How much does camping cost at Wade Lake?

Camping fees at Wade Lake are $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 first-come first-served or reservation?

Wade Lake 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 Wade Lake before I book?

Yes! Wade Lake has 3 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 Wade Lake?

Wade Lake is open April 15 to November 30. 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?

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

How many campsites does Wade Lake have?

Wade Lake has 25 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?

Yes, pets are allowed at Wade Lake. 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 Wade Lake?

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

What activities can I do at Wade Lake?

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

Wade Lake (Mt)

4.03

119 reviews

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

CReport Card

Summer Destination

Quick Facts

6,217 ft

Price

$15 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

25 campsites

Season

Open from May 15 to ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Madison Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,217 ft

Price

$15 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

25 campsites

Season

Open from May 15 to ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Book on Madison Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Wade Lake (Mt)

$15.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Group Nonelectric: $30.00; S&P Group Nonelectric: $30.00; S&P Standard Nonelectric: $15.00; Standard Nonelectric: $15.00; Tent Only / Walk in:...

Standard Site Fee$15.00

Group Site Fee$30.00

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Provider

406-682-4253406-682-4253

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Campground Map

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

Wade Lake (Mt)

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

Nearby places

Yellowstone National Park (West Entrance) - 35 miles

Ennis, MT - 43 miles

Weather at Wade Lake (Mt)

Current alerts(8)

Campsites must be occupied the first night and may not be unattended for more than 24 hours
Cellular service is not available at the campground but may be available at the top of the hill, about one and one half miles away.
For “First Come First Served” campsites - Pay by cash or check. Change is not available.
Garbage service is available from May 15 - September 15. Otherwise, it is Pack It In, Pack It Out.

Best Time to Camp at Wade Lake (Mt)

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access, the warmest days for boating and hiking, and long daylight for exploring Wade Lake’s aquamarine waters — expect sunny to partly cloudy days with afternoon highs typically 65–80°F (18–27°C) and cool nights in the 30s–40s°F (0–9°C). Water temperatures remain brisk (often in the 50s–60s°F) because the lake is spring-fed, but fishing, kayaking, and swimming are at their peak and alpine wildflowers brighten trails. Crowds are moderate compared with lower-elev Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: December, January, February, March

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best season: warmest days, boating, hiking and long daylight; busiest time though.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 15 to November 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from May 15 to September 15 for reservations, with first-come, first-served availability afterward until November 30.

About Wade Lake (Mt)

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.

Wade Lake Campground accommodates a mix of camping styles, including tent-only sites, group sites, and small trailers. Larger RVs over 24 feet are not recommended due to narrow roads and tight curves.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access, the warmest days for boating and hiking, and long daylight for exploring Wade Lake’s aquamarine waters — expect sunny to partly cloudy days with afternoon highs typically 65–80°F (18–27°C) and cool nights in the 30s–40s°F (0–9°C). Water temperatures remain brisk (often in the 50s–60s°F) because the lake is spring-fed, but fishing, kayaking, and swimming are at their peak and alpine wildflowers brighten trails. Crowds are moderate compared with lower-elev Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: December, January, February, March

Elevation6217 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryMountain springs feed directly into Wade Lake, creating water so clear you can see the bottom. The Gravelly Range rises above the campground, providing shelter and views. Douglas fir dominate the forest cover. Wildlife sightings are common: moose in the shallows at dawn, deer in the meadows, eagles overhead, and black bears in the area. The spring-fed system keeps the water cold year-round, typically in the 50s and 60s Fahrenheit even in summer.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground does not feature hotel-style accommodations. However, Wade Lake Resort provides boat rentals for recreational activities.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned as part of the campground offerings.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

16 consecutive days per site
32 days annual limit across multiple sites.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Standard campsites allow a single camping unit, with some accommodating additional tents.

Groups

The campground offers two group sites. Specific details about the capacity or vehicle limits for these sites are not provided.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov online or app.

AccessibilityThe campground is situated on a steep hillside, making it less accessible for individuals with mobility challenges. Sites in the upper loop are particularly challenging due to the incline.

Site SizeCampsites vary in size, with some able to accommodate smaller trailers not exceeding 24 feet. Individual reviews note tight spaces that may only fit a tent in the parking driveway for certain sites.

PrivacyPrivacy levels vary. Some sites are described as secluded and private, while others are closely packed together, especially in the upper loop.

Total Campsites25 campsites

Recommended SitesAvoid site 10 for lack of privacy; site 24 is difficult for trailers due to road layout.

Best CampsitesSites 6 and T1 get mentioned in reviews for lake views and proximity to the water. The main loop offers better spacing than the upper loop, where sites pack closely together.

Need help booking Wade Lake (Mt)?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Wade Lake Campground offers a range of essential amenities and services within a picturesque setting, suited for both individual and group campers. Each of the 25 sites, including two group sites, is fitted with picnic tables and fire rings. Five drinking water spigots and five vault toilets are spread across the campground. The campground lacks garbage service outside of peak season (May 15 to September 15), requiring visitors to pack out their trash during off-peak periods. Cellular service is unavailable onsite but may be obtainable 1.5 miles away at the top of the hill near the Forest boundary. Food storage is facilitated by 'bear-proof' bins, ensuring compliance with wildlife safety measures.

Potable water

Fire rings

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Vault toilets

Group Sites

I manage this campground

Things to do at Wade Lake (Mt)

Wade Lake Campground offers a variety of recreational activities in a serene natural setting. Visitors frequently engage in fishing, boating, hiking, wildlife viewing, and swimming, despite the cold water. The campground provides access to hiking trails and is located near the Gravelly Range, which offers ATV trails. Additionally, the lake features pristine aquamarine waters ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking.

Hiking4.0/5

Trails accessible directly from campground; proximate Lee Metcalf Wilderness offers varied routes.

Fishing4.0/5

Lake supports rainbow and brown trout; Madison River (blue-ribbon) 5 miles away.

Boating4.0/5

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Frequent moose, deer, eagles, bears and waterfowl sightings reported.

Water Sports4.0/5

Paddling/kayak and paddleboard activity is common on the calm, clear lake.

Winter Activities1.0/5

Snow can restrict access; best season is summer; limited winter usability noted.

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/5Mid-elevation, forested and relatively remote—good potential for dark skies.

Photography4.0/5Vivid lake color, wildlife and mountain backdrops make for strong photo ops.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

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

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The campground provides vault toilets, which are maintained and generally clean according to some reviews. However, other reviews point out instances of poor maintenance.

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof lockers are provided to ensure compliance with food storage regulations.

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 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.

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

4.0

119 reviews

Satisfactory

Wade Lake (Mt) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews for Wade Lake Campground are mixed, with many praising the site's natural beauty, clear aquamarine waters, and opportunities for outdoor activities. Negative reviews focus on overcrowding, small and uneven campsites, and issues with maintenance or noise.

Review Summaries

Based on 119 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 119 reviews.

Site 6 (Main Loop)Loved
Site 6 (Main Loop): Highly praised for proximity to water spigots and vault toilets, but noise from day-use parking was noted.
Site 7 (Main Loop)Loved
Site 7 (Main Loop): Positive feedback about its scenic surroundings and clean facilities.
Site 10 (Main Loop)Mentioned
Site 10 (Main Loop): Noted as being too close to neighboring campers.
Site 19 (Upper Loop)Issues noted
Site 19 (Upper Loop): Complaints about lack of privacy and unfavorable layout.

What Campers Love

Many visitors highlight the stunning aquamarine water of Wade Lake, the natural beauty of the surrounding area, and the variety of recreational activities such as paddleboarding and fishing. Several...

Based on 119 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include overcrowding, especially during peak seasons, the small size and unevenness of campsites, and noise from other campers. Some visitors criticized the lack of garbage services...

Based on 119 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Visitors recommend arriving early to secure a spot, especially on weekends. They also advise bringing sufficient water, bug spray, and being prepared for narrow, rough roads. Group site reservations...

Based on 119 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the most popular season, with frequent mentions of overcrowding and busy day-use areas. Winter and offseason reviews note that snow can restrict access, and visitors need to prepare for...

Based on 119 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The lake is gorgeous and the area is so peaceful." - Katie Robb; "The natural aquamarine waters make the lake absolutely stunning!" - Camry Lefort; "Overcrowded during peak times, but very quiet and...

Based on 119 reviews

Accessibility Features

The steep hillside of the campground poses challenges for individuals with mobility limitations. No additional reviews specifically address accessibility features.

Based on 119 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are permitted, but several reviews highlight issues with unleashed dogs disrupting other campers or polluting the lake.

Based on 119 reviews

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Wade Lake (Mt)

$15.00 - $30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Group Nonelectric: $30.00; S&P Group Nonelectric: $30.00; S&P Standard Nonelectric: $15.00; Standard Nonelectric: $15.00; Tent Only / Walk in:...

Standard Site Fee$15.00

Group Site Fee$30.00

Get Notified When Available

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

Free to start · paid plans add 2-min scans

263,000+ sites monitored · Email alerts to start; SMS and in-app with an account

Learn more about alerts →

Share this campground

Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

406-682-4253406-682-4253

Go if

You want striking mountain lake scenery, fishing and boating access, and don't mind cool water temperatures or compact sites.

Skip if

You need spacious, level sites or want to avoid peak-season crowds at a small campground.

Nearby Campgrounds

Frequently Visited

4.5

(111)

Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas

Wade Lake, MT, USA

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.

Wade Lake (Mt)

Quick Facts

Quick Facts

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Weather at Wade Lake (Mt)

Current alerts(8)

Best Time to Camp at Wade Lake (Mt)

Planning Tips

About Wade Lake (Mt)

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Amenities available

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Common Concerns

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Best Time to Camp at Wade Lake (Mt)

Planning Tips

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Need help booking Wade Lake (Mt)?

Amenities available

Things to do at Wade Lake (Mt)

Policies & Safety

Trip Planning Tools

Current alerts(8)

Reviews

What Campers Love

Common Concerns