridge Lane Private Campsite

2 sites · RVs, Tents25 acres · Boulder, MT
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
from 
$45
 / night
97%
(56)

Big-Enough Ranch

2 sites · Lodging40 acres · Boulder, MT
Horse ranch on 40 acres located just outside of Boulder, MT. Exceptional views and peace and quiet at this retreat cabin. 20 acres to the East has and old hunting cabin alongside a creek. Also an old mining test pit from the late 1800’s mining boom, as well as a hand built irrigation ditch that runs through the property.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$80
 / night
100%
(1)

The Homestead

2 sites · Lodging600 acres · Clancy, MT
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 drive to Helena, MT for more trails, dining or other activities.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$115
 / night
100%
(1)

Mount Helena Hideaway

1 site · RV1 acre · Helena West Side, MT
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!
Pets
Potable water
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(1)

The Lost Teepee

1 site · Lodging37 acres · Jefferson City, MT
Get away from it all when you stay under the stars. Here you can sleep in an authentic native teepee! How we don't offer a lot of flare here but we do offer a fun camping experience. Come relax and chill or maybe go for a hike and catch an amazing sunset. No matter what you will enjoy falling asleep listening to the creek flow and the crickets chirp.
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(3)

Mountain Biker's Getaway

1 site · RV20 acres · Helena, MT
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
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
100%
(4)

Prickly Pear escape

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Montana City, MT
Welcome to our little slice of paradise! Conveniently located just minutes from the Montana City exit on I-90, yet you would never know how close you are to Helena's city center and all the outdoor activities it has to offer. This property is lush with multiple walking trails to gardens and creek access. Camp spots are all level and well maintained with picnic tables and fire rings. Easy access to multiple spots on Prickly Pear Creek with fishing and wading. 10 to 20 minutes to shopping centers, schools, fairgrounds, baseball fields, and soccer fields. Plenty of room for trailers to turn around!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night

Spruce Haven Camp

1 site · RV, Tent3 acres · East Helena, MT
Welcome to Spruce Haven Camp! Situated on 3 acres with free-ranging chickens and boasting stunning views of the Elkhorn Mountains, our property offers a blend of rustic charm and outdoor adventure. Explore the natural wonders just a short drive away: Crow Creek Falls Trail: Journey to Radersburg and discover the serene Crow Creek Falls, nestled in pristine wilderness, offering a refreshing escape into nature. Spokane Hills South Trailhead: Conveniently located across the highway on BLM land, this trailhead invites guests to explore the rugged beauty of the Spokane Hills, ideal for hiking and outdoor activities. Mount Helena and Mount Ascension trail systems (20 minutes away) In addition to hiking, our location offers a variety of outdoor pursuits: Fishing: Nearby lakes and rivers, including the Missouri River, provide excellent fishing opportunities for those looking to reel in a catch. Conveniently close to Helena, the state capital, our HipCamp retreat provides easy access to additional recreational activities, dining options, and cultural attractions. Whether you seek an active outdoor adventure or a peaceful retreat surrounded by nature, our property at 24 Spruce Grove Rd is your ideal Montana getaway. We look forward to sharing our slice of Montana paradise with you!
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$30
 / night
100%
(1)

Sleepy Teepee

3 sites · Lodging16 acres · Helena, MT
Sleepy Teepee Campground in Helena, MT, blends glamping and traditional camping. Enjoy cozy, furnished teepees and spacious tent sites in a serene natural setting. With stunning views, modern amenities, and various outdoor activities, it's perfect for families, couples, and solo adventurers alike.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night

The best camping near Black Sandy State Park guide

Overview

About

Turn an afternoon into a month-long retreat at Black Sandy State Park, where legend has it salmon and trout jump right into your boat before you even have a chance to cast your line. Black Sandy offers a rare chance to camp right on the shores of the Hauser Reservoir, the perfect locale for fisher(wo)men, waterskiers, and sunbathers alike. 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.

Notable campgrounds

  • Lakeside Campsites: Wake up to the gentle lapping of waves with a stay at one of the park's coveted lakeside spots.
  • Electric Hookup Sites: Enjoy the convenience of electrical hookups available from May 1 to November 30 for your RV or camper.
  • First-Come, First-Served Tents: For the spontaneous traveler, snag one of the non-electric tent sites on a first-come, first-served basis.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  • Book in advance to secure your spot, as reservations can be made up to one day before arrival.
  • For same-day camping, call the park office at 406-458-3221 to check for any available sites.
  • Consider off-peak times for a better chance at snagging a prime campsite.
  • Explore nearby camping options if Black Sandy State Park is fully booked.

When to go

The best time to visit Black Sandy State Park is between May 1 and November 30 when all facilities, including electrical hookups, are available. The park is open year-round, but winter brings limited facilities and a serene, snowy landscape for those seeking a quieter visit.

Know before you go

  • Check for any special restrictions or closures before your visit, especially during extreme weather conditions.
  • Remember, there is no lifeguard on duty, so always exercise caution when enjoying water activities.
  • ADA accessible options are available, ensuring everyone can enjoy the park's natural beauty.
  • Pets are welcome but must be kept on leashes to protect wildlife and fellow visitors.
  • Montana residents can enjoy free daily entrance with the state parks fee included in their vehicle registration.

Safety at Hipcamp

Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Inclusion Policy
Hipcamp Hand

Safety partners

Recreate Responsibly

About us

Hipcamp is the most comprehensive resource for beautiful private campsites.

Discover and reserve tent camping, RV parks, cabins, treehouses, and glamping.

Download the Hipcamp App

Hipcamp is created with ❤️ and hope for our future.