How much does camping cost at Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas?

Camping fees at Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas range from $15-$30/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas first-come first-served or reservation?

Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

What is the best time to visit Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas?

Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas is open May 15 - September 15. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas?

Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas have?

Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas has 27 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas?

Pets are not allowed at Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas?

Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas offers: Restrooms, Potable Water. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas?

Popular activities at Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas include Hiking, Fishing, Swimming, Boating, Wildlife Viewing, Beach Activities. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas

4.44

96 reviews

Wade Lake, MT, USA

SwimmingSummer Destination

Featured in:Swimming Camping Montana

Quick Facts

6,400 ft

Price

$15 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

27 campsites

Season

Open annually from m...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,400 ft

Price

$15 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

27 campsites

Season

Open annually from m...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

RV Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas

$15.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

There is a $15.00 per night fee for this campground. Cash and check only. There is no way to make change, so please bring correct amount.

Standard Site Fee$15.00

Group Site Fee$30.00

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USFS

Provider

406-682-4253

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Wade Lake, MT, USA

Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas

Wade Lake, MT, USA

Nearby places

Ennis (37 miles, approximately 45 minutes)

Yellowstone National Park (35 miles, approximately 50 minutes)

Nearby supplies

Supplies can likely be obtained in Ennis, 37 miles away, or potentially at local stores near Yellowstone National Park 35 miles away.

Weather at Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas

Best Time to Camp at Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas

Summer brings daytime highs of 65-80°F and cool nights dropping to 35-45°F. The lake is ice-free and swimmable from mid-May through mid-September, with wildflowers peaking in June and July. Afternoon thunderstorms roll through with little warning. Early and late season visitors should prepare for possible snow, as winter lingers and returns early at this elevation. Dry summers occasionally bring wildfire restrictions.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best season for swimming, paddling and wildflowers; also busiest and most crowded.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 15 - September 15. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open annually from mid-May to mid-September, weather dependent.

About Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas

Wade Lake Campground sits on a forested hillside at 6,400 feet in Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, offering 27 sites (tent, RV, and group) from mid-May to mid-September. Fees run $15-30 per night. The campground includes vault toilets, potable water, bear lockers, and standard tables and fire rings. First-come-first-served sites fill quickly during summer weekends, and visitors report parking challenges during peak season.

The campground accommodates tent camping, RV camping (with restrictions), and group camping. Trailers over 24 feet are not recommended due to narrow roads and tight curves.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings daytime highs of 65-80°F and cool nights dropping to 35-45°F. The lake is ice-free and swimmable from mid-May through mid-September, with wildflowers peaking in June and July. Afternoon thunderstorms roll through with little warning. Early and late season visitors should prepare for possible snow, as winter lingers and returns early at this elevation. Dry summers occasionally bring wildfire restrictions.

ElevationPerched at 6,400 feet above sea level, Wade Lake Campground offers that perfect high-country atmosphere where the air is crisp, the stars shine brilliantly, and every breath feels refreshingly pure. This elevation provides natural air conditioning during summer's heat while creating ideal conditions for the Douglas Fir forests that blanket the surrounding slopes.

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground overlooks Wade Lake, which reviews consistently describe as remarkably clear with turquoise water. Dense Douglas fir forest covers the hillside, providing shade at many sites. The no-wake policy keeps the lake surface calm for paddling and swimming. Deer browse the area at dawn, eagles circle overhead, and moose occasionally appear in the shallows. The rocky shoreline requires water shoes for comfortable swimming.

Geological RegionDeep in the heart of southwestern Montana's Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Wade Lake Campground occupies a special corner of the Northern Rockies where ancient geological forces have carved out a perfect mountain basin. This densely forested hillside location showcases the region's characteristic Douglas Fir ecosystem, thriving in the well-drained soils and mountain climate that define this portion of the Continental Divide's eastern slopes. The campground's position on the hillside above Wade Lake offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the dramatic landscape that makes this corner of Montana so spectacular.

Scenic ViewsThe scenic views of Wade Lake and the surrounding forest are a key feature of the campground. Many campsites offer shaded areas and proximity to the lake.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere is no mention of hotel-style lodging accommodations in authoritative sources or user reviews.

Programs & ActivitiesThere is no mention of cultural or educational programs in authoritative sources or user reviews.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

16 day stay limit.

Groups

There is one group site available. No further details on capacity or specific features are provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutTwo loops with designated parking spots. Tent sites are spacious according to reviews, though exact dimensions aren't specified. During summer, the 27-site capacity creates crowding and parking competition.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityHalf the sites are first-come-first-served, though they fill quickly. Early arrival is recommended.

AccessibilityTrailers longer than 24 feet are not recommended due to narrow roads and tight curves within the campground. Snow may impact early or late season access.

Site SizeUser reviews indicate tent sites are spacious, but the exact dimensions are not provided.

PrivacyReviews note that Hilltop Campground offers better privacy but no lake view, while other sites offer shade and close proximity to the lake.

Total Campsites27 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 13 offers a good middle ground for lake access and desirability. Site 17 is noted for its appeal but may be difficult to access. Site 19 offers sunlight for solar panels.

Best CampsitesSites 13, 17, and 19 get positive mentions in reviews for lake access and sunlight. Hilltop Campground (presumably a nearby area or loop) offers better privacy but no lake view, while lower sites trade privacy for proximity to the water and shade.

Need help booking Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas?

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Amenities available

Located in southwestern Montana, Wade Lake Campground is a 27-site campground including one group site, situated in a dense Douglas Fir forest above Wade Lake. Amenities provided include picnic tables, fire rings, potable water taps in the two camping loops, and vault toilets. Cellular service may be available approximately 1.5 miles from the campground near the Forest boundary. Snow may hinder access during early or late seasons. The campground has an undeveloped natural-surface boat launch, and the lake operates under a no-wake speed limit. User reviews highlight amenities such as bear-proof food lockers at tent sites and spacious day-use areas.

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

Wade Lake Campground offers a variety of activities, including fishing, small craft boating, hiking, and swimming. The lake's no-wake speed limit makes it ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. Nearby hiking and ATV trails are available in the Gravelly Range.

Hiking

Fishing

Swimming

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Beach activities

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsTrailers over 24 feet may encounter difficulties due to narrow roads and sharp curves. Seasonal snow can also hinder access.

Food Storage RequiredBear food lockers are available at tent sites to ensure safety and proper food storage.

Emergency ServicesMadison Ranger District located at 5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT 59729 (Phone: 406-682-4253, Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).

Water FeaturesThe campground is situated on the hillside above Wade Lake, offering convenient access to the lake for activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming. Cliff Lake is also nearby.

Cell CoverageCellular service is mentioned as possibly available at the top of the hill near the Forest boundary, approximately 1.5 miles away.

Trip Planning Tools

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

96 reviews

Recommended

Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews generally praise Wade Lake Campground for its beautiful scenery, clear turquoise water, and recreational opportunities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. However, several reviews mention overcrowding during the summer months and challenges with parking.

Review Summaries

Based on 96 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 96 reviews.

Site #17Loved
Site #17 is highlighted as desirable but difficult to access.
Site #19Loved
Site #19 allows limited solar panel usage due to shade.
Site #13Mentioned
Site #13 is described as a good middle ground for lake access and site desirability.

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the lake's clear water, excellent fishing opportunities, spacious tent sites, bear-proof food lockers, and clean vault toilets.

Based on 96 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints involve overcrowding during peak seasons, limited parking, and challenges in accessing specific campsites, especially for larger trailers.

Based on 96 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend reserving campsites well in advance, especially during summer holidays. Arriving early is advised for first-come, first-served sites. Water shoes are recommended for swimming due to...

Based on 96 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews indicate summer as the busiest and most crowded season, with tighter beach spaces and congested parking. Early or late seasons may experience snow hindering access.

Based on 96 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'What an absolutely great place... Weather was perfect. We plan on going back but will reserve a campsite.' (Donna Smith) 2. 'Great campsite and wonderful lake. Paddled around on our canoe, swam...

Based on 96 reviews

Accessibility Features

Reviews advise checking camper size for suitability of sites. Trailers over 24 feet may find limited suitable spots.

Based on 96 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Kayakers, paddleboarders, and anglers who book site #13 months ahead on recreation.gov. The no-wake lake stays glassy, you can literally watch trout beneath your kayak, and bear lockers plus potable water mean you're not roughing it hard.

Skip if

Trailers over 24 feet will struggle on the narrow curves, cell service requires a 1.5-mile drive to the forest boundary, supplies are 37 miles back in Ennis, and recent reviewer sentiment has been sliding, mostly around parking and peak-season crowding.

Nearby Campgrounds

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

Wade Lake sits in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest near Ennis, Montana, known for its striking aquamarine waters fed by natural springs. Managed by the Madison Ranger District, this mid-elevation campground offers tent, primitive, and group sites for anglers, paddlers, and hikers exploring the surrounding forest. The lake's unusual color and cool, clear water draw visitors for fishing and boating during the summer operating season.

$15.00 - $30.00 / night

5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT 59729

Hilltop Campground sits at 6,800 feet on a ridge between Wade and Cliff Lakes in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. The 18 primitive sites are shaded by old-growth pines and offer a quiet alternative to busier lakeside camping. Fees run $15-30 per night. No cell service, and rough unpaved roads make access challenging for some rigs.

$15.00 - $30.00 / night

Less Visited

4.2

(39)

Cliff Point Campground

5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT 59729

Cliff Point Campground sits on the shore of Cliff Lake in Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, about 6,400 feet above sea level. The campground has six sites with picnic tables, fire rings, vault toilets, and potable water. Trailers up to 16 feet fit. The nightly fee is $15. There's no cell service.

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

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

Cliff Point sits on the shore of Cliff Lake in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest near Ennis, Montana. The Madison Ranger District operates this small mid-elevation campground with vault toilets, potable water, and lakefront access for fishing and non-motorized boating. Summer brings wildflowers, alpine views, and reliably open trails, though mosquitoes and wind can be intense.

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

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

Madison River campground sits along the Madison River in Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest near Ennis, operated by the Madison Ranger District. This small riverside site offers tent, RV, and primitive camping with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Visitors come for fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing in a quiet mid-elevation forest setting.

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

4.5

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West Fork Madison Campground

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

West Fork Madison Campground sits along the Madison River in Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, managed by the Madison Ranger District. This very small site offers shaded tent and primitive camping under old-growth spruce and Douglas fir, with vault toilets, potable water, and direct river access for trout fishing. The dense canopy and riverside location appeal to anglers and hikers seeking a quiet base near Ennis.

$12.00 - $12.00 / night

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

Riverview Campground sits along the Madison River in Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, operated by the Madison Ranger District near Ennis. This mid-elevation forest campground offers tent and RV sites with vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables. Campers enjoy scenic mountain views, well-maintained sites large enough for trailers, and clean facilities managed by attentive hosts.

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT 59729

Riverview Campground sits on a sagebrush plateau above the Madison River, 20 sites arranged in a single loop with outward-facing placement for privacy. The 5,900-foot elevation keeps nights cool even in summer. Vault toilets stay clean and well-stocked thanks to attentive hosts. Sites cost $15 per night (cash or check), accommodate trailers up to 30 feet, and include fire rings, picnic tables, and bear lockers. Cell service works. The open terrain means zero shade and summer mosquitoes.

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

Less Visited

0.0

(4)

Elk Lake Dispersed Camping And Picnic Area

5 Forest Service Road Ennis, MT 59729

Elk Lake dispersed camping and picnic area sits in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest near Ennis, Montana, at 6,400 feet elevation. The single primitive site offers picnic tables and bear lockers. Road conditions can limit accessibility, and there's no potable water, garbage service, or cell coverage.

1 campsites

Primitive

15.85 km

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

Highly Popular

4.5

(367)

Beaver Creek Campground

null

Beaver Creek Campground sits in mid-elevation forest near West Yellowstone, operated by Rocky Mountain Recreation Company within Custer Gallatin National Forest. This very small campground offers spacious tent, RV, and primitive sites with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings. Visitors come for proximity to Earthquake Lake and Yellowstone, plus hiking, fishing, biking, and wildlife viewing including elk during fall rut season.

$26.00 - $26.00 / night

Frequently Visited

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Cabin Creek Campground

Custer Gallatin National Forest

Cabin Creek Campground sits in Custer Gallatin National Forest near West Yellowstone, minutes from Hebgen and Earthquake Lakes. Operated by Yellowstone Country Campgrounds, Inc., this mid-elevation forest camp offers tent and RV sites with vault toilets, potable water, and a 16-day stay limit. Campers fish for trout, bike forest roads, and visit the nearby Earthquake Lake Visitor Center between mid-May and late September.

$26.00 - $26.00 / night

Less Visited

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Beaver Creek Cabin (Mt)

PO BOX 520, WEST YELLOWSTONE, MT 59758, USA

Beaver Creek Cabin sits in the high-elevation alpine country of Custer Gallatin National Forest near West Yellowstone, operated by the Hebgen Lake Ranger District. This remote rental cabin shines in winter when deep snow transforms the canyon into backcountry terrain for snowshoeing, skiing, and wildlife tracking. The wood stove provides essential warmth while vault toilets and pet-friendly policies keep the experience rustic, and guests prize the total disconnection from cell coverage.

$65.00 - $65.00 / night

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Hilltop Campground (Mt)

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

Hilltop Campground sits in mid-elevation forest within Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest near Ennis. Managed by the Madison Ranger District, this small campground offers tent and RV sites with vault toilets, potable water, fire rings, and picnic tables. The setting provides access to two nearby lakes for boating, swimming, and fishing during the summer season.

$15.00 - $15.00 / night

Campgrounds

Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest

Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

<p>Wade Lake Campground is located in southwestern Montana on the shore of it’s scenic namesake lake. It is approximately 43 miles south of Ennis and 35 miles west of Yellowstone National Park. The 27 site campground includes one group site, and is situated in a dense Douglas Fir forest on the hillside above the lake. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and fire ring. Vault toilets and drinking water taps are provided in each of the two camping loops. There is an undeveloped natural-surface boat launch and the lake has a no-wake speed limit. Visitors enjoy fishing, small craft boating, and nearby hiking and ATV trails in the Gravelly Range. All site reservations are made via <a href="http://recreation.gov">recreation.gov</a>. Trailers longer than 24 feet are not recommended due to narrow roads and tight curves within the campground. Snow may hinder access in early or late seasons. Cellular service may be available at the top of the hill near the Forest boundary, about 1.5 miles away.</p>