- Smith River State Park
The best camping in Smith River State Park, MT
Discover the serene beauty of Smith River State Park and its renowned trout fishing.
The best camping in Smith River State Park, MT
Relax Inn Montana
1. Relax Inn Montana
98%
(32)
31mi from Smith River State Park · 8 sites · Tents, Lodging
Half way between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park - Perfect place to stop and rest between adventures : )
Outdoor Living at its finest : ))
2 Acres of unique quiet spaces in a park like setting -
Tent Site 1 - has 2 Secluded improved Spaces
Tent Site 2 - Open field unimproved 3 or 4 tent spaces
Bld 1 is pet friendly and has 2 cabins with a pass through door for larger groups -
Cabin 1 - sleeps 2
Cabin 2 - sleeps 5
Bld 2 is pet free and has 2 cabins with a pass through door for larger groups
Cabin 3 - sleeps 4
Cabin 4 - sleeps 2
10 miles outside of Helena, the Capital of Montana
5 miles from 3 lakes ( Canyon Ferry Lake - Lake Helena - Hauser Lake )
Surrounded by prime hunting areas - 45 min to skiing
A set of cast iron tubs that are always nice to take a soak after a hot days hike - a yin yang patio with gas firepit for a relaxing evening of sharing - a quiet (phone free) gazebo great for reflection - a covered BBQ pavilion with gas grill and gas firepit to gather round - a real fire pit area with picnic table (local wind and fire restrictions apply accordingly) - purest of potable well water on spigot in fire ring area - Solars that light the paths in the night - Pets are welcome just need to pick up after them ! A Greenhouse full of games camping chairs and tents if needed - An oversized porta potty between the cabins making it easier for families with kids
5 miles from 3 lakes for those who love to fish, boat, hike, float or just toss rocks - also around the corner you can dig for sapphires - 4 hours to Glacier National Park - 4 hours to Yellowstone National Park - Crystal Park or maybe a boat ride at The Gates of the Mountains - A tour train of downtown Helena - Too much to list around here -
I am new at this so bear with me as I navigate this process and continue to improve spaces for your enjoyment - as always your feedback is appreciate for future improvements - and a guest book is in each cabin and the Gazebo for your comments : )
It is Rustic but not Crazy roughin' it - Great family space : )
This is my private sanctuary that I have the honor of sharing with those who appreciate simple rustic outdoor living at its finest - I invite you, my friends and family to Relax Inn Helena and make your own amazing memories
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$50
/ night
》°☆Montana Family Camp☆°《
2. 》°☆Montana Family Camp☆°《
93%
(14)
33mi from Smith River State Park · 9 sites · Tents, RVs
PLEASE BE AWARE! There are no toilets onsite and no water available from October 1st to May 1st. We are open through the winter, but you'll need to be fully containted, and not need water or toilets.
Fantastic Hauser Lake, causeway, and National forest basecamp or for a quick overnight stay when you're passing through.
Sprawling 20 acres set in the center of 4 lakes in the Helena Valley.
1 1/2 miles from Lakeside, a haven for boaters, swimmers, and not much further to Helena National Forest, and York. Lakeside offers a gas station, convenience store, and wonderful bar/restaurant. Several boat launches and walking paths are also in the area.
9 miles from Helena.
Experience a beautiful Prairie setting with awesome sunsets, chickens, roosters, horses, guinea fowl, and stunning views of Hauser Lake and several mountain ranges.
Talk to Granny Julie about our horses, chickens, guinea fowl, and other fun stuff to view at the farm! Animals do make noise, and we do have roosters. Guinea Fowl are watchdogs and alert to danger, so they can be noisy from time to time. The horse likes to let us know she wants treats. :) We are a family farm, so children do visit Granny; please drive accordingly.
Please note! We are adding picnic tables to the sites to better serve you.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$20
/ night
The DET Place Hideaway
3. The DET Place Hideaway
100%
(11)
37mi from Smith River State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Unplug under the endless Montana sky at “The DET Place” — a private 12-acre retreat tucked away just a mile outside Townsend.
Set up camp in wide open space with epic views of Mount Baldy, a cozy campfire, and frequent visits from whitetail deer, pheasants, and the occasional sandhill cranes.
Perfect for tent campers and stargazers, the site is close to Canyon Ferry Lake, the Missouri River, and town conveniences - but feels like a world away.
Watch the sunrise with the resident horses, visit with the barn cats, or just sit back and take in the silence.
Whether you're paddling, fishing, hiking, or glamping out under the stars, The DET Place offers a Montana experience you'll never forget.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$25
/ night
Farm Land Escape
4. Farm Land Escape
100%
(10)
38mi from Smith River State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs
Please contact me through here 1-2 days prior to your arrival so I can get your area ready. As there may be one other camper from time to time as well. I want you to have the privacy and the experience as if it was only you and you’re family staying.
This 53 acres use to be owned by a guy named John Helberg which is who the road is named after. It’s the original homestead land dated over 100 years ago where they farmed for there dairy cows and other livestock.
This is right off a dead end road. You will have a view of a Montana farm field with the Rocky Mountains in the background. Dark nights out of the town means the stars will be out and about! This is a quiet secluded area there is a house near by, he is an older gentlemen you won’t even know he’s there.
Depending on time of year there will be a field full of crop or the farm getting farmed. There very well could be some horses near by to pet!! Located 10 minutes from the lakes. 5 minutes from a reservoir. 10 minutes from town. 15 min to closest hiking areas. Helena really is the heart of fun very centralized for all directions of fun! Very easy pull in and pull out area. Please not there may be other campers enjoying as well
Black Sandy State Park and Helena National Park
are both under 15 miles away. Enjoy hiking and
If you’re the boating type, head down the Missouri river in search of a rumored rope swing or jump off the boat for a dip in the crystal waters of Hauser Lake. Looking to avoid all the crowds or enjoy a solitary weekend under the endless Montana sky? Just head to Black Sandy during the winter months! You’ll find the same great stunning views and an ice skating experience that will put your grandparents’ childhood tales to shame.
I do have power 50 amp, fresh water, grey water hook up, no black water. This option may not be available all of the time.
Nearby is a brown shop this is area is rented out and off limits to camp stayers. The patio area on shop is not for the hipcampers
thank you
Pets
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from
$80
/ night
A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame
5. A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame
100%
(20)
39mi from Smith River State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Experience an unforgettable getaway at our canyon retreat. Our property is located on 190+ acres, and is surrounded by mountain, canyon and river views. Find a secluded campsite or stay at our mini A-frame, with Blue-Ribbon trout fishing right nearby. Guests will find a private and peaceful setting to relax and connect.
LOCATION DETAILS
☀ 2 min from I-15 exit on a private road
☀ 10 min to nearest grocery and gas station in Cascade, MT
☀ 5 min to nearest bar & grill, Missouri River Inn
☀ 3 min to nearest boat ramp/fishing access for the Missouri River
☀ 30 min to Holter Lake
☀ 12 min to fly fishing stores, restaurants and bar & grills in Craig, MT
☀ 18 min to fly fishing stores, restaurants and bar & grills, gas station in Wolf Creek, MT
☀ 45 min to downtown Helena, MT
☀ 3.5 hours to Yellowstone National Park
☀ 2.5 hours to Glacier National Park
☀ 30 min to Great Falls International Airport
☀ 50 min to Helena Regional Airport
☀ 2 hours to Bozeman International Airport
☀ 2.5 hours to Missoula International Airport
Important notes:
- Please bring your own water
- 4WD recommended for closest access to our sites.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$23
/ night
Delpine Farms
6. Delpine Farms
98%
(23)
39mi from Smith River State Park · 4 sites · RVs
This region is home to many longstanding ranches but ours is a little unique for the area. We are a vegetable market garden with a large flock of laying hens for eggs and we also raise and process farm grown chicken. Our goal is to feed our community a bright variety of fresh and healthy food. We farm above and beyond organic standards, following regenerative practices with nature, not against it.Learn more about this land:Located just 1.3 miles off US HWY 12 on Spring Creek Road, best access to the Little Belt Mountains and endless public land in the Lewis and Clark National Forest. Nothing fancy, but that's not what you come to the mountains for. Unload your ATV or UTV and explore, wander, hike and hunt the public lands to your hearts desire (we are not giving hunting, fishing or access permission on any private land owned by us, or any other private land owners). There is plenty of wildlife, be bear aware, keep all food, especially meat, safely stored and locked. Rock climbing is NOT PERMITTED. This is Montana and the weather can be it's own beast. Be prepared for all circumstances, snow, rain, wind, heat, it's all more extreme here.
Pets
from
$15
/ night
The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!
7. The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!
98%
(132)
42mi from Smith River State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs
This five-acre oasis was once a landscape nursery. So given the close proximity to downtown we are a hidden sanctuary from the outside world, secluded by cottonwood trees and mature foliage. The site now serves as a wedding venue and offers views of Mount Helena to the South and the Sleeping Giant to the North.
Learn more about this land:
Pitch a tent in our aspen grove or park your camper/RV in the grassland field.
You're close to downtown
with lots of privacy/scenery. You'll have views of regal Mount Helena to the South and The Sleeping Giant to the North.
The South Hill trail complex is a great place to explore as well as the Scratchgravels. The Missouri River is only 20 minutes away as well as Lake Hauser and Canyon Ferry.
If new to the area and interested in history, we recommend the Tour Train. We also have several great breweries - our favorites include Ten Mile and Blackfoot Breweries (a perfect stop you can ride to after a trail ride/hike in the South Hills).
This site is perfect for those wanting to explore Downtown Helena, it's renowned trail systems, but still sleep under the stars.
Pets are allowed. Please make sure you pick up after them. There is water throughout the property that you are welcome to use for cleaning, but it is not potable.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from
$45
/ night
The Homestead
8. The Homestead
100%
(18)
43mi from Smith River State Park · 2 sites · Lodging
The Homestead is located in Clancy, Montana on a 600 acre portion of a private ranch. This is a camping experience...think upscale tent camping for the adventurous soul! The tents are nestled in the foothills of the Elkhorn Mountain Range and sit right above the Strawberry Creek trail. You will be surrounded by stunning views of Sheep Mountain to the west, Casey Peak to the east, and the Helena Valley and Gates of the Mountains Wilderness to the north. Mountain bike, hike, trail run, explore and/or relax! Just a short 20 minute drive to Helena, MT for more trails, dining or other activities.
*** This mountain destination takes you one mile on a dirt, two track road though a field to reach the tents so AWD is highly recommended.
Pets
Toilets
Potable water
from
$115
/ night
Montana Country & Stone Barns
9. Montana Country & Stone Barns
97%
(138)
44mi from Smith River State Park · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging
Our 100 year old stone barns are on 20 acres just a few miles from Great Falls. Next to us is an alfalfa field with a great view of our maple tree and cottonwoods. Our home is nestled in trees with a patio deck for a picnic or drink.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$30
/ night
Mountain Biker's Getaway
10. Mountain Biker's Getaway
100%
(19)
44mi from Smith River State Park · 1 site · RV
We have a 20 acre parcel where we live that is right next to the trail system and also 5 minutes from downtown Helena. We love hosting our friends who come to mountain bike and enjoy Helena and are happy to host you! We have a small trail cut into the property that is available for your use and a forest for you to play in
Pets
from
$26
/ night
Mama Honey's RV Dry Camping
11. Mama Honey's RV Dry Camping
22mi from Smith River State Park · 1 site · RV
Learn more about this land:This is a rough unlevel plot of 4 city lots and is just over .4 of an acre with a hot spring creek running through it. There is no shade or development yet. But it is not grossly uneven, fine for tent camping or rolling a smaller RV onto.It is just across the street from the Spa Hot Springs Motel, where there is a bathhouse, hot spring, 3 pools, bathrooms, and showers. It is within walking distance to downtown White Sulpher Springs and the Golf Course. Nestled between 2 National Forests there is much to see and do. There is rockhounding, hunting and fishing, mountain biking, hiking, skiing, ghost towns, hot springs, museums, and so much more!It can be windy so take care to not let your stuff blow away. It can be dry if you are soaking lots, bring lotion. Afternoon storms can come through so always have rain gear handy. The Castle Museum is right in White Sulphur Springs as is Red Ants Pants Corporate Headquarters (workwear for women). There are numerous restaurants and a gallery. The famous Bair Museum is nearby as well. There are several reservoirs and countless trails into the national forest. Annually in July, there is the Red Ants Pants festival.
Pets
from
$20
/ night
York Montana Hideaway
12. York Montana Hideaway
83%
(6)
27mi from Smith River State Park · 1 site · RV
As opposed to the thousands of runoff creeks in Western Montana, the unique Trout Creek Canyon has one of the few spring fed streams. It's rather large volume of water flows from several groups of canyons and drainages in the Little Belt mountains, bubbling out of the ground six miles up at the foot of the beautiful Vigilante canyon and terminating in the Missouri River three miles further down. Over the last 150 years a number of gold and silver mines have operated in the gulches at the side of the canyon. A pictorial history is available at the community park and in the social hall. If you're lucky you might even still see a few mountain goats on your way up the canyon.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
Pets
from
$45
/ night
Ray’s Trout Pond
13. Ray’s Trout Pond
29mi from Smith River State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
This grass covered wooded retreat is on Beaver Creek in the almost ghost town of Nelson,Mt. “The Cribbage Capital of the World “. 2 swimming/fishing large fire pit and plenty of lawn games. Nestled in the little Belt mountains you are close to miles of hiking and biking trails and some of Montana's Famous trout fishing. Property is bordering NFS on 3 sides so head out directly from camp.
Pets
Campfires
from
$16
/ night
Campsite at the Causeway
14. Campsite at the Causeway
100%
(9)
35mi from Smith River State Park · 2 sites · RVs
This 6 acre property is perfectly situated to accommodate lake fun, river boating and just 10 minutes to all the conveniences of Helena. The RV site has plenty of space to bring you boat for a perfect summer camp out with the family and tons of access to multiple bodies of water within minutes of the property, and the Causeway Chalet Bar n’ Grill is within walking distance. There is a tiny house on site which can also be rented, otherwise you will have the place to yourself.
Electrical hookup
Water hookup
from
$24
/ night
1 RV Spot In The Castle Mountains
15. 1 RV Spot In The Castle Mountains
100%
(2)
35mi from Smith River State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
We are 4 th generation ranchers that raise angus cattle. The RV site , natural level grass with electrical hookup, is right off the county road that leads to the Lewis and Clark National forest where you can go spend time on your mountain bike, atv or utv, of course staying on designated roads!. Site is open until September 5. Castle Town, privately owned lots, was a silver and lead mining town in 1890’s is about. 2.5 miles .. Local interests are the Bair Museum which is 18 miles at Martinsdale, Also in Martinsdale is Prairie Smoke Cafe and Mint Bar, and the Spa Hot springs in white Sulphur Springs (43 miles) Red Ants Pants is a musical festival in White Sulphur Springs the end of July. Great steakhouse at Ringling…30 miles away.. Enjoy the cool, crisp mountain air with our elevation close to 6000’ with Alabaugh Creek running thru the ranch…. Many species of wildlife, elk, mule deer, whitetail deer, antelope, black bear, mountain lions, coyotes and many species of birds. Hiking, fishing, mountain biking, photography are a few of the things to take up your days.
Pets
Electrical hookup
Picnic table
from
$50
/ night
Untouchable
16. Untouchable
100%
(2)
40mi from Smith River State Park · 1 site · Tent, RV
This property sits in the Adel Volcano in the Big Belt Mountains along the Missouri river just outside Cascade, Montana. It is famous for being used by the production company in the movie “The Untouchables “. Just like the production company you can set up your trailer or tents along the property. We are located just over a couple hours between Glacier National Park and Yellowstone National Park. Lewis and Clark’s footsteps are all around us here on the property. Get out and enjoy!
Pets
Electrical hookup
Toilets
from
$55
/ night
Sagebrush Mountain View
17. Sagebrush Mountain View
41mi from Smith River State Park · 5 sites · RVs
Wide open space with natural landscape and amazing view of the Helena Valley and surrounding mountain ranges. This land is undisturbed, aside from the road and parking pull-throughs that have been created for RV parking. Self contained units only and as they say, "Pack it in, pack it out". See what Lewis and Clark traveled through as they made their way west from the Missouri River. Prickly Pear Cactus, sagebrush and natural grasses are prevalent. Helena, the capital of Montana is a mere 20 minute drive, where all the amenities of a small town exist. National Forest abounds to the west and Canyon Ferry Reservoir is 20 minutes to the east. Access to the property is 4.25 miles from Interstate 15. This is a high mountain dessert with an elevation of 4090' above sea level. Average rainfall is 6", so campfires are not allowed due to the dry grasses and sagebrush. Pets are allowed on leashes and quiet time is from 10:00 PM to 8:00 AM. We are located approximately half way between Yellowstone and Glacier National Parks.
Pets
from
$45
/ night
Date Street Cabin @ C Lazy M Meadow
18. Date Street Cabin @ C Lazy M Meadow
92%
(6)
41mi from Smith River State Park · 1 site · Lodging
A small cabin sleeps 4 with 2 queen beds and room to stake a tent or park a camper. Sits on 6 acres with a creek bed under large trees and overlooks a meadow. Includes an outhouse, potable water, grill, picnic table and a "smokeless" fire pit. Dishes, utensils, firewood and bedding included. Come stay in MT City; only 5 miles from all historic Helena has to offer! 4 restaurants/bars within walking distance(.5 mi.). 3 large lakes w/in 10 miles with beaches, boating and sight seeing opportunities; the Missouri river within 15 miles for fishing, boating, paddle boarding, hiking and biking. Come relax! Sleeps 4 in beds. Additional guests allowed with permission and fee (tents and/or or campers).
While exploring Helena, we recommend the Walking Mall and the lower end of Last Chance Gulch for shopping and dining. You can also do a self guided tour of the Capitol building and then ride the tour train through Helena to get a quick history lesson. If you want to do something outside, we suggest Houser Lake at Lakeside with a bar and grill, a beach, fire pit, volley ball, etc. There is also guided boat rides at Gates of the Mountains on Holter Lake (about 20 miles towards Great Falls). If you are looking to go hiking, Mount Helena is a nice hike, but maybe a bit much for small kiddos, unless you have a backpack. If you'd like additional suggestions, please don't hesitate to reach out. Hope you enjoy your stay!
Party (or Wedding) Tent available at additional charge for all rentals.
If you are looking for a place for a small wedding, (50 guests) let us know. We can accommodate your needs with minimal decorations, a party tent and a place for the bridal party to dress. As well as the Date Street Cabin for the new couple’s honeymoon night! Let us know if you would like to stay with us, We would love to host you. (Additional charges apply for weddings based on needs and services provided).
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from
$70
/ night
Rodeo Basecamp Along the Mighty MO
19. Rodeo Basecamp Along the Mighty MO
42mi from Smith River State Park · 1 site · Lodging
Mid century original vintage ranch home located on acreage adjacent to Missouri River and state fishing access site.
3 bedrooms with 2 full sized beds and 2 queen sized fold-out sofas. Indoor half-bath (shower and sink) with serviced portable toilet outside. Fully equipped kitchen and generous living room with big windows.
Immediate yard is partially fenced due to ongoing water/sewer projects and pets are welcome. Mudroom adjacent to kitchen is indoor pet area.
Hundreds of conservation and grazing acres available to enjoy abundant wildlife: pheasants, eagles, osprey, bull and rattle snakes, ground squirrels, owls, deer, and coyotes exist amongst grazing cattle and horses. Beautiful morning and evening light.
Third and fourth generation family members are restoring property to friendly use so areas open to access are clearly flagged/signed.
More information in house binder and on-site.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$100
/ night
MT Keene Life is Good Lodge
20. MT Keene Life is Good Lodge
43mi from Smith River State Park · 1 site · Lodging
Wade the Dearborn in the back yard of this 3-bedroom house (fourth bedroom/living room or guide cabin next door ($150/stay to open) on 10 acres of the former Gary Cooper Ranch. Don’t be surprised to see deer, geese and ducks in the window nudging their way near the deck, especially at the spring waterfall that cascades down the slope. if you are especially quiet and observant, the hundreds of acres of park and ranch across the river also have mountain goats, bears, antelope and even the mountain lion.
Help yourself to the library, watch satellite television or DVD movies, or read from the house’s library.
The public put-in is an 11 hour trip; private access to two shorter put-ins make this a recommended site for many Montana guides. Launch from the back yard and float one half mile down the Dearborn River to the Missouri River or from anywhere on the Dearborn to your own private fishing hole among some of nature’s oldest rock outcroppings.
Only few miles from the Missouri Inn over the bridge where the Untouchables was filmed, enjoy the canyon or visit the Lewis and Clark’s Tower Rock and surrounding Park. From this base, see the spectacular Glacier Park or the continent’s largest dinosaur digs to the northwest, float the Lewis and Clark Trail by pontoon boat and lunch at the island where one of the nation's most famous fires occurred, or travel south to Yellowstone National Park or Jackson Hole, each an easy day’s visit.
Bring your dogs to the kennel behind the house, hang on the deck with river and tremendous rock views, play pool or light the outside fire pit for a campfire. BBQ or enjoy the new, custom kitchen and fisherman’s décor. In the evening, take your pick of 3 spacious bedrooms where at the end of the day 6 extra long beds await or tie a few at the fly-tying table.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from
$375
/ night
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Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community
J
Joe
October 2025
16 ft car
Group trip
Nice convenient spot to camp. Very clean. We camped for three nights during antelope season, and have no regrets.
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D
Darci
October 2025
27 ft travel trailer
With pets
Jamie's land was perfect for our last camping trip of the season. The spot is beautiful and so peaceful. It is close enough to downtown to be convenient, yet feels like you are out in the country. Jamie was super helpful and attentive. We will definitely be back next time we are in Helena.
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J
Jeff
October 2025
16 ft car
Great spot, exactly as described. Private, quiet, beautiful. Instructions were incredibly specific and helpful. Will absolutely book again if I'm headed back in this direction.
See moreB
Brett
September 2025
23 ft travel trailer
With pets
Beautiful property, excellent hosts, fantastic area to explore around. We visited with two kids (9 and 12) and two dogs. Will be back next season!
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Krystl
September 2025
With pets
The hayloft was closed for maintenance, but the bunkhouse was very comfortable and beautifully decorated. The heater kept my little dog and I cozy all night. A great place to stay!
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R
Robert
September 2025
40 ft travel trailer
With pets
Lovely quiet spot. We had our dog so we took several walks - on the Host's land and along the quiet gravel road. Easy to find a flat spot to park. We had a great chat with the Host, who was quite helpful.
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C
Chelsea
September 2025
Weekend Trip to A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame
Absolutely beautiful property. Thoughtful accommodations(games, solar powered flashlight/radio, books, hiking poles). Truly a wonderful experience. We didn’t encounter any bears but we did get to see a few deer. I recommend getting there during the light hours so you can find your way. Easy to follow instruction. Hosts are responsive and welcoming. Propane fire pit was a nice bonus. Our indoor heater was out of propane but we were comfortable. Bathroom and shower are down a little ways from the a-frame but not a bad walk. Definitely set up for a camper ready for a little glamp :)
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J
Jason
September 2025
1 night at The DET Place Hideaway
McKenzie was great. She was very quick to reply to questions and super accommodating. Our check in time changed a couple of times d/t unforeseen delays getting to Montana - but she was really easy to work with and understanding.
The 5th wheel was great. Lots of space and well kept. Bedrooms were a nice surprise (bigger than appeared in the pics). Shower was hot and plenty large enough for me (6 ft and 245lbs) to clean up. Water and heat were included and welcome.
The view of the mountains out of the camper door were a pleasant way to wake up and her property was secluded enough and well kept. Easy instructions and only about an hour north of Bozeman.
Would def stay with her again if we made it back up this way.
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L
Laurie
September 2025
Tent
With pets
What a peaceful beautiful place... I stayed 2 days! Great for star gazing too. Jeni was a wonderful host, kind and helpful - even had a little gift bag upon arrival. Quick drive to Helena... great coffee and breakfast sandwiches at Country Coffee - a little coffee shack near by. There's no shade, but a clean porta-potty and picnic tables. Would absolutely stay again!
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Jay
September 2025
Tent
The farm/ranch and setting are beautiful and far enough out to keep it peaceful, but close enough to town that it's not inconvenient. Maybe even more importantly, Becky was such and kind and considerate host - it made the whole experience very positive. Above and beyond my expectations for a new Hipcamper!
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Kyler
September 2025
Tent
Group trip
Very friendly, the daughter of Julie came out and greeted us when we got there. Would definitely stay there again. Some bugs but to be expected out in fields and close to farm land, etc
See moreH
Heidi
September 2025
1 night at A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame
Secluded canyon stay near beautiful Cascade, MT. The scenery was amazing and we really enjoyed our stay at the mini A-frame.
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Tim
September 2025
16 ft car
Very simple camp site with clean amenities and quiet surroundings
See moreTim
September 2025
16 ft car
Great little site to sleep and regroup along the way.
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K
Kevin
September 2025
With pets
The tent was amazing! It was the perfect mix of wilderness and comfort. I had my 4 yr old daughter and we had a blast. Endless rocks and boulders to climb on and plenty of privacy. We heard an elk bugling on the second the morning as well, creating quite the experience.
We also took a quick drive to the Hardware Cafe just a few miles down the road for some comfort food.
We will definitely be staying again next year!
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J
Jim
September 2025
17 ft travel trailer
With pets
What a wonderful spot to relax and enjoy the tranquility of a beautiful pastoral scene. On top of that the hosts, Vicki & Roger, were absolutely amazing. Very accommodating and there to help any way they could.
Talking to them felt like talking to old friends.
We were amazed at the history of their ranch as well as the history of Castle Town.
If we head that way again, we will for sure stay at their wonderful place and be sure to visit with our old new friends.
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W
William
September 2025
26 ft travel trailer
Appreciated the power hookup.
Was close to the road to the lake and there was a fair amount of traffic heading that way. Down by the lake was a dump station ($5). Also only 15 minutes to Helena. There is no water and the RV spot is not level but workable. besides a tiny rental home you get it to yourself. Oh but there is a trail cam on the tree by the RV spot so no peeing on his trees. Thanks Eric
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R
Rachel
September 2025
Weekend Trip to The Homestead
We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Jamie’s Elkhorn tent. She has curated the space beautifully and thought of every little detail. The property is beautiful and close to Helena. We got the mountain camping experience without having to drive far. Thank you for you hospitality!
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S
Sierra
August 2025
17 ft campervan
This is the perfect place for a quick overnight stay. I loved being woken up by the roosters to watch the beautiful sunrise! There scenery is beautiful no matter what direction you look. The host was very friendly and welcoming as well.
See moreS
Shombuly
August 2025
Weekend Trip to A Canyon Stay with Mini A-frame
What a wonderful spot in the world. Just outside cell reception is a little piece of heaven! Thank you so much for sharing it with us. As a couples weekend away, this was perfect. We will be back again.
See moreThe best camping in Smith River State Park, MT guide
Overview
About
A Smith River State Park camping expedition delivers the ultimate nature experience. Discover the joys of an enchanting 59-mile river journey brimming with opportunities for fishing, boating, and wildlife photography.
Due to its distinct allure, access to this incredible river is granted through an exclusive permit lottery system, akin to certain big game licenses in Montana. Yet, even if the draw doesn't favor you, Camp Baker, the river's starting point, near White Sulphur Springs, offers an equally delightful experience. A short drive south of Great Falls, this location transforms into a serene sanctuary after the day's floating parties have embarked, perfect for campers who want to enjoy fishing, bird-watching, or a summer swim in solitude.
Eden Bridge, the traditional endpoint for Smith River float trips, marks the conclusion of this captivating park. Here, you'll be met with an inviting rest stop to recoup after their river adventure. Camping near Smith River State Park offers an unrivaled chance to immerse in the untouched charm of one of Montana's great outdoor adventures.
When to go
The prime time to visit Smith River State Park is from mid-April through mid-July, when the river's flow is ideal for floating. Outside of these months, river conditions can be unpredictable, with low flows making navigation challenging. Early reservations are crucial as permits are limited and highly sought after.
Know before you go
- Secure a permit through the annual lottery for a chance to experience the Smith River's exclusive float trip.
- Prepare to pack out all human waste with approved portable toilet systems.
- Be aware of the 'day use only' policy at Camp Baker, with exceptions from September 1 through November 30.
- Remember, there are no public services from Camp Baker to Eden Bridge; bring all necessary supplies, including drinking water.
- Check for any restrictions and closures before your visit, especially during fire or flood seasons.
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