The best camping near Smith River State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Smith River State Park adventure.

Discover the serene beauty of Smith River State Park and its renowned trout fishing.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Smith River State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

  • Flying M Ranch
  • Flying M Ranch
  • Flying M Ranch
100%
(1)

Flying M Ranch

5 sites · Tents300 acres · Winston, MT
A gorgeous piece of land nestled at the bottom of the Elkhorn mountains. Enoy the sunrise as it crests the peak of the Range and wind down to amazing hues of pink and purple as the sun sets. You will be able to choose from gaining some elevation as you hike through the Elkhorn national wildlife refuge or go down to relax at Canyon Ferry Lake and try to catch some dinner.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$40
 / night
  • The Lost Tepee
  • The Lost Tepee
  • The Lost Tepee
100%
(4)

The Lost Tepee

1 site · Lodging37 acres · Jefferson City, MT
Get away from it all when you stay under the stars. Here you can sleep in an authentic native tepee! How we don't offer a lot of flare here, but we do offer a fun camping experience. Come relax and chill or maybe go for a hike and catch an amazing sunset. No matter what you will enjoy falling asleep listening to the creek flow and the crickets chirp.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$48
 / night
  • Site 1
  • Lakeview Farms
  • Site 1
Booked 9 times

Lakeview Farms

2 sites · RVs, Tents23 acres · Helena Valley Northeast, MT
Are small startup hay farm that has beautiful views of Hauser reservoir with three recreational sites on it within a 15-minute drive as well as 15 minutes the other direction allows two access points to lake Helena. we have a large flock of chickens that free roam the property as well as dairy cow who wanders through the front yard and Hayfield. Nearby Lakeside Bar and Grill has a great menu with lake access and music on the weekends, that is within walking distance. about 2 miles from our property there in the Helena Reservoir that has lovely walking trails, that your pets can run off leash as well as fishing access.
from 
$15
 / night
  • Grey Sandy Campground & Store
  • Grey Sandy Campground & Store
  • Grey Sandy Campground & Store
89%
(23)

Grey Sandy Campground & Store

7 sites · RVs, Tents3 acres · Helena, MT
Our campground is centrally located between Black Sandy State Park and White Sandy State Park. Our store is packed with everything you need to make your stay unforgettable! From camping essentials and cozy firewood to a wide array of candy, snacks, beer, wine, and refreshing drinks, we've got you covered. Need some last-minute fishing gear or a fun souvenir? We've got those too! Swing by and discover all the amazing things we have in store for you!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
  • Farm Land Escape
  • Farm Land Escape
  • Farm Land Escape
100%
(8)

Farm Land Escape

3 sites · RVs, Tents53 acres · Helena, MT
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.
Pets
Potable water
from 
$80
 / night
  • The DET Place
  • The DET Place
  • The DET Place
100%
(2)

The DET Place

2 sites · Tents12 acres · Townsend, MT
Located less than a mile from Townsend, MT, The DET Place offers a serene country getaway close to local amenities. Relax with stunning views of Mount Baldy around a campfire, or head out for a day on Canyon Ferry Lake or the Missouri River. The DET Place has resident horses, barn cats along with whitetail deer, pheasants and the occasional sand hill crane.
Pets
Potable water
from 
$20
 / night
  • Causeway fishing access & boat launch
  • Campsite at the Causeway
  • Causeway fishing access & boat launch
Booked 1 time

Campsite at the Causeway

1 site · RV6 acres · Helena, MT
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.
Potable water
from 
$28.50
 / night
  • 1 RV Spot In The Castle Mountains
  • 1 RV Spot In The Castle Mountains
  • 1 RV Spot In The Castle Mountains
100%
(1)

1 RV Spot In The Castle Mountains

1 site · RV, Tent5000 acres · Martinsdale, MT
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
from 
$50
 / night

Top-rated campgrounds near Smith River State Park

  • Montana Country & Stone Barns
  • Montana Country & Stone Barns
  • Montana Country & Stone Barns
96%
(120)

Montana Country & Stone Barns

5 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Great Falls, MT
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night
  • Relax Inn Montana
  • Relax Inn Montana
  • Relax Inn Montana
100%
(8)

Relax Inn Montana

4 sites · Lodging, Tents2 acres · Helena, MT
Outdoor Living at its finest : )) 2 Acres of unique quiet spaces in a park like setting - (3 Open field Tent Sites up top ) (2 Secluded Tent Sites back by the Tubs) (1 Bldg w/2 individual rooms connected by a passthrough door Blue Room aka 2 Dog Den sleeps 2 or Red Room aka Bears Den sleeps 5 ) 10 miles outside of Helena, the Capital of Montana 5 miles from 3 lakes ( Canyon Ferry Lake - Lake Helena - Hauser Lake ) There is 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 (phone free zone) gazebo - a covered BBQ area with gas grill and gas firepit to gather round - a real fire pit area with picnic table (local wind and fire restrictions allowable) - purest of potable well water - currently available 3 Tent sites - 1 building with a pass through door for two rooms if you need more than one siesta space - Solars that light the path in the night - Perfect distance for those who love to fish, boat, hike, float or just toss rocks -just around the corner you can dig for sapphires - a few hours to Glacier National Park - 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 It is Rustic but not Crazy roughin' it - Great family space : ) This is my private sanctuary that I have the privilege of sharing with those who appreciate simple rustic outdoor living at its finest - I invite you, my friends and family to Relax Inn Helena to make your own amazing memories
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
  • Delpine Farms
  • Delpine Farms
  • Delpine Farms
97%
(17)

Delpine Farms

4 sites · RVs30 acres · Martinsdale, MT
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
Campfires
from 
$15
 / night
  • The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!
  • Pitch your tent in the trees or park your RV/Camper in the open field. We have two designated spots in this area, which give each site plenty of space and privacy.
  • The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!
98%
(116)

The Trail Enthusiast's Basecamp!

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Helena, MT
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
  • Prickly Pear escape
  • Prickly Pear escape
  • Prickly Pear escape
90%
(10)

Prickly Pear escape

1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Clancy, MT
Welcome to our little slice of paradise! Conveniently located just minutes from the Montana City exit on I-90, yet you would never know how close you are to Helena's city center and all the outdoor activities it has to offer. This property is lush with multiple walking trails to gardens and creek access. Camp spots are all level and well maintained with picnic tables and fire rings. Easy access to multiple spots on Prickly Pear Creek with fishing and wading. 10 to 20 minutes to shopping centers, schools, fairgrounds, baseball fields, and soccer fields. Plenty of room for trailers to turn around!
Pets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
  • 15 Gallons of drinking water
  • Front Door
  • 15 Gallons of drinking water
100%
(3)

Date Street Cabin @ C Lazy M Meadow

1 site · Lodging7 acres · MT
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
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$69.52
 / night
  • The Homestead
  • The Homestead
  • The Homestead
100%
(10)

The Homestead

2 sites · Lodging600 acres · Clancy, MT
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 drive to Helena, MT for more trails, dining or other activities.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$115
 / night
  • Big Black Barn on the Lake
  • Big Black Barn on the Lake
  • Big Black Barn on the Lake
100%
(3)

Big Black Barn on the Lake

1 site · RV10 acres · Helena, MT
Welcome to beautiful Helena, Montana! We have over 10 acres on Lake Helena with direct access to the lake! You will see cranes, pelicans, bald eagles, all kinds of water fowl, otters, muskrats, jack rabbits, ground squirrels, deer and more! You will have access to fish, paddle board, kayak, whatever your heart desires! We are also 5 minutes from Lake Hauser so if you would like to boat or jetski, that is also just right around the corner! There is a horsetrail right across the street and you can head straight up into the mountains from there if you wish. Hiking in every direction, and the mighty Missouri river just minutes away for world class fishing and an amazing float in the summer! This is your stop for close access to all your wild life adventures!
Pets
Potable water
from 
$35
 / night
  • Mama Honey's RV Dry Camping
  • Mama Honey's RV Dry Camping
  • Mama Honey's RV Dry Camping
100%
(1)

Mama Honey's RV Dry Camping

1 site · RV1 acre · White Sulphur Springs, MT
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
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night
  • 》°☆Montana Family Camp☆°《
  • 》°☆Montana Family Camp☆°《
  • 》°☆Montana Family Camp☆°《
Booked 3 times

》°☆Montana Family Camp☆°《

5 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Helena, MT
Perfect Hauser Lake, causeway, and National forest basecamp. 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, horses, quail,and stunning views of Hauser Lake, and several mountain ranges. Talk to Granny Julie about our horses, chickens, quail, and other fun stuff to view at the farm!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
  • Mountain Biker's Getaway
  • Mountain Biker's Getaway
  • Mountain Biker's Getaway
100%
(9)

Mountain Biker's Getaway

1 site · RV20 acres · Helena, MT
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
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night
  • Stone Lodge Pastures
  • Stone Lodge Pastures
  • Stone Lodge Pastures
73%
(22)

Stone Lodge Pastures

10 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Ulm, MT
Learn more about this land:Located on 20 acres in the tiny community of Ulm, MT. You’ll be accompanied by some wonderful horses 😃🐴 -Beautiful sunsets every night overlooking the Big Belt Mountains and Rocky Mountain front 🌅 - 2 minute drive from Missouri River access at the Ulm Bridge...fishing, swimming, boating, kayaking, floating 🏊‍♂️ 🎣 🚣‍♂️ -5 minute drive to Great Falls, MT -1 hour drive to Helena, MT and Broadwater Hot Springs -1 minute drive to delicious Beef N Bone steakhouse..one of the best restaurants in the Great Falls area -40 minute drive to my hometown of Belt, MT (call if you want a tour guide/hang out partner 😃) fishing and swimming at Belt Creek. Cliff jumping at the Sluice Boxes. Visit Harvest Moon Brewing: one of the oldest, most popular, and best breweries in the state. Horseback riding. Hikes up Belt Butte. Close access to the Highwood and Little Belt Mountain ranges.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$25
 / night

The best camping near Smith River State Park 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.

Top parks near Smith River State Park

Flathead National Forest
Chico Hot Springs
Sluice Boxes State Park
Travelers' Rest State Park
Whitefish Lake State Park
Thompson Falls State Park
Grand Teton National Park
Heyburn State Park

Top cities near Smith River State Park

Billings
Bozeman
Missoula
Great Falls
Idaho Falls
Lewiston
Blackfoot
Sandpoint

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