Montana’s beloved forest campgrounds are hotter than a July sun, and the secret is definitely out. If you have ever circled a loop praying for a vacancy, you know the feeling. This guide highlights the spots that book fast and stay full, plus a few tips to help you actually land a site. Read on so your next mountain morning starts with coffee, not disappointment.
Many Glacier Campground
Many Glacier sits in a jaw dropping amphitheater of peaks where moose wander the marsh and bears sometimes amble by. Sites feel intimate under tall spruce and the trailheads start practically at your door. You hear waterfalls at night and wake to alpenglow on Grinnell Point.
The catch is demand, which turns summer mornings into a race. Arrive early, consider shoulder season, and watch for day of turnover. If you snag a site, plan layover days so you can hike Iceberg Lake and Boat across Swiftcurrent without packing up.
Apgar Campground
Apgar anchors the west side of Glacier with easy access to Lake McDonald and services. The pebbled shoreline begs for sunset strolls, and the village makes last minute needs simple. You can rent kayaks, grab ice cream, and still be back for campfire stars.
Because it is convenient and beautiful, sites vanish fast. Aim for weekday arrivals and be ready to loop patiently. Quiet mornings on the lake are worth the hustle, especially when the water turns glassy and mountains paint themselves twice.
Bakers Hole Campground
Just north of West Yellowstone, Bakers Hole hugs the Madison River and draws anglers like magnets. Campsites sit among lodgepole pines with open river access that makes dawn casts irresistible. Elk bugles in fall add a wild soundtrack.
Proximity to Yellowstone means competition spikes by early afternoon. Show up before noon, especially on weekends, and have a backup plan. If you land a spot, sunsets on the Madison feel like a private show you got by arriving smart.
Lonesomehurst Campground
Lonesomehurst sits on the Madison Arm of Hebgen Lake with big sky reflections and easy paddling. It is a quiet base that still keeps you within striking distance of Yellowstone’s west gate. Breezes carry the smell of pine and camp coffee across the water.
Its lakeside access means weekends book out fast. Reserve early when possible or target shoulder season weekdays. Sunrise paddles reward the planners, with loons calling while you glide past mirror smooth water.
Pine Creek Campground
In Custer Gallatin National Forest, Pine Creek delivers classic Paradise Valley scenery without a long drive. The trail to Pine Creek Falls starts near camp, so you can lace up and go before the crowds. Sites are shaded and the creek soundtrack never quits.
Locals love it, which means Friday arrivals can be tough. Try early mornings or midweek windows for the best odds. Pack layers because the canyon breathes cool air even when the valley bakes.
Lake Como Campground
Lake Como mixes mountain energy with beach day vibes. You can swim, paddle, or hike the loop as osprey hunt the coves. Campsites sit close enough to stroll for a sunset dip after dinner.
Summer weekends are packed thanks to the swim beach and boat ramp. Arrive early, consider shoulder season, and bring earplugs for busy nights. Mornings are blissfully calm, perfect for a quiet paddle before the day wakes up.
Holland Lake Campground
Holland Lake is a postcard that you can sleep beside. The Mission Mountains loom above jade water where loons call and paddle strokes barely ripple. A short hike to Holland Falls adds a burst of spray and views.
Families and photographers fill it quickly. Book early or aim for late spring and early fall when larch needles turn gold. Evenings bring pink light and a hush that feels like a secret shared softly.
Battle Ridge Campground
Perched along the Bridgers, Battle Ridge offers cool nights and quick access to the famed ridge trail. Sites are small but scenic, perfect for a minimalist setup and big sky stargazing. The drive from Bozeman is short, which makes it popular.
Expect tight availability on clear weekends. Arrive before work lets out or try a Sunday to Tuesday window. Pack headlamps and layers so you can chase sunset up the divide and stroll back under bright stars.