Cliff Point (Mt)
4.4815 reviewsMadison Ranger District, 5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT, 59729
Quick Facts
6,313 ftPrice
$15/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
6 campsites
Season
Season opens May 15,...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsQuick Facts
6,313 ftPrice
$15/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
6 campsites
Season
Season opens May 15,...
Cell
No Service
Pets
Not Allowed
RV Friendly
Get DirectionsCliff Point (Mt)
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Recreation use fee is $15 per night for standard non-electric campsites during both the peak (May 15 - Sep 15) and off-peak (Sep 16 - Nov 30)...
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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
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Recreation Dot Gov
Provider406-682-4253
What Campers Say
4.48
Recommended
Based on 15 reviews
Most mentioned
peacefulcleanwaterlake
Some mention
reservation
"User reviews for Cliff Point Campground are polarized, with ratings ranging from 1 to 5 stars. Common praises include the serene and beautiful setting, clean facilities, and excellent lake views. Complaints focus on mosquito prevalence, windy conditions, and issues with the reservation system."
Fees & Passes at Cliff Point (Mt)
$15/night
Campsite fees
Standard Site
Basic tent/RV spot
Stay Limit: You may stay up to 16 consecutive nights at a single site and a cumulative 32 nights at multiple sites within a calendar year.
Cancellation: Cancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (starting midnight one day before scheduled check-...
Prices verified November 24, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Madison Ranger District website.
Best Time to Camp at Cliff Point (Mt)
Mother Nature rules supreme at Cliff Point, where daily winds carry stories from the surrounding peaks and create a symphony of rustling pines. The lake's glacier-fed waters maintain their refreshing chill even in summer, offering a bracing dip for the brave rather than a leisurely swim. As seasons shift in this high-altitude haven, services ebb and flow with the weather—drinking water and garbage collection follow nature's calendar, typically available from late spring through early fall when the mountain passes clear and temperatures allow.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm weather, perfect for water activities. Book early.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: May 15 - Sep 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Season opens May 15, 2025, and closes Nov 30, 2025. Reservations are available from Jun 20, 2025, to Sep 15, 2025.
- Current Alerts: Cellular service is not available at the campground. Water contamination issues were reported in user reviews but resolved.
About Cliff Point (Mt)
Tucked away at the southern edge of Montana's majestic Gravelly Mountains, Cliff Point Campground offers an intimate escape with just six secluded sites along the stunning shores of Cliff Lake. This hidden gem beckons adventurers with its crystalline aquamarine waters that shimmer like liquid turquoise against the rugged mountain backdrop. While nature enthusiasts will revel in the pristine wilderness setting, visitors should come prepared for the raw elements that make this spot so wild and wonderful—brisk mountain winds sweep across the lake daily, and during peak summer months, mosquitoes remind you that you're sharing this paradise with its original inhabitants.
Cliff Point Campground caters to tent and limited RV camping, with its six campsites offering a simple, nature-focused camping experience. Group camping or double camping setups are not permitted due to site restrictions.
Weather and SeasonsMother Nature rules supreme at Cliff Point, where daily winds carry stories from the surrounding peaks and create a symphony of rustling pines. The lake's glacier-fed waters maintain their refreshing chill even in summer, offering a bracing dip for the brave rather than a leisurely swim. As seasons shift in this high-altitude haven, services ebb and flow with the weather—drinking water and garbage collection follow nature's calendar, typically available from late spring through early fall when the mountain passes clear and temperatures allow.
ElevationPerched at 6,313 feet where the air grows thin and crisp, Cliff Point Campground nestles into a protective forested ravine carved by time and elements. This lofty elevation gifts visitors with that distinctive mountain atmosphere—cool even on summer days, with air so pure it seems to cleanse your lungs with each breath. The altitude creates a natural air conditioning system that provides welcome relief from valley heat.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a living postcard where towering pines frame views of Cliff Lake's mesmerizing aquamarine waters—so clear you can count stones on the bottom near shore. This forested ravine shelters a remarkable cast of wildlife characters: majestic moose wade through morning mists, eagles patrol the skies, playful otters dance in the shallows, and yes, both black and grizzly bears roam these ancient forests, reminding visitors they're guests in a truly wild landscape. The lake serves as a magnet for waterfowl, creating an ever-changing tableau of wings and water.
Geological RegionCliff Point Campground claims its spectacular perch where the southern Gravelly Mountains meet the sky, cradled in a forested ravine that nature sculpted over millennia. The star of this geological theater is undoubtedly Cliff Lake itself—a pristine mountain jewel whose remarkable aquamarine waters owe their ethereal color to glacial minerals suspended in crystalline clarity. This corner of southwestern Montana showcases the raw beauty of the Northern Rockies, where ancient geological forces created a landscape of dramatic contrasts between rugged peaks and serene alpine waters.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed in the sources.
Sites SizeSites are described as small, with the campground not recommended for trailers over 16 feet in length due to tight turns and limited space.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Site 6 is noted for its exceptional privacy, while other sites offer some partial shade and proximity to the lake.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 1 is ideal for paddleboarding; site 6 offers privacy and less scenic views. Most sites have stairs leading down to the beach.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
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Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
12 PM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 16 consecutive nights at a single site and a cumulative 32 nights at multiple sites within a calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Each site is for a single camping unit and does not permit double or group camping.
Groups
- Group camping is not allowed
- each site accommodates a single camping unit only.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of a single loop with six campsites.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 15, 2025, and closes Nov 30, 2025. Reservations are available from Jun 20, 2025, to Sep 15, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, contact center, or in-person.
Walk-in AvailabilityFrom Sep 16 - Nov 30, campsites operate on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations incur a $10 fee. Late cancellations (starting midnight one day before scheduled check-in) also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to reservations may incur an additional $10 fee if dates are completely different. No refund for same-day cancellations.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cliff Point Campground offers a range of outdoor activities, including fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The lake features a no-wake speed limit, making it ideal for canoeing and kayaking. Visitors can enjoy fishing for rainbow and Yellowstone cutthroat trout in the lake and blue-ribbon fly-fishing on the nearby Madison River. Hiking trails to Hidden Lake and within the Lee Metcalf Wilderness are also accessible. ATV enthusiasts will find abundant Off Road Vehicle trails in the Gravelly Range.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include trails to Hidden Lake and within the nearby Lee Metcalf Wilderness. The trail to Hidden Lake begins at the upper end of Cliff Lake.Fishing
The lake offers fishing for rainbow and Yellowstone cutthroat trout. The nearby Madison River, just five miles away, is a renowned spot for blue-ribbon fly-fishing.Swimming
Swimming is permitted in Cliff Lake, though the water is described as cold. Several users noted the appeal of the lake's aquamarine color for swimming and other water activities.Boating
The lake's no-wake speed limit supports boating, canoeing, and kayaking. A natural-surface boat launch is available nearby. Boats can also be rented at Wade Lake Resort.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife commonly seen includes moose, deer, eagles, otters, bears, and various waterfowl.Winter Activities
Snow may hamper access in the early and late seasons, but specific winter activities are not mentioned.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are popular on Cliff Lake.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfire rings are available at all sites, but no specific fire restrictions are mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsBiting and stinging bugs reported in user reviews. Bears (including grizzlies) are present in the area.
Active alertsCellular service is not available at the campground. Water contamination issues were reported in user reviews but resolved.
Weather at Cliff Point (Mt)
42
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 39%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 20.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
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Emergency Services
Closest hospital is in Ennis, MT (43 miles away). Emergency services include Madison Ranger District staff accessible at the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - Sep 15
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage service outside the May 15 - September 15 season. Campers must pack out their trash during the off-season.
Proximity to water featuresCliff Lake is directly accessible, and Wade Lake is less than a mile away.
Common complaintsMosquito infestations, strong winds, mismanagement of the reservation system, and lack of garbage service during off-peak seasons were common complaints in user reviews.
HostThe camp host is highly rated for maintaining cleanliness, monitoring use, and being approachable.
Campground Map
Madison Ranger District, 5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT, 59729
Driving directionsTravel south from Ennis for 38 miles on US Highway 287. As highway curves to east, turn south on Wade and Cliff Lakes road, also signed as Three Dollar Bridge fishing access site. Travel five miles on county road, which becomes Forest road #572, to Wade Lake Recreation Area. Follow signing to campground. When travelling from the east, turn onto Wade and Cliff Lakes road one mile west of US 287 and MT 87 junction. From the south, turn from MT 87 onto Madison County 122 about 2.2 miles north of the Montana/Idaho boundary.
The campground is accessible via paved and unpaved roads. Snow may hamper access during early and late seasons. Trailers over 16 feet in length are not recommended due to small camp spaces and tight turns.Nearby places
Ennis (43 miles, approximately 50 minutes), Yellowstone National Park (35 miles, approximately 45 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Groceries can be accessed in Ennis, MT. Wade Lake Resort offers boat rentals and basic supplies. Gas stations are available in Ennis.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.5
15 reviews
Cliff Point (Mt) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Cliff Point Campground are polarized, with ratings ranging from 1 to 5 stars. Common praises include the serene and beautiful setting, clean facilities, and excellent lake views. Complaints focus on mosquito prevalence, windy conditions, and issues with the reservation system.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
"Cliff Lake is the most beautiful in Montana," wrote one user, highlighting the peaceful environment and clean facilities. Another user appreciated the "excellent site right on the water" and the...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Numerous reviewers mentioned the abundance of mosquitoes and windy conditions. One user complained about "constant traffic all day long" despite the reservation-only policy. Concerns about the...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers suggest bringing mosquito repellent and preparing for windy conditions. Arrive early in the season for less crowded experiences, and note the lack of cell service and garbage facilities...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews are more favorable, emphasizing the lake's beauty and recreational opportunities. Some early-season complaints focused on water quality issues, including a positive coliform test that...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. "Cliff lake is my favorite lake and we have camped at Cliff Point Campground before and it has been great each time." 2. "The website said that there was running water but there wasn't." 3....
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1 is noted for being lakeside, with some users appreciating its proximity to the lake despite mosquito issues. Site 6 offers privacy but lacks direct lake views. Other sites have stairs leading...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No user reviews specifically address accessibility features.
Based on 15 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no reviews specifically discussing pet policies or experiences.
Based on 15 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
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Last updated November 24, 2025
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