Greenough Lake

4.34

141 reviews

FOREST ROAD 2421, RED LODGE, MT 59068, USA

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

7,205 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

18 campsites

Season

Open May 16th to Sep...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Recreation Resource Management of America site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Quick Facts

7,205 ft

Price

$20/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

18 campsites

Season

Open May 16th to Sep...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Recreation Resource Management of America site

Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Greenough Lake

$20.00 - $20.00 / night

Campsite Fees

The basic recreational use fee is $20 per night for standard non-electric campsites. Additional fees include $10 for a second vehicle collected at...

Standard Site Fee$20.00

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

928-537-8888camping@rrmofa.com

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What Campers Say

4.34

Recommended

Based on 141 reviews

63 Google reviews

Most mentioned

cleanlake

Some mention

noise

"Reviews highlight the natural beauty, cleanliness, and convenient location of the campground. However, some mention overcrowding and noise during peak seasons."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

FOREST ROAD 2421, RED LODGE, MT 59068, USA

Greenough Lake

FOREST ROAD 2421, RED LODGE, MT 59068, USA

Driving directionsFrom U.S. Highway 212, turn off at Rock Creek Road (Forest Road 2421). Go 1 mile to campground entrance, which is on the left.

Road access is paved but may be impacted by seasonal closures or construction. "Beartooth Highway (212) was closed from 7pm to 7am," noted one user review. Roads may feature potholes.

Nearby places

Red Lodge (12 miles, approximately 20 minutes by car), Cooke City (55 miles, via Beartooth Highway), Yellowstone National Park northeastern entrance (55 miles)

Nearby supplies

Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies available in Red Lodge, MT, approximately 12 miles away. Firewood bundles can be purchased directly from the campground host.

Best Time to Camp at Greenough Lake

Experience the dramatic dance of mountain weather at Greenough Lake, where crisp, dry air dominates much of the camping season. Summer unveils a spectacular show of azure skies and comfortable temperatures that invite endless outdoor pursuits, though wise campers come prepared for sudden afternoon thunderstorms that roll through with nature's own fireworks display. As autumn approaches, the possibility of early snow dusts the peaks, creating postcard-perfect scenes. Winter transforms this landscape into a frozen wonderland—beautiful to behold but beyond the reach of camping season, when heavy snows close access to this high-country retreat.

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer is peak season with best weather and full access to activities; busy but excellent.

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Aspen color and quieter conditions late season; campground open through Sep 30.

Spring(Mar-May)

3.0 / 5

Opens May 16 so late-spring visits possible but season and weather are variable.

Winter(Dec-Feb)

Not recommended

Campground is closed in winter months (open May 16–Sep 30).

Planning Tips

Peak Season: May 16th to September 30th is considered peak season.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open May 16th to September 30th. Reservations are first-come-first-serve starting June 21st.
Current Alerts: Construction closures may affect roads; Beartooth Highway (212) was previously closed at night for repairs.

About Greenough Lake

Nestled just off the legendary Beartooth Highway in southern Montana, Greenough Lake Campground beckons adventurers seeking the perfect basecamp for high-country exploration. This beloved destination places you within a stone's throw of pristine Greenough Lake, where mornings begin with mirror-like reflections of towering peaks and evenings end with the gentle lapping of water against the shore. Whether you're casting a line for native trout, paddling across crystal-clear waters, or setting off on scenic trail adventures, this campground serves as your gateway to some of Montana's most breathtaking wilderness.

Greenough Lake Campground offers tent and RV camping with a focus on traditional camping experiences. Sites vary in privacy and location, with some by the creek and others closer to the lake.

Historical SignificanceYour journey to Greenough Lake follows the iconic Beartooth Highway, a ribbon of asphalt that Charles Kuralt famously crowned as 'the most beautiful drive in America.' This engineering marvel serves as more than just a road—it's a pilgrimage route for countless travelers making their way to the wonders of Yellowstone National Park. The highway itself tells a story of human determination to connect remote communities while preserving the wild character of this magnificent landscape.

Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of mountain weather at Greenough Lake, where crisp, dry air dominates much of the camping season. Summer unveils a spectacular show of azure skies and comfortable temperatures that invite endless outdoor pursuits, though wise campers come prepared for sudden afternoon thunderstorms that roll through with nature's own fireworks display. As autumn approaches, the possibility of early snow dusts the peaks, creating postcard-perfect scenes. Winter transforms this landscape into a frozen wonderland—beautiful to behold but beyond the reach of camping season, when heavy snows close access to this high-country retreat.

ElevationPerched high in the embrace of southern Montana's Beartooth Range, Greenough Lake Campground offers that rare mountain air that seems to cleanse both lungs and spirit. At this lofty elevation, the atmosphere takes on a crystalline quality, temperatures remain refreshingly cool even on summer days, and the night sky reveals a tapestry of stars impossible to see from lower elevations. Here, you'll sleep closer to the clouds and wake to air so pure it almost sparkles in the morning light.

Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the soft rustle of aspen leaves dancing in the morning breeze, their golden coins shimmering against the deep green of surrounding pines. The Beartooth Range rises dramatically above the campground, creating a natural amphitheater of granite peaks and alpine meadows. Just a quarter-mile stroll brings you to the shores of Greenough Lake, where the forest opens to reveal waters so clear you can count the pebbles on the bottom. This living landscape hosts an impressive cast of wildlife—from majestic elk grazing in meadow clearings to the occasional grizzly bear foraging for huckleberries, reminding visitors that this is truly wild country where nature still reigns supreme.

Geological RegionThe Beartooth Range stands as one of Montana's most spectacular geological showcases, where ancient granite peaks tell a billion-year story written in stone. At Greenough Lake Campground, you're immersed in this dramatic landscape where Rock Creek has carved its patient path through the mountains, creating the perfect setting for both Greenough Lake and the surrounding ecosystem. Forests of quaking aspen and stately pines have claimed the lower slopes, providing sanctuary for the region's remarkable wildlife—from the powerful grizzly bears that rule these mountains to the graceful deer and majestic elk that move like shadows through the trees. This is where the Northern Rockies reveal their true character: wild, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay allowed is 16 nights during one visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

One camping unit per site is allowed. Exact number of guests per site is not specified.

Groups

Group camping site details are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutCampsites are spread out with some located near the river. "Distance between many campsites" provides privacy, but some are closer together.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve availability starting June 21st. Sites need to be booked on-site; advance calls cannot confirm availability.

Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed prior to the arrival date with a $10 fee. Late cancellations (after midnight local time, one calendar day prior to arrival) incur an additional charge of the first night's fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.

AccessibilityThe campground offers two accessible sites, along with accessible vault toilets.

Site SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with some located directly by the river.

PrivacyReviews mention that most sites offer good privacy, although some are closer together.

Total Campsites18 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 2 offers easy access to Greenough Lake and is favored for its peaceful environment. Site 10 is recommended for families due to its quieter location during weekdays.

Amenities available

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Greenough Lake Campground provides a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and scenic drives. The nearby Beartooth Wilderness and trailheads such as Hellroaring and Lake Fork offer additional outdoor opportunities.

HikingHiking options include trails leading into the Beartooth Wilderness and the Parkside National Recreation Trail. Visitors have noted trails like the one to Glacier Lake as worthwhile.

FishingGreenough Lake supports rainbow trout fishing, although some users note the lake as being 'fished out.' The Main Fork of Rock Creek is also popular for fishing.

BikingThe Parkside National Recreation Trail allows for mountain biking. Hellroaring Road is open to off-road vehicles.

BoatingCanoeing and kayaking are popular activities on Greenough Lake.

Wildlife viewingThe area is home to diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, deer, and elk. Campers are advised to practice bear safety.

Winter Activities

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear activity is frequent; food storage rules apply. Road closures and potholes may impact travel.

Active AlertsConstruction closures may affect roads; Beartooth Highway (212) was previously closed at night for repairs.

Food Storage RequiredFood storage lockers are available at some campsites due to the presence of grizzly bears.

Fire PolicyCampfires are allowed within the designated campfire rings. Firewood must be purchased locally.

Emergency ServicesNearest hospital and basic emergency services are located in Red Lodge, MT, approximately 12 miles away.

Trash & RecyclingTrash bins are available at the entrance for waste disposal. Campers are encouraged to practice bear-safe food storage and waste management practices.

Water FeaturesLess than 0.25 miles from Greenough Lake and adjacent to Rock Creek.

Camp HostCamp hosts are generally described as friendly and helpful, with specific mentions of efforts to keep facilities clean. "Mike, the CG host was kind and efficient," one user remarked.

Weather at Greenough Lake

Reviews

4.3

141 reviews

Recommended

Greenough Lake is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews highlight the natural beauty, cleanliness, and convenient location of the campground. However, some mention overcrowding and noise during peak seasons.

Review Summaries

Based on 141 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive aspects include the campground host's friendliness, the cleanliness of facilities, and the scenic beauty of the surrounding area. 'The lake is an easy walk, and very beautiful. Just a great...

Based on 141 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include overcrowding, noise, and issues with campers leaving trash. Some also mention the lack of a dump station for RVs.

Based on 141 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing bear-proof storage and planning visits during weekdays to avoid crowds. Fishing enthusiasts might find better luck in the creek than the lake.

Based on 141 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Peak summer months can be crowded and noisy, while off-season stays are quieter and more peaceful. The campground's popularity increases during the summer due to nearby events.

Based on 141 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The campground and toilets were clean; however, there was someone using their loud generator late at night.' 2. 'Beautiful area with a short walk right up to the lake.' 3. 'Camp hosts made a...

Based on 141 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 2: 'Incredible. The short walk to Greenough Lake was a nice trek.' Site 10: 'Quiet during the week but busy on Labor Day weekend.' Site 14: 'Lovely creek-side location, clean restrooms, and...

Based on 141 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessible vault toilets and two sites designed for disabled access were noted as positive features.

Based on 141 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

The campground is pet-friendly, but some complaints were raised about loose dogs. 'An unleashed dog came into our campsite scaring our two little dogs.'

Based on 141 reviews

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