1. Explore
    /
  2. United States
    /
  3. Montana
    /
  4. National Forests
    /
  5. Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

The best camping in Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, MT

·
73% (11)

Popular ways to camp

Calendar icon
Snag sold-out campsites.
Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.
Van icon
See the best spots in one place.
Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.
Star icon
Book with confidence.
Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Top-rated campgrounds near Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

  • Triple Bridges Campground
  • Site #3 - East Meadow camp
  • Triple Bridges Campground

Triple Bridges Campground

92%
(91)
10mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Primitive camping with no water or trash service, pack in / pack out. There is a portable toilet. Located in the Alberton Gorge on the Clark Fork River, this is a premier location for the whitewater enthusiast. Take advantage of the class II, III rapids in your kayak or raft, or even surf. Alternatively, enjoy the relaxing Sandy Beach just a few minutes walk from the campground to swim and gaze at the beautiful argilite cliffs. The campground is near both the Interstate and a railroad so there is some ambient noise.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$26
 / night
  • Composting outhouse
  • Very charming outdoor kitchen and shower room
  • Composting outhouse

Sanctuary Farm Yurt Glamping

99%
(78)
13mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 15 sites · Lodging
A sanctuary away from everyday life, where you can relax and reconnect with nature. Yurt has electricity, a wood stove for heat in winter, a beautiful outdoor kitchen and bathhouse, and a year round creek nearby. Only 45 minutes from Missoula Montana. Games and books in the yurt. Cedar outhouse. Lots of extras to make for a truly remarkable glamping experience. We offer breakfast and french press organic coffee for an additional fee. Mostly secluded, situated above our garden and raspberry patch, so we are on that side of the garden early on summer mornings.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$81
 / night
  • Camp in a draw or the top of a ridge...
  • Beautiful views
  • Camp in a draw or the top of a ridge...

Primrose Meadows

95%
(1549)
26mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 23 sites · Tents
We can’t wait to share our land with you! Get away from it all and get under the Big Sky. Close to the freeway for easy access but adjacent to over 200 acres of beautiful farmland, you’ll experience Montana’s wildlife and have beautiful Mountain views when you stay at Primrose Meadows. There are few trees in the property, it’s mostly rolling hills with some trails to walk and plenty of space between sites! This property has a railroad track that runs next to the property that sometimes toots it’s horn, if you’re a light sleeper this is something you should consider!We are close to Council Grove and Frenchtown Pond which are both great swimming holes! You can also coordinate with us for cross-country skiing or head to Snowbowl for local downhill skiing! We are close to Missoula should you need any services in town.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$37
 / night
  • The Holmestead Cabin
  • The Holmestead Cabin
  • The Holmestead Cabin

The Holmestead Cabin

100%
(30)
26mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 2 sites · Lodging
Quiet getaway in the pines! Welcome to the Holmestead, our own little slice of Montana that we are really excited to bring back to life and share with YOU! We are small town Kansas natives who fell in love with Montana over 15 years ago. This property is equal parts privacy and concience, you can enjoy the peace and quite of nature while also having the ability to hop over a few miles to our little town for groceries, a local beer, or to gas up your car! The Holmestead is a rustic dry cabin on 5 acres nestled between Mill Creek and a seasonal run off stream with easy access to the highway and only a 10 min drive to Missoula. A queen bed, futon and air mattress are available for sleeping! Family and pet friendly property with plenty of space to pitch a tent next to the cabin if you have more guests in your party (tents will be an additional fee, $10 per person in addition to the 4 person cabin max). Excellent cell service if you have Verizon or carriers that pull from those towers. Attractions: Walking distance to forestry service roads. 15 minutes to the Missoula Airport and an additional 10 minutes to the heart of Missoula and all it has to offer. If you are looking for more adventure there is always an endless amount of recreation near, whether you want to drive 5 minutes to mountain bike or 3 hours to Glacier National Park, there is something for everyone! If you have questions about fun things to do please reach out to us! Parking: Reserved parking for guests in the main driveway or in the clearing near the cabin. Water: Portable toilet onsite, sealson warm shower and sink also available, we recently upgraded to a JOOLCA hot water system so guests can have running water and a warm outdoor shower. We provide 5 gal of potable water in the colder months and have running water nearby for easy refill of water containers if needed in the warmer months. We look forward to sharing our piece of Montana with you! Pets allowed. We do have 2 very frienly dogs that roam the property freely, if you pet is reactive please let us know so we can monitor our dogs when letting them outside to do their business. Please be sure to pick up after your animals.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$141
 / night
  • God's Country Camping
  • God's Country Camping
  • God's Country Camping

God's Country Camping

90%
(77)
31mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 1 site · Tent, RV
I am one mile from Hwy 93 so you can hear traffic noise sometimes. Planes do fly over once in awhile as well. This is a dry camp and rustic camping, sites are fairly far apart. This property is so beautiful and peaceful out here at night. Seasonal Spring fed pond, Ponderosa pine trees, fallen white birch, rustic and gorgeous. Some of my camp spots are on rough terrain. I always suggest you get out and walk around to see what you can manage with your vehicle. The idea of my place is more wilderness camping, there is wildlife that comes around. RV camp spots on the east and west end of the pond. Camp spot out by the wooden round pen on the west side. Completely private, borders 2000 acres of a bird sanctuary. Two blocks from Bitterroot river canoeing, kayaking, fishing, swim, trails, hiking, scenery, wildlife. My pond is spring fed, which means that is goes up and down with the seasons and run off from the snow in the mountains and collects cotton from the trees when they shed. So as the summer goes on the pond levels go way down, please be aware of that.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from 
$35
 / night
  • Willow Point
  • Swimming area
  • Willow Point

Willow Point

97%
(69)
31mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 1 site · Tent
Learn more about this land: Come join us at our favorite riverfront getaway camping spot. Your visit will take you to the end of the road, 6 miles outside of Missoula to the shore of the Bitterroot River. Take your pick of activities: swimming, snorkeling, paddle boarding, kayaking, or lounging and reading in sunny or shaded areas. Lots of room out here for social distancing, fresh mountain air, and the sounds nature. 
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
  • Missoula Rest And Relaxation
  • Missoula Rest And Relaxation
  • Missoula Rest And Relaxation

Missoula Rest And Relaxation

91%
(58)
32mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 5 sites · Tents, RVs
Hello, we have three acres with ClarkFork River access . Easy access to everything in Missoula. Very close to bike trails. Just a block west of Reserve Street. 10 minute drive to university. We are excited to share our wonderful property and excellent location with you. We welcome tents, RVs and campers. Non-vicious dogs are allowed. You must pick up after your dog. We are located in a part of town that is near Eco compost so on occasion if they turn a pile or if the wind shifts it is noticeably. If you use google maps it will direct you to our neighbors property. Please look for orange construction cone next to blue house to turn into the property.
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$27
 / night
  • Fire wood rack.
  • Ridgeline Retreat
  • Fire wood rack.

Ridgeline Retreat

96%
(71)
33mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
My wife, Nicole, and I were so very fortunate to have found this place. The homestead consists of 70 acres of mountainous forest in the wild lands of Montana. The cabin is totally off the grid but provides every creature comfort one could hope for.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$60
 / night
  • Grey Wolf Camping
  • Grey Wolf Camping
  • Grey Wolf Camping

Grey Wolf Camping

97%
(103)
33mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 19 sites · Tents, RVs
2 acres of field and trees. Right across the highway from the largest casino in Montana!
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$25
 / night
  • Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek
  • Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek
  • Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek

100%
(18)
35mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 1 site · RV
Welcome to our no-frills, convenient stopover spot on the edge of Missoula! Situated just a mile from town, our property offers a quiet and scenic retreat for travelers passing through or exploring the area. While parked on our driveway pad, you'll enjoy peace and tranquility, with the soothing sounds of Rattlesnake Creek nearby. Although the creek isn't visible from your parking spot, you're welcome to take a short walk around the house to fully experience its beauty. For those looking to stretch their legs and explore, the Rattlesnake Valley offers excellent walking opportunities just moments away. Take in the picturesque surroundings and unwind in nature's embrace. Our property spans half an acre, providing ample space for you to relax and recharge during your journey. Whether you're passing through Missoula or planning to stay awhile, our convenient location and serene setting make it the perfect place to rest and rejuvenate. Thank you for considering our property for your stay. We look forward to welcoming you and ensuring your visit is comfortable and enjoyable!
Pets
from 
$30
 / night
  • TK Ranch
  • Entrance to the ranch. You can't miss it.
  • TK Ranch

TK Ranch

99%
(67)
36mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 3 sites · RVs
This property has a self-sustained garden, wood shop and seasonal creek. Always something happening at the ranch.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from 
$79
 / night
  • Creekside getaway
  • Camping Area
  • Creekside getaway

Creekside getaway

99%
(238)
40mi from Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Stunning creekside campsites, glamping on a working ranch with views of the Bitterroot and Sapphire Mountains, and stunning star gazing. Historic homeland of the Salish (Flathead) tribe. Eighty acres featuring an old apple orchard, boulders, two creeks, and open areas for hiking, birding, stargazing, and wildlife watching. Bathroom provided next to RV site. Potable water at nearby well head and table provided. Numerous hiking and farm experiences are nearby. Some of the property could have cows grazing, depending on the time of the year. We also have wildlife come through including deer, elk and eagles. This mostly applies to the RV spot we have. Pets are welcome, so bering them along! You are also allowed to have campfires so snuggle up with your favorites by the warm glow at night!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Creekside getaway
T
Texas
November 2025
25 ft Class C
With pets
1 night at Creekside getaway
Great views and easy to get to. Nice level gravel pad with hookups. Lots of wildlife around.
See more
Primrose Meadows
S
Santos
November 2025
Tent
1 night at Primrose Meadows
Very beautiful piece of land and very nice host. I would definitely recommend visiting.
See more
Missoula Rest And Relaxation
Avatar
Chris
October 2025
38 ft travel trailer
With pets
6 nights at Missoula Rest And Relaxation
Space is level and quiet. Plenty of space to set up solar panels and do dog training. Space is far enough away from structures that quiet generators can't be heard at all by neighbors. Also managed neighborhood dog walks without issue. Drivers were slow and courteous to pedestrians. Was quickly greeted by two curious cats and enjoyed watching a couple young deer play in the grass just 20 feet from my trailer. Would stay again.
See more
Spring hike on the property.
B
Buck
October 2025
55 ft travel trailer
With pets
Weekend Trip to Creekside getaway
The hosts are always great! I'm the evening and morning we could hear elk calling in the hillside next to where we stayed. Also there are deer that come into the camp spot. It's a very quiet place that my wife and I love and will come back to many more times!
See more
Missoula Rest And Relaxation
M
Max
October 2025
16 ft car
Weekend Trip to Missoula Rest And Relaxation
Super nice yard with plenty of open space and fresh air, had a nice and peaceful night here
See more
Off The Beaten Path Glampground
B
Brianna
October 2025
With pets
2 nights at Off The Beaten Path Glampground
The dome glamping experience was wonderful! The interior of the bison decor was very cute and the perfect set up for my two gal friends and I. Beautiful view of the plains and river, both from inside the dome and the wooden porch it sits on. The propane heater was much appreciated, and took the chill off inside the dome. Trina was a terrific host, greeting us when we first arrived and showed us to our dome. She made sure we had what we needed, and has done a great job setting up her property. Fantastic getaway for us gals!!
See more
Triple Bridges Campground
D
David
October 2025
16 ft car
1 night at Triple Bridges Campground
Everything was great, nice spot by the river. Hosts were responsive and communicative. Thanks!
See more
Spring hike on the property.
Avatar
Mark
October 2025
25 ft Class C
With pets
2 nights at Creekside getaway
Very quiet, beautiful spot. Great hike to Sweathouse falls.
See more
Bitterroot Panorama
R
Richard
October 2025
29 ft travel trailer
With kids
Weekend Trip to Bitterroot Panorama
Great spot with a lovely view over the valley. James’ father John met us, helped to empty the RV and then helped us get set. James's homegrown ham, sausages and eggs made it even better.
See more
Missoula Rest And Relaxation
R
Reagan
October 2025
16 ft car
With pets
1 night at Missoula Rest And Relaxation
Fun spot right next to the river and some cows! Great place to camp out, very quiet
See more
The Holmestead Cabin
Avatar
Jaclyn
October 2025
1 night at The Holmestead Cabin
I ended up at Cody’s at kind of the last second and he and his wife were very welcoming and easy to communicate with. The space is really clean and well kept. Me and my dogs slept great. I would have booked another night but had plans for the next evening already. I highly recommend this spot - a steal for the price.
See more
Primrose Meadows
S
Sara
October 2025
Tent
1 night at Primrose Meadows
The views are excellent! I got in pretty late so it was maybe a little more difficult to navigate after dark, but I still managed to find a spot and the toilets pretty easily. Erin was very helpful and quick to respond.
See more
Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek
Avatar
Rachel
October 2025
39 ft pop-up camper
With pets
1 night at Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek
We had a lovely stay at Nancy’s, the neighbor is very walkable and the spot is a close distance to go explore the town.
See more
Hawk And Fox Ranch
Avatar
Anthony
October 2025
22 ft travel trailer
With pets
Weekend Trip to Hawk And Fox Ranch
Larry’s property was a great space for us. He was very responsive, friendly, and helpful. Our dogs were able to run around and the area was very safe. We will definitely come again next year once springtime arrives!
See more
Camping Area
S
Sophia
October 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Creekside getaway
Smith Creek Ranch has to the most beautiful property we have ever stay on! The star-gazing was top tier and the wild life was so fun to hear (elk was bugling and chirping) and watch (there was tons of white-tail deer playing around). The site was super easy to find as well as the bathrooms on the property. Don really has done a great job with the place!
See more
Camping Area
Avatar
Toni
October 2025
20 ft campervan
Weekend Trip to Creekside getaway
If you're looking for a safe space to enjoy the beauty of Montana this hip camp site is for you. Easy to find. Clean clear directions with camp host on sight should you have a question. We have a converted Van, having a clean bathroom option on sight is always a welcome bonus.
See more
Primrose Meadows
J
Justin
October 2025
Tent
Weekend Trip to Primrose Meadows
Arrived late and left early. Easy to find and got some good sleep in a safe place. Exactly what we needed. Thanks.
See more
Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek
L
Lawrence
October 2025
19 ft pop-up camper
Weekend Trip to Edge Of Missoula, Rattlesnake Creek
Absolutely perfect spot. Nancy provided very straightforward directions to her property and the site was level and very quiet.
See more
Primrose Meadows
P
Phil
October 2025
Tent
1 night at Primrose Meadows
my second time here and id recommend it to anyone looking for a chill place to camp!
See more
Mission Mtn Horse Ranch Retreat
N
Nate
October 2025
16 ft car
4 nights at Mission Mtn Horse Ranch Retreat
There were great views and friendly dogs. Megan and Jay were very accommodating and responsive when I had any questions. I would stay here again in an instant!
See more

The best camping in Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest, MT guide

Overview

About

It is only right that the land named after some of America’s raddest explorers would be totally epic! Covering a whopping seven mountain ranges, Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest is your front door to adventure in Montana. If winter is your happy place, then come make turns at Silver Crest Ski Area, or snowshoe trails through peaceful forests. In the summer, day trippers can roam among prairielands and flowering cacti on the Sulphur Springs Trail, while offroaders and bikers and zip down the OHV trails. Stay in an epic lookout tower on top of the Castle Mountains, or enjoy a remote campsite all to yourself. However you choose to spend your time at Lewis and Clark, you’ll find yourself thanking these two OG adventurers for discovering such an incredible place!

73%
11 ratings · 1 review
August 2016
Crystal Lake Campground
Grew up about thirty minutes from this campground, so I may be reviewing through a pretty thick haze of nostalgia. It's great for families though, with hikes for every age and ability. Lots of snail shells to be found on the lake shore, deer will walk through camp (and take your snacks if you're not careful), and the views from the top of the ridge are fun. Bring bug repellent - mosquitoes are hit and miss here but the black flies are a near constant. My favorite hike is Grandview and back before breakfast but the ice caves are also a popular option, and that trail is a nice moderate loop you can take all day on. Tl;dr - a beautiful little local lake with hiking options to fill your weekend.
Avatar
Larissa D.
9 years on Hipcamp

Top national forests near Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

Bitterroot National Forest
Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest
Lolo National Forest
Flathead National Forest
Teton National Forest
Malheur National Forest
Umatilla National Forest
Bridger National Forest

Top parks near Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

Libby Dam and Lake Koocanusa Park
Fields Spring State Park
Mount Spokane State Park
Beavertail Hill State Park
Crawford State Park Heritage Site
Whitman Mission National Historic Site
Catherine Creek State Park
Minam State Recreation Area

Top points of interest near Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

Flathead Lake
Lake Koocanusa
Hungry Horse Reservoir
Coeur d'Alene Lake
Bald Mountain
Banbury Hot Springs
Black Canyon
Fall Creek Falls

Top cities near Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest

Missoula
Spokane
Seeley Lake
Sandpoint
Leavenworth
West Yellowstone
Bozeman
Boise

Best camping near me

Best tent camping near me
Best RV camping near me
Best glamping near me