Madison River (Mt)

Star3.72
67 reviews
Madison Ranger District, 5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT 59729
Fishing

Quick Facts

5,910 ft

Price

$15/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

10 campsites

Season

Open May 15 to Septe...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Opens Madison Ranger District site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

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January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Madison River (Mt)
$15.00 - $15.00 / night
Campsite Fees
The nightly fee for camping is $15 during both peak and off-peak seasons. Reservation fees are non-refundable within 14 days of arrival, with...
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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

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Provider
406-682-4253
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What Campers Say

3.72

Mixed Reviews

Based on 67 reviews

Most mentioned

quietcleanspaciouslocation

Some mention

noiseroad noisereservation

"User reviews for Madison River Campground are mixed, with some praising its scenic location and peaceful environment while others express dissatisfaction with missing amenities like trash services and limited reservation flexibility."

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Campground Map

Madison Ranger District, 5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT 59729

Madison River (Mt)

Madison Ranger District, 5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT 59729

Driving directionsTravel south from Ennis for 33 miles on US Highway 287. Approximately one mile beyond the Lyon Rest Area, turn west at signs indicating West Fork RV Camp. Cross the Old Kirby Bridge (maximum height 12’ 7”, maximum weight four tons) and turn left onto West Madison road #8381. Travel about one mile to campground. When travelling from south or east, turn to Old Kirby Bridge six miles northwest of US 287 and MT 87 junction.
Access roads are primarily gravel and involve crossing the Old Kirby Bridge, which has height (12’ 7”) and weight (4 tons) restrictions. Seasonal road conditions may vary, and winter snow or rain can complicate access.
Nearby places
Ennis (34 miles, approximately 45 minutes)
West Yellowstone (45 miles, approximately 1 hour).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are also in Ennis, including groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.

Best Time to Camp at Madison River (Mt)

Summer brings warm, sun-soaked days perfect for riverside relaxation, though wise campers come prepared for the mosquitos that thrive in the lush riparian environment. As autumn approaches, the campground transforms into a photographer's paradise, with crisp mornings giving way to afternoons where the sun dips early behind the western ridge, painting the sky in brilliant hues. Early season adventurers and late October visitors should pack layers and be prepared for Mother Nature's surprises, as snow can dust the landscape and rain showers add drama to the mountain views.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
3.0 / 5

Summer is peak season but mosquitoes are reported to be a problem.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Late Sept/Oct described as colder and sunnier; many prefer shoulder season.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.0 / 5

Reservations open May 15; spring is a shoulder season with variable conditions.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
2.0 / 5

Open first‑come to Dec 31; some snow and cold reported but limited winter services.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 15 to September 15.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 15 to September 15 for reservations; first-come, first-served from September 16 to December 31.

About Madison River (Mt)

Nestled where ancient Douglas Firs meet the rushing waters of the Madison River, Madison River Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its intimate collection of 10 thoughtfully placed campsites. Each site comes complete with its own picnic table and fire ring, creating the perfect basecamp for adventures that range from casting lines into the legendary Madison River to exploring miles of hiking and ATV trails that wind through this pristine Montana landscape.
Madison River Campground features individual campsites suitable for tent and RV camping. While primitive camping is available, there are no group-specific accommodations or luxury options such as glamping.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2PM
Stay Limit
16 days camping limit—campers must move beyond a five-mile radius for seven days before returning.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Madison River Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities catering to nature enthusiasts. Popular activities include fly fishing on the Madison River, hiking in nearby trails such as those in the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, and ATV riding in the Gravelly Mountain Range. Birdwatching is also a highlight, with notable species such as ospreys and eagles.
HikingHiking opportunities abound around the campground, with trails extending into the Lee Metcalf Wilderness just two miles to the west.
FishingThe Madison River provides world-renowned 'blue ribbon fly fishing.' Additionally, Wade and Cliff Lakes offer fishing alongside boating and swimming options. User reviews frequently mention fishing as a top activity (e.g., 'Nice and peaceful place for flyfishermen,' said by THIERRY L, campsite 3 on 7/10/2022).
SwimmingSwimming options are available at nearby Wade and Cliff Lakes, approximately 10 miles away.
BoatingSmall craft boating, canoeing, and other water activities are available at Wade and Cliff Lakes, 10 miles away. Hebgen and Henry's Lakes offer additional options within a 30-minute drive.
Wildlife viewingBirdwatching is a highlight, with osprey and eagle nests visible near the campground. 'There is an osprey nest across the river from the CG as well as an eagle nest upstream,' noted Carmen N, campsite 10, June 2022.
Winter Activities
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsMosquito infestations and occasional wildlife activity, including grizzly bears in the forested areas. Cold temperatures in late seasons.
Food Storage RequiredBear-proof bins are available for compliance with food storage regulations.

Weather at Madison River (Mt)

Reviews

3.7
67 reviews
Mixed Reviews
Mixed Reviews
Madison River (Mt) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Madison River Campground are mixed, with some praising its scenic location and peaceful environment while others express dissatisfaction with missing amenities like trash services and limited reservation flexibility.
Review Summaries
Based on 67 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive mentions include its serene riverside location, spacious campsites, and proximity to fishing and hiking opportunities. Many users also appreciated its quiet atmosphere and clean facilities.
Based on 67 reviews

Common Concerns

Criticisms focus on the lack of garbage services and shortages of toilet paper. Some users also noted challenges with mosquitoes and the occasional noise from nearby highways.
Based on 67 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bear spray and mosquito repellent. Plan meals and supplies ahead of time, as the nearest restaurant is 25 miles away. Reviewers suggest opting for shaded sites during sunny periods and avoiding...
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Based on 67 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Campground experiences vary by season. In late September or early October, the area becomes colder and sunnier sites like Site #10 may be preferable due to limited daylight. Mosquitoes peak in...
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Based on 67 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Nice and peaceful place for fly fishermen.' — Thierry L, 7/10/2022. 2. 'We have been coming to Madison River CG since 2000. It’s great bird habitat in the campground and on the river.' — Carmen...
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Based on 67 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 6 and Site 9 are praised for their spaciousness and shade ('Very nice shady spot in #9 especially,' said by Robert B). Site 8 is noted as overly sunny and lacking privacy. Site 7 accommodates...
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Based on 67 reviews

Accessibility Features

Vault toilets are accessible, but no additional accessibility features were reported. Older campers may face challenges due to the lack of garbage services and modern amenities.
Based on 67 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Reviews do not explicitly mention policies or experiences related to pets.
Based on 67 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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