Colter Campground
4.4412 reviewsColter Campground, Custer Gallatin National Forest, Gardiner Ranger District, Montana
Colter Campground
$5.00 - $20.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$20.00
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
$20 per night for single sites, $5 per night for each additional vehicle. Interagency Senior/Access Recreation Passes provide 50% discount on single campsites but not on additional fees. Payments accepted by cash or check.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of Beartooth Country, Colter Campground offers an intimate mountain escape where towering peaks frame every sunrise. This cozy, hard-sided RV-only facility provides a secure basecamp for adventurers seeking pristine wilderness while respecting the domain of local wildlife—bear activity in the area makes this a tent-free zone for everyone's safety.
Colter Campground is strictly for hard-sided vehicles, such as RVs and campers, and does not allow tent camping due to safety protocols in bear country. There are no group camping sites, cabins, or glamping accommodations.
Historical SignificanceCamp where history and wilderness converge, just steps from the legendary Nez Perce National Historic Trail and Auto Tour Route. Your stay places you at the crossroads of American heritage, with convenient access to the world-renowned Yellowstone National Park and the spectacular Beartooth Scenic Byway—one of America's most breathtaking mountain passes.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the high country, where winter blankets the landscape in deep snow and temperatures plunge to create a crystalline wonderland. As summer arrives, the campground awakens to mild days and crisp nights, with dry conditions perfect for stargazing and mountain exploration under crystal-clear skies.
ElevationPerched at an impressive 7,560 feet above sea level, Colter Campground puts you closer to the clouds, where the air is crisp and every breath feels like pure mountain medicine.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to a living postcard where ancient Lodgepole pines and majestic Engelmann spruce create a natural cathedral around your campsite. Vibrant meadows burst with native grasses and seasonal wildflowers, while the loop section reveals jaw-dropping panoramas of snow-crowned peaks that seem to touch the sky—nature's amphitheater at its finest.
Geological RegionSet within the legendary Beartooth Country, the campground serves as your gateway to some of North America's most spectacular alpine terrain. Here, jagged peaks crowned with eternal snow rise dramatically from forested valleys, while the nearby Beartooth Scenic Byway winds through geological wonders millions of years in the making.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair-accessible toilets, food boxes, and tables are available.
Sites SizeSites are designed for hard-sided vehicles, with RV parking spurs averaging 22’ x 66’.
Sites PrivacyThe campground offers good to excellent privacy between campsites due to its layout. The loop section provides campsites with spectacular views but little shade, while the spur section offers more shaded and secluded sites.
Total Campsites17 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSpur section recommended for privacy and shade; loop section recommended for panoramic mountain views.
Best CampsitesSite 18 mentioned as particularly beautiful with privacy and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Open 24 hours/day.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 16 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One RV per site. No tent camping allowed.
Groups
Group sites are not available at this campground.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutTwo main sections: a loop offering mountain views and a spur section focused on shaded privacy.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen seasonally from July 1 to September 7, weather dependent.
Reservation PlatformsReservations not accepted. First-come, first-served availability.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyNot specified.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational activities at Colter Campground center around scenic drives and wildlife viewing, with visitors highlighting the proximity to Yellowstone National Park and the Beartooth Scenic Byway. Outdoor science and learning opportunities are also available through scenic observations.
Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with one visitor noting encounters with buffalo and a moose. The campground's location offers natural opportunities to observe the area's fauna.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not supported as the campground is seasonally closed.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and paddleboarding are not available.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Fire grates available; firewood not provided. Follow local regulations for campfire usage.
- Quiet hours are Not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity present; practice safe food storage. No tent camping allowed.
Active alertsNo active alerts listed.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 16%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Emergency services located in Cooke City, 2 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJuly 1 to September 7.
Trash and recyclingTrash pickup is available at the site, ensuring cleanliness throughout the campground.
Proximity to water featuresNo nearby lakes, rivers, or streams mentioned.
Common complaintsMosquitoes reported by users; road access may be challenging for large motorhomes exiting the loop.
HostHost presence praised in user reviews for friendliness and helpfulness. Hosts actively assist with site selection.
Campground Map
Colter Campground, Custer Gallatin National Forest, Gardiner Ranger District, Montana
Driving directionsFrom Cooke City, MT, take US Rt. 212 east 1.5 miles to campground sign. Turn left at sign into campground.
Campground road not suitable for vehicles longer than 48 feet. Gravel parking aprons available. Two RV pull-through sites available.Nearby places
Cooke City - 2 miles, Yellowstone National Park Northeast Entrance - 5.5 miles
Nearby supplies
Cooke City, 2 miles away, offers food, supplies, and tourist amenities.
Camper Reviews
4.4
12 reviews
Colter Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives overwhelmingly positive feedback for its cleanliness, serenity, and the helpfulness of the hosts. Many visitors appreciate the site's proximity to Yellowstone National Park and the breathtaking surrounding landscapes.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
- Clean and quiet environment.
- Proximity to Yellowstone National Park and Beartooth Scenic Byway.
- Helpful and friendly camp hosts.
- Spacious and private campsites.
- Availability of potable...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
- No tent camping allowed, which may deter some visitors.
- Mosquitoes can be a minor nuisance at times.
- Lack of shower facilities and Wi-Fi.
Based on 12 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
- Bring cash or checks for payment, as no card options are available.
- Visit Cooke City for dining and supplies.
- Sites on the loop offer spectacular mountain views but less shade, while spur sites...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are the best time to visit, as the campground is open from July 1 to September 7. The pleasant weather, mountain views, and wildlife sightings make this season ideal.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
- 'Hosts are amazing. Pulled in around 5pm and were greeted by the hosts who told us what spots were still available and what would best suit our RV.'
- 'We decided on spot 18 which was beautiful.'
-...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
- Site 18 is highlighted as beautiful, spacious, and private.
- Spur section sites are noted for their shade and seclusion, often called 'Honeymoon sites.'
Based on 12 reviewsAccessibility Features
Multiple user reviews highlight the ease of navigation within the campground and the availability of wheelchair-accessible vault toilets.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no detailed reviews regarding pets, and the pet policy is not explicitly mentioned.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025