Red Mountain (Mt)
4.4237 reviewsBLM- DILLON FIELD OFFICE, 1005 SELWAY DRIVE, DILLON, MT, 59725
Red Mountain (Mt)
$12.00 - $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
$12 per site per night during first-come periods and $20 for peak-season reservations. Additional vehicles are $5 each (maximum of 3 vehicles per site). Fees do not include taxes or reservation service charges.
About this campground
Nestled along the banks of the legendary Madison River, Red Mountain Campground offers an authentic Montana experience where the rhythmic sound of flowing water sets the soundtrack for your adventure. This riverside haven features 19 thoughtfully spaced campsites, each equipped with sturdy picnic tables and convenient access to vault toilets and fresh potable water. The campground's rustic charm is enhanced by its well-maintained gravel roads dotted with speed bumps to preserve the peaceful atmosphere, while the occasional mountain breeze reminds you that you're truly in the heart of Big Sky Country.
Red Mountain Campground is geared towards traditional camping, offering sites for tents and RVs. It does not provide glamping or cabin accommodations.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Montana's dynamic climate at Red Mountain, where summer days warm your spirit while cool mountain evenings invite cozy campfire gatherings. The occasional wind that sweeps through the canyon carries the fresh scent of pine and river mist, creating nature's own air conditioning. As winter approaches, the campground transforms into a serene wilderness retreat, offering solitude seekers a chance to experience the Madison Valley in its quietest, most contemplative season.
Natural Features and SceneryThe lower Madison River serves as your backyard at Red Mountain, where world-class trout waters meet stunning riverine landscapes in perfect harmony. Positioned strategically between the popular Warm Springs Boat Launch upstream and Black's Ford Fishing Access Site downstream, the campground offers prime access to some of Montana's most coveted fishing waters. The surrounding scenery paints a classic Western tableau of rippling waters, cottonwood groves, and distant mountain vistas that change color with each passing hour.
Geological RegionRed Mountain Campground sits in the shadow of the dramatic Bear Trap Canyon unit of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness Area, where the Madison River has carved its ancient path through Montana's rugged landscape. This geological wonderland positions you perfectly between wilderness adventure and comfort, with the therapeutic waters of nearby Norris Hot Springs offering a soothing complement to your outdoor pursuits. The riverine ecosystem here represents millions of years of geological artistry, creating the perfect backdrop for your Montana camping experience.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground offers accessible vault toilets, drinking water, picnic tables, and parking. Specific sites are marked as accessible.
Sites SizeCampsites vary in size, with some accommodating large vehicles such as 42’ fifth wheels.
Sites PrivacyThe campsites offer moderate levels of privacy. Some reviewers noted spacious sites, such as 'Not all crammed together like many parks.'
Total Campsites19 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose riverside sites for the best access to fishing and floating activities. Sites 5, 6, and 7 are often highlighted.
Best CampsitesSites near the river, such as 5, 6, and 7, are highly praised for their proximity to water and scenic views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
11:00 AM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
14 nights maximum stay during a rolling 30-day period.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Maximum of 3 vehicles per site
- additional vehicles are permitted for $5 each.
Groups
No designated group sites are explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground includes pull-through spots near the river, gravel roads, and accessible vault toilets.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen for reservations May 1 - September 15. First-come, first-served from September 16 - April 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov or by phone at (877) 444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up camping is available during off-season (September 16 - April 30). Sites are usually first-come-first-serve.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled until midnight the day before check-in, with a $10 cancellation fee. Late cancellations forfeit the first night's fee and incur additional penalties.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Red Mountain Campground provides access to a variety of recreational activities centered around the Madison River, including fishing, floating, and tubing. It also has a horseshoe pit for on-site recreation. The river is known for its trout fishery and is a popular destination for non-angling floaters during warmer months.
Fishing
The Madison River is well known for its robust trout fishery, making it a prime location for fishing enthusiasts.Boating
While the campground lacks a boat launch, the Madison River is a popular location for non-motorized boating such as floating and tubing. It is situated midway between Warm Springs boat launch and Black's Ford Fishing Access Site.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned. The campground operates on a first-come, first-serve basis during the off-season from September 16th to April 30th.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as floating and tubing are popular in the Madison River during the warmer months.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed in designated fire pits. Firewood is available for purchase from the host; collecting firewood is prohibited.
Hazards
General hazardsWindy conditions and dust from gravel roads. Wildlife presence requires food storage precautions.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 15%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Closest emergency services are in Dillon, MT. For general inquiries, the main BLM office can be reached at (406) 683-8000.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 15
Trash and recyclingNo garbage disposal facilities are on-site. Visitors must pack out their trash or dispose of it at a fishing access point 2 miles downstream.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Madison River, ideal for fishing and floating activities.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of trash bins (requiring visitors to pack out), off-leash dogs, and occasional noise disturbances from other campers.
HostVolunteer seasonal host available during peak season. Mixed reviews about host responsiveness and demeanor.
Campground Map
BLM- DILLON FIELD OFFICE, 1005 SELWAY DRIVE, DILLON, MT, 59725
Driving directionsFrom Bozeman; Head west on MT Hwy 84 (Norris Road). Continue on MT Hwy 84 for 20.5 miles. Turn right (North) at South Bear Trap Canyon Road. If you cross the Madison River you have just passed the turn. From Norris; Head East on MT Hwy 84 (Norris Road) travel for 8 miles and turn left at South Bear Trap Canyon Road after you cross the Madison River.
The campground is accessible via MT Hwy 84 (Norris Road). Roads leading into the campground include gravel roads and speed bumps. There are seasonal closures for first-come, first-serve sites from September 16th to April 30th.Nearby places
Bozeman (20.5 miles), Norris (8 miles)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be acquired at nearby towns like Norris (8 miles away) and Bozeman (20.5 miles away). No grocery stores or refueling stations directly at the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.4
37 reviews
Red Mountain (Mt) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Red Mountain Campground reflect a mix of positive and negative experiences. The campground is praised for its proximity to the Madison River, cleanliness, and friendly hosts. However, common complaints include issues with the reservation system, lack of garbage facilities, and windy conditions.
Review Summaries
Based on 37 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users appreciated the beautiful location by the Madison River, the spacious campsites, and the well-maintained facilities. Several reviewers highlighted the friendliness and helpfulness of the...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints often focus on the lack of trash disposal facilities, issues with the reservation system, and problems with off-leash dogs. One reviewer noted, 'I spent most of my time chasing dogs out of...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing your own trash bags due to the lack of on-site garbage facilities and being prepared for windy conditions. A reviewer suggested, 'Be prepared to pack out your trash.'
Based on 37 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Peak season (May 1st to September 15th) sees high occupancy, especially on weekends. Off-season usage is lighter, and all sites are first-come, first-serve. Windy conditions were noted during summer...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
'The camp host was so friendly and welcoming. We had a site on the water and enjoyed the views and our fire pit!' - Erica S. 'The campground was nice but our particular site, 9A, stated that the max...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Sites near the river, such as Site 7, are frequently praised for their proximity to the water and scenic views. However, Site 9 received mixed reviews due to incorrect information about vehicle...
Based on 37 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Reviewers noted the availability of accessible features such as vault toilets and parking. However, specifics about experiences for those with disabilities are limited.
Based on 37 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Some users voiced frustration with off-leash dogs, including the host's dog, which disrupted their experience. One review mentioned, 'Too many dogs off leashes including the camp host's.'
Based on 37 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025