Cherry Creek Campground

Star4.10
20 reviews
Cherry Creek Campground, Hebgen Lake District
Cherry Creek Campground
$16.00 - $23.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

Regular site fees are $16.00, which includes the first two vehicles, with an additional vehicle fee of $8.00 per night. During peak season, the site fee increases to $23.00, with additional vehicles charged $9.00 per night.
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USFSProvider
1-406-823-6961

About this campground

Nestled along the pristine shores of Hebgen Lake, Cherry Creek Campground offers an intimate escape into Montana's wilderness with just 9 thoughtfully positioned campsites. This hidden gem in the Hebgen Lake District provides the perfect balance of accessibility and seclusion, where each site tells its own story—whether it's waking up to mirror-like lake reflections, finding respite under a canopy of ancient pines, or enjoying the convenience of nearby amenities. Despite its modest size, Cherry Creek delivers an outsized experience for those seeking authentic connection with nature.
Cherry Creek Campground is ideal for basic camping experiences with options for tent and small RV camping. The campground is first-come, first-served, and offers no reservations.
Weather and SeasonsCherry Creek transforms with the seasons, offering distinctly different adventures throughout the year. Summer arrives as the star performer, painting perfect camping days from June through August with warm sunshine, gentle lake breezes, and endless blue skies. As autumn approaches, the landscape erupts in golden hues before winter claims the territory, blanketing the area in deep snow and bringing temperatures that plummet well below freezing. During these colder months, the campground becomes a different world entirely—beautiful but challenging, accessible only to the most intrepid winter adventurers.
ElevationPerched at mountain elevation in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, Cherry Creek Campground offers that perfect high-country atmosphere where the air feels crisp and clean, and summer temperatures remain refreshingly cool even on the warmest days.
Natural Features and SceneryCherry Creek Campground immerses visitors in a living postcard of Montana's natural splendor. Towering evergreens create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. The star attraction, Hebgen Lake, stretches before you like a vast sapphire mirror, reflecting sky and mountains in its pristine waters. In certain areas, native grasses and wildflowers grow waist-high, creating natural privacy screens and habitat for local wildlife. This is bear country, where wilderness isn't just scenery—it's a living, breathing ecosystem that commands both respect and wonder.
Geological RegionSituated in the remarkable Hebgen Lake District, Cherry Creek Campground occupies a fascinating geological crossroads where ancient volcanic activity, glacial carving, and seismic forces have sculpted a landscape of extraordinary beauty. The surrounding forests grow thick and verdant, nourished by mountain watersheds and the moderating influence of the lake. This unique positioning creates a diverse ecosystem where montane forests meet aquatic environments, resulting in an unusually rich variety of plant and animal life that makes every visit a natural history lesson.

Campsite details

AccessibilityAccessibility features for campers with disabilities are not specified.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, with driveway lengths ranging from 25 feet to 70 feet, accommodating different vehicle sizes. Some sites are more suitable for smaller RVs and trailers.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy varies by site. Some sites are described as secluded, while others are more open or have partial shade. Site-specific reviews highlight close proximity to restrooms and lake views.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor groups, sites #5 and #6 work well together. Site #9 is sunny and the first site upon entering the campground.
Best CampsitesSite #2 is described as shady and secluded with a lake view, while Site #7 offers shade and a creek behind it. Site #4 is noted for its proximity to the lake.

Reserving a campsite

Check-in
  • Open 24 hours/day
  • no specific check-in time required.
Check-out
Check out at 2 PM as mentioned in one review.
Stay Limit
Not explicitly stated
Guests Allowed Per Site
  • Up to 2 vehicles
  • additional vehicles allowed for a fee.
Groups
No designated group sites are explicitly mentioned, but a user review describes a family reunion with 21 people spread across three camp lots.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed

Site layoutThe campground consists of 9 individual sites, with varying features such as proximity to water, shade, and driveway lengths.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground operates seasonally from May to September, weather permitting.
Reservation PlatformsNo reservations available; first-come, first-served.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll sites are available on a walk-up basis only. Visitors may pay using Recreation.gov's Scan and Pay feature if cellular service is available.
Cancellation PolicyNot applicable, as reservations are not accepted.

Amenities available

Food storage lockers
Firewood available

Activities you can enjoy

Cherry Creek Campground offers visitors a serene environment with recreational opportunities such as fishing, swimming, and stunning lake views for scenery appreciation. Wildlife viewing is also possible, but mosquitos have been frequently mentioned as a nuisance by visitors.
Fishing
Lake and pond fishing is available at Hebgen Lake. Specific fish species or fishing regulations are not described.
Swimming
Swimming is permitted in Hebgen Lake, but user reviews describe the lake as muddy and not ideal for swimming.
Wildlife viewing
Visitors have noted the presence of mosquitos and midges. Bears have been seen occasionally, emphasizing the need for bear safety measures.
Winter Activities
.Winter-specific activities are not highlighted.
Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not detailed, though boating is mentioned in general terms.

Campground rules

  • Pets are not allowed
  • Campfires are allowed at designated sites.
  • Quiet hours are Standard quiet hours apply.

Hazards

General hazardsWildlife hazards include frequent mosquito presence and bears. Bug repellent is recommended, along with bear spray.

Weather forecast

80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Humidity: 10%

Very dry conditions, stay hydrated

Wind: 2.7 mph

Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities

Overcast
7-Day Forecast

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Daily & Hourly Insights

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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

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Emergency Services

Closest emergency services can be found in West Yellowstone, including medical facilities and police departments.

Good to know

Peak season datesMay through September.
Trash and recyclingTrash pickup is available on-site, but recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated next to Hebgen Lake, with some sites offering direct lake views.
Common complaints"The mosquitos are incessant," as mentioned by Yonatan Lautman in a review. Roads are described as rough and rutted by some users, and several noted limited water availability.
HostOne user review mentions that the manager of the camping sites does an excellent job maintaining the restrooms daily.

Campground Map

Cherry Creek Campground, Hebgen Lake District
Driving directions8 mi west of West Yellowstone on US 20, then 6 mi north on Denny Creek Rd (Hebgen Lake Rd-Forest Service Rd 167).
The road to the campground is gravel and dirt, reportedly rutted in places but generally driveable. Some reviews mention that four-wheel drive may be preferable for access, but others successfully navigated the road with various vehicle types.
Nearby places
West Yellowstone: 8 miles, approximately 15 minutes drive.
Nearby supplies
Groceries, camping supplies, and fuel can be found in West Yellowstone, approximately 8 miles from the campground.

Camper Reviews

4.1
20 reviews
Satisfactory
Satisfactory
Cherry Creek Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Cherry Creek Campground garners mixed reviews. While praised for its beautiful lake views, peaceful environment, and proximity to Yellowstone National Park, it is also frequently mentioned for its lack of water, showers, and the abundance of mosquitos. Several reviewers highlight the well-maintained restroom facilities and the natural setting.
Review Summaries
Based on 20 reviews

What Campers Love

Positive reviews emphasize the campground's beautiful location by Hebgen Lake, well-maintained restrooms, trash receptacles, and bear-proof lockers. Visitors appreciate the serene environment and...
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Based on 20 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the prevalence of mosquitos and midges, the lack of potable water and showers, and rough access roads. Some reviewers note the sites are close together, limiting privacy.
Based on 20 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Reviewers recommend bringing cash for site fees and firewood purchases due to limited on-site payment options. Visitors suggest arriving early to secure a spot, bringing strong insect repellent, and...
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Based on 20 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews suggest the summer months are peak season, with increased mosquito activity in July and August. Off-season camping is possible but lacks amenities such as trash pickup and restrooms.
Based on 20 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'This place is beautiful but the mosquitos are incessant and is reason for 3 stars.' (Yonatan Lautman, August 2020) 2. 'Nice spot to hang out close to Yellowstone national park.' (Ashly Roberts,...
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Based on 20 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific descriptions include: Site #1 - sunny and next to restroom; Site #2 - shady, secluded lake view; Site #3 - shady with lake view; Site #4 - shady and near the lake; Site #9 - sunny and...
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Based on 20 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific reviews address accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 20 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No specific reviews address experiences with pets or pet-friendly features.
Based on 20 reviews

Last updated August 10, 2025

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