23 Best Campgrounds Near Big Sky Country, Montana
Big Sky, Montana is a popular camping hotspot mainly known for its amazing skiing and biking trails. Campers from all around the country flock to Montana to sites like Big Sky and nearby campgrounds to enjoy the wide-open sky, lush tall forests, and pristine lake views. But if you want to avoid the crowds, you may be looking for a campground that’s near Big Sky rather than in it.
Whether you’re exploring on foot with a sleeping bag and tent, traveling in an RV, or looking for a cozy cabin to spend the night in, there’s a camping spot around Big Sky right for you. Keep reading to learn more about the best campgrounds near Big Sky, Montana.
1.Moose Creek Flat Campground
If you’re looking to park that RV or set up that tent among rolling hills filled with tall trees, this spot is for you. Not to mention it’s a great place to do some fishing or just enjoy the beauty of the nearby Gallatin River. Moose Creek Flat campground is always well maintained, kept clean, and provides a safe space for spending the night outdoors with the main park fenced. You may experience some heavy traffic or crowding on the freeway nearby, but the beauty of the river and mountain views definitely make it all worth it.
Amenities include:
- Beach access
- Firewood
- Picnic tables
Distance from Big sky: 13 minutes away, 11.2 mile drive away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 2 hours 15 minutes, 104.9 miles away.
RV hook-ups: No available hook-ups.
2.Greek Creek Campground
Located in Gallatin County, this campground is perfect for beginners or anyone looking for a more casual experience. Picnic tables and fire pits are available.
This spot is situated right in between the 191 highway and the Gallatin River. The tall mountain ranges in the backdrop of the river make for picture-perfect views you’ll never get tired of. Some campers have mentioned the proximity to the highway, making traffic noise a bit annoying. But it often becomes quiet and serene around nightfall as traffic lessens.
Overall, this spot is perfect for any campers looking to enjoy some nice views with a few amenities to make things a bit more comfortable.
Amenities include:
- Campfire rings
- Drinking water
- Vault toilets
Distance from Big Sky: 25 minutes, and 19.5 miles away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 2 hours 11 minutes, and 112.6 miles away.
RV hook-ups: No available hook-ups.
3.Ennis RV Village
Traveling in an RV often allows campers a bit more flexibility and a level of comfort not common to traditional camping. However, it’s important to find out which campground allows RVs or if there are designated spots for parking. The Ennis RV Village is located slightly west of Big Sky and provides fantastic grounds and amenities for all campers.
The bathrooms and showers are maintained well, and Wi-Fi is also available. Places like this are also fantastic ways to meet fellow campers and make new friends. You can share experiences and trade tips on the best hiking trails or fishing spots with others.
Especially if you’re traveling around to explore all that Montana has to offer, this is a great place to stop, rest, have a good shower, get some laundry done and enjoy the pristine mountain ranges from the comfort of the camp. If you’re traveling in an RV, make sure to put this place at the top of your list for RV campsites near Big Sky.
Amenities include:
- Wi-Fi
- Electric hookups
- Bathroom facilities
- Laundry facilities
Distance from Big Sky: 1 hour 37 minutes, and 87.1 miles away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 2 minutes, and 1.1 miles away.
RV hook-ups: Full hook-ups available.
4.Mystic Lake Cabin
Mystic Lake Cabin is a recreational cabin available for rent for anyone looking to enjoy the solitude and peace of the outdoors. This spot is a perfect stay for any enthusiastic hikers who want some challenging trails to explore.
After a long day of exploring the nearby trail and hanging out along the nearby river and creek, staying in a full bed in the comfort of your own cabin is ideal. This spot is open all year and has two different options for access routes.
If you’re traveling in the winter and still want a good camping experience, renting this cabin is a great option. You’ll have access to a safe and warm interior while still being able to enjoy the surrounding environment.
Amenities include:
- Propane lanterns
- Campfire rings
- Wood stove
Distance to Big Sky: 1 hour 58 minutes, and 61.1 miles away.
Distance to Yellowstone: 2 hours 40 minutes, and 97 miles away.
RV hook-ups: No hook-ups.
5.Swan Creek Campground
Located in the Gallatin National Forest, Swan Creek Campground is a rather secluded and private camping spot. You can fish and go rafting in the beautiful creek, or you can hike along the trails and enjoy the abundance of natural wildlife in the area.
One thing to keep in mind is that there can be a good number of mosquitos and bugs, especially in the spring and summer, but with some strong bug spray, this is easily avoidable.
Features include:
- Bathroom facilities
- Drinking water
- Trash collection
- Picnic tables
The nearby creek is particularly great for fishing, with a wide variety of fish available to catch. It’s definitely a great spot to leisurely practice your wrangling skills or even cool off from the summer heat.
Distance to Big Sky: 20 minutes, and 13.5 miles away.
Distance to Yellowstone: 2 hours 17 minutes, and 114.6 miles away.
RV hook-ups: No available hook-ups.
6.Spire Rock Campground
Spire Rock Campground offers a variety of camping options. Whether you’re traveling alone, as a single family, as a larger group, or want to be near other campers, this site has it all.
Most camping sections at this site are located right alongside Storm Castle Creek, enclosed by looming fir trees. If you’re a camper that loves to learn about and observe natural wildlife, then put this site at the top of your camping bucket list.
At this campground, you may very well spot magnificent animals like the Bald Eagle or other wildlife like elk and mountain goats. Getting to know the animals and wildlife that call Montana home is one of the best ways to unplug and get more connected to the natural environment.
Features include:
- Campfire rings
- Creek access
- Firepit
This campsite is also pet-friendly, so you can bring along the family pet!
Distance from Big Sky: 43 minutes, and 29.3 miles away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 2 hours 12 minutes, and 108.4 miles away.
RV hook-ups: No available hook-ups.
7.Tom Miner Campground
The Tom Miner Campground is located in the Gallatin National Forest as well, and its claim to fame is the access it provides to Montana’s petrified forest. You can see trees that are millions of years old! It’s truly remarkable and an experience of the Montana landscape that you do not want to miss if you’re in the area.
While other campgrounds sometimes function off reservations made in advance, this spot is first-come, first-serve, making it a casual and accessible option if you’re wanting a quick camping trip and don’t want to deal with too much planning.
Amenities include:
- Trash pickup
- Drinking water
- Fire Pit
Distance from Big Sky: 2 hours 31 minutes, and 115.5 miles away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 1 hour 9 minutes, and 33.5 miles away.
RV hook-ups: No available hook-ups.
8.Red Cliff Campground
If you are traveling in an RV and are in need of a serene spot with electric hookups, Red Cliff Campground is for you.
While the Gallatin River is perfect for campers looking for the views and activities that come with camping near water, if you venture a little further away from the Gallatin, you’ll be pleasantly surprised to find gorgeous meadows ripe with beautiful flowers and other wildlife.
Amenities include:
- Spacious day-use area
- Electric hookups
- Firewood
- Drinking water
This spot can get a bit crowded on the weekends or major holidays, so if you’re planning a trip during peak season, make sure to arrive at the campsite early to set up to ensure that you have a good spot. It’s also helpful to get there early to explore the area a bit and see which camping section will work best for you.
Distance from Big Sky: 12 minutes away, and 9.5 miles away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 2 hours 9 minutes, and 90.2 miles away.
RV hook-ups: Electric is available.
9.Battle Ridge Cabin
This rustic cabin built almost 100 years ago called Battle Ridge Cabin provides an amazing location for camping. Situated in a meadow near the ever-green Bridger Mountains, the feelings of restoration, peace, and serenity that many of us search for while camping is ever-present.
If you’re planning to camp during the winter and want a full weekend of skiing and snowboarding, this cabin is the perfect destination.
Amenities include:
- Toilets
- Wood cook stove
- Campfire ring
If you’re worried that staying in a cabin will be too different from traditional camping in a tent, don’t worry. While there is a stove and beds available inside, there isn’t any running water or electricity. There’s a creek nearby for showering off, but the water should be treated before drinking it. It’s very similar to the traditional camping experience, just a bit roomier and with a real mattress to sleep on.
Distance from Big Sky: 1 hour 32 minutes, and 71 miles away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 1 hour and 48 minutes away, and 91 miles away.
RV hook-ups: No hook-ups.
10.Buffalo Horn Campground
For the intermediate to advanced campers that want a more primitive location deep in nature, Buffalo Horn is ideal. There aren’t very many facilities available, but that can often be a good thing for campers looking for a challenge or to spend time in nature that hasn’t been altered by people too much.
Montana takes a lot of pride in camping sites like Buffalo Horn because it provides an authentic experience of the wildlife and natural landscapes the state is known for.
Hiking is the premier activity to do near this campsite, so make sure to pack those hiking boots so you can enjoy some great exercise with amazing views of meadows, creeks, and large mountains along the way.
Distance from Big Sky: 22 minutes, and 16 minutes away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 2 hours, and 85.8 miles away.
RV hook-ups: No hook-ups.
For those looking for a cabin camping experience with a few more amenities, Yellow Mule Cabin has everything you need. In perfect view is the Madison Mountain Range, which makes the perfect backdrop to the cabin’s cozy feel and long history.
11.Yellow Mule Cabin
This is also a great spot for anyone into bird watching. There’s such a variety of wildlife available to gaze at and learn about. The trail leading up to the cabin is not vehicle-friendly, with hiking, biking, or off-roading vehicles being the main way that campers can make it up to the entrance. However, this can also add to the intimate feel of the location.
Amenities include:
- Wood stove
- Propane lanterns
- Outhouse
This campsite cabin is ideal for any camper that wants access to plenty of awesome activities like hiking, biking, and fishing while also having a sturdy home base to return to. While pitching a tent or setting up camp can be a great way to practice your wilderness skills, some campers prefer the ease of being able to drop off their stuff and get started on the activities and exploration of the surrounding area rather than setting up camp.
Staying in a cabin may not be for everyone, but it is definitely a great way to start getting some more camping skills under your belt or allowing you to focus more on the camping activities and less about making sure your tent is set up correctly.
Distance from Big Sky: 34 minutes, and 15.4 miles away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 2 hours 36 minutes, and 108.7 miles away.
RV hook-ups: No hook-ups.
12.Bozeman Trail Campground and RV Park
It’s always a great feeling to practice your wilderness skills, and the pride of setting up your camp or catching a good fish should never be underestimated. However, sometimes you simply want some friendly customer service and some full-service amenities like Wi-Fi available so you can send family and friends some pics of the amazing views you’ve been seeing:
- Hot shower
- Wi-Fi
- Friendly hosts
- Convenient location
This spot is also ideal for anyone coming or going from one of the more primitive campgrounds nearby. It’s only a short distance from downtown Bozeman, which has more options for dining and shopping. It’s definitely worth exploring on your way out from your weekend camping trip in the woods.
Because it’s so close to the highway, the location can get a bit noisy at times, but most campers don’t mind, and it often dies down quite a bit as traffic lightens up. Overall, for a nice hot shower and access to clean bathrooms while you service your RV, you won’t be disappointed with this spot.
Distance from Big Sky: 5 hours 57 minutes, and 52.3 miles away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 1 hour 18 minutes, and 77.3 miles away.
RV hook-ups: Full hook-ups available.
13.Bozeman Hot Springs Campground (RV)
Bozeman Hot Springs Campground is the premier camping site in Gallatin County. It offers so many facilities and camping options you cannot go wrong if you choose to spend your camping trip here. They offer cabin, RV, and tent camping options!
Nearby at the Gallatin River, you can go fly fishing, golfing, or simply enjoy all the natural beauty and wildlife that Gallatin has to offer. It’s also important to note that the hot springs are nearly connected to the campground, which adds something extra special to this spot. Start your day with a relaxing dip and after an adventurous day out in nature come back and take a load off in the hot springs!
This campsite is perfect for families. There is no shortage of activities and games to keep everyone entertained. This spot can get booked up very quickly, so make sure to call in advance and reserve a cabin, tent area, or RV parking spot. The staff is very accommodating and friendly and will ensure that your camping experience is as fun as it can be.
This spot is really great for anyone looking for a bit of variety in their camping experience or who want to combine different aspects of advanced camping styles-while also having access to a ton of useful amenities.
Amenities include:
- Laundry facilities
- Shower facilities
- Free breakfast
- Game rentals
Distance from Big Sky: 41 minutes, and 36.2 miles away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 1 hour 46 minutes, and 91.5 miles away.
RV hook-ups: Full hook-ups available.
14.Hood Creek Campground
Water sports are some of the most fun activities to do while camping. Boating, kayaking, swimming, and paddle boarding are all great ways to cool off from the summer heat. If you’re bringing along your boat or canoe with you during your trip, then Hood Creek Campground is where you should be headed.
This camping spot is located right along the Hyalite Reservoir, and the excellent views of the mountain ranges in the backdrop of the wide and clear river are truly breathtaking.
Amenities include:
- Drinking water
- Boat ramp
- Toilets
- Picnic table
Don’t forget to also bring your fishing lines! You’ll have tons of fun spending all day near the water.
Distance from Big Sky: 1 hour 16 minutes, and 55.5 miles away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 2 hours 2 minutes, and 100.2 miles away.
RV hook-ups: No hook-ups.
15.Langohr Campground
If you prefer the tall, luscious forest to the wide-open river or lake, then take that RV or camping tent over to Langohr Campground. This camp spot is perfect for any campers looking to do some hiking or climbing. The nearby Hyalite Peak Trail takes hikers through green forests full of gorgeous wildlife as well as some breathtaking waterfalls.
Make sure to bring your camera along because you will definitely want to remember the sights you see. While Big Sky and Gallatin County offer plenty of amazing camping sites, it’s always great to have some options at the ready if you decide to make your way down to the infamous Yellowstone Park from this campground.
Amenities include:
- Trash pickup
- Picnic tables
- Firepit
Distance from Big Sky: 1 hour, and 44.5 miles away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 1 hour 52 minutes, and 95.8 miles away.
RV hook-ups: No hook-ups.
16.Eagle Creek Campground
Eagle Creek Campground offers a classic campground experience. There are a little over 15 spots to set up your tent or RV. They even offer a corral for horses which is always a lovely sight to see. Rather than tall looming mountains or forests, you’ll have access to serene rolling hills and flat green areas that create beautiful views.
Don’t be surprised if you see an abundance of elk or deer in the area. Campgrounds like this one are perfect for reconnecting with nature and enjoying all the serene beauty that it has to offer. No matter the season, the wide-open campsite allows you to breathe in all the fresh air and not feel too enclosed by large trees or advanced trails. This is casual and leisurely camping at its finest.
Amenities include:
- Firepit
- Picnic tables
- Vault toilets
Distance from Big Sky: 2 hours 30 minutes, and 128.7 miles away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 8 minutes, and 7.1 miles away.
RV hook-ups: No hook-ups.
17.Chisholm Campground
For access to the luscious forests of pine and fir trees as well as easy access to beautiful water, then Chisholm Campground is sure to have everything you need. There is also a boat ramp available, so make sure to hook up that boat and pack that cooler for your trip. Nothing beats hanging out on the water while waiting for the fish to bite in the crisp cool air.
This campground has two sites that you can reserve in advance as well as open spots on a first-come, first-serve basis. So, whether you’re gearing up for an impromptu camp trip or you want to start planning your summer camping schedule ahead of time, Chisolm Campground is a great option.
Amenities include:
- Firepit
- Firewood
- Trash pickup
- Toilets
Distance from Big Sky: 1 hour 18 minutes, and 56.5 miles away.
Distance from Yellowstone: 2 hours 3 minutes, and 101.5 miles away.
RV hook-ups: No hook-ups.
18.Fairy Lake Campground
If you’re planning your camping trip for the summer and want to ensure you get a good spot by some nice cold water that’s perfect for swimming, Fairy Lake Campground is the place to be. Located right by Fairy Lake in the Bozeman district, this campsite is nothing short of stunning.
That being said, it is a rather popular location, especially for day campers looking to enjoy the views and lounge by the lake. Make sure to get to the campground early so you can claim a good space.
It’s also important to note that the popularity of this space means it is often crowded during peak camping season. However, if you’re traveling with a group of outgoing personalities, it’s always a ton of fun to make new friends and bond over the shared experiences.
Once you set up and get to enjoy the beautiful views of the mountains, the lake, and surrounding forests, it will make the trail to get there and any minor annoyances very well worth it. The lake itself is also rather clear and shallow, so even if swimming isn’t your favorite activity, you’ll definitely want to spend some time in the water.
Amenities include:
- Bathroom facilities
- Drinking water
- Picnic tables
Distance to Big Sky: 1 hour 57 minutes, and 78.9 miles away.
Distance to Yellowstone: 2 hours 14 minutes, and 98 minutes away.
RV hook-ups: No hook-ups.
19.Lower Hyalite Group Campground
This campground is the best spot for large groups. If you’re camping as part of a family reunion, retreat, or you simply want to be around a community of campers, Lower Hyalite Campground is the best.
This is the perfect spot for a weekend camping trip with friends and family where you roast some marshmallows, play some games, and enjoy the fresh air. Make sure to bring your own drinking water, but if you need some more firewood for your late-night s’mores snack, you can also purchase a firewood bundle very easily.
Amenities include:
- Large fire pits
- Bathroom facilities
- Grills
- Picnic tables
For a casual and fun group experience, Lower Hyalite has everything you could need. All you have to do is set up your tent, get the fire going, and let the fun begin!
Distance to Big Sky: 50 minutes, and 40.2 miles.
Distance to Yellowstone: 1 hour 51 minutes, and 91.5 miles.
RV hook-ups: No hook-ups.
20.Beaver Creek Campground
Beaver Creek Campground is located in Gallatin National Park, but it’s also a short 30-minute drive to Yellowstone. This makes it an ideal stopping or resting point if you’re traveling from Big Sky to Yellowstone and are exploring different camping areas along the way.
The location of this campground could not be more perfect. It’s situated on a lush rolling hillside overlooking the Madison River and Earthquake Lake. The views of the water in the foreground of the nearby mountain ranges are signature to Montana and make for the perfect backdrop for any camping trip.
If you’re looking to do something a bit different on your trip, you can also visit the nearby visitor center to learn more about the history of the landscape and how it came to be. It’s also an extremely popular spot for water sports like fishing because of Hebgen Lake’s biodiversity. Fishing is a great way to relax your mind and enjoy the tranquil sounds and sights around you while camping.
Amenities include:
- Picnic tables
- Drinking water
- Paved road/entrance
- Trash pickup
Distance to Big Sky: 1 hour 3 minutes, and 58.6 miles.
Distance to Yellowstone: 46 minutes, and 25.3 miles away.
RV hook-ups: No hook-ups.
21.Snowbank Campground
Snowbank Campground offers an authentic wilderness experience. You’ll be surrounded by green fir trees and tall grass that creates a landscape of greenery that goes on for miles and miles.
If you’re also the type of camper that loves to have some free reign for exploring and doing all kinds of activities from fishing and off-roading to hiking, then this spot offers it all. Another popular activity, biking, is a wonderful way to get some good exercise while enjoying nature throughout the process.
Located right along Mill Creek, this campsite has a variety of tall grass and bushes that bring a vibrant and full effect to the landscape. A unique activity you should definitely check out if you decide to stop here is to go berry or mushroom picking. How often do you really get to see what it’s like to gather the different foods natural to the area?
Amenities include:
- Campfire rings
- Firewood
- Storage lockers
- Drinking water
Distance to Big Sky: 2 hours 4 minutes, and 95.5 miles.
Distance to Yellowstone: 1 hour 21 minutes, and 54.5 miles.
RV hook-ups: No hook-ups.
22.Moose Creek Flat Campground
For a free open space with tons of room to set up your tent or park your RV, the Moose Creek Campground is ideal. Often, campgrounds can be difficult to access through the trails or roads because there’s a genuine effort to leave Montana’s natural beauty largely untouched.
However, this can sometimes make finding a great camp spot or the best way to access a site a bit harder. Moose Creek is situated in an open meadow, but many campsites are within a short distance of the Gallatin River. There’s even a fishing dock located along the river if you don’t want to take the boat out.
Amenities include:
- Friendly host
- Paved roads
- Firewood
Distance to Big Sky: 14 minutes, and 11.2 miles.
Distance to Yellowstone: 2 hours 17 minutes, and 114.6 miles.
RV hook-ups: No hook-ups.
23. Livingston / Paradise Valley KOA
KOA’s or Kampgrounds Of America can be a very popular place to camp. These campgrounds are all over the country and can offer a lot of consistency if you travel or camp frequently. Generally speaking, you can find all the amenities you could ever need at a KOA.
Paradise Valley KOA offers free breakfast, bike rentals, disc golf, planned activities and they also have an indoor pool! Bird watching and fly fishing are great activities to do while camping at this specific KOA. We love KOA’s because we have a young daughter and we are never bored at the KOA with her. It’s a wonderful and safe place for families!
Distance from Big Sky: 1 hour 34 minutes, and 78.9 miles.
Distance from Yellowstone: 1 hour 2 minutes, and 50.2 miles.
RV Hook-ups: Yes Hook-ups available!
Final Thoughts
Big Sky, Montana, and its surrounding areas are home to so many camping sites that offer such a wide variety of experiences. There are campgrounds with plenty of amenities that are great for short weekend or day trips. And there’s also plenty of more primitive and isolated campgrounds that are perfect for advanced hikers and campers looking to test their skills and spend some truly authentic time in the wilderness.
There is also no shortage of gorgeous lakes, creeks, and rivers that make even more activities available, like fishing, boating, and paddling.
All of the campgrounds listed here are worth exploring. Make sure to check whether a reservation is required, get your gear ready and packed up, and then you are all set to have some amazing fun camping near Big Sky! Happy camping!
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