Riverview Campground
5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT 59729
Riverview Campground
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
A $15 per night fee applies for single campsites. Cash or check payments only; no change available, so campers must bring the correct amount....
Show more
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$15.00
Share this campground
USFS
Provider406-682-4253
About this campground
Perched high above the legendary Madison River, Riverview Campground offers an intimate escape into Montana's untamed wilderness. This thoughtfully designed campground features 20 well-spaced sites arranged in a single loop configuration, where each site faces outward to maximize privacy and showcase the breathtaking vistas of the Madison Range. Modern conveniences blend seamlessly with the natural setting, including clean vault toilets, fresh potable water, sturdy fire rings for evening gatherings, and picnic tables perfect for outdoor dining. Even in this remote mountain sanctuary, you'll find reliable cellular reception to share your adventures with loved ones back home.
Riverview Campground is designed for both RV and tent camping, with a focus on primitive camping experiences. There are 24 campsites, including some pull-through options for RVs, but no modern hookups or luxury accommodations are provided.
Historical SignificanceWhile the recorded history of this specific campground location remains unchronicled, the surrounding landscape tells ancient stories through its untouched wilderness and the timeless flow of the Madison River below.
Weather and SeasonsThe high-altitude climate at Riverview creates an ever-changing canvas of weather conditions. Summer days bring crisp, dry air punctuated by refreshing mountain breezes that whisper through the sagebrush, keeping temperatures comfortable even during the warmest afternoons. As autumn arrives, the landscape transforms into a golden tapestry before winter's dramatic entrance brings pristine snowfall and crystalline freezing temperatures that blanket the campground in serene white silence.
ElevationAt nearly 6,000 feet above sea level, Riverview Campground exists in that sweet spot where the air is crisp and clean, the stars shine with exceptional clarity, and summer temperatures remain refreshingly cool. This elevated perch not only provides relief from valley heat but also serves as your front-row seat to some of the most spectacular mountain panoramas in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground rests on an expansive plateau of silvery sagebrush and native grasses that ripple like waves in the mountain breeze. This open landscape creates an amphitheater of natural beauty, where majestic peaks rise in every direction and seasonal wildflowers paint the meadows in vibrant splashes of color. The absence of tree cover means unobstructed views from dawn to dusk, though campers should come prepared with their own shade solutions for the sunniest days.
Geological RegionRiverview Campground occupies a unique geological position on the ancient sagebrush steppes overlooking the Madison River valley, one of the West's most celebrated trout fishing destinations. This elevated plateau within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest showcases the dramatic interplay between river canyon and mountain peaks, where millions of years of geological forces have carved a landscape of extraordinary beauty. The Madison Range towers overhead, its peaks telling the story of tectonic upheaval and glacial sculpting that created this angler's paradise.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe vault toilets are wheelchair-friendly, but no further details about accessibility were provided.
Sites SizeSites are large enough to accommodate trailers up to 30 feet in length.
Sites PrivacyCampsites are located on the outside of a large single loop, providing good separation and privacy. However, the open sagebrush and grass setting offers little to no shade.
Total Campsites20 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites closer to the river for better views.
Best CampsitesNo specific site numbers mentioned; sites along the river seem preferable for views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
No specified check-in time.
Check-out
No specified check-out time.
Stay Limit
16-day stay limit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Unspecified.
Groups
No designated group camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutSingle loop layout with all campsites positioned outside the loop for privacy. Sites are gravel and grass, suitable for trailers up to 30 feet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen late May through mid-October, weather dependent.
Reservation PlatformsNo online or phone reservation platforms; sites are first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable on a first-come, first-served basis, all 20 sites accessible without prior reservation.
Cancellation PolicyNo specific policy mentioned; sites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Riverview Campground offers limited but high-quality recreational opportunities, particularly for those interested in fishing. The proximity to the Madison River, a world-renowned trout fishery, is a significant draw. Boating is available at nearby lakes, though no direct access is provided from the campground. Hiking and other outdoor activities are not explicitly mentioned.
Fishing
The Madison River, located about 1/4 mile from the campground, offers exceptional trout fishing. Nearby lakes such as Wade, Cliff, Hebgen, and Henry’s Lakes also provide additional fishing opportunities.Boating
While there is no direct boat access from the campground, boating is available at nearby lakes, including Wade, Cliff, Hebgen, and Henry’s Lakes.Winter Activities
The campground is closed during winter months; no winter activities are available.Water Sports
While non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are not explicitly mentioned, these may be possible at nearby lakes.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed within designated fire rings. Fire safety precautions should be observed.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsThis is bear country; proper food storage is required. Wildfires may also pose a risk, though no specific wildfire alerts were mentioned.
Weather forecast
65
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 49%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 17 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Mainly clear
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Madison Ranger District (5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT, Phone: 406-682-4253, operational Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. excluding federal holidays).
Good to know
Peak season datesNot explicitly stated; peak season likely corresponds to open season (late May to mid-October).
Trash and recyclingNo specific information about trash and recycling facilities was provided.
Proximity to water featuresLocated 1/4 mile from the Madison River, a world-famous trout fishery. Nearby lakes include Wade, Cliff, Hebgen, and Henry's Lakes.
Common complaintsUser reviews mentioned overgrown weeds and lack of shade as minor concerns. Mosquitoes were noted during summer months.
HostHosts Mike and Toni received positive reviews for their friendliness and maintenance efforts. They ensure clean vault toilets and ample water supplies.
Campground Map
5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT 59729
Driving directionsFrom Ennis, MT, take US Rt. 287 south 33.2 miles to camp trailer symbol sign. Bear right after sign and go 0.1 miles to the single lane Hutchinson bridge. Continue across bridge to a 'Y' intersection. Bear left onto dirt road and go 0.3 miles to campground sign. Turn right at sign and go 0.3 miles to campground. NOTE: The Hutchinson Bridge is 12' 7" high by 12'10" wide.
Site is accessible via Highway 287, approximately 34 miles south of Ennis, MT. Note that access includes crossing Hutchinson Bridge with height restrictions of 12'7" and width restrictions of 12'10". Dirt roads are present closer to the campground.Nearby places
Ennis (33.2 miles, approximately 40 minutes driving), West Yellowstone (38.3 miles, approximately 45 minutes driving).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are located in Ennis, MT (33.2 miles away), which offers groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.8
6 reviews

Riverview Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews consistently praise Riverview Campground for its clean facilities, well-maintained sites, and beautiful surroundings. The campground is described as quiet and a great base for exploring nearby attractions like Yellowstone National Park and the Madison River.
Review Summaries
Based on 6 reviews
What Campers Love
- Clean and well-stocked vault toilets
- Friendly and attentive camp hosts
- Large, well-maintained campsites
- Scenic mountain views and proximity to the Madison River
Based on 6 reviewsCommon Concerns
- Lack of modern amenities such as showers and hookups
- Open setting with no shade
- Mosquitoes in the area during summer
Based on 6 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring cash or a check to pay the $15 camping fee, as no change is provided.
- Be prepared for mosquitoes during the summer months.
- Follow bear safety practices for food storage.
- Consider this...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Visitors report the campground is most enjoyable during late spring and summer when the weather is pleasant, though mosquitoes are a common concern during this time. Fall visits may offer cooler...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- "Secluded primitive campground with million-dollar views." (Bill Henriques)
- "A perfect location to stay while visiting some of the area's local beauty." (Bill Henriques)
- "Clean toilets and...
Based on 6 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews highlight the spacious and well-separated campsites, some of which are pull-through. Specific site numbers are not mentioned.
Based on 6 reviewsAccessibility Features
Vault toilets are noted as wheelchair-friendly, but no further accessibility details are provided.
Based on 6 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific comments about pets or pet policies were mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 6 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025