RV Campgrounds & Parks In Montana -- Find RV Parks
46.8797° N, 110.3626° W
Quick Overview
Big Sky Country delivers camping experiences as vast and varied as its legendary horizons. Montana spreads across 147,000 square miles of mountains, plains, and everything in between, offering RV campers access to Glacier National Park's alpine meadows, Yellowstone's geothermal wonders, and endless stretches of prairie where antelope outnumber people. This is where the West still feels wild, where you can wake up to elk grazing outside your rig and fall asleep under more stars than you knew existed.
Montana hosts several RV campgrounds and parks, creating a comprehensive network that spans from the Canadian border to Wyoming's edge. The state's camping infrastructure includes everything from luxury resorts with full hookups and resort amenities to basic county parks where you'll pay twenty bucks for electric and water. State parks anchor many regions, while private campgrounds cluster around tourist magnets like West Glacier, Bozeman, and the Beartooth Highway. Currently, some locations offer free camping, though Montana's true boondocking happens on the millions of acres of national forest and BLM land scattered throughout the state.
From your campsite, Montana's attractions unfold in every direction. Park your rig at Apgar Campground and you're walking distance from Glacier's visitor center and boat launches on Lake McDonald. Set up near Gardiner and Yellowstone's north entrance sits just minutes away, offering year-round access when other gates close for winter. The Beartooth Scenic Byway connects Red Lodge to Yellowstone's northeast entrance via the highest paved road in the northern Rockies, while Going-to-the-Sun Road provides the ultimate mountain driving experience through Glacier's heart. Beyond the national parks, places like the Little Bighorn Battlefield, Museum of the Rockies, and Makoshika State Park's badlands offer compelling stops that justify extended stays.
Montana accommodates every camping style, though each comes with considerations. Full-service RV resorts cluster around Kalispell, Bozeman, and Billings, offering amenities like pools, wifi, and laundry facilities that appeal to families and travelers seeking comfort after long driving days. These parks typically charge $40-70 nightly during peak season but provide reliable utilities and often stunning mountain views. State parks deliver the sweet spot for many RVers, combining natural settings with basic amenities at reasonable rates, though reservations become essential during summer months. Primitive camping appeals to those seeking solitude and savings, with national forest campgrounds offering incredible scenery for $15-25 per night, assuming you can snag a spot.
Summer brings peak season from June through August, when temperatures reach comfortable ranges but crowds pack popular areas. Shoulder seasons offer better availability and rates, with September providing excellent weather before winter's arrival. Winter camping works in lower elevations, particularly around Billings and the southern valleys, though many mountain campgrounds close from October through April. Spring arrives late, with high-elevation areas often inaccessible until May or June.
Our listings help you navigate Montana's camping options, from luxury resorts to basic overnight stops, ensuring you'll find the right base camp for your Big Sky adventure.
Top Rated RV Parks in Montana
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Browse RV Parks by City (114)
Absarokee
Alder
Anaconda
Baker
Basin
Belfry
Belgrade
Bigfork
Big Timber
Billings
Boulder
Bozeman
Brady
Bridger
Broadus
Browning
Butte
Cardwell
Charlo
Chester
Chinook
Choteau
Circle
Clancy
Clinton
Colstrip
Columbia Falls
Columbus
Conrad
Corvallis
Custer
Cut Bank
Darby
Deer Lodge
Dillon
Divide
East Helena
Ekalaka
Emigrant
Ennis
Essex
Eureka
Fairfield
Florence
Forsyth
Fort Benton
Gallatin Gateway
Gardiner
Garrison
Garryowen
Glasgow
Glendive
Great Falls
Hall
Hamilton
Hardin
Harlem
Harlowton
Havre
Helena
Helmville
Hungry Horse
Huntley
Jordan
Kalispell
Kremlin
Laurel
Lewistown
Libby
Lincoln
Livingston
Lolo
Loma
Malmstrom AFB
Malta
Manhattan
Miles City
Missoula
Ovando
Philipsburg
Plains
Plentywood
Plevna
Polson
Red Lodge
Reed Point
Rexford
Roberts
Rollins
Ronan
Roundup
Saint Ignatius
Saint Regis
Scobey
Seeley Lake
Shelby
Sidney
Stanford
St Regis
Superior
Terry
Thompson Falls
Three Forks
Townsend
Virginia City
West Glacier
West Yellowstone
Whitehall
White Sulphur Springs
Wibaux
Winnett
Wisdom
Wolf Point
Zurich
Getting Around Montana by RV
Interstate 90 serves as Montana's primary east-west corridor, running 559 miles from the Idaho border through Missoula, Butte, Bozeman, and Billings before continuing into Wyoming. This route handles large RVs easily and provides access to most major camping areas, though mountain passes require attention to weather conditions and steep grades. Interstate 15 connects Great Falls to Butte, offering access to Helena and the Continental Divide, while Interstate 94 crosses the state's northern prairie from North Dakota through Billings.
Scenic routes reward RVers willing to take their time, though some require careful planning. Going-to-the-Sun Road through Glacier National Park restricts vehicles over 21 feet long and 8 feet wide, making it inaccessible to most large RVs. The Beartooth Highway (US 212) climbs to 10,947 feet with switchbacks and steep grades that challenge even experienced drivers, typically closing from October through May due to snow. US 2 provides a more RV-friendly alternative across northern Montana, passing through Glacier's southern boundary while remaining accessible to larger rigs.
Fuel planning becomes critical given Montana's vast distances between services. Billings, Missoula, Great Falls, and Bozeman offer multiple truck stops with RV-friendly fuel lanes, while smaller towns may have limited options. Carry extra fuel when exploring remote areas, particularly in eastern Montana where services can be 100+ miles apart. Towns like Jordan, Ekalaka, and Wisdom have limited fuel availability.
Supply stops cluster around major cities, with Walmart, Camping World, and other RV-friendly stores in Billings, Missoula, Bozeman, and Kalispell. Stock up on groceries and supplies in these areas before heading to remote campgrounds, as rural stores often have limited selections and higher prices. Cell service remains spotty throughout much of the state, so download maps and campground information before leaving major highways.
RV Parks Costs in Montana
Montana camping costs vary dramatically based on location and amenities, with nightly rates ranging from free dispersed camping to $80+ at luxury resorts during peak season. Budget camping typically runs $15-30 per night at basic campgrounds with minimal amenities, often found in state parks and national forest locations. Mid-range options cost $35-55 nightly and include private campgrounds with full hookups, restrooms, and basic recreational facilities. Premium resorts around Glacier, Yellowstone, and major cities charge $60-80+ per night but provide resort amenities like pools, wifi, laundry, and convenience stores.
Currently, a portion% of Montana's several campgrounds offer free camping, while a portion% charge fees for overnight stays. Free camping primarily occurs on national forest and BLM lands through dispersed camping programs, though some basic campgrounds also waive fees during shoulder seasons or offer volunteer host programs in exchange for free sites.
Seasonal pricing follows predictable patterns, with summer months (June-August) commanding peak rates that can double winter prices. Shoulder seasons in May and September offer significant savings while maintaining decent weather, particularly in lower elevation areas. Winter rates drop substantially, though many mountain campgrounds close entirely from October through April.
Membership programs provide substantial savings for frequent campers. Passport America offers 50% discounts at participating campgrounds, though blackout dates often apply during peak summer months. Good Sam membership provides 10% discounts at affiliated parks plus additional benefits like roadside assistance and fuel discounts. Harvest Hosts membership ($99 annually) allows overnight stays at farms, wineries, and attractions for the cost of membership alone.
Fuel costs in Montana typically run 10-20 cents above national averages due to limited refineries and long transportation distances. Grocery prices follow similar patterns, with remote areas charging premium prices for basic supplies. Stock up in major cities like Billings, Missoula, or Bozeman before heading to rural campgrounds to minimize food costs during your stay.
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What RVers Are Saying About Montana
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Best Time to Visit Montana by RV
Winter
December - February
10°F to 35°F
Crowds: Low
Many mountain campgrounds close; lower elevation areas around Billings remain accessible with basic services.
Spring
March - May
35°F to 65°F
Crowds: Medium
High elevation campgrounds remain closed until May; mud season affects many forest roads and primitive sites.
Summer
June - August
45°F to 80°F
Crowds: High
Peak season requires advance reservations; all campgrounds open with full services and highest rates.
Fall
September - November
25°F to 60°F
Crowds: Medium
Excellent weather with reduced crowds; mountain campgrounds begin closing by October due to snow.
Explore Montana
Glacier National Park's Apgar Campground ranks as Montana's premier RV destination, offering 194 sites with stunning Lake McDonald views and easy access to park attractions. Sites accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, though reservations open exactly five months in advance and fill within hours for summer dates. St. Mary Campground on the park's east side provides similar access with better availability but more wind exposure.
Boondockers should explore national forest lands surrounding Glacier and Yellowstone, where dispersed camping allows free stays up to 14 days. The Kootenai National Forest near Libby offers excellent free camping along forest roads, while areas around Cooke City provide access to Yellowstone's northeast entrance. Always check fire restrictions and road conditions before venturing onto forest service roads, as conditions change rapidly with weather.
Fishing drives many RV trips to Montana, with the state offering world-class trout streams and lakes. Madison River campgrounds provide access to blue-ribbon trout fishing, while Flathead Lake's state parks offer excellent lake fishing and swimming. Purchase fishing licenses online or at sporting goods stores, and consider hiring local guides who know current conditions and regulations.
Dining highlights include authentic Montana experiences that reflect local culture. Peppino's Ristorante in Bozeman serves excellent Italian food in a historic building, while the Sip 'n Dip Lounge in Great Falls features live mermaids in an indoor pool alongside your cocktails. Local farmers markets in Missoula, Bozeman, and Kalispell offer fresh produce and regional specialties perfect for campground cooking.
Photography opportunities abound throughout Montana, with sunrise and sunset providing optimal lighting for mountain landscapes. Chief Mountain and the Garden Wall in Glacier offer iconic shots, while the Beartooth Plateau provides alpine lake reflections. Wildlife photography works best during early morning and evening hours when animals are most active.
Pet owners will find Montana generally pet-friendly, though national parks restrict pets to paved areas and campgrounds. State parks welcome leashed pets on most trails, while national forest lands allow more freedom for dogs to explore off-leash in many areas.
Other States in United States
Helpful Resources
Federal Resources
- Recreation.gov— Federal campgrounds & recreation areas
- National Park Service— National parks & monuments
- Bureau of Land Management— BLM public lands & dispersed camping
- US Forest Service— National forests & grasslands
Nearby States
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Read more →Frequently Asked Questions About RV Parks in Montana
What are the best RV campgrounds in Montana?
Apgar Campground in Glacier National Park tops most lists with 194 sites accommodating RVs up to 40 feet and stunning Lake McDonald views. St. Mary Campground offers similar park access on Glacier's east side with better availability. Outside the parks, Polson/Flathead Lake KOA provides full amenities with mountain and lake views, while Madison River campgrounds offer world-class fishing access.
Is there free RV camping near Montana?
Montana offers extensive free camping opportunities on national forest and BLM lands throughout the state. Popular areas include Kootenai National Forest near Libby, dispersed camping around Cooke City for Yellowstone access, and numerous forest service roads in the Cabinet Mountains. Most locations allow 14-day stays with basic facilities, though services are minimal and weather-dependent access applies.
What is the best time of year to camp in Montana?
Late June through early September provides optimal camping weather with all facilities open and accessible roads. July and August offer warmest temperatures but bring peak crowds and highest prices. September delivers excellent conditions with fewer people and lower rates, though high elevation areas may experience early snow. Spring arrives late, with many mountain campgrounds remaining closed until May or June.
Are there full hookup RV parks in Montana?
Yes, Montana has numerous full hookup RV parks concentrated around major cities and tourist destinations. Areas near Glacier National Park, Yellowstone's entrances, and cities like Bozeman, Billings, and Missoula offer multiple options with water, electric, and sewer connections. Many also provide amenities like wifi, laundry facilities, pools, and convenience stores, typically charging $40-70 per night during peak season.
Can I boondock near Montana?
Montana excels for boondocking with millions of acres of national forest and BLM land allowing dispersed camping. Popular areas include the Kootenai and Flathead National Forests, lands around the Beartooth Highway, and areas near Glacier and Yellowstone national parks. Most locations permit 14-day stays, though facilities are minimal and access depends on weather and road conditions.
Do I need reservations for Montana campgrounds?
Summer reservations are essential for popular destinations like Glacier National Park, Yellowstone area campgrounds, and state parks near major attractions. Glacier's Apgar Campground reservations open exactly five months in advance and fill within hours for peak dates. Private campgrounds typically accept reservations, while national forest campgrounds often operate first-come, first-served with early arrival recommended during busy periods.
What size RV can I bring to Montana campgrounds?
Most Montana campgrounds accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, though individual sites vary significantly. Glacier National Park's campgrounds handle rigs up to 40 feet at Apgar and St. Mary, while Going-to-the-Sun Road restricts vehicles over 21 feet long and 8 feet wide. State parks typically accommodate larger RVs, and many private campgrounds accept rigs up to 45 feet with advance planning.
Are pets allowed in Montana campgrounds?
Most Montana campgrounds welcome leashed pets, though national parks restrict animals to paved areas, campgrounds, and designated trails. State parks generally allow pets on trails and in camping areas with leash requirements. National forest campgrounds offer more pet freedom, and dispersed camping areas often permit off-leash activities. Always check specific campground policies and clean up after pets to maintain access privileges.
What are the best RV campgrounds in Montana?
Apgar Campground in Glacier National Park tops most lists with 194 sites accommodating RVs up to 40 feet and stunning Lake McDonald views. St. Mary Campground offers similar park access on Glacier's east side with better availability. Outside the parks, Polson/Flathead Lake KOA provides full amenities with mountain and lake views, while Madison River campgrounds offer world-class fishing access.
Is there free RV camping near Montana?
Montana offers extensive free camping opportunities on national forest and BLM lands throughout the state. Popular areas include Kootenai National Forest near Libby, dispersed camping around Cooke City for Yellowstone access, and numerous forest service roads in the Cabinet Mountains. Most locations allow 14-day stays with basic facilities, though services are minimal and weather-dependent access applies.
What is the best time of year to camp in Montana?
Late June through early September provides optimal camping weather with all facilities open and accessible roads. July and August offer warmest temperatures but bring peak crowds and highest prices. September delivers excellent conditions with fewer people and lower rates, though high elevation areas may experience early snow. Spring arrives late, with many mountain campgrounds remaining closed until May or June.
Are there full hookup RV parks in Montana?
Yes, Montana has numerous full hookup RV parks concentrated around major cities and tourist destinations. Areas near Glacier National Park, Yellowstone's entrances, and cities like Bozeman, Billings, and Missoula offer multiple options with water, electric, and sewer connections. Many also provide amenities like wifi, laundry facilities, pools, and convenience stores, typically charging $40-70 per night during peak season.
Can I boondock near Montana?
Montana excels for boondocking with millions of acres of national forest and BLM land allowing dispersed camping. Popular areas include the Kootenai and Flathead National Forests, lands around the Beartooth Highway, and areas near Glacier and Yellowstone national parks. Most locations permit 14-day stays, though facilities are minimal and access depends on weather and road conditions.
Do I need reservations for Montana campgrounds?
Summer reservations are essential for popular destinations like Glacier National Park, Yellowstone area campgrounds, and state parks near major attractions. Glacier's Apgar Campground reservations open exactly five months in advance and fill within hours for peak dates. Private campgrounds typically accept reservations, while national forest campgrounds often operate first-come, first-served with early arrival recommended during busy periods.
What size RV can I bring to Montana campgrounds?
Most Montana campgrounds accommodate RVs up to 40 feet, though individual sites vary significantly. Glacier National Park's campgrounds handle rigs up to 40 feet at Apgar and St. Mary, while Going-to-the-Sun Road restricts vehicles over 21 feet long and 8 feet wide. State parks typically accommodate larger RVs, and many private campgrounds accept rigs up to 45 feet with advance planning.
Are pets allowed in Montana campgrounds?
Most Montana campgrounds welcome leashed pets, though national parks restrict animals to paved areas, campgrounds, and designated trails. State parks generally allow pets on trails and in camping areas with leash requirements. National forest campgrounds offer more pet freedom, and dispersed camping areas often permit off-leash activities. Always check specific campground policies and clean up after pets to maintain access privileges.
