Devil'S Elbow Campground
4.35116 reviews5965 York Road
Devil'S Elbow Campground
$25.00 - $140.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$25.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$140.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
RV Non-electric sites and group standard non-electric sites are priced at $25 per night during peak season. Group shelter electric sites cost $140 per night. Additional camping units cost $15 per day/night.
About this campground
Perched along the dramatic bend known as 'Devil's Elbow' on Hauser Lake, this 48-site recreation area offers an enticing blend of waterfront serenity and rugged Montana landscape. Whether you're pulling up in an RV, setting up a camper trailer, or pitching a tent in one of five dedicated tent-only sites, you'll find yourself immersed in a natural playground perfect for casting a line into the lake's depths, exploring mountain bike trails, or launching your boat for a day on the water. Despite its secluded feel, you're just a short drive from Helena's amenities, making it an ideal basecamp for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and convenience.
Devil's Elbow Campground offers a mix of camping options, including RV sites, tent-only sites, and group camping areas. All sites require reservations.
Historical SignificanceYour stay at Devil's Elbow places you at the crossroads of Montana's storied past. Just a short drive away, Helena beckons with tales of gold rush fortune-seekers who once flooded Last Chance Gulch, transforming a mining camp into today's vibrant capital city. Follow in the footsteps of Lewis and Clark, whose historic expedition passed through this region, or explore remnants of old mining settlements that dot the surrounding hills – each telling the story of Montana's transformation from wild frontier to the Last Best Place.
Weather and SeasonsMontana's famously unpredictable weather keeps things interesting at Devil's Elbow, where summer days can soar to a sizzling 100°F before afternoon thunderstorms roll across the lake, bringing dramatic skies and refreshing rain. The dry air and moderate winds create perfect conditions for evening campfires, while shoulder seasons may surprise visitors with dustings of snow that transform the sage-covered hills into a winter wonderland. Pack layers and prepare for nature's full spectrum – it's all part of the authentic Montana experience.
ElevationNestled at lake level in Montana's varied topography, the campground offers accessible terrain for all visitors while providing stunning vantage points of the surrounding mountain ranges.
Natural Features and SceneryThe campground's setting showcases Montana's distinctive shrub-steppe ecosystem, where silvery sagebrush and native bunch grasses paint the hillsides in subtle hues of green and gold. Though shade trees are few, this open landscape offers unobstructed views that stretch across Hauser Lake's shimmering waters to the surrounding peaks. Early risers are rewarded with spectacular sunrises illuminating the water, while evenings bring alpenglow to the distant mountains, creating a photographer's paradise where big sky meets big water.
Geological RegionSet within Montana's captivating shrub-steppe ecosystem, Devil's Elbow showcases the region's unique geological character where ancient sagebrush and hardy bunch grasses have adapted to centuries of wind and weather. From your campsite, gaze across Hauser Lake – a reservoir carved into the landscape – to the majestic Big Belt and Elkhorn mountain ranges that frame the horizon. This dramatic meeting of water, prairie, and peaks creates a distinctly Western tableau that embodies the raw beauty of Montana's diverse geological heritage.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe campground includes features like paved walking paths and accessible parking. Reviews highlight the smooth and wheelchair-friendly design of the trails, although some paths include uphill and downhill segments.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious and level, accommodating large RVs and multiple camping setups. Specific measurements or size details are not provided, but smaller tent sites are also available.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy levels vary by site. While some sites provide scenic views and are well-spaced, others may feel less private due to open shrub-steppe vegetation.
Total Campsites48 campsites
Recommended CampsitesOpt for tent camping spots near the river for scenic views. Avoid sites near the boat ramp if seeking tranquility.
Best CampsitesTent camping spots overlooking the Missouri River are highly praised. Site-specific reviews suggest campsite 43 (Tent loop) as ideal for its views and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 2 RVs or tents per site, with each camping unit incurring additional fees.
Groups
Group sites are available with a reservation. Loop C features a Ramada/Pavilion that costs $50 per reservation plus $25 per night per site. A maximum of two RVs or tents is allowed per group site.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into loops (A, B, C, and Tent loops), with spacious gravel parking pads and picnic tables at every site.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from May 1 to September 30 during peak season. First-come, first-serve sites are available starting June 21.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online through recreation.gov or by phone.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve sites are available starting June 21.
Cancellation PolicyCancelation fees apply depending on timing: $10 standard cancellation fee, plus forfeiture of the first night’s use fee for late cancellations. Reservations can be modified, and late penalties apply for changes made after the cut-off window.
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
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A variety of recreational activities are available at Devil's Elbow Campground. Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and biking on trails that interconnect with adjacent recreation sites. Additional activities include hunting, picnicking, and access to a small beach area.
Hiking
The campground includes non-motorized dirt, gravel, and paved trails. These trails connect Devil's Elbow to nearby areas like Two Camps Vista and Clark's Bay, making it convenient for walking and biking. The trails cater to various skill levels, providing scenic views of the lake and surrounding mountains.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity at the campground, supported by a large concrete boat launch and a fish-cleaning station. The area is suitable for anglers looking for lake or river fishing opportunities.Swimming
A small beach area is available for swimming, but user reviews note that the swimming area is small, and the water can sometimes appear murky or scum-covered.Biking
Several world-class mountain biking trails are located in the greater Hauser Lake Recreation Area. The campground also provides paved and gravel paths suitable for biking.Boating
The campground features a large concrete boat launch and courtesy dock, along with day-use and overnight boat slips available on a first-come, first-served basis. The adjacent Hauser Lake is ideal for various boating activities.Wildlife viewing
Visitors often see a variety of wildlife, including birds such as eagles. The campground's shrub-steppe landscape supports diverse fauna.Beach activities
A small beach area allows for activities like sunbathing and wading, but some reviews mention that the beach is modest in size and not ideal for children.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed in the source material, but weather data suggests cold conditions with snow during winter months.Water Sports
Water sports like kayaking and paddleboarding are supported by the lake's access points, although no specific facilities for these activities are described.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fire rings with grill grates are provided at each site; however, fire restrictions may be enforced during dry seasons.
- Quiet hours are Generators are only permitted from 7 AM to 10 PM.
Hazards
General hazardsBears, rattlesnakes, black widows, and prickly pear cactus are present in the area. Guests are advised to use bear-proof food storage and be cautious of wildlife and plant hazards.
Active alertsCurrently, there is no potable water available due to well issues. Fire restrictions are in place during dry seasons.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.3 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
Helena offers emergency services including hospitals, police stations, and fire stations. The campground is approximately 20 minutes away from these services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 1 - September 30, 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available throughout the campground, but no specific recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Hauser Lake, with direct access to a small beach, boat ramps, and docks.
Common complaintsIssues with camp host behavior and campground maintenance, such as locked public hydrants, unkempt grounds, and restricted parking rules. Some guests reported difficulty with campsite rules and conditions.
HostMixed reviews about camp hosts, with some guests praising their friendliness and helpfulness, while others found them overly intrusive.
Campground Map
5965 York Road
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 90 driving from Bozeman, exit at Exit: 274 US 287 Helena/Ennis; right turn to continue north on 287 and continue for 57 miles. Turn right onto Lake Helena Drive, then turn right in 450 feet to stay on Lake Helena Drive. Continue for 4 miles through the roundabout. Turn right onto York Road and drive 6.2 miles to Devil's Elbow Recreation Area. From Helena/Butte/Great Falls: Drive to (or exit from I-15 onto) Custer Avenue, head east on Custer Ave. Take left turn onto York Road. Continue on for 16 miles to Devil's Elbow Recreation Area; or take the Lincoln RD exit on I-15, Head East on Lincoln Road until it intersects with Lake Helena Dr (T-Intersection). Take a right (South) on Lake Helena Dr (this route contains portions of dirt and gravel roads) and continue until the road turns back into pavement, take a left (East) on Deal Lane and follow the road until it terminates at York Road. Take a left (North) on York Road and continue for about 2 miles to Devil's Elbow.
The road is paved all the way to the campground. Some portions of the route involve dirt and gravel roads depending on the approach taken, but alternative paved routes are available.Nearby places
Helena, MT (approximately 20 minutes away by car)
Nearby supplies
A small marina, general store with gas, and a bar/restaurant are just half a mile away. The city of Helena provides access to groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.4
116 reviews
Devil'S Elbow Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews paint a mixed picture of Devil's Elbow Campground. Positive reviews highlight the campground's cleanliness, spacious sites, and scenic views. However, some users criticize the perceived overmanagement by hosts and the lack of potable water at times.
Review Summaries
Based on 116 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include clean vault toilets, spacious sites, friendly camp hosts, and close proximity to Hauser Lake. Many users also appreciate the paved walking paths and wildlife viewing...
Based on 116 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include issues with camp hosts being overly strict, the absence of potable water despite being advertised, and limited shade due to sparse vegetation. Some users also mention problems with...
Based on 116 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing sufficient water supply due to occasional unavailability on-site. Weekdays are suggested for a quieter experience, and visitors are advised to reserve lake-view sites for the...
Based on 116 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are noted for high temperatures and limited shade, while spring and fall are highlighted as quieter and more enjoyable seasons. Winter conditions, though not detailed, are likely less...
Based on 116 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Very peaceful campground. Probably the cleanest vault toilets I've ever seen or smelled.' - Cheyenne James
2. 'The camp host was super nice and helpful!! Prob one of the nicest set of people we...
Based on 116 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific reviews mention issues like uneven ground in tent sites (e.g., Site 44), and complaints about camp host behavior. Lake-view sites and larger RV sites are frequently praised.
Based on 116 reviewsAccessibility Features
The campground received positive feedback for accessibility, with paved trails being a highlight for wheelchair users.
Based on 116 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, with some reviews specifically mentioning enjoyable experiences walking dogs along the trails.
Based on 116 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025