How much does camping cost at Pine Creek Campground?

Camping fees at Pine Creek Campground range from $15-$26/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Pine Creek Campground first-come first-served or reservation?

Pine Creek Campground 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.

Can I see photos of campsites at Pine Creek Campground before I book?

Yes! Pine Creek Campground has 6 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 Pine Creek Campground?

Pine Creek Campground is open Peak season spans mid-May to mid-September.. 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 Pine Creek Campground?

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

Is there cell service at Pine Creek Campground?

Cell phone service at Pine Creek Campground is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Pine Creek Campground have?

Pine Creek Campground has 26 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Pine Creek Campground?

Yes, pets are allowed at Pine Creek 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 Pine Creek Campground?

Pine Creek Campground offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Pine Creek Campground

Q: Can I have a campfire at Pine Creek Campground?

Fire policies at Pine Creek Campground: Campfires allowed within designated stone fire rings at campsites. Firewood available for $8 per bundle.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.38

66 reviews

5242 Highway 89 South, Livingston, MT 59047

Top 23% in MTSpring

Featured in:Primitive Camping Montana Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Montana

Quick Facts

5,600 ft

Price

$15 - $26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

26 campsites

Season

5/15 – 9/25 Weather ...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

5,600 ft

Price

$15 - $26/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

26 campsites

Season

5/15 – 9/25 Weather ...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Check Availability Official Website

Get Directions

Pine Creek Campground

$15.00 - $26.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Overnight Use: Single Site: $20 (includes 2 driving vehicles) Extra Vehicle Fee: $8 per additional vehicle Single Site: $26 per night Additional...

Standard Site Fee$26.00

Hike and Bike Site Fee$15.00

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USFS

Provider

406-222-1892

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

5242 Highway 89 South, Livingston, MT 59047

Pine Creek Campground

5242 Highway 89 South, Livingston, MT 59047

Nearby places

Livingston (approx. 9 miles, 15 min), Yellowstone National Park North Entrance (approx. 48 miles, 1 hour).

Nearby supplies

Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in Livingston, MT, approximately 9 miles from the campground.

Driving directionsAt the intersection of I-90 and US Rt. 89, take Rt. 89 south 3.2 miles to State Rt. 540 (East River Rd.). Turn left onto East River Rd and go 7.7 miles to campground sign (Luccock Park Rd.). Turn left onto Luccock Park Rd (paved, single-lane with switchbacks) and go 2.7 miles to campground.

The campground is accessible via paved, single-lane roads with switchbacks. User reviews highlight challenges on narrow access roads: 'The road up to the camp is about 2.8 miles from the highway... very steep and narrow. There are a few pull offs but it was a white knuckle driving experience going up.'

Weather at Pine Creek Campground

Best Time to Camp at Pine Creek Campground

Summer brings warm, dry days between 70°F and 80°F with cool nights under the pines. Trails, bike routes, and trout streams are fully accessible, and wildlife viewing is best at dawn and dusk. July and August see the heaviest use, so reserve ahead or arrive early for walk-up sites. Autumn turns the forest gold and amber before winter snow closes access to all but the hardiest visitors.

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Peak season for warm days, accessible trails, fishing and best wildlife viewing; high demand noted.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: Peak season spans mid-May to mid-September.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: 5/15 – 9/25 Weather Dependent.

About Pine Creek Campground

Pine Creek Campground offers 26 tent and primitive sites beneath mature Douglas-fir and spruce at 5,600 feet in the Gallatin National Forest. The campground sits along Pine Creek in Paradise Valley, 26 miles south of Livingston, with fees ranging from $15 to $26 per night. Privacy between sites is excellent thanks to the thick canopy overhead.

Pine Creek Campground caters to a range of camping preferences, including tent camping, hike-in/bike-in primitive camping, and group camping.

Historical Significance

The Civilian Conservation Corps built Pine Creek Campground in the 1930s, carving the two loops and original sites that still welcome campers today. The campground is the main trailhead for Pine Creek Trail, which climbs to Pine Creek Falls and Pine Creek Lake within the Absaroka Beartooth Wilderness.

Weather and SeasonsSummer brings warm, dry days between 70°F and 80°F with cool nights under the pines. Trails, bike routes, and trout streams are fully accessible, and wildlife viewing is best at dawn and dusk. July and August see the heaviest use, so reserve ahead or arrive early for walk-up sites. Autumn turns the forest gold and amber before winter snow closes access to all but the hardiest visitors.

ElevationPerched at 5,600 feet where the air tastes crisp and clean, Pine Creek Campground offers a natural respite from summer's heat. This elevated sanctuary rewards visitors with sweeping vistas and star-filled nights so clear you'll swear you can touch the Milky Way. The altitude creates a microclimate where morning mist dances through the trees and afternoon breezes carry the scent of pine and wild mountain flowers.

Natural Features and SceneryMature Douglas-fir and spruce create dense shade across 60% of the sites, with wild berry bushes scattered through the understory. Pine Creek runs through the campground. Black bears frequent the area for berries, deer appear in early morning and evening, and mountain lions occasionally pass through. The West Absaroka Mountains rise to the east, forming the backdrop to Paradise Valley's dramatic geology.

Geological RegionWelcome to Montana's legendary Paradise Valley, where Pine Creek Campground sits cradled between the dramatic peaks of the West Absaroka Mountains within the vast embrace of Gallatin National Forest. This geological wonderland tells a story millions of years in the making, where ancient volcanic forces and patient glaciers sculpted a landscape so breathtaking that early settlers could think of no better name than Paradise itself.

Scenic ViewsCampground offers scenic views with rushing water audible from most sites, and panoramic views of Paradise Valley accessible from the road leading in.

Lodging & AccommodationsThere are no hotel-style lodging options within the campground itself.

Programs & ActivitiesLimited information is available on cultural and educational programs, though outdoor science and learning opportunities are noted.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

Check-in time is 2:00 PM.

Check-out

Check-out time is 12:00 PM.

Stay Limit

Maximum stay limit of 16 days.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Each site accommodates up to 8 guests.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Site layoutTwo loops spread across the campground with parking spurs measuring 16 feet by 50 feet. Mature trees provide separation between sites. The access road is steep and narrow with few turnouts, making it difficult for two trailers to pass. Reviewers note the lack of signage warning about road conditions before committing to the drive in.

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via 1-877-444-6777.

Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability; reports indicate the campground often fills up during peak times.

Cancellation PolicyCancellation policies are managed through the reservation service platform.

AccessibilityThe campground accommodates individuals with disabilities through wheelchair-friendly vault toilets and trails such as the 0.5-mile Creekside Trail. Additionally, 17 sites are accessible.

Site SizeAverage parking spurs for trailers/RVs measure 16'x50'.

PrivacyPrivacy is described as excellent due to the mature Douglas-fir and spruce trees providing separation between sites.

Total Campsites26 campsites

Recommended SitesSites offer varying privacy and proximity to water features. 'Some sites support 26-foot trailers, but most accommodate truck-trailer combos of 42 feet or less.

Best CampsitesSite #11 stands out for its wood-burning stove, a feature reviewers highlight as especially useful. Many sites include large stone fire rings with built-in benches.

Need help booking Pine Creek Campground?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Pine Creek Campground, nestled in Montana's Paradise Valley, offers a range of amenities for campers seeking a mix of rustic charm and convenience. The campground features 26 sites, including 25 combined sites and 1 tent-only, hike-in/bike-in site. Amenities include picnic tables, grilles, potable water, and well-maintained vault toilets. Firewood can be purchased for $8 per bundle. However, there are no hot showers or flush toilets, and RVs do not have access to waste stations or hookups. Visitors should practice bear safety as the location is within bear country.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Pine Creek Campground offers a variety of outdoor recreational opportunities. Popular activities include hiking to Pine Creek Falls, creek fishing, wildlife viewing, and enjoying scenic trails. Limited educational programs focusing on nature and local ecology are also available.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBear and mountain lion sightings necessitate bear spray and safe food storage practices. The steep, narrow access road poses driving challenges.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. Visitors rely on well-maintained vault toilets, which reviewers have praised for cleanliness and lack of odor.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

No Dump StationThere is no dump station at this campground. Plan to use a dump station along your route or at a nearby facility before or after your stay.

Fire PolicyCampfires allowed within designated stone fire rings at campsites. Firewood available for $8 per bundle.

Quiet HoursQuiet hours begin at 10:00 PM.

Emergency ServicesEmergency services are located in Livingston, MT, including hospitals and police stations.

Trash & RecyclingTrash pickup is available. Visitors are reminded to practice bear-safe food storage techniques to avoid penalties of up to $5,000 or six months imprisonment.

Water FeaturesLocated near Pine Creek, which offers fishing opportunities for rainbow and brown trout, and whitefish.

Camp HostHosts are described as friendly and helpful, providing bear warnings and selling firewood.

Cell CoverageCell service is available, with one reviewer specifically mentioning Verizon coverage being sufficient for browsing but not for heavy streaming.

Trip Planning Tools

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

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.4

66 reviews

Recommended

Pine Creek Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the campground's natural beauty, privacy, and accessibility to trails, but note challenges with the steep and narrow access road.

Review Summaries

Based on 66 reviews

What Campers Love

Visitors appreciate the shaded sites, cleanliness of the vault toilets, and proximity to scenic trails. Many praise the friendly and helpful camp hosts.

Based on 66 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the challenging access road, limited signage, and issues with availability during peak seasons.

Based on 66 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Campsites near the creek are noted for their tranquility. Site #11 is particularly praised for its wood-burning stove.

Based on 66 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Travelers recommend bringing bear spray and being prepared for steep, narrow roads. Reserving in advance is advised due to high demand.

Based on 66 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews point to high summer demand, with quieter experiences during the shoulder seasons. Fall foliage enhances the scenic appeal.

Based on 66 reviews

Camper Quotes

"This is the most scenic location we have ever camped." – Jim Price. "Vault toilets were some of the nicest and best maintained I've seen." – Henry Kloepper.

Based on 66 reviews

Accessibility Features

Wheelchair-accessible trails and toilets receive positive mentions for accommodating individuals with disabilities.

Based on 66 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed, and no significant issues regarding pet policies have been reported.

Based on 66 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

Be the first to review this campground

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Go if

Tent campers who want genuine forest privacy and trailhead access: the 5.2-mile hike to Pine Creek Lake and the family-friendly Pine Creek Falls trail both start here, and site #11 has a wood-burning stove that reviewers specifically call out.

Skip if

Trailers and RVs will have a hard time on the steep, narrow access road with few turnouts, and there's no warning signage before you're committed to the drive. No hookups, no showers, and peak-season sites book fast through 1-877-444-6777.

Nearby Campgrounds

West Boulder Cabin sits along the West Boulder River in Custer Gallatin National Forest, managed by the Yellowstone Ranger District. This single rental cabin offers a quiet, secluded retreat at mid-elevation with modern appliances, vault toilets, potable water, and riverside access. Guests use the cabin as a base for fly-fishing the West Boulder and hiking nearby trails, with a five-day stay limit during the seasonal operating window.

1 campsites

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5242 HIGHWAY 89 SOUTH, LIVINGSTON, MT 59047, USA

Mill Creek Cabin sits in mid-elevation forest within Custer Gallatin National Forest, operated by the U.S. Forest Service's Yellowstone Ranger District near Livingston. This single rental cabin offers electricity and a back porch overlooking Mill Creek, where guests fish, hike nearby trails, and watch for wildlife. The setting is remote and rustic, with vault toilets and potable water on-site.

$75.00 - $75.00 / night

Snowbank Campground sits at 7,930 feet in the Custer Gallatin National Forest, where Mill Creek runs through a high-alpine setting. Rocky Mountain Recreation Company operates this small seasonal campground with tent, RV, and group sites. Campers hike, fish, bike, and watch wildlife from a creek-side base camp with vault toilets, potable water, and fire rings.

$26.00 - $60.00 / night

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Falls Creek Campground

Custer Gallatin National Forest

Falls Creek Campground sits along the Boulder River in Custer Gallatin National Forest, offering 8 primitive tent sites at $10 per night. The river runs close enough to each site that campers fall asleep to moving water. No cell service (T-Mobile confirmed), no camp store, no firewood sales. This is bare-bones camping at 5,266 feet in the Main Boulder area near Big Timber.

$10.00 - $10.00 / night

5242 HIGHWAY 89 SOUTH, Livingston, MT 59047, USA

Trail Creek Cabin is a remote US Forest Service rental in the Custer Gallatin National Forest near Livingston, Montana. This single backcountry cabin sits in mid-elevation forest and operates seasonally, with winter the standout season for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and solitude. A wood stove, firewood, and basic cooking supplies make it a cozy base for wildlife viewing and hiking, though navigating the surrounding mix of public and private lands requires attention to signage.

$55.00 - $55.00 / night

25 mi south of Big Timber on US 298, 8.5 mi south on Main Boulder Rd (County Rd 212)

Aspen Campground sits along the Boulder River in Custer Gallatin National Forest, offering 8 rustic sites at 5,404 feet elevation. This small campground serves visitors exploring the nearby Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Nightly fees run $12, and sites fill quickly on summer weekends.

$12.00 - $12.00 / night

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Big Beaver Campground

25 miles south of Big Timber on US 298, and 8 miles south on Main Boulder Rd (County Rd 212)

Big Beaver Campground sits along Blakely Creek in the Main Boulder area of Custer Gallatin National Forest, 15 miles from Big Timber. The five-site campground at 6,486 feet draws anglers and quiet-seekers to its creekside setting, though it sits close enough to the road that dust is a real factor during dry periods.

$0.00 - $0.00 / night

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Chippy Park Campground

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Chippy Park Campground offers seven sites along the Boulder River in Custer Gallatin National Forest, about 25 miles from Big Timber. Two walk-in tent sites sit right by the river, away from the parking area. Sites cost $12 per night and include picnic tables, fire rings, and potable water. At 5,449 feet elevation, this small campground fills up fast on summer weekends.

$12.00 - $12.00 / night

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Pine Creek Campground

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Pine Creek Campground sits high in Custer Gallatin National Forest near Livingston, Montana, offering alpine access to Pine Creek Trail, Pine Creek Lake, and waterfalls. Operated by ExplorUS, this small campground serves tent campers, RV users, and groups seeking fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing in a forested mountain setting. Reviewers praise spacious sites and clean facilities but note narrow access roads and seasonal crowding.

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Hells Canyon Campground sits at 5,840 feet in Gallatin National Forest, 11 sites scattered among tall pines on a scenic ridge near Big Timber. Sites cost $5-10 per night and offer high privacy, though Boulder Creek runs through the valley below, out of sight and earshot from camp. The access road can't handle vehicles over 20 feet.

$5.00 - $10.00 / night

5242 HWY 89 SOUTH, LIVINGSTON, MT 59047, USA

Fourmile Cabin sits in mid-elevation forest within Custer Gallatin National Forest, managed by the Yellowstone Ranger District near Livingston. This remote rental cabin offers access to Boulder River trout fishing and backcountry hiking trails, with basic amenities including a wood stove, electric stove, and vault toilets. The property accommodates both cabin guests and a handful of RV sites, with an evening gate closure and a five-day stay limit during the peak-season operating window.

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East Boulder Campground

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East Boulder Campground sits along the East Boulder River in the Yellowstone District of Custer Gallatin National Forest, about 30 miles from Big Timber. The campground has just 2 campsites and operates first-come, first-served. No amenities, no fee. At 5,640 feet, it's a bare-bones river access point for anglers and hikers who want solitude.

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Campgrounds

Custer Gallatin National Forest

Pine Creek Campground

From the U.S. Forest Service

Reference information about Pine Creek Campground sourced from official USFS records and forestcamping.com. View official recreation.gov page →

Overview

A campground in the West Absaroka Mountains on the Yellowstone District.

About the campground

The elevation is 5,600 ft. NOTE: The North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park is 48 miles south of campground. The campground, situated in two loops, is located in a rustic setting among mature Douglas-fir and spruce trees near Pine Creek. In addition to grilles, a few sites have large stone fire rings - some with benches around the ring. The campground was originally constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) during the 1930s. The campground is very scenic and should have good fall foliage. The one tent-only camp site is designated as a hike-in/bike-in site; no parking available for vehicles. Berries bushes abound Gallatin National Forest 214 in the campground. Privacy between campsites is excellent. Firewood is available for a fee. This is bear country; practice safe food storage techniques. "Possessing/storing food so bears/wild animals have access will result in a fine of up to $5,000 or six months imprisonment or both."

Seasons & access

Open May 15 through September 20

RV information

The parking aprons are gravel.

Directions

At the intersection of I-90 and US Rt. 89, take Rt. 89 south 3.2 miles to State Rt. 540 (East River Rd.). Turn left onto East River Rd. and go 7.7 miles to campground sign (Luccock Park Rd.). Turn left onto Luccock Park Rd. (paved, single-lane with switchbacks) and go 2.7 miles to campground.

National Forest: Gallatin National Forest
Ranger District: Yellowstone
Elevation: 5600
Rate: $15 per day
Maximum Stay: 16