Where To Camp Around Bozeman in May

Since April is pretty much a write off for camping this year, it’s time to start looking ahead to May! Campgrounds are currently closed across the state and nation, and we can only hope next month they will open. With ever increasing amounts of conflicting data and opinions on when this shutdown will end, let’s just be positive and think that Governor Bullock’s shelter in place orders won’t be extended past April 24th if it’s safe to end them. If you’re wondering where to camp around Bozeman in May, here’s a few ideas.

FWP FISHING ACCESS SITES, YELLOWSTONE RIVER

Many of the FWP (Fish, Wildlife and Parks) fishing access sites through the state have campsites. These are often right on the river, and offer some incredible views and peaceful camping. These campsites are all first come first served and do fill up fast, especially toward the weekend.

Paradise Valley south of Livingston has several such access sites with great campgrounds. Mallards Rest is the most popular, as is Loch Leven. These have busy boat ramps and are a perfect spot to end a day on the river. Snag one of the riverside spots if they’re open and enjoy the view of the Absaroka Range while sitting around a campfire.

Since the Yellowstone River offers a lot of options for floats of different lengths and different stretches of river, one of these spots is perfect for a multi-day basecamp. Keep all your camping gear in one place and only move your boat and vehicle. Camp is set up and waiting for you when you get back!

GREEK CREEK, GALLATIN CANYON

The Gallatin Canyon has great access to the river. There are pullouts and parking areas every few miles down the entire length of the canyon down to the boundary of Yellowstone Park. There are also some great campgrounds right off the road as well. Greek Creek, Moose Creek, Swan Creek, and Red Cliff are some those you might have seen driving down the road. If you’re asking where to camp around Bozeman in May, starting here is a good bet.

Greek Creek is one of our favorites because it’s centrally located in the canyon and has a good run right behind it. You can be in Big Sky in a few minutes, or fish the water closer to town. The location is really good. You will get some road noise from Highway 191, but it quiets down at night.

Greek Creek and many of the campgrounds up and down the Gallatin Canyon can be reserved online here. It’s highly recommended to book campsites as early as possible so you know you have it and don’t spend a lot of time driving from full campground to full campground during your trip.

MISSOURI HEADWATERS STATE PARK

The Missouri Headwaters State Park is located just a few miles west of Bozeman near Three Forks. The Madison, Gallatin, and Jefferson rivers combine to form the Missouri, and the state park offers camping, an interpretive walking trail, boating, fishing and much more. This is a great place to come with your family for a fun weekend.

Many of the state parks in Montana have great camping access and lots to see and do. You can explore the history of the state and the land around it, and get a chance to see a Montana that has long since passed.

You can reserve campsites at Missouri Headwaters State Park on their website here. Be sure to explore other state parks as well!

We know the situation this spring is very much uncertain. We don’t know for sure when anything is going to be back open or when people will be free to travel as they please. But we do know this: things will get better, and when they do we’ll all want to be outside again. Camping and time spent outdoors is good for the soul, and all our souls are going to need it after this. Hopefully this list of where to camp around Bozeman in May is helpful.

Just a reminder – we are still accepting reservations for the summer season! If you’re local, take advantage of our local’s specials through May 31st! Give us a call or shoot us a message with any questions at all.