Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas
4.5222 reviewsWade Lake, MT, USA
Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas
$15.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$15.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$30.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Campsites cost $15 per night for single sites and $30 per night for group sites. Payments for peak season (May 15 - September 15) must be made at the time of reservation on recreation.gov. During the shoulder season, fees can be paid via cash or check in the fee tube or through the recreation.gov app. Exact change is necessary for cash payments.
About this campground
Nestled among towering Douglas Firs on a gentle hillside, Wade Lake Campground offers 27 peaceful campsites where the forest meets the water's edge. This mountain retreat combines the tranquility of old-growth forest with stunning lake views, providing campers with picnic tables, fire rings, and essential amenities including vault toilets and fresh drinking water. The campground's crown jewel is its group site, perfect for family reunions or gatherings of friends. With a strictly enforced no-wake policy preserving the lake's mirror-like surface and easy access to both hiking and ATV trails threading through the surrounding wilderness, Wade Lake has become a cherished escape for those seeking authentic Montana outdoor experiences. Note that the winding approach road, while scenic, limits access to trailers under 24 feet—a small trade-off for the intimate, unspoiled setting that awaits.
The campground accommodates tent camping, RV camping (with restrictions), and group camping. Trailers over 24 feet are not recommended due to narrow roads and tight curves.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-May through mid-September, Wade Lake transforms with the seasons, offering visitors a dynamic mountain climate at 6,400 feet. Summer days bring warmth that invites swimming and paddling, while evenings cool dramatically, perfect for gathering around crackling campfires. Mountain weather keeps things interesting—afternoon thunderstorms can roll through with little warning, painting dramatic skies before giving way to spectacular sunsets. Early and late season adventurers should come prepared for possible snow, as winter's grip lingers long and returns early at this elevation, occasionally blocking access roads with late spring or early fall snowfall.
ElevationPerched at 6,400 feet above sea level, Wade Lake Campground offers that perfect high-country atmosphere where the air is crisp, the stars shine brilliantly, and every breath feels refreshingly pure. This elevation provides natural air conditioning during summer's heat while creating ideal conditions for the Douglas Fir forests that blanket the surrounding slopes.
Natural Features and SceneryWade Lake captivates visitors with its remarkable turquoise waters, a jewel-like centerpiece framed by dense stands of Douglas Fir that seem to march right down to the shoreline. The interplay of light through the forest canopy creates an ever-changing tapestry of shadows and golden rays, while the lake itself shifts from deep emerald in the morning to brilliant aquamarine by midday. Wildlife thrives in this pristine environment—eagles soar overhead, deer browse at dawn, and the occasional moose might be spotted wading in the shallows. The surrounding forest provides both shelter and scenery, with massive firs creating cathedral-like spaces where campers can truly disconnect from the modern world.
Geological RegionDeep in the heart of southwestern Montana's Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Wade Lake Campground occupies a special corner of the Northern Rockies where ancient geological forces have carved out a perfect mountain basin. This densely forested hillside location showcases the region's characteristic Douglas Fir ecosystem, thriving in the well-drained soils and mountain climate that define this portion of the Continental Divide's eastern slopes. The campground's position on the hillside above Wade Lake offers a unique vantage point to appreciate the dramatic landscape that makes this corner of Montana so spectacular.
Campsite details
AccessibilityTrailers longer than 24 feet are not recommended due to narrow roads and tight curves within the campground. Snow may impact early or late season access.
Sites SizeUser reviews indicate tent sites are spacious, but the exact dimensions are not provided.
Sites PrivacyReviews note that Hilltop Campground offers better privacy but no lake view, while other sites offer shade and close proximity to the lake.
Total Campsites27 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 13 offers a good middle ground for lake access and desirability. Site 17 is noted for its appeal but may be difficult to access. Site 19 offers sunlight for solar panels.
Best CampsitesSites 13, 17, and 19 are mentioned positively in reviews for their desirability and access to lake and sunlight.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
16 day stay limit.
Groups
There is one group site available. No further details on capacity or specific features are provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes two loops with designated parking spots. Sites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen annually from mid-May to mid-September, weather dependent.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityHalf the sites are first-come-first-served, though they fill quickly. Early arrival is recommended.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Wade Lake Campground offers a variety of activities, including fishing, small craft boating, hiking, and swimming. The lake's no-wake speed limit makes it ideal for paddleboarding and kayaking. Nearby hiking and ATV trails are available in the Gravelly Range.
Hiking
Both authoritative sources and user reviews mention nearby hiking trails in the Gravelly Range. Specific trail lengths and difficulty levels are not provided.Fishing
Fishing at Wade and Cliff Lakes is highlighted in user reviews as very good. One user stated, 'You can see the fish swimming if you are on a kayak.'Swimming
Swimming in the crystal-clear, turquoise water is commonly praised in user reviews. However, the rocky shoreline may require water shoes for comfort.Boating
Boating is permitted, but only for small craft due to the lake's no-wake speed limit. An undeveloped natural-surface boat launch is available.Wildlife viewing
No specific wildlife species are mentioned, but the area is described as scenic and natural, suggesting opportunities for wildlife viewing.Beach activities
User reviews mention tight beach spaces during busy periods and a fee of $5 per vehicle for day use starting in 2023.Winter Activities
Reviews and sources do not indicate specific winter activities.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are popular activities mentioned in user reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsTrailers over 24 feet may encounter difficulties due to narrow roads and sharp curves. Seasonal snow can also hinder access.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 9%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.5 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Madison Ranger District located at 5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT 59729 (Phone: 406-682-4253, Hours: Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.).
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 15 - September 15
Trash and recyclingThere is no specific mention of trash or recycling facilities in authoritative sources or user reviews.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is situated on the hillside above Wade Lake, offering convenient access to the lake for activities like kayaking, paddle boarding, and swimming. Cliff Lake is also nearby.
Common complaintsVisitors have noted crowding during peak season, limited parking, and challenges with securing first-come-first-served sites.
Campground Map
Wade Lake, MT, USA
Driving directionsThe campground is located about 37 miles south of Ennis on Highway 287. Turn west at Wade and Cliff Lakes signs on Highway 287, take Forest Road 241 west for 5 miles.
Trailers longer than 24 feet are not recommended due to narrow roads and tight curves within the campground. Snow may hinder access in early or late seasons.Nearby places
Ennis (37 miles, approximately 45 minutes)
Yellowstone National Park (35 miles, approximately 50 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can likely be obtained in Ennis, 37 miles away, or potentially at local stores near Yellowstone National Park 35 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
22 reviews
Wade Lake Campground And Picnic Areas is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise Wade Lake Campground for its beautiful scenery, clear turquoise water, and recreational opportunities like paddleboarding, kayaking, and fishing. However, several reviews mention overcrowding during the summer months and challenges with parking.
Review Summaries
Based on 22 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the lake's clear water, excellent fishing opportunities, spacious tent sites, bear-proof food lockers, and clean vault toilets.
Based on 22 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints involve overcrowding during peak seasons, limited parking, and challenges in accessing specific campsites, especially for larger trailers.
Based on 22 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend reserving campsites well in advance, especially during summer holidays. Arriving early is advised for first-come, first-served sites. Water shoes are recommended for swimming due to...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate summer as the busiest and most crowded season, with tighter beach spaces and congested parking. Early or late seasons may experience snow hindering access.
Based on 22 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'What an absolutely great place... Weather was perfect. We plan on going back but will reserve a campsite.' (Donna Smith) 2. 'Great campsite and wonderful lake. Paddled around on our canoe, swam...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #17 is highlighted as desirable but difficult to access. Site #13 is described as a good middle ground for lake access and site desirability. Site #19 allows limited solar panel usage due to...
Based on 22 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviews advise checking camper size for suitability of sites. Trailers over 24 feet may find limited suitable spots.
Based on 22 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There is no specific mention of pet policies or pet-related reviews.
Based on 22 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025