Black Sandy State Park
00 review930 Custer Avenue, Helena, Montana, 59601, United States
Black Sandy State Park
$18.00 - $18.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$18.00
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
Overnight tent camping fee is $18 per night. RV camping may have additional charges such as $5 for the use of the dump station, and boat slips for $7 per night.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine shores of Hauser Lake, Black Sandy State Park stands as one of the rare public gateways to this aquatic paradise. Here, the rhythm of water meets land in perfect harmony, where boating enthusiasts carve white wakes across crystal waters and anglers cast lines into promising depths. Hiking trails wind through the landscape, offering glimpses of local wildlife, while waterskiers dance across the lake's surface. Though campsites nestle close together in communal spirit, most reward visitors with coveted lakeside views that transform ordinary camping into waterfront retreats.
Black Sandy State Park accommodates a variety of camping options, including spaces for RVs and tents. Group camping is not explicitly mentioned, and the campground primarily caters to RV camping with some provisions for tent sites.
Historical SignificanceStories of the past come alive through thoughtfully placed interpretive displays scattered throughout the park, inviting visitors to step back in time and discover the rich tapestry of human history that has unfolded along these shores. These educational touchpoints weave together narratives of the land and its people, adding depth to your outdoor experience.
Weather and SeasonsThe park transforms dramatically with each passing season, creating distinct chapters in its annual story. Winter arrives with a crystalline beauty, bringing frigid temperatures and the possibility of snow that blankets the landscape in pristine white. As seasons turn, summer emerges as the park's golden time, with temperatures climbing into the pleasant 80s—perfect weather for diving into lake adventures, whether you're swimming off the black sandy shores or exploring the water by boat.
ElevationThe park's elevation creates its own unique mountain lake environment, though specific elevation details await your discovery upon arrival.
Natural Features and SceneryThe park's namesake black sandy beaches create a striking contrast against Hauser Lake's shimmering waters, offering a unique geological canvas rarely found in Montana. Beyond the distinctive shoreline, the majestic Belt Mountains rise in the distance, their peaks creating a dramatic backdrop that frames every sunset and sunrise. This interplay of dark sand, blue water, and mountain silhouettes creates a photographer's dream and a naturalist's playground.
Geological RegionSituated within Montana's diverse Region 4, Black Sandy State Park showcases the geological wonders of Hauser Lake's shoreline. The park's distinctive black sandy beaches tell a story written in minerals and time, while the surrounding Belt Mountains stand as ancient sentinels. This unique combination of lakeside geology and mountain vistas creates a landscape that captures the essence of Montana's varied terrain, offering visitors a front-row seat to nature's geological artistry.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe park is wheelchair accessible to most areas, as noted by a reviewer: 'Dog and kid friendly, wheelchair accessible to most areas, and very friendly park officials.'
Sites SizeStandard-sized sites, with some complaints about being small and clustered. One user stated, 'Small RV park, very tight sites.'
Sites PrivacyLimited privacy due to the close proximity of sites. For instance, a reviewer remarked, 'Like parking lots on the waterfront? Then this is the park for you! Get to know your neighbors! Eavesdrop!'
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose lakeside sites for better views and swimming access. Double check site layouts for fire pit and table positioning based on camper exit location.
Best CampsitesSpot one and site five are recommended based on proximity to the water and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
1:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum of 8 people per site unless at a designated double site.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 people per tent site, 16 at double sites.
Groups
Group camping is not mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutRV sites are likened to a parking lot layout. Sites are tight and close together.
Open and Closed SeasonYear-round camping availability noted, with reviews spanning all seasons.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Montana State Parks platforms or other designated systems.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve availability not mentioned explicitly. Majority of reviews recommend reservations in advance due to high demand.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are non-transferable and cannot be sold, bartered, or traded. Failure to comply with ADA site reservation requirements will result in cancellation fees.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Dump station
Firewood available
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Camp Store
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors can enjoy numerous activities such as boating, fishing, hiking, and swimming at Black Sandy State Park. The park also provides opportunities for wildlife viewing and photography.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available and offer moderate difficulty. One user review noted, 'A nice hiking trail is just across the road from the campground. It takes you up to some spectacular views of the lake and mountains.'Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with opportunities to catch walleye and trout. One reviewer stated, 'The fishing here is amazing,' though another noted varied success: 'Fishing is always good. Catching not so much.'Swimming
Swimming is permitted in designated areas, and a rope swimming area is specifically noted by one reviewer: 'We had a spot literally right on the water in front of the ropes swimming area, and my girls had a blast swimming and enjoying themselves.'Biking
Bicycling is listed as an activity within the park, though no detailed reviews specifically address the quality of biking trails.Boating
Boating is a key activity, with excellent access to Hauser Lake. A boat ramp and docks are available. One reviewer shared, 'The boat ramp and dock are excellent. One of the best in the Helena area.'Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlighted activity, with one user mentioning, 'Wonderful views across the lake,' which likely includes opportunities for observing local fauna.Beach activities
Beach-related activities are possible along the shoreline. One reviewer described 'trees on a black sandy shoreline.'Winter Activities
Some visitors engage in winter camping and fishing. One user stated, 'Loved it for Winter camping and fishing trip. It was nice to have electricity.'Water Sports
Kayaking and paddleboarding are possible, with one reviewer noting, 'Would have been nice to have had a kayak, Hauser Lake was for the most part calm, like glass in the AM.'Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed only in established iron fire rings and grills.
- Quiet hours are 10:00 PM to 7:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsHornets reportedly present during warmer months. Limited cell coverage noted by reviews.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
89
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 18%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.3 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Emergency services include dialing 911. Park staff can also assist. Closest major town for emergency services is Helena.
Good to know
Peak season datesSummer season appears popular based on user reviews.
Trash and recyclingTrash facilities are available, but recycling is not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresLocated directly on Hauser Lake, providing swimming, fishing, and boating opportunities.
Common complaintsSites are close together, making privacy limited. Gravel/dirt access road is rough. Pricing deemed high for provided amenities.
HostCampground hosts are reportedly helpful and maintain clean facilities.
Campground Map
930 Custer Avenue, Helena, Montana, 59601, United States
Driving directionsBlack Sandy State Park is located 7 miles north of Helena on I-15, then 4 miles east on Secondary 453, then 3 miles north on a county road.
The road in is over 3 miles of gravel/dirt and reportedly rough but doable according to user reviews.Nearby places
Helena - approximately 10 miles northeast.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Helena, including groceries, fuel, and camping essentials.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Black Sandy State Park has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews of Black Sandy State Park generally highlight its beautiful lakeside setting, variety of activities, and clean facilities. However, complaints about small, crowded campsites and limited amenities such as no showers are common.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include 'beautiful tent camp spots,' 'nice RV pads,' 'friendly camp host,' 'clean bathrooms,' and 'breathtaking views.' The park's proximity to the lake and its recreational...
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Common Concerns
Key complaints include the small size of campsites, lack of privacy, rough gravel road leading to the campground, and absence of showers. One user noted, 'Small RV park, very tight sites,' while...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend booking weeks or months in advance due to high demand. Bringing a kayak or other watercraft is also suggested to fully enjoy Hauser Lake. Campers are advised to prepare for limited...
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Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews often highlight the park's water activities and bustling atmosphere. Winter reviews focus on the quiet and opportunities for ice fishing. Fall and spring reviews note pleasant hiking...
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Camper Quotes
- 'Beautiful tent camp spots, nice RV pads, boat slips for $6 night, trees on a black sandy shoreline.' - 'Campground is very nice, most sites are lakeside. Washroom was clean.' - 'The vault bathroom...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 1 and Site 5 are specifically mentioned as beautiful spots. One reviewer said, 'Spot one is very beautiful. The site 5 is also pretty. I recommend it for a night or two.'
Accessibility Features
The park is noted for its wheelchair accessibility in most areas. One reviewer stated, 'Wheelchair accessible to most areas, and very friendly park officials.'
Pet-Friendly Features
The park is described as pet-friendly. One user noted, 'Dog and kid friendly,' but pets must be leashed, which is a common rule across state parks.
Last updated August 10, 2025