Greenough Lake
4.4869 reviewsFOREST ROAD 2421, RED LODGE, MT 59068, USA
Greenough Lake
$20.00 - $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
The basic recreational use fee is $20 per night for standard non-electric campsites. Additional fees include $10 for a second vehicle collected at the campground if allowed at the site. Firewood bundles are sold by the campground host.
About this campground
Nestled just off the legendary Beartooth Highway in southern Montana, Greenough Lake Campground beckons adventurers seeking the perfect basecamp for high-country exploration. This beloved destination places you within a stone's throw of pristine Greenough Lake, where mornings begin with mirror-like reflections of towering peaks and evenings end with the gentle lapping of water against the shore. Whether you're casting a line for native trout, paddling across crystal-clear waters, or setting off on scenic trail adventures, this campground serves as your gateway to some of Montana's most breathtaking wilderness.
Greenough Lake Campground offers tent and RV camping with a focus on traditional camping experiences. Sites vary in privacy and location, with some by the creek and others closer to the lake.
Historical SignificanceYour journey to Greenough Lake follows the iconic Beartooth Highway, a ribbon of asphalt that Charles Kuralt famously crowned as 'the most beautiful drive in America.' This engineering marvel serves as more than just a road—it's a pilgrimage route for countless travelers making their way to the wonders of Yellowstone National Park. The highway itself tells a story of human determination to connect remote communities while preserving the wild character of this magnificent landscape.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of mountain weather at Greenough Lake, where crisp, dry air dominates much of the camping season. Summer unveils a spectacular show of azure skies and comfortable temperatures that invite endless outdoor pursuits, though wise campers come prepared for sudden afternoon thunderstorms that roll through with nature's own fireworks display. As autumn approaches, the possibility of early snow dusts the peaks, creating postcard-perfect scenes. Winter transforms this landscape into a frozen wonderland—beautiful to behold but beyond the reach of camping season, when heavy snows close access to this high-country retreat.
ElevationPerched high in the embrace of southern Montana's Beartooth Range, Greenough Lake Campground offers that rare mountain air that seems to cleanse both lungs and spirit. At this lofty elevation, the atmosphere takes on a crystalline quality, temperatures remain refreshingly cool even on summer days, and the night sky reveals a tapestry of stars impossible to see from lower elevations. Here, you'll sleep closer to the clouds and wake to air so pure it almost sparkles in the morning light.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to the soft rustle of aspen leaves dancing in the morning breeze, their golden coins shimmering against the deep green of surrounding pines. The Beartooth Range rises dramatically above the campground, creating a natural amphitheater of granite peaks and alpine meadows. Just a quarter-mile stroll brings you to the shores of Greenough Lake, where the forest opens to reveal waters so clear you can count the pebbles on the bottom. This living landscape hosts an impressive cast of wildlife—from majestic elk grazing in meadow clearings to the occasional grizzly bear foraging for huckleberries, reminding visitors that this is truly wild country where nature still reigns supreme.
Geological RegionThe Beartooth Range stands as one of Montana's most spectacular geological showcases, where ancient granite peaks tell a billion-year story written in stone. At Greenough Lake Campground, you're immersed in this dramatic landscape where Rock Creek has carved its patient path through the mountains, creating the perfect setting for both Greenough Lake and the surrounding ecosystem. Forests of quaking aspen and stately pines have claimed the lower slopes, providing sanctuary for the region's remarkable wildlife—from the powerful grizzly bears that rule these mountains to the graceful deer and majestic elk that move like shadows through the trees. This is where the Northern Rockies reveal their true character: wild, beautiful, and utterly unforgettable.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers two accessible sites, along with accessible vault toilets.
Sites SizeCampsites are described as spacious, with some located directly by the river.
Sites PrivacyReviews mention that most sites offer good privacy, although some are closer together.
Total Campsites18 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 2 offers easy access to Greenough Lake and is favored for its peaceful environment. Site 10 is recommended for families due to its quieter location during weekdays.
Best CampsitesSites 2, 10, and 18 are noted for proximity to amenities and scenic beauty.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay allowed is 16 nights during one visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
One camping unit per site is allowed. Exact number of guests per site is not specified.
Groups
Group camping site details are not provided.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutCampsites are spread out with some located near the river. "Distance between many campsites" provides privacy, but some are closer together.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16th to September 30th. Reservations are first-come-first-serve starting June 21st.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve availability starting June 21st. Sites need to be booked on-site; advance calls cannot confirm availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations are allowed prior to the arrival date with a $10 fee. Late cancellations (after midnight local time, one calendar day prior to arrival) incur an additional charge of the first night's fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeit the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Greenough Lake Campground provides a wide range of recreational activities, including hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and scenic drives. The nearby Beartooth Wilderness and trailheads such as Hellroaring and Lake Fork offer additional outdoor opportunities.
Hiking
Hiking options include trails leading into the Beartooth Wilderness and the Parkside National Recreation Trail. Visitors have noted trails like the one to Glacier Lake as worthwhile.Fishing
Greenough Lake supports rainbow trout fishing, although some users note the lake as being 'fished out.' The Main Fork of Rock Creek is also popular for fishing.Biking
The Parkside National Recreation Trail allows for mountain biking. Hellroaring Road is open to off-road vehicles.Boating
Canoeing and kayaking are popular activities on Greenough Lake.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to diverse wildlife, including grizzly bears, deer, and elk. Campers are advised to practice bear safety.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned, but the campground's proximity to the Beartooth Highway may offer winter scenic drives.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports, including canoeing and kayaking, are available on Greenough Lake.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed within the designated campfire rings. Firewood must be purchased locally.
Hazards
General hazardsBear activity is frequent; food storage rules apply. Road closures and potholes may impact travel.
Active alertsConstruction closures may affect roads; Beartooth Highway (212) was previously closed at night for repairs.
Weather forecast
69
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.8 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
Emergency Services
Nearest hospital and basic emergency services are located in Red Lodge, MT, approximately 12 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16th to September 30th is considered peak season.
Trash and recyclingTrash bins are available at the entrance for waste disposal. Campers are encouraged to practice bear-safe food storage and waste management practices.
Proximity to water featuresLess than 0.25 miles from Greenough Lake and adjacent to Rock Creek.
Common complaintsComplaints include overcrowding during peak season, noise pollution, and littering. Some reviewers mentioned discourteous campers and poorly maintained facilities.
HostCamp hosts are generally described as friendly and helpful, with specific mentions of efforts to keep facilities clean. "Mike, the CG host was kind and efficient," one user remarked.
Campground Map
FOREST ROAD 2421, RED LODGE, MT 59068, USA
Driving directionsFrom U.S. Highway 212, turn off at Rock Creek Road (Forest Road 2421). Go 1 mile to campground entrance, which is on the left.
Road access is paved but may be impacted by seasonal closures or construction. "Beartooth Highway (212) was closed from 7pm to 7am," noted one user review. Roads may feature potholes.Nearby places
Red Lodge (12 miles, approximately 20 minutes by car), Cooke City (55 miles, via Beartooth Highway), Yellowstone National Park northeastern entrance (55 miles)
Nearby supplies
Groceries, fuel, and camping supplies available in Red Lodge, MT, approximately 12 miles away. Firewood bundles can be purchased directly from the campground host.
Camper Reviews
4.5
69 reviews
Greenough Lake is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews highlight the natural beauty, cleanliness, and convenient location of the campground. However, some mention overcrowding and noise during peak seasons.
Review Summaries
Based on 69 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the campground host's friendliness, the cleanliness of facilities, and the scenic beauty of the surrounding area. 'The lake is an easy walk, and very beautiful. Just a great...
Based on 69 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include overcrowding, noise, and issues with campers leaving trash. Some also mention the lack of a dump station for RVs.
Based on 69 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing bear-proof storage and planning visits during weekdays to avoid crowds. Fishing enthusiasts might find better luck in the creek than the lake.
Based on 69 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak summer months can be crowded and noisy, while off-season stays are quieter and more peaceful. The campground's popularity increases during the summer due to nearby events.
Based on 69 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The campground and toilets were clean; however, there was someone using their loud generator late at night.'
2. 'Beautiful area with a short walk right up to the lake.'
3. 'Camp hosts made a...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 2: 'Incredible. The short walk to Greenough Lake was a nice trek.'
Site 10: 'Quiet during the week but busy on Labor Day weekend.'
Site 14: 'Lovely creek-side location, clean restrooms, and...
Based on 69 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets and two sites designed for disabled access were noted as positive features.
Based on 69 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
The campground is pet-friendly, but some complaints were raised about loose dogs. 'An unleashed dog came into our campsite scaring our two little dogs.'
Based on 69 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025