How much does camping cost at Afterbay Campground?

Camping fees at Afterbay Campground range from $18-$35/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Fees are typically paid at the campground entrance.

Is Afterbay Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Afterbay Campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis. All sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Can I see photos of campsites at Afterbay Campground before I book?

Yes! Afterbay Campground has 4 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Afterbay Campground?

Afterbay Campground is open Open year-round, including during Memorial Day to Labor Day season.. 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 Afterbay Campground?

Afterbay Campground does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Can I have a campfire at Afterbay Campground?

Fire policies at Afterbay Campground: Check locally, dependent on conditions. Fire rings are provided at each site.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

How many campsites does Afterbay Campground have?

Afterbay Campground has 22 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Arrive early for the best site selection.

Are dogs allowed at Afterbay Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Afterbay Campground. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Afterbay Campground?

Afterbay Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Electrical Hookups, Water Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Afterbay Campground?

Popular activities at Afterbay Campground include Fishing, Boating, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Afterbay Campground

4.52

26 reviews

Afterbay Campground, Rte 200, Fort Smith, MT 59035, USA

Summer Destination

Featured in:Hidden Gem Campgrounds Montana

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

3,196 ft

Price

$18 - $35/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

22 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Book on Crow Tribe of Indians Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

April 2026

Compare availability across multiple campgrounds

Quick Facts

3,196 ft

Price

$18 - $35/night

Booking

First-Come

Sites

22 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV FriendlyElectric

Book on Crow Tribe of Indians Official Website

Get Directions

Afterbay Campground

$18.00 - $35.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Full utility sites with electric and water hookups cost $35 per night, while non-utility tent camping sites cost $18 per night. Fees are payable via...

Standard Site Fee$18.00

Hookup Site Fee$35.00

Premium Site Fee$0.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00

Group Site Fee$0.00

Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Get Notified When Available

We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

(406) 666-2333dyanna.threeirons@crow-nsn.gov

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See something outdated or incorrect? Let us know!

What Campers Say

4.52

Top-Rated

Based on 26 reviews

22 Google reviews

Most mentioned

quietlocationlakehookups

"Reviews are generally positive, with campers appreciating the location's scenic beauty, tranquility, and proximity to attractions like Yellowtail Lake. However, privacy, shade, and grass at campsites are limited. Bear activity has been noted. 'Beautiful spot to camp!'"

Read all reviews

Campground Map

Afterbay Campground, Rte 200, Fort Smith, MT 59035, USA

Afterbay Campground

Afterbay Campground, Rte 200, Fort Smith, MT 59035, USA

Nearby places

Fort Smith, MT (approximately 1 mile away).

Nearby supplies

The closest supplies are available at Fort Smith, MT. Specific details about grocery stores, fuel stations, or camping supply shops are not mentioned.

Best Time to Camp at Afterbay Campground

Fall stands out here. September and October bring daytime highs of 50-70°F and crisp mornings around 30-45°F. Lake levels stabilize and winds calm down compared to summer, making for better fishing and peaceful boating. Crowds thin after Labor Day. Wildlife viewing peaks during this period as big game rut and waterfowl migrate through. Summer sees more traffic at campsites and boat launches.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 3% in MT

Late spring/early fall recommended for optimal weather and fewer crowds.

Planning Tips

Operating Season: Open year-round, including during Memorial Day to Labor Day season.

About Afterbay Campground

Afterbay Campground sits on the south shore of Afterbay Lake in Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, offering 22 back-in sites with electric and water hookups. Sites run $18-35 per night and include fire rings, picnic tables, and vault toilets. The campground has a dump station and bear lockers. Privacy and shade are limited across the open layout.

Afterbay Campground provides versatile camping options, including both RV and tent sites. Group camping, cabins, and glamping are not available.

Historical Significance

Yellowtail Dam created the reservoir system that formed Afterbay Lake, transforming the Bighorn River canyon into the recreation area that exists today.

Weather and SeasonsFall stands out here. September and October bring daytime highs of 50-70°F and crisp mornings around 30-45°F. Lake levels stabilize and winds calm down compared to summer, making for better fishing and peaceful boating. Crowds thin after Labor Day. Wildlife viewing peaks during this period as big game rut and waterfowl migrate through. Summer sees more traffic at campsites and boat launches.

Natural Features and SceneryAfterbay Lake sits within Bighorn Canyon's limestone cliffs, where ancient seabeds have been carved into dramatic walls. The lake provides calmer water than the main canyon, attracting waterfowl during fall migration. Wildlife activity picks up significantly during autumn, when big game rutting season brings increased viewing opportunities. The landscape is open with limited natural vegetation at the campsites themselves.

Geological RegionImmerse yourself in the geological wonder of Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, where ancient limestone cliffs tell a story written over millions of years. The campground's location offers front-row seats to one of North America's most spectacular canyon systems, where the forces of water and time have carved dramatic landscapes from prehistoric seabeds. Afterbay Lake, cradled within this magnificent setting, provides a stunning contrast between the rugged canyon walls and peaceful waters, creating an unforgettable backdrop for your camping adventure.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-out

12:00 PM

Stay Limit

Campsite occupancy may not exceed 14 cumulative days within a 28-day period.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutAll 22 sites are back-in only. The layout is open with minimal barriers between spots. Don't expect grass or natural shade structures.

Reservation PlatformsReservations are not needed for this campground.

Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Cancellation PolicyReservations are not applicable as sites are first-come-first-served.

AccessibilityAll campsites and restroom facilities are ADA accessible. Campsites 6, 7, and 19 are designated accessible sites.

Site SizeSites are standard-sized back-in sites suitable for RVs and tents.

PrivacySites generally offer limited privacy; the open layout lacks shade, grass, and significant barriers between sites.

Total Campsites22 campsites

Recommended SitesSelect sites with views of Afterbay Lake for scenic beauty. Accessible sites include 6, 7, and 19.

Amenities available

Potable water

Electricity hookups

Dump station

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Activities you can enjoy

Afterbay Campground provides opportunities for fishing, wildlife viewing, and relaxing by the lake. While hiking or biking trails are not directly mentioned, the scenic area is suitable for exploration. Nearby attractions include Ok-A-Beh Marina and Yellowtail Lake, which offer additional recreational activities.

Fishing

Boating

Wildlife viewing

Water Sports

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBears are present in the area; proper food storage practices are necessary.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredMetal locked boxes are provided for food storage to prevent bear activity.

Fire PolicyCheck locally, dependent on conditions. Fire rings are provided at each site.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours are 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are likely available in Fort Smith, including police and fire stations. Specific details about hospitals or ranger stations are not mentioned.

Trash & RecyclingSeasonal trash and recycling facilities are provided. A large dumpster is available for waste disposal.

Water FeaturesLocated directly along Afterbay Lake; Yellowtail Lake is nearby for additional water-based recreation.

Camp HostStaff is onsite seasonally to assist campers.

Weather at Afterbay Campground

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Reviews

From Booking Sources

4.5

26 reviews

Top-Rated

Afterbay Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews are generally positive, with campers appreciating the location's scenic beauty, tranquility, and proximity to attractions like Yellowtail Lake. However, privacy, shade, and grass at campsites are limited. Bear activity has been noted. 'Beautiful spot to camp!'

Review Summaries

Based on 26 reviews

What Campers Love

Campers praise the campground as a 'beautiful spot to camp' with quiet surroundings and opportunities for relaxation. The availability of electric hookups and vault toilets are appreciated. Proximity...

Based on 26 reviews

Common Concerns

Some concerns include the lack of privacy, shade, and grass at campsites. Additionally, the absence of shower facilities is noted, and fishing success can depend on the lake's stocking schedule....

Based on 26 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own shade structures as the sites lack natural cover. Be prepared for potential bear activity by using the provided food storage lockers. Visit Ok-A-Beh Marina for stunning views and to...

Based on 26 reviews

Seasonal Insights

During peak seasons (Memorial Day to Labor Day), the campground tends to be busier but remains quiet. Campers recommend visiting in late spring or early fall for optimal weather and fewer crowds.

Based on 26 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Beautiful spot to camp!' 2. 'No privacy, no shade, no grass, but if you want to visit the area on the Montana side and stay in a public campground, there aren’t many options.' 3. 'It’s fun and...

Based on 26 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsites 6, 7, and 19 are designated accessible sites and are likely the best options for individuals with mobility needs.

Based on 26 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is excellent, with all sites ADA accessible and specific sites (6, 7, 19) designated for accessibility. Restrooms are also wheelchair-friendly.

Based on 26 reviews