Red Cliff Campground
4.50235 reviewsRed Cliff Campground
$26.00 - $35.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$35.00
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
Peak season rates are $35 for standard electric sites and $26 for standard non-electric sites. Additional fees include $9 per extra vehicle, $10 for firewood bundles, and a $10 change or cancellation fee. Interagency passes may offer discounts on recreation fees.
About this campground
Nestled along the pristine waters of the Gallatin River, Red Cliff Campground serves as your gateway to Montana's most breathtaking wilderness. This riverside retreat sits perfectly positioned between the world-famous Yellowstone National Park and the mountain paradise of Big Sky, making it an ideal basecamp for your Rocky Mountain adventures. Choose from electric or non-electric sites, all connected by well-maintained gravel roads with spacious parking spurs. Modern vault toilets and fresh drinking water ensure comfort during your stay, while the rushing river provides nature's soundtrack to your camping experience.
Red Cliff Campground accommodates various camping styles, including tent sites, RV spots, and primitive camping. Electric hookups are offered in select sites.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Montana's famously clear skies and pristine air throughout your stay. During the cooler months, the region showcases its drier side with crystalline days, minimal precipitation, and gentle breezes that whisper through the pines. As peak camping season arrives, warm sunshine bathes the canyon walls while cool mountain air keeps temperatures comfortable, creating perfect conditions for both relaxation and exploration.
ElevationPerched at 6,200 feet where the air is crisp and pure, Red Cliff Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer heat. This mountain elevation treats visitors to naturally cooler temperatures and spectacular panoramic vistas that stretch across the Gallatin Range, where every sunrise and sunset paints the sky in brilliant alpine colors.
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle murmur of the Gallatin River as it winds through your backyard, framed by towering pines and fragrant firs that provide both shade and serenity. Wildflower-dotted meadows open to reveal stunning mountain views, while the forest canopy shelters a remarkable cast of wildlife. Keep your camera ready for unforgettable encounters with majestic moose browsing along the riverbank, black bears foraging in distant meadows, and bald eagles soaring overhead against the backdrop of Montana's endless blue sky.
Geological RegionRed Cliff Campground takes its name from the dramatic crimson rock formations that define Gallatin Canyon's unique character. Here, the Gallatin River has carved its path through ancient stone, creating a geological wonderland where rust-colored cliffs rise above forests of pine and fir. This remarkable ecosystem supports an abundance of wildlife, from the mighty moose that wade through marshy river bends to the black bears that roam the hillsides and the bald eagles that patrol the skies. It's a living gallery where Montana's geological history meets its vibrant present.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySeveral campsites are accessible. The campground includes a gravel road system for easier navigation.
Sites SizeSites vary in size, ranging from small tent spaces to larger areas for RVs. "Some dry bed sites are spacious," noted one reviewer.
Sites PrivacySites are generally well-spaced and private. However, electric sites tend to be closer together. "No neighbors on one side of Site 025," commented a reviewer.
Total Campsites0 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampers recommend riverside sites for views and ambient river noise. Sites near the trailhead offer privacy and direct access to hiking trails.
Reserving a campsite
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 16 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Camping fee covers up to two vehicles or RV/trailer with a tow vehicle. Additional vehicles incur a $9 fee.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutElectric sites are closer together, while non-electric sites are more spaced out. Sites near the river offer better views but sometimes increased road noise.
Open and Closed SeasonThe campground is open from May 16 to September 27 for reservations, with peak season running June 23 to September 27.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityCampers can snag extra nights from the bulletin board posted each morning. Walk-up availability is not guaranteed.
Cancellation PolicyChanges made for completely different dates incur a $10 change fee. Late cancellations lose the first night's fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Located next to the Gallatin River, Red Cliff Campground offers a variety of recreational activities including fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, rafting, kayaking, and horseback riding. Trailheads like the Elkhorn Creek Trail start from the campground, providing access to scenic routes.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include the Elkhorn Creek Trail, which begins at the south end of the campground. Reviews highlight its accessibility for both casual walkers and seasoned hikers. "A great trail for families," noted one user.Fishing
Fishing in the Gallatin River is particularly popular, with species such as rainbow, brown, brook trout, and Arctic grayling. "The river was lovely, and the fishing was excellent," commented one camper.Boating
Rafting and kayaking are popular activities on the river, as described by user reviews.Wildlife viewing
The surrounding canyon is home to bald eagles, bighorn sheep, moose, elk, mountain goats, deer, and coyotes. Black and grizzly bears also live in the region.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not mentioned specifically.Water Sports
Rafting and kayaking on the Gallatin River are popular recreational opportunities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed but only LPG fires during fire restriction periods.
Hazards
General hazardsBears frequent the area, requiring secure food storage. Wildlife is abundant, including large animals such as moose and elk.
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 12%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 9.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
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
No information available.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 23 to September 27.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available near the entrance and exit of the campground.
Proximity to water featuresAdjacent to Gallatin River. Some sites are riverside and offer direct access.
Common complaintsSome campers mention proximity to Highway 191 leading to road noise at night. Other concerns include potholes within the campground roads and limited electric hookups.
HostHosts consistently praised for friendliness and helpfulness. Notable host named Gwendolyn received acclaim for her efforts.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Bozeman, travel south on Highway 191 for 46 miles to the campground. From West Yellowstone, take Highway 191 north for 45 miles.
The campground is off Highway 191 and adjacent to Gallatin River, allowing easy road access. Roads within the campground are gravel, and it is noted to have potholes in some areas that campers mention needing repair. Campers also mention minimal road noise during nighttime due to the highway's proximity.Nearby places
Bozeman (46 miles north)
West Yellowstone (45 miles south)
Big Sky (10 miles).
Nearby supplies
Campers mention proximity to Big Sky (approximately 10 miles away), which has gas stations, Ace Hardware, and groceries.
Camper Reviews
4.5
235 reviews
Red Cliff Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally praise the scenic setting, friendly camp hosts, clean facilities, and access to recreational activities. Some complaints include highway noise and limited amenities like showers or sewer hookups.
Review Summaries
Based on 235 reviews
What Campers Love
Clean vault toilets; friendly and accommodating camp hosts; access to the Gallatin River; beautiful natural surroundings; spacious and private campsites.
Based on 235 reviewsCommon Concerns
Highway noise; lack of sewer hookups and showers; issues with maps and site numbering; occasional overcrowding; barking dogs.
Based on 235 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring a water container, as potable water is mostly available near the entrance. Be prepared for road noise and consider earplugs. Use bear-proof storage boxes for food. Book reservations early, as...
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Seasonal Insights
Users note that the campground is particularly busy in summer months, with high demand for sites with electric hookups. Cooler months offer fewer bugs but may bring muddy conditions.
Based on 235 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The cleanest restrooms I have ever experienced," "Hosts were amazing," "Beautiful setting by the Gallatin River," "Road noise is noticeable but does not outweigh the positives," "Loved sitting by...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site 025 is praised for its privacy. "Perfect site next to the river." Site 012 is noted for proximity to water and cleanliness. Site 045 offers electric hookups but limited shade. Sites near the...
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Accessibility Features
Accessible sites are available, but no detailed feedback from accessibility-focused users.
Based on 235 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Campground is pet-friendly, with hosts providing treats for dogs. Complaints include unleashed dogs roaming the site.
Based on 235 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025