Trapper Springs (Mt)
4.3017 reviewsBLM Dillon Field Office, 1005 Selway Drive, Dillon, MT 59729
Trapper Springs (Mt)
$20.00 - $50.00 / 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$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Individual campsites cost $20 per night during peak season (May 1 - September 30). Group pavilion can be reserved for $50 per day. Additional vehicle fees are $5 each, with a maximum of 3 vehicles per campsite.
About this campground
Where the lower Madison River winds through Montana's rugged landscape, Trapper Springs Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with its perfect blend of riverside camping and adventure. This intimate campground features 15 thoughtfully spaced sites, with 9 available for advance reservation, ensuring you can secure your spot in this sought-after destination. Modern amenities blend seamlessly with the natural setting, including accessible vault toilets, seasonal drinking water, and each site equipped with its own fire pit and picnic table for those memorable evening gatherings under the stars.
Trapper Springs Campground provides standard nonelectric campsites and a reservable group shelter. There are 15 campsites, including accessible ones, making it suitable for both RVs and tent camping. However, the area is described as open sage with minimal privacy or shade.
Historical SignificanceThe Madison River corridor has long been revered as one of the West's premier trout fisheries, drawing anglers from around the globe to test their skills against its legendary rainbow and brown trout. Beyond fishing, this historic waterway has evolved into a beloved destination for families and adventurers seeking the simple pleasure of floating its gentle currents, creating memories that span generations of outdoor enthusiasts.
Weather and SeasonsBlessed with Montana's signature dry climate, Trapper Springs enjoys stretches of moderate temperatures and crystalline skies that make it ideal for outdoor pursuits. Summer brings its own dramatic flair, with warm days perfect for river activities, though afternoon winds can sweep across the sagebrush plains with impressive force. Seasoned visitors recommend securing tent stakes well and bringing layers for the cool evenings that follow even the warmest days.
ElevationNestled in the Madison River valley, the campground sits at an elevation that offers comfortable conditions for most visitors while providing easy access to both river and surrounding terrain.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground rests in a dramatic landscape where golden sagebrush plains stretch toward distant peaks, creating an authentically Western panorama. The Madison River flows nearby, its waters reflecting the big Montana sky, while the dramatic cliffs of Bear Trap Canyon rise in the distance, adding a touch of geological grandeur to your camping experience. This open terrain offers unobstructed views of spectacular sunrises and sunsets that paint the landscape in ever-changing hues.
Geological RegionPositioned along the lower Madison River in southwestern Montana, Trapper Springs occupies a unique geological crossroads where river valley meets high desert. The surrounding sagebrush steppe ecosystem showcases the region's semi-arid character, while the nearby Bear Trap Canyon reveals millions of years of geological history carved by the persistent Madison River. This remarkable setting offers visitors not just world-class fishing and floating, but also a front-row seat to some of Montana's most compelling natural landscapes.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground provides an ADA-accessible trail to the Madison River and accessible vault toilets. However, there were no user reviews specifically mentioning experiences with accessibility features.
Sites Size15 campsites are available. Some reviewers noted the spacing between sites, with one stating, 'sites are spaced pretty far apart.'
Sites PrivacyThe campground is described as being in 'open sage' with minimal trees, resulting in little privacy. One reviewer commented, 'open sage, no privacy,' and another mentioned, 'no shade.'
Total Campsites15 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended for RVs and campers due to limited shade and terrain challenges for tents as noted in reviews.
Best CampsitesSite #6 was mentioned in reviews for its proximity to the river, though water spigots were noted to be non-functional. Site #3 was mentioned as challenging for tent placement due to large rocks.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Standard check-in time is likely consistent with federal guidelines, which may be around 2 PM.
Check-out
Standard check-out time is likely consistent with federal guidelines, which may be around 12 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Organized Group permits are required for groups larger than 15 people. Individual sites likely have a lower guest limit.
Groups
The group shelter is a reservable facility that costs $50 per day. It is suitable for organized groups, with parking available for up to 20 vehicles.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOpen sagebrush terrain with campsites spaced far apart for privacy, as noted in reviews.
Open and Closed SeasonCampsites are reservable May 1 - September 15 and first-come-first-serve September 16 - April 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov or the contact center at 877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is offered from September 16 - April 30 when reservations are not required.
Cancellation PolicyIndividual campsite cancellations prior to arrival incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fees if canceled after midnight the day prior to check-in. Group pavilion cancellations forfeit all fees if canceled within 14 days of arrival.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers access to the Madison River, which is famous for trout fishing and is a popular spot for tubing during summer. Other activities include camping, day use, and picnicking. As one user noted, 'If you like to river raft this is the place to go.' Wildlife viewing opportunities are also highlighted by some, with one review describing the area as 'perfect for kids and families' with 'prime access to the lower Madison and wildlife viewing.'
Fishing
The Madison River is well-known for its robust trout fishery. Fishing is highlighted as a major recreational activity.Swimming
The Madison River offers opportunities for water-based activities such as tubing, which is particularly popular during warm summer months. However, no specific mention of designated swimming areas is made.Boating
Boating activities, including non-motorized options, are accessible at nearby launch sites. However, there is no boat launch on-site at the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a notable activity, with one review mentioning 'prime access to the lower Madison and wildlife viewing.'Water Sports
Tubing is a major activity enjoyed on the Madison River during the summer.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated fire pits. Firewood must be purchased; collection is prohibited.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated; likely consistent with general federal guidelines.
Hazards
General hazardsStrong winds noted in reviews may pose difficulties for campers using tents. Wildlife may be present given the ecological region.
Active alertsFire bans may be active during dry seasons, and drinking water availability was recently inconsistent as noted by reviews.
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
Emergency services are likely available in Dillon, MT, which houses the BLM Field Office overseeing the area.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30
Trash and recyclingDetails on trash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to the Madison River, known for trout fishing and tubing. Accessible trail to the river.
Common complaintsComplaints include lack of shade, strong winds, and inconsistent availability of drinking water.
HostVolunteer campground hosts are present at nearby Red Mountain Campground for firewood sales.
Campground Map
BLM Dillon Field Office, 1005 Selway Drive, Dillon, MT 59729
Driving directionsFrom Bozeman; Head west on MT Hwy 84 (Norris Road). Continue on MT Hwy 84 for 20.5 miles. Turn left (south) 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 right (south) at South Bear Trap Canyon Road after you cross the Madison River.
The road to the campground includes a gravel section that is described by reviews as 'a little washboardy for about a mile.'Nearby places
Bozeman (approximately 20.5 miles), Norris (approximately 8 miles), Ennis (distance not specified).
Nearby supplies
Firewood is available for purchase at Red Mountain Campground when the volunteer campground host is present. Other supplies are likely available at nearby towns like Bozeman or Norris.
Camper Reviews
4.3
17 reviews
Trapper Springs (Mt) is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Users generally appreciate the clean facilities, proximity to the Madison River, and spacious sites. However, some criticisms include the lack of privacy, minimal shade, and water availability issues in recent years.
Review Summaries
Based on 17 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean and well-maintained vault toilets, spacious campsites, good access to the Madison River for fishing and tubing, and a peaceful environment with minimal traffic.
Based on 17 reviewsCommon Concerns
Lack of shade and privacy, noise from nearby roads, and intermittent availability of drinking water. One review from June 2023 specifically noted, 'The water has not been turned on in over a year.'
Based on 17 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring extra shade or canopies to mitigate the lack of natural shade. Ensure your tent stakes are securely fastened as strong winds can dislodge them, as noted by one reviewer: 'The wind gets wild...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer is favored for river-based activities like tubing and fishing. However, several users noted the lack of shade during the hotter months.
Based on 17 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Great area to visit, river is fantastic with lots of rafting and fly fishing.' - Greg S.
2. 'Campground is open sage, no privacy.' - Happy Wanderer.
3. 'Vault toilets were very clean.' - Becky...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #3 was noted for limited space due to large rocks, making it less suitable for multiple tents. Site #6 had issues with water availability. Site #5 was described as quiet and enjoyable despite...
Based on 17 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessible vault toilets and ADA trails are available; however, no specific user feedback on accessibility features was found.
Based on 17 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific reviews related to pets were found.
Based on 17 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025