6 Best Campsites in Montana for Your Next Outdoor Adventure
Discover six incredible Montana campsites that offer stunning mountain views, crystal-clear lakes, and the perfect escape into the wild.
- Sophia Zapanta
- 3 min read
Montana is a camper’s paradise, with breathtaking landscapes and endless opportunities for adventure. While national parks like Glacier get most of the attention, the state is full of lesser-known campsites that offer just as much beauty—without the crowds. If you’re looking for the ultimate outdoor experience, these six campsites are some of the best places to pitch your tent.
1. Many Glacier Campground (Glacier National Park)
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This is hands down one of the best spots to camp in Glacier National Park. Surrounded by rugged peaks and glacial lakes, it’s the perfect base for hiking iconic trails like Grinnell Glacier and Iceberg Lake. Wildlife sightings are common—don’t be surprised if you wake up to bighorn sheep or even a grizzly in the distance. Reservations fill up fast, so book early or try your luck with first-come, first-served sites.
2. Holland Lake Campground (Flathead National Forest)
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If you love camping by the water, this is your spot. Holland Lake is a pristine alpine lake with crystal-clear waters, perfect for kayaking, fishing, and swimming. The nearby Holland Falls Trail offers an easy but stunning hike to a cascading waterfall. It’s peaceful, family-friendly, and a great alternative to the busier lakes in Glacier.
3. Slippery Ann Wildlife Viewing Area (Charles M. Russell National Wildlife Refuge)
Mountain-Prairie Region on Wikimedia Commons
For a truly unique camping experience, head to Slippery Ann in the fall. This area is famous for its massive elk herd, which gathers during the rutting season, creating an unforgettable wildlife spectacle. The camping is primitive (no hookups or running water), but the experience of hearing elk bugling under Montana’s star-filled sky is unbeatable. If you’re into photography, this is a dream location.
4. Kintla Lake Campground (Glacier National Park)
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Tucked away in the remote northwest corner of Glacier, this quiet lakeside campground feels like a hidden paradise. Kintla Lake is one of the most secluded spots in the park, with no large crowds or noisy RVs—just you, the mountains, and the sound of the water. It’s a fantastic place for kayaking and fishing but be prepared for a long, bumpy dirt road to get there. The effort is worth it for the solitude and scenery.
5. Hellroaring Creek Campground (Gallatin National Forest)
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If you’re looking for a true backcountry experience, this remote campsite near Yellowstone delivers. It’s a popular spot for fly fishing, with pristine waters teeming with trout. The surrounding meadows and forests make for great wildlife viewing—wolves, bears, and moose are often spotted here. There’s no cell service, no crowds, and no distractions—just Montana’s wild beauty.
6. Tongue River Reservoir State Park (Southeastern Montana)
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This underrated gem is perfect for those who love water activities. The large reservoir offers excellent fishing, boating, and paddleboarding, with scenic cliffs and rolling hills in the background. The campground has plenty of amenities, making it a great choice for both tent campers and RV travelers. Plus, the sunrises over the water are absolutely stunning.