Fairy Lake Campground
4.5815 reviewsFairy Lake Campground
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
No fees are required to camp at this site.
Share this campground
USFSProvider
About this campground
Tucked away in the rugged embrace of the Bridger Mountains, Fairy Lake Campground beckons adventurers with its intimate collection of nine free campsites. This hidden gem in the Custer Gallatin National Forest serves as your gateway to Montana's wild heart, where towering peaks meet pristine alpine waters. Whether you're drawn by the challenge of scaling granite walls, the thrill of landing native trout, or the simple pleasure of waking to crisp mountain air, this compact campground delivers an authentic backcountry experience without the crowds.
Fairy Lake Campground offers primitive camping facilities with sites suitable for tents and small campers.
Weather and SeasonsFrom mid-June through December's first breath, Fairy Lake Campground welcomes those who appreciate nature's changing moods. Mountain weather here writes its own rules—morning sunshine can give way to afternoon thunderheads, and temperatures can swing dramatically between day and night. The access road, while rewarding, demands respect when rain transforms dirt to slick mud. Early summer arrivals might discover lingering snow patches painting the landscape white, while autumn visitors could wake to frost-kissed meadows and the season's first dustings on distant peaks.
Natural Features and SceneryFairy Lake itself steals the show—a crystalline jewel cradled by soaring peaks where the water runs so clear and cold it takes your breath away. The dramatic profiles of Sacagawea Peak and Hardscrabble Peak rise like ancient sentinels, their rocky faces catching alpenglow at sunrise and sunset. This is prime mountain goat territory, where sure-footed climbers traverse impossible-looking ledges high above camp. Eagles circle overhead, marmots whistle from the rocks, and if you're lucky, you might spot a family of goats picking their way across the scree slopes that tumble down from the surrounding summits.
Geological RegionThe Bridger Mountains tell a story written in stone, where ancient seas and tectonic forces sculpted this dramatic landscape within the greater Custer Gallatin National Forest. These peaks stand as a testament to millions of years of geological drama, creating a playground of granite spires, alpine basins, and hidden cirques that make this corner of Montana irresistible to those who seek adventure in high places.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site includes accessible toilet facilities.
Sites SizeParking spurs range from 14’ x 60’ to 28’ x 35’, suggesting spaces that can accommodate standard-sized vehicles.
Sites PrivacyAccording to user reviews, campsite privacy is minimal due to the close proximity of sites and the removal of trees that previously provided natural separation.
Total Campsites9 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers looking for privacy may be disappointed due to the close proximity of sites and limited foliage.
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground features nine campsites, which are described by some users as being too close together, with little foliage in between.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 16 to December 1, weather dependent.
Walk-in AvailabilityAll campsites are first-come, first-served.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground and its surrounding areas offer a range of outdoor activities including hiking, swimming, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
Hiking
Fairy Lake Campground provides access to hiking trails such as the one leading to Sacagawea and Hardscrabble Peaks. Reviews highlight the trails' breathtaking views and varying difficulty levels, accommodating both families and experienced hikers.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing is available in the river/stream near the campground.Swimming
Fairy Lake offers swimming opportunities, although the water can be described as cold. User reviews frequently praise the lake's clear and scenic quality.Biking
Biking is mentioned as a possible activity, though specific trails or conditions are not detailed.Wildlife viewing
Mountain goats are frequently seen in the area, often roaming through campsites. This unique experience is mentioned in multiple user reviews.Water Sports
The lake allows for water-based activities such as swimming and potentially non-motorized water sports like kayaking (though not specifically mentioned in detail).Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
General hazardsMountain goats are frequently seen in the campground and may disrupt campsites. The road to the campground is steep and can be challenging for some vehicles.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.4 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
Good to know
Trash and recyclingThere is no trash pickup available at the campground, so campers must pack out their trash.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Fairy Lake.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include the rough, steep road leading to the campground, lack of privacy between sites due to sparse foliage, and occasional noise from other campers.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Bozeman, travel 22.5 miles north on MT 86, then go 5 miles west on Fairy Lake Road. Note that Fairy Lake Road is steep and gravel; it becomes slippery when wet and is not suitable for RVs or towed units. A high clearance vehicle is recommended.
The campground is accessible via a steep gravel road; conditions can become slippery when wet. It is not suitable for RVs or towed units. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended.Nearby places
Bozeman (22.5 miles)
Camper Reviews
4.6
15 reviews
Fairy Lake Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Fairy Lake Campground receives high praise for its scenic beauty and access to outdoor activities, but some campsites lack privacy and the road access is challenging, especially for low-clearance vehicles.
Review Summaries
Based on 15 reviews
What Campers Love
Users frequently commend the stunning views of Sacagawea Peak, the clear water of Fairy Lake, and the opportunity to see wildlife, such as mountain goats. The campground's proximity to hiking trails...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Concerns include the rough and narrow access road, lack of campsite privacy, and the absence of stocked toilet paper in the vault toilets. Additionally, some reviews mention noise from groups and...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to secure a campsite, especially during peak season. A high-clearance vehicle is recommended due to the steep and gravelly road. Bring bear spray and pack out all trash as there is no...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is busiest in the summer months, with more campsite availability in late fall. However, snow can be an issue in September as noted in some reviews.
Based on 15 reviewsCamper Quotes
"So far this is the best campsite I have been to!" "The lake is so clear and fun to swim in, kinda cold but that's to be expected." "The sites are way too close together and have virtually zero...
Based on 15 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Some users recommend specific sites for their views, but no detailed site numbers are mentioned in reviews.
Based on 15 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground features accessible toilet facilities, but no additional information about accessibility is mentioned in reviews.
Based on 15 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025