Montana's wild landscapes offer some of the most scenic riverside and mountain lake campgrounds in the country. From the shores of Flathead Lake to the quiet banks of the Missouri River, these destinations pair breathtaking views with the simple joys of outdoor living. Whether you're towing an RV, pitching a tent, or seeking a day-use spot to relax, the Treasure State has a campground to match your style.
This guide highlights ten scenic riverside and mountain lake campgrounds Montana travelers should consider. Each location was selected based on its natural setting, user ratings, and overall reputation as a place to connect with the outdoors. Use this list to compare options and plan a trip that fits your camping preferences.
★★★★★ 4.8 · 265 reviews
Choteau Mountain View RV Campground sits at 85 Hwy 221 in Choteau, MT, offering a basecamp for exploring the Rocky Mountain Front. With a rating of 4.8 from 265 reviews, it stands out as a well-regarded RV campground in the area. The name hints at the panoramic mountain scenery that surrounds the site, making it a fitting choice for travelers seeking scenic views near the mountains.
Address: Choteau Mountain View RV Campground, 85 Hwy 221, Choteau, MT 59422, United States
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 342 reviews
Salmon Lake State Park, located at 2329 MT-83 in Seeley Lake, MT, is a state park that offers camping and day-use opportunities along the shores of Salmon Lake. With a 4.6 rating from 342 reviews, visitors appreciate its clear waters and forested setting. The park is part of the Seeley Lake area, known for its outdoor recreation and scenic mountain backdrops.
Address: Salmon Lake State Park, 2329 MT-83, Seeley Lake, MT 59868, United States
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★★★★★ 4.5 · 232 reviews
Holter Lake Campground, managed by the U.S. Bureau of Land Management, is found at 1380 Beartooth Rd in Wolf Creek, MT. This campground offers a 4.5 rating from 232 reviews, reflecting its appeal as a lakeside destination. Holter Lake is a reservoir on the Missouri River, providing opportunities for boating, fishing, and enjoying the surrounding hills.
Address: Holter Lake Campground - U.S. Bureau of Land Management, 1380 Beartooth Rd, Wolf Creek, MT 59648, United States
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★★★★☆ 4.4 · 228 reviews
Lake Five Resort, located at 540 Belton Stage in West Glacier, MT, is an RV park with a 4.4 rating from 228 reviews. Its proximity to West Glacier places it near the western entrance of Glacier National Park, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the area. The resort's name suggests a lakeside setting, adding to its scenic appeal.
Address: Lake Five Resort, 540 Belton Stage, West Glacier, MT 59936, United States
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★★★★☆ 4.4 · 1,153 reviews
Lake Elmo State Park, at 219 Rolling Hills Dr in Billings, MT, is a state park that offers a lake setting within the city limits. With a strong 4.4 rating from 1153 reviews, it's a popular spot for local outdoor recreation. The park provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, and picnicking, all with the convenience of being near Billings.
Address: Lake Elmo State Park, 219 Rolling Hills Dr, Billings, MT 59105, United States
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★★★★☆ 4.4 · 930 reviews
Taylorsville Lake State Park, located at 1320 Park Rd in Mt Eden, KY, is a state park in Kentucky, not Montana. Despite being included in this list, it features a 4.4 rating from 930 reviews. This park is set along Taylorsville Lake, offering camping and water-based activities. Please note that this location is outside Montana and may not be relevant to your search for Montana campgrounds.
Address: Taylorsville Lake State Park, 1320 Park Rd, Mt Eden, KY 40046, United States
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★★★★★ 4.7 · 548 reviews
West Shore / Flathead Lake State Park, at 17768 US-93 in Lakeside, MT, is a state park along the western shore of Flathead Lake. With a 4.7 rating from 548 reviews, it's a well-liked destination for its lake views and recreational opportunities. The park offers camping and day-use areas, making it a great spot to enjoy Montana's largest freshwater lake.
Address: West Shore / Flathead Lake State Park, 17768 US-93, Lakeside, MT 59922
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★★★★★ 4.6 · 630 reviews
Spring Meadow Lake State Park, located at 2715 Country Club Ave in Helena, MT, is a state park with a 4.6 rating from 630 reviews. The lake is a popular spot for swimming and fishing, and the park provides a peaceful setting within easy reach of Montana's capital. Its proximity to Helena makes it a convenient escape for both locals and visitors.
Address: Spring Meadow Lake State Park, 2715 Country Club Ave, Helena, MT 59620, United States
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★★★★★ 4.8 · 436 reviews
Big Arm / Flathead Lake State Park, at 28031 Big Arm State Park Rd in Big Arm, MT, is another state park on Flathead Lake. With an impressive 4.8 rating from 436 reviews, it's one of the highest-rated parks on this list. The park offers camping and day-use facilities with panoramic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.
Address: Big Arm / Flathead Lake State Park, 28031 Big Arm State Park Rd, Big Arm, MT 59910
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★★★★★ 4.5 · 123 reviews
Riverside Campground, located on Riverside Rd in Helena, MT, is a campground with a 4.5 rating from 123 reviews. As the name suggests, it's set along a river, likely the Missouri River, providing a serene riverside camping experience. This spot is ideal for those who enjoy the sound of flowing water and easy access to Helena's amenities.
Address: Riverside Campground, Riverside Rd, Helena, MT 59602, United States
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How We Selected These Places
To build this list, we compared campgrounds and state parks across Montana using their official category, geographic location, average visitor rating, and review volume. We prioritized locations with strong ratings and a clear connection to rivers or mountain lakes. All information presented is based on publicly available data, including addresses and user-generated reviews, ensuring transparency without claiming personal visits or testing.
Tips
When planning your camping trip to these scenic spots, consider reserving early, especially during peak summer months, as popular campgrounds fill quickly. Always check the latest conditions and any fire restrictions before you go. Pack layers, as mountain weather can change rapidly. If you're bringing an RV, verify the size and hookup availability at each location, as amenities vary. For day-use areas, bring your own water and food, and always practice Leave No Trace principles to keep Montana's landscapes pristine.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What are the best scenic riverside and mountain lake campgrounds in Montana?
- Top-rated options include Choteau Mountain View RV Campground (4.8), Big Arm / Flathead Lake State Park (4.8), West Shore / Flathead Lake State Park (4.7), and Salmon Lake State Park (4.6). These locations offer a mix of lake and mountain scenery.
- Are there RV parks with mountain views in Montana?
- Yes, Choteau Mountain View RV Campground in Choteau and Lake Five Resort in West Glacier are RV parks with scenic settings. Both have ratings above 4.4 and are known for their proximity to mountain landscapes.
- Which campgrounds are on Flathead Lake?
- West Shore / Flathead Lake State Park and Big Arm / Flathead Lake State Park are both located on Flathead Lake. They offer camping and day-use amenities with high ratings.
- Are there any riverside campgrounds in Montana?
- Riverside Campground in Helena is a riverside option, and Holter Lake Campground is on the Missouri River reservoir. Both offer waterfront camping experiences.
- What is the rating and review count for Salmon Lake State Park?
- Salmon Lake State Park has a rating of 4.6 from 342 reviews, making it a well-regarded state park in the Seeley Lake area.
Conclusion
Montana's scenic riverside and mountain lake campgrounds offer unforgettable outdoor experiences, from the shores of Flathead Lake to the banks of the Missouri River. Whether you prefer a developed state park or a rustic campground, this list provides a starting point for your next adventure. Always verify current conditions and availability before heading out, and enjoy the natural beauty that Montana has to offer.
Business information, ratings, reviews, opening hours, and other details may change over time. Please verify important information before visiting.
