The best camping near Custer Gallatin National Forest

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Custer Gallatin National Forest adventure.

81% (50 reviews)
81% (50 reviews)

Find wilderness camping near Yellowstone National Park and beyond.  

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Stay at a public campground in Custer Gallatin National Forest

Top-rated campgrounds near Custer Gallatin National Forest

92%
(13)

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!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$38
 / night

The best camping near Custer Gallatin National Forest guide

Overview

About

Whether you are coming to the region to explore the grandeur of Yellowstone National Park or the expansive landscapes of Montana’s Big Sky Country, Custer Gallatin National Forest can add to your adventures and provide a scenic camping spot. Over 60 designated campgrounds are located within the three million acres of forests, mountains, and waterways, offering a range of services and amenities. Dispersed camping is also allowed, as long as you follow the guidelines. The campgrounds may be busier than many other national forest campgrounds due to the proximity to Yellowstone National Park, with several options mere minutes from the park’s entrance gates.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for dry camping near Yellowstone: Eagle Creek Campground is just two miles from the north entrance to Yellowstone and has wide-open views of Big Sky Country.
  • Best for camping with hookups near Yellowstone: Baker’s Hole Campground, three miles from the west entrance to Yellowstone, is popular with RVers and campers desiring electric hookups. 
  • Best for outdoor action: Red Cliff Campground has a river, cave, and trails easily accessible from tree-covered campsites.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. The national forest campgrounds offer a mix of reservable and first-come, first-served sites. 
  2. Reservations are accepted online at Recreation.gov or by phone at 1-877-444-6777.
  3. Reservations open six months in advance on a rolling basis.
  4. Reservations are especially recommended for campgrounds near Yellowstone National Park and for weekends and holidays during the summer season.
  5. First-come, first-served sites may fill quickly. Arrive by early afternoon for the best selection.
  6. Some campgrounds are open year-round, while others close during the fall and winter.

When to go

Camping conditions vary greatly by location across the Custer Gallatin National Forest, thanks to the varied elevations and terrain. Summer is generally pleasant and prime time for outdoor recreation, but it is the busy season, with some campground reservations and first-come, first-serve sites in limited supply. Spring and fall are cooler and much quieter, with the potential for freezing temperatures. The national forest campgrounds begin closing after Labor Day, though some are open through December or year-round. Expect snow and freezing temperatures in late fall and winter.

Know before you go

  • Camping in bear country requires extra preparation for storing food and scented items.
  • Cell signal varies greatly and may be unavailable or limited in some areas.
  • Amenities vary by campground. Potable water, electric hookups, vault toilets, firewood and more may or may not be available or may vary by season. Check the campground details online for current information.

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