Rainbow Point Campground
4.02444 reviewsRainbow Point Campground
$26.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
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
Standard Electric $35.00, Standard non-electric 26.
About this campground
Nestled in the serene C Loop, this lakeside haven offers campers an intimate connection with nature's tranquility. Wake up to gentle lapping waves and pristine mountain air as you settle into your perfect basecamp for outdoor adventure. The thoughtfully positioned sites provide easy access to the water's edge while maintaining a sense of privacy and peaceful seclusion that makes this spot a cherished retreat for those seeking respite from the everyday world.
Rainbow Point Campground accommodates a range of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping. Many sites offer electric hookups, though water and sewer hookups are not available. Primitive camping options are limited, as most sites are equipped with basic amenities like picnic tables and fire rings.
Historical SignificanceThis cherished camping area sits within the greater Yellowstone ecosystem, a region steeped in the legacy of early explorers, Native American heritage, and the pioneering spirit of the American West. The surrounding lands have witnessed centuries of human connection to these pristine waters and forests, from indigenous peoples who first called this area home to the outdoor enthusiasts who continue to find solace in its natural splendor.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dynamic beauty of Montana's high country climate, where crisp mornings give way to sun-drenched afternoons and star-filled nights. Summer brings warm days perfect for water activities, while spring and fall paint the landscape in vibrant colors. Be prepared for cool evenings year-round at this elevation, where mountain weather can shift quickly, adding to the authentic wilderness experience.
ElevationPerched at 6,240 feet above sea level, Rainbow Point Campground offers that perfect high-altitude camping experience where the air is crisp, the views are expansive, and the night sky seems close enough to touch. This elevation provides relief from summer heat while offering spectacular vantage points of the surrounding mountain landscape, creating an environment where every breath feels refreshing and every sunrise more spectacular.
Natural Features and SceneryThe crown jewel of this campground is its prime location along the shores of magnificent Hebgen Lake, where crystal-clear waters reflect towering peaks and endless Montana skies. The lake serves as your front yard, offering endless opportunities for kayaking, fishing, and waterside relaxation. Surrounding pine forests provide natural shade and shelter, while the distant mountains create a dramatic backdrop that transforms with each passing hour of light.
Geological RegionRainbow Point Campground claims its place in the spectacular Madison River region near Hebgen Lake, a geological wonderland shaped by ancient volcanic activity and glacial forces. At 6,240 feet elevation, this area showcases the raw beauty of the Greater Yellowstone landscape, where pristine waters carve through valleys flanked by rugged peaks. The unique geology creates diverse ecosystems and stunning vistas that have captivated visitors for generations, making this corner of Montana a true natural treasure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility information is limited, though user reviews suggest easy access to water spigots and relatively level campsites.
Sites SizeSites vary in size from standard to large, with space for small tents as well as RVs up to 40 feet. User reviews frequently describe them as spacious ('Large site on a relatively quiet campground') and level.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy between sites varies depending on the loop, with some reviewers noting closely spaced sites while others highlight excellent spacing and shade ('spacious wooded campsites').
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
14:00 PM
Stay Limit
16
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonOpens May 16, 2025.
Reservation Platformswww.recreation.gov
Cancellation Policy$10 cancellation fee, incur fee for vehicles
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Rainbow Point Campground offers a variety of outdoor activities, leveraging its proximity to Hebgen Lake and Yellowstone National Park. Visitors enjoy fishing, boating, swimming, hiking, and biking. Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with frequent sightings of deer, moose, bison, and a variety of bird species, including ospreys and pelicans. The lake provides opportunities for kayaking and paddleboarding, though toxic algae blooms during certain seasons may restrict water activities. User reviews also mention berry-picking as a popular pastime.
Hiking
Hiking trails in the area crisscross the surrounding forest, offering opportunities for both beginners and experienced hikers. Specific trail details are not mentioned in the authoritative source.Fishing
Hebgen Lake is considered Montana's premier still-water fishing lake, with healthy populations of brown, cutthroat, and rainbow trout. User reviews confirm excellent fishing opportunities ('Fishing was awesome on Hebgen Lake').Swimming
Swimming is possible in Hebgen Lake, although user reviews warn of toxic algae blooms during late summer months.Biking
Biking trails are available, with user reviews mentioning forest roads suitable for easy biking.Boating
A boat ramp is located within the campground, facilitating motorized and non-motorized boating activities. Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available.Wildlife viewing
Visitors frequently spot deer, bison, moose, and a variety of birds such as ospreys, pelicans, and sandhill cranes. Wildlife sightings are a major draw for campers.Beach activities
Beach activities include sunbathing, swimming, and launching kayaks. User reviews describe the lake as a beautiful backdrop for relaxation, though algae blooms can occasionally limit water use.Winter Activities
Snowfall in the area could provide opportunities for winter sports, but specific activities are not detailed.Water Sports
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing are popular on Hebgen Lake, with rentals available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 9%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 0.9 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 provided at West Yellowstone town, 15 minutes drive.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 2025
Trash and recyclingTrash dumpsters are available throughout the campground, and recycling facilities are provided, though some reviews note they were not emptied regularly during their visit.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom West Yellowstone, travel 5 miles north on Highway 191. Turn west (left) onto Rainbow Point Road (Forest Road 6954) and travel 3 miles, then 2 miles north (right) on Rainbow Point Road, after the intersection.
"The road into the campground was poor and hard on our trailer…even with us traveling at a low speed." Several reviews mention the final approach to the campground, consisting of 2 miles of gravel road and potholes.Nearby places
West Yellowstone approximately 10 miles north, estimated travel time of around 15 minutes.
Camper Reviews
4.0
444 reviews
Rainbow Point Campground is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews paint a mixed picture of Rainbow Point Campground. Positive highlights include its proximity to Yellowstone, spacious and clean sites, and stunning views of Hebgen Lake. However, recurring complaints focus on the rough roads leading to the campground and within the loops, the prevalence of mosquitoes, and the lack of certain amenities like showers and a dump station.
Review Summaries
Based on 444 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean vault toilets ('Vault toilets were impressively clean and free of odors or flies'), helpful camp hosts ('Camp hosts were friendly and helped us get our jack fixed'), and excellent lake access...
Based on 444 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Road conditions ('The road to the campground is awful...'), mosquito infestations ('INSANE amounts of mosquitos'), and a lack of on-site dump station ('No dump station available').
Based on 444 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray and long sleeves to combat mosquitoes. Drive slowly on the rough gravel road leading to the campground. Be prepared for no showers and limited water disposal options.
Based on 444 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Mosquito activity peaks in July and August, making late spring or early fall preferable for camping. Algae blooms in Hebgen Lake can limit water activities during summer months.
Based on 444 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Vault toilets were impressively clean and free of odors or flies.'
2. 'Camp hosts were friendly and helped us get our jack fixed.'
3. 'Road conditions are awful...I’ve never in my life driven on...
Based on 444 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Loop C and Loop D are commonly praised for their spacious sites and proximity to the lake. Specific complaints about site dimensions (e.g., C22 being narrower than advertised) are noted.
Based on 444 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are limited but include level campsites and proximity to water spigots.
Based on 444 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and user reviews mention the campground being accommodating to large dogs ('They seem to be common place here which is great because my girls love camping').
Based on 444 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025