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.

100% (3 reviews)

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

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Placid Lake State Park

Book externally

Public campgrounds in the park
Book externally

Stay at a public campground in Placid Lake State Park

100%

(3)

Placid Lake Campground

40 sites · RVs, Tents In Placid Lake State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near Placid Lake State Park

95%

(1222)

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.

100%

(15)

In The Pines: 5 off grids / folf

7 sites · Lodging, Tents20 acres · Bonner, MT

6 hole folf course 0 electricity, appliances, or refrigeration 5 structures on the property Bring your own dishes and silverware 1 community outdoor shower spotty cell service 2 free standing restrooms 1 cafe 5 miles away 5 miles off main road, the last 2 are a bit bumpy It's just minimalism and simple quality. You're welcome to unwind at our little family escape on your way to wherever. Follow the written directions. Google maps is not always reliable. Our retreat is small and quiet with only two cabins; the 570 Sq/ft Beartooth and 200 sq/ft Trapper. And three tent platforms that have a propane fire feature. All experiences are listed separately through Hipcamp. Every traveler will experience… …a queen and full bed in each accommodation – with the exception of the Trapper which has one queen bed. Though you will need to make your own mealtime accommodations, you will find enough in-cabin water, coffee, and tea to start each day on the right foot. A small grill is also provided. Remember, it’s a simple retreat so don’t forget ample bottled water, paper plates, cutlery, and everything else you need before you come in from town. You're dusk and dawn can be lit by the solar lights and small propane heaters will take the chill from the early mornings. But hey - it's hybrid, right? We provide the shelter...you pack like a happy camper. This is a camping experience, but in the area… …you will find Potomac Bar and Grill just 10 minutes away where you will find a wonderful rural café that offers every meal of the day. Fifteen minutes north, you will find Paws Up which offers extravagant dining experiences. Twenty-five minutes further you will find the town of Seeley Lake which offers all you would expect from a quaint Montana rural community. And, of course, 35 minutes south you will find Missoula and all that Missoula is. You can learn more about In The Pines, MT through finding us on Instagram. A few regs for all of us to keep in mind: No RVs – parking is limited No pets Please no media cast through external speakers

88%

(20)

Geary Brothers Ranch

153 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Ovando, MT

Located in the Blackfoot Valley you will enjoy the endless views and access to some of the best public hunting and fishing the state has to offer. Plenty of room for the kids and dogs to play. You will stay at the historic Helmville Rodeo Grounds and enjoy the privacy and endless views. Can't wait!

78%

(55)

Rainbow Gulch Farm

3 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Clinton, MT

A small family farm working toward sustainability. Easy to access from I-90, drive in camping for a stop overnight or a home base while you explore the many attractions nearby. For others, a walk in remote woodland camping experience with complete solitude after check in.Learn more about this land:...or in the adjoining field anyway! We are 20 miles east of Missoula, MT near the Kettlehouse Ampitheater in Bonner. Our location is halfway between Yellowstone and Glacier National Park. There are mountain bike paths, river access points for paddling, rafting or fishing within minutes of our land. We can even help you know where to go. Our land is surrounded by Nature Conservancy land with a public recreation easement, so you can hike and take your horse for a ride very easily. In a vehicle, you can pull into one of our pastures for your stay. Where you are depends on which field the sheep are eating! Tents also work in the field. We do not have any hookups. The fields are that - pasture fields. There are quiet neighbors across the fence. We are happy to offer advice about local attractions via messaging due to covid (rather than in person). This is pack it in, pack it outDuring the pandemic we ask that you wear a face covering if you have a reason to talk with us, even across the fence out of an abundance of caution since most of you are traveling from out of state. Tours are also temporarily suspended.

88%

(52)

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.

100%

(7)

Full Bushel Farm

3 sites · RVs3 acres · Stevensville, MT

Full Bushel Farm is a sustainable farm specializing in cut flowers, herbs, edible flowers, and natural body & home care products. Located at the end of the road, just a few blocks off Eastside Highway, and only 3 miles from downtown Stevensville, this is a sweet spot with views of the Bitterroot Mountains. Farmstand with produce, eggs, fresh milk & cheeses, flowers, and herbs - all when seasonally available. Surrounded by the irrigation ditch and a private road for biking or walking on after dinner.

100%

(10)

Montana Safari Tent - Blackfoot

2 sites · Lodging43 acres · Bonner, MT

Experience the charm of Montana's wilderness while indulging in the comforts of home at P-7 Base Camp, named after our family's historic livestock brand. Nestled on 43 acres in the picturesque Potomac Valley, just minutes from Missoula and the famed Blackfoot River, our peaceful retreat offers a unique glamping experience unlike any other. With only 4 sites available, including 2 safari tents and 2 Conestoga Wagons, we invite you to immerse yourself in luxury with our thoughtfully curated accommodations. Each glamping tent features luxurious bedding, electricity, a heater, coffee bar, mini fridge, wine glasses, S'Mores roasting sticks, solar lanterns, heated mattress pads, a picnic table, and Adirondack chairs. Plus, enjoy the convenience of two communal bathrooms with hot showers and flush toilets. Our property, a working hay farm, offers a glimpse into rural life in Montana. During the summer months, you can witness the hay being irrigated, cut, baled, and stacked for winter use. Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife, including deer, coyotes, herons, eagles, hawks, and sandhill cranes, who also call this property home. Explore the beauty of the Potomac Valley, one of Western Montana's best-kept secrets, with easy access to Missoula's vibrant downtown scene, hiking trails, museums, art galleries, and more. Spend your days floating, kayaking, or trout fishing on the Blackfoot River, or venture to nearby lakes for boating or paddleboarding. Dog-friendly trails at Lubrecht Forest are just a short drive away, while Garnet Ghost Town offers a glimpse into Montana's rich history. After a day of adventure, relax by the campfire and watch the sunset over the mountains, soaking in the tranquility of the Montana wilderness. Whether you're seeking outdoor thrills or simply a peaceful escape, P-7 Base Camp offers the perfect blend of luxury and nature in the heart of Big Sky Country.

80%

(23)

Last Best Place

3 sites · RVs, Tents8 acres · Greenough, MT

Learn more about this land: Safely leave your camp in the shade, under tall pine trees. Enjoy horses grazing nearby and explore Greenough, the last best place. The best swimming hole on the Clearwater River is located less than a mile away. World class fishing and floating on multiple rivers including the Big Blackfoot are nearby. Salmon Lake and Seeley Lake have limited campsites but are located just 10 to 20 miles away from this spot for fabulous fishing and boating adventures. The Clearwater Game Range is 2 miles away for hiking, biking and wildlife viewing. I almost forgot to mention the well preserved and nearby ghost towns of Garnet and Coloma. This truly is, the last best campsite in the last best place. Large family reunions and gatherings welcome! I will open as many camp sites as you need.

Booked 5 times

Wild Roots Montana

1 site · Lodging2 acres · Arlee, MT

Located 30 minutes from Missoula and 50 minutes to Flathead Lake, great sleep over spot on your way to Glacier. Enjoy quiet farm life, beautiful scenery and fresh goat cheese and eggs from neighboring farms. 15 minutes from The Garden of 1000 Buddahs, 20 minutes to Mission Falls to hike, and 35 to McDonald Lake. We have hiking packs and yoga mats you can rent out for a small fee for any of your day adventures. Tent camp or book our Canvas Bell tent. The Bell tent is fully set up with cots, sleeping bags, and cozy accommodations. Grill on site Fire Pit Horse Shoe Pit Fenced Property Toilet and shower in RV.

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.

97%

(61)

Ridgeline Retreat

2 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents70 acres · Missoula, MT

My wife, Nicole, and I were so very fortunate to have found this place. The homestead consists of 70 acres of mountainous forest in the wild lands of Montana. The cabin is totally off the grid but provides every creature comfort one could hope for.

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

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.