Camping Adventures Near Bozeman, Montana

There’s perhaps no better way to experience the stunning mountain scenery around Bozeman than to pack a sleeping bag and camp beneath a ceiling of Montana stars. The fresh scent of pine needles, the warmth of a crackling campfire, and the taste of outdoor cooking are an unmissable part of the Montana summer experience.

An excellent range of campsites awaits you within an hour’s drive of Bozeman, each offering distinct attractions. Spend your day hiking, biking, or fly fishing before heading back to a camp chair and enjoying s’mores next to a roaring fire. Here are some tips to make the most of your adventures.

Bring Cash for Campgrounds

It’s easy to forget important things when heading out on your first camping trip of the season. Create a checklist beforehand, remembering essentials like matches, charging cables, flashlights, spare batteries, and bug spray. If you are heading to a Forest Service campground without reservations, be sure to carry a range of bills, as cash payment in exact change is often required.

Make Reservations Early

Campgrounds around Bozeman are popular in summer, particularly on weekends, and they become busier the closer you get to Yellowstone National Park. Most campgrounds accept reservations online, so it’s advisable to book a site weeks in advance, especially if you’re planning a weekend trip.

Prioritize Bear Safety

Most campgrounds around Bozeman are in grizzly country, so it’s crucial to follow essential safety precautions. Keep all food and toiletries securely stored, preferably in your car, and never leave food out overnight. When backpacking, hang a food bag from a tree, and always carry bear spray, especially when venturing into the backcountry.

Forest Service Campground Facilities

All Forest Service campsites come with a fire ring and picnic table, but note that only vault toilets are available, with no RV hookups. Most sites operate from mid-May to mid-September at an average cost of $34 per site. Outside formal campgrounds, dispersed camping is only permitted at numbered sites or at least half a mile from any road.

Explore Spire Rock Campground

Hikers appreciate Spire Rock Campground for its access to two challenging hikes: Storm Castle Peak, which reaches 7170 feet with nearly 2000 feet of elevation gain over two miles, and the longer Garnet Mountain trail, which has an elevation gain of 2800 feet over 8 miles. Both trails offer breathtaking views. This campground is also a favorite among rock climbers and families who enjoy rafting and zip lining nearby. The popular Lava Lake day hike is also within reach.

Situated three miles off Highway 191, down Squaw Creek Road, Spire Rock Campground features 19 sites, one-third of which back onto Storm Castle Creek, ideal for tent-side fishing access. It’s located 27 miles from Bozeman.

Visit Pine Creek Campground on Your Way to Yellowstone

Pine Creek Campground is conveniently located halfway between Bozeman and the northern entrance of Yellowstone National Park, offering both natural beauty and recreational options. A popular hiking trail leads from the campground to Pine Creek Falls (2 miles return) or venture further to Pine Creek Lake, which is a more challenging 10.5 miles round trip with a 3400-foot elevation gain in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness.

This campground is also a base for a visit to the hot springs and saloon at Chico Hot Springs, just 16 miles southwest, or take a short drive north to the charming town of Livingston.

Outdoor Adventures in Hyalite Canyon

Hyalite Canyon is a sought-after weekend outdoor destination, offering numerous activities such as single-track mountain biking, adventurous hikes up to Blackmore or Hyalite Peaks, and relaxed paddling on Hyalite Reservoir. The three Forest Service campgrounds provide an excellent base for car camping.

Langohr Campground is the closest to Bozeman, just a 30-minute drive away, and is perfect for anglers looking to catch Arctic grayling and brook trout. Heading further up the valley, Hood Creek Campground features 25 sites next to Hyalite Reservoir, ideal for paddlers and families. Chisholm Campground, a mile further, is quieter and offers easy access to popular trails like Palisade Falls and the remarkable Hyalite Creek and Emerald Lake trails.

Cabin Options for Adventurers

For a unique experience between lodging and camping, consider the remote cabins available through the Custer Gallatin Forest Service. Most cabins can only be accessed on foot, by mountain bike, or via cross-country skiing. These rustic cabins include a wood stove, bunk beds, a table, and an outhouse, but lack electricity and running water. Packing all essentials in and out is a requirement. Cabins cost approximately $65 for up to four people and can be reserved up to six months in advance, providing a fantastic opportunity for an authentic outdoor adventure.

For breathtaking views, don’t miss the former fire lookout cabin atop Garnet Mountain, accessible via a steep 3.5-mile hike, or tackle the 10-mile winter route from Rat Lake. Enjoy lovely amenities alongside spectacular panoramic views.

Relax at Bozeman Hot Springs Campground

For family-friendly accommodations, Bozeman Hot Springs Campground is your destination. Located a 15-minute drive west of Bozeman, it is the only campground open year-round. While this isn’t a wilderness experience, it offers conveniences like showers, laundry, Wi-Fi, RV hookups, and basic cabins. Enjoy live music every Thursday and Sunday evening while soaking in the two included hot spring passes with your stay.