Mountain Camping in Montana
Discover the best mountain camping across Montana. Rise above it all in mountain campgrounds. Crisp air, towering peaks, and endless alpine adventure.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Thompson Peak Lookout Tower
Perched at 7,000 feet, this restored fire lookout tower delivers unobstructed 360-degree views where Montana's wilderness unfolds in every direction—distant mountain ranges pierce the horizon while the Clark Fork Valley sprawls thousands of feet below.
Big Hole Lookout (Mt)
This authentic fire lookout towers above the wilderness, offering 360-degree panoramas where mountain ranges stretch endlessly into the horizon and valleys unfold far below.
Hornet Lookout
Perched at 6,744 feet, this 1922 fire tower delivers sweeping 360-degree panoramas spanning Kintla Lake's pristine waters to Glacier National Park's iconic peaks, with Wedge Mountain and Akinkoka Peak commanding the foreground.
About Mountain Camping in Montana
Mountain camping Montana offers some of the most spectacular alpine experiences in the American West, where the Rocky Mountains create a dramatic backdrop for unforgettable outdoor adventures. From the jagged peaks of Glacier National Park in the north to the Gallatin Range near Yellowstone in the south, Montana's mountain campgrounds provide access to pristine wilderness, historic fire lookouts, and breathtaking panoramic vistas that stretch for hundreds of miles.
Best Time
The prime season for mountain camping Montana runs from late June through September, when snow has melted from high-elevation access roads and trails, and weather conditions are most stable. July and August offer the warmest temperatures and longest days, making them ideal for families and those seeking the full range of hiking and outdoor activities, though these months also see the highest visitor numbers and require booking popular lookouts and cabins months in advance.
Scenery Highlights
- Stunning mountain panoramas
- Cool alpine temperatures
- Alpine lakes and meadows
- World-class hiking trails
Explore Mountain Camping in Montana
Browse 13 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve popular fire lookout towers and cabins exactly six months in advance through Recreation.gov when bookings open, as premier locations like Thompson Peak Lookout Tower and Mission Lookout fill within hours for summer dates.
- 2Bring all the water you'll need for your entire stay, as most mountain sites lack potable water sources—plan for at least one gallon per person per day, plus extra for cooking and cleaning.
- 3Pack layers and cold-weather gear even for summer trips, as mountain temperatures can drop 30-40 degrees from day to night, and afternoon thunderstorms are common in July and August.
- 4For lookout tower stays, bring binoculars and a star chart to take full advantage of the panoramic views and dark skies far from light pollution.
Mountain Camping in Montana FAQ
We've ranked 13+ mountain campgrounds in Montana based on elevation, scenery, and access to trails. Top options offer stunning alpine views and cool summer temperatures.
Mountain camping in Montana requires preparation for cooler temperatures and changing weather. Bring layers, be prepared for afternoon storms, and allow time for altitude acclimation at higher elevations.
Mountain camping season in Montana typically runs June through September, though lower elevations may be accessible earlier. Snow can linger at higher elevations into July.
Popular Montana Campgrounds Book Fast
The best mountain camping in Montana book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Thompson Peak Lookout Tower
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