The best camping near Placid Lake State Park

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

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Discover Placid Lake State Park's serene beauty and outdoor fun.

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Public campgrounds in the park
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Stay at a public campground in Placid Lake State Park

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Placid Lake Campground

40 sites · RVs, Tents In Placid Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Placid Lake State Park

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Primrose Meadows

13 sites · Tents28 acres · Missoula, MT

We can’t wait to share our land with you! Get away from it all and get under the Big Sky. Close to the freeway for easy access but adjacent to over 200 acres of beautiful farmland, you’ll experience Montana’s wildlife and have beautiful Mountain views when you stay at Primrose Meadows. There are few trees in the property, it’s mostly rolling hills with some trails to walk and plenty of space between sites! This property has a railroad track that runs next to the property that sometimes toots it’s horn, if you’re a light sleeper this is something you should consider!We are close to Council Grove and Frenchtown Pond which are both great swimming holes! You can also coordinate with us for cross-country skiing or head to Snowbowl for local downhill skiing! We are close to Missoula should you need any services in town.

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God's Country Camping

1 site · RV, Tent12 acres · Lolo, MT

This property is so beautiful and peaceful no lights out here at night, just moonlight when it's out. Spring fed pond, Ponderosa pine trees, fallen white birch, rustic and gorgeous. Some of my camp spots are on rough terrain. I always suggest you get out and walk around to see what you can manage with your vehicle. The idea of my place is more wilderness camping, there is wildlife that comes around. RV camp spots on the east and west end of the pond. Camp spot out by the wooden round pen on the west side. Learn more about this land: Completely private, borders 2000 acres of a bird sanctuary. Two blocks from Bitterroot river canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swim, trails, hiking, scenery, wildlife. Spring fed pond on property for fishing, swimming and adventures. My pond is spring fed, which means that is goes up and down with the seasons and run off from the snow in the mountains. So as the summer goes on the pond levels go way down, please be aware of that.

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Sanctuary Farm Yurt Glamping

14 sites · Lodging25 acres · Alberton, MT

A sanctuary away from everyday life, where you can relax and reconnect with nature. Yurt has electricity, a wood stove for heat in winter, a beautiful outdoor kitchen and bathhouse, and a creek. Only 45 minutes from Missoula Montana. Games and books in the yurt. Cedar outhouse. Lots of extra to make for a truly remarkable glamping experience.

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(5)

Wildlight Yurt

1 site · Lodging24 acres · Alberton, MT

Our land is 24 acres set against Cinderella Mountain, facing the Clark Fork River. There are two houses and a yurt on the property. The yurt is available for rent on this site to stay the night in, 8 guests maximum. **For gatherings and up to 20-person events, please visit our website, wildlightmontana.com. Address: The maps program on HipCamp is outdated and our address, which was created during the Covid lockdown, does not show up here. If you use Google Maps you can search "Wildlight Montana" to find us or please direct message me for the address. The yurt is a beautiful open space utilized weekly for local yoga classes and private events. The space is therefore not set up with bedding; guests should bring their own camping pads, cots, sleeping bags, etc. A pro to staying here is that the space comes stocked with yoga props for stretching in the evening while you arrive, sitting and gathering, or maybe doing a private yoga class before you leave in the morning. Feel free to message us and book a private sound therapy, Reiki or yoga session while you are at the property! There is nice view of the valley surrounding, and a trail leading up into the woods behind the yurt to walk on. Wild turkeys, deer, elk and eagles right outside your door. There is a woodstove inside for cooler nights that we can instruct folks who feel comfortable to use, and a small firepit out front. Facilities: Outside, in front of the yurt, there is a back-to-back outhouse and hand washing station available for guests, stocked with toilet paper, paper towels and hand soap. An insulated out-building sits just to the west of the yurt entrance, right where the dirt driveway turns toward the yurt itself when you drive up. The out-building is equipped as a kitchenette, and includes a refrigerator, electric kettle and coffee maker. Please note: there is no running water inside this building, however we will have a 5 gallon jug of well water set up in a water dispenser for you to access there. We ask guests to clean up after themselves in these spaces. The handwashing area is set up for rinsing off dishes while you're here as well. We will make sure to provide a dish tub, cleaning supplies, enough dishes, utensils and mugs for up to 8 people (or compostable picnicware if necessary at the time of rental). Note about the train: There are train tracks that run along the river in front of our property. The tracks are dropped down low enough that you can just see the top of the train, with trees also blocking the sound. The train will only sound its horn here if there are animals on the tracks, a fairly rare occurrence after four years living here. All in all, it isn't bothersome feature to most who stay, and we've had positive feedback from renters. It still feels fair to note.

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Bitterroot Panorama

1 site · RV20 acres · Stevensville, MT

**Have friends or family that want to tag along? I have added an extra to allow for extra campers at the same site. See the extras section for details.** Resting in the foothills of the sapphire mountains, just outside the town of Stevensville Montana, this beautiful 20 acre property is conveniently located halfway between Hamilton and Missoula; it is also a good midway point between Yellowstone and Glacier national parks. The outdoor activities are endless. Biking, hiking, fishing, swimming, hunting, trail riding, snow skiing and more are all within reach. Deer, turkey, osprey, killdeer, nighthawks, and eagles frequent the property as well as the occasional elk herd; and the Lee Metcalf wildlife refuge is about 15 minutes away. The property sits about 400’ above the valley floor; giving spectacular panoramic views of the bitterroot valley and mountains, as well as incredible sunsets. The paved road ends about 1 mile before the property, the remaining mile is a gravel road. There is also a one lane bridge right before you get to the property. Firewood is available for use at no charge. Sewer hookup has not been run to the site yet but if you have a portable tank, or want to pull the camper over to the house, it can be dumped as needed beside the garage; just ask and I can show you where the pipe is. There is a nema 14-50 hookup providing 50 amp power at the site; if needed I do have a 50 to 30 amp adapter you can borrow during your stay. Water hookup is also available at the site, but may be limited in freezing weather. If temperatures are to cold we can turn on the water to fill your tank as needed and then blow the line back out. If you need to borrow a potable water hose let me know as i keep those in the garage unless needed. There is a non-potable water hose that is available at the site, with a spray nozzle, incase you need to rinse or wash off gear, vehicles, etc. SpaceX Starlink high speed internet is available via WiFi. You can also charge your electric vehicle, if needed, with the power at the campsite or I have another nema 14-50 plug available at the garage of the main house. Be sure to let me know if you will need the plug at the garage so I can make sure it is accessible. If you have other questions feel free to contact me and I will do my best to answer them. ****The first 10 photos were posted by me and are taken from the actual hipcamp spot. Photos posted by guests may be from the spot or surrounding areas****

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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

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Hawk And Fox Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent86 acres · Clinton, MT

Just a little piece of paradise just minutes from the Clark Fork and Rock Creek. 17 miles from downtown Missoula . We back up to 33,000 acres of state and federal land with endless possibilities. We have two ponds and hiking trails from fire roads to back country bushwhacking.. we have access to drift boats or rental cars. Anything to make your trip great

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Mile High Mountain Homestead

1 site · RV, Tent20 acres · Helmville, MT

Beautiful 20 acre homestead, surrounded by the Garnet Mountains. We have beautiful small lakes where you can observe wild life and migratory water fowl and beautiful song birds and go on small walks around the lakes or take your mountain bike or e-bike and enjoy a ride on the ranch roads surrounding the area. Come on over to our homestead and take a small tour of our greenhouse and gardens, we have seasonal produce to sell and rabbits to pet! We sell farm fresh eggs and raw goats milk and soft goat cheeses! We also have hand crafted lip balms with essential oils and we welcome you to enjoy our fire pit area and wood fired hot tub, all the while viewing the small lakes around our homestead. The Hot Tub is an extra charge of $20. We also have a luxurious outdoor hot water shower available for use as well! Reserve the hot tub at check in! Come prepared! We are in grizzly country , BE BEAR AWARE! All campers need to keep all ice chests and food away from their tents and in their cars when not using them! This is grizzly and black bear country, keep all cooking utensils , dog food and pans , in your vehicle when not in use! Very important to obey the bear rules and stay safe! Thank you and we want you to have a safe and enjoyable camp out! Please be advised to follow these directions to the campsite grounds, the google map takes you to the wrong entrance and we have had issues getting this changed. As you come into Drummond, head to Helmville road , turn right and follow this road that parallels I-90, then turn left onto highway 271 to Helmville. So follow highway 271 towards Helmville , at 13.1 miles , turn right onto Weaver hill crossing a cattle guard. Go up the hill and follow the road and keep to the left of the first Y and continue on for 3.5 miles until you come to the second large Y and stay to the right of it. Continue on for another 3.2 miles un til you see a green chimney lakes sign and turn right and continue in on to our driveway! There is no cell service up here , so you will have to connect to our Wi-Fi when you arrive, to be able to call or text out. Please use your trip counter in your car or truck to help you with mileage. Remember to save these directions before you loose cell service!😊

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Missoula Rest And Relaxation

2 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Missoula, MT

Hello, we have three acres with ClarkFork River frontage. Easy access to everything in Missoula. Very close to bike trails. Just a block west of Reserve Street. 10 minute drive to university. We are excited to share our wonderful property and excellent location with you. We welcome tents, RVs and campers.

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Mission Mountain Escape

2 sites · RVs15 acres · Ronan, MT

Learn more about this land:Nestled next to the rockies, we have 2 full hook up sites for any size RV. There is also space for small campers not needing hookups. The area is secluded yet only 3 miles to restaraunts and stores. There are several bike and hike trails close by. Wildlife is abundant., and a few farm animals as well. We are 2 hours from Glacier National Park and 5 hours from Yellowstone National Park.

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Buck’s Paradise

2 sites · Lodging15 acres · Seeley Lake, MT

Learn more about this land: This is a non-smoking, Family friendly dry cabin. Pets are allowed as long as you clean up after them and don't allow them on the furniture. We love our fur babies! Property is located just north of Seeley Lake Beach. Lots of room to ride bikes with trails accessible nearby. Access to Deer Creek as well. Owner will be on the property from time to time staying at their cabin, so you may see them here and there. Excellent property to set up folf nets or just enjoy the quiet scenery of deer and listen to the birds. We just ask that you keep the property clean and be respectful. Pack in pack out.

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Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

1 site · RV1 acre · Missoula, MT

Welcome to our no-frills, convenient stopover spot on the edge of Missoula! Situated just a mile from town, our property offers a quiet and scenic retreat for travelers passing through or exploring the area. While parked on our driveway pad, you'll enjoy peace and tranquility, with the soothing sounds of Rattlesnake Creek nearby. Although the creek isn't visible from your parking spot, you're welcome to take a short walk around the house to fully experience its beauty. For those looking to stretch their legs and explore, the Rattlesnake Valley offers excellent walking opportunities just moments away. Take in the picturesque surroundings and unwind in nature's embrace. Our property spans half an acre, providing ample space for you to relax and recharge during your journey. Whether you're passing through Missoula or planning to stay awhile, our convenient location and serene setting make it the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate. Thank you for considering our property for your stay. We look forward to welcoming you and ensuring your visit is comfortable and enjoyable!

The best camping near Placid Lake State Park guide

Overview

About

It’s 6 a.m., the waters are sparkling in the morning sun and smooth as a stick of butter. It must be time for some waterskiing! Take advantage of the placid placidity of Placid Lake, the calmest water west of the Mississippi. Nestled into the nook of the Clearwater and Swan River valleys, this park is a boating and fishing paradise with mountain views so high and mighty you have to be careful not to hurt your neck as you take it all in. As you wander through the lakeside forest, marvel at the enormous larch stumps in your path—these are all that are left behind from long-ago logging practices. They’re so big, you can plop down on the stump with a picnic. End the day with a game of horseshoes or volleyball, and then rest your legs to take in the mountain vistas. With water so flat and calm reflecting the mountains, you won’t know which way is up or down.

Notable campgrounds

The Hike-Bike Campsite caters to cycling enthusiasts with bike racks, a maintenance stand, and a covered shelter.
Electric Campsites offer the convenience of power hookups, perfect for RV camping or charging your devices.
Family Campsites are spacious and equipped with fire rings and bear-resistant food lockers for a worry-free stay.

Tips for snagging a campsite

Book early, especially for peak summer months, as sites at Placid Lake State Park fill up quickly.
Consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for better availability and a quieter experience.
Keep an eye on cancellation policies and check back often for newly available spots.
Explore nearby camping options to maximize your chances of finding a great site.

When to go

The best time to visit Placid Lake State Park is during the summer season, from May 1 to November 30, when all facilities are open and the weather is most conducive for camping and water sports. Winter offers a serene, day-use only experience, with the park closed to motorized traffic.

Know before you go

Check for any special restrictions or closures before your visit, especially during road construction periods.
Remember to store all food and attractants in bear-resistant containers to keep wildlife and your family safe.
Accessibility is a priority, with ADA accessible options available for an inclusive experience.
Montana residents can enjoy free daily entrance with the state parks fee included in their vehicle registration.
Nonresidents should be prepared to pay a day use entrance fee, with discounts for walk-ins and cyclists.