Snowbank Campground
4.5934 reviewsnull
Snowbank Campground
$26.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$26.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates range from $26.00 for standard sites to $60.00 for group camping areas. Additional vehicle fee: $8.00/night.
About this campground
Nestled along the rushing waters of Mill Creek, Snowbank Campground beckons adventurers to discover a pristine mountain retreat just 29 miles south of Livingston, Montana. This intimate riverside sanctuary features 12 thoughtfully spaced sites, where the symphony of flowing water creates nature's perfect soundtrack. Whether you're casting a line into Mill Creek's crystal-clear waters, setting off on nearby mountain trails, or gathering your group of up to 25 at the spacious Site 12, Snowbank offers an authentic Montana wilderness experience that stays with you long after you've packed up camp.
Snowbank Campground offers tent camping, RV spaces (restrictions apply for lengths exceeding 30 feet), and a group camping site.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsFrom the lingering snowflakes of May to September's golden afternoons, Snowbank Campground transforms with Montana's dramatic seasons. Early arrivals might wake to frost-kissed mornings and snow-dusted peaks, while peak summer brings warm days perfect for creek-side relaxation and cool, star-filled nights. As autumn approaches, crisp air and changing colors signal the end of the camping season, typically running from mid-May through late September. Winter wraps the campground in a quiet blanket of snow and freezing temperatures, preserving its wild beauty until spring's return.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in an enchanted forest where towering spruce and fir trees create a natural cathedral overhead, their branches filtering sunlight into dancing patterns on the forest floor. Mill Creek winds through the campground like a liquid silver ribbon, its melodic flow providing the constant companion that campers cherish. As one visitor beautifully captured it: 'We love Snowbank camping! We get a particular site that is right next to Mill Creek and enjoy sleeping to the sound of the creek...so peaceful!' Hidden treasures await the observant visitor – wild thimbleberry and raspberry bushes offer sweet summer treats, while the dappled shade provides cool refuge on warm afternoons.
Geological RegionPerched at the gateway to the magnificent Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness in southwestern Montana, Snowbank Campground serves as your basecamp for exploring one of America's most spectacular mountain landscapes. The campground's location along Mill Creek places you in the heart of a geological wonderland, where ancient forests of spruce and fir have taken root in rich mountain soils. The understory bursts with native berry bushes, creating a multi-layered ecosystem that showcases the remarkable biodiversity of Montana's high country. This prime location offers the perfect blend of accessibility and wilderness immersion, putting you within reach of countless alpine adventures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed in the authoritative sources or user reviews.
Sites SizeThe campground includes single-family sites and one group camping site (Site 12) that accommodates up to 25 people. User reviews mention that some sites are small and may not be suitable for larger camping equipment, such as trailers exceeding 30 feet.
Sites PrivacyReviews highlight the privacy of sites, particularly those along Mill Creek. "Large sites with lots of privacy and the sound of Mill Creek just adds to the experience." (user review by John Reddersen, 6/4/2018).
Total Campsites12 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 12 is recommended for larger groups and includes a private restroom and trash bin. Sites along the creek (e.g., Sites 005, 010) are ideal for sound and views of the water.
Best CampsitesSite 10 is frequently mentioned as the best site due to its location right on the creek bank and privacy. "Best site is #10 right on the river, very private." (User review: Richard S, 2021)
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
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Check-out
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Stay Limit
You may stay up to 16 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Up to 25 for group camping area
- unclear for individual campsites.
Groups
The group camping area (Site 12) can accommodate up to 25 people. It is situated along Mill Creek, offering scenic views and proximity to water.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTight layout requiring careful maneuvering for trailers. Layout includes both Group Camping Area and single-family sites. "All is very tight. Don’t even think about taking anything bigger than a 20 ft trailer or class C." (User review: Steven M, 2020)
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 16, 2025 to September 27, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis outside the reservation season. Call (406) 646-1012 for information.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival. Late cancellation fees apply: $10 plus the first night's recreation use fee for individual sites and group sites. No-shows incur a $20 fee.
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
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Snowbank Campground offers a broad range of activities, with hiking, fishing, and wildlife viewing being the most popular. Other recreational opportunities include birding, backpacking, and berry picking.
Hiking
Numerous hiking trails are accessible near the campground, including the 6.3-mile Wicked Ridge Trail that begins just outside the campground entrance. "Beautiful hiking trail." (user review by Greg G, 8/12/2021).Fishing
Mill Creek provides fishing opportunities for whitefish, rainbow, brown, and cutthroat trout. "Great fishing on Mill Creek except when the muddy water exists." (user review by Greg G, 8/12/2021).Biking
Both off-road vehicle and bike trails crisscross the area around Snowbank Campground. No further specific details on trail difficulty or terrain are provided.Wildlife viewing
The campground is surrounded by lush natural features ideal for wildlife viewing. "Tons of songbirds around all day. Fantastic." (user review by Paul B, 7/23/2020).Winter Activities
Winter activities are not explicitly mentioned, though the campground is situated in a region that may offer seasonal snow-based recreation.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned as part of the campground's offerings.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfire rings provided at all sites. Firewood available for purchase on-site ($10 per bundle). "Don’t move firewood" policy enforced to prevent tree pests.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include Mill Creek's fast-moving waters (noted by user Mandy A, 2019), and the presence of wildlife warranting bear-proof food storage.
Active alertsThe campground will reopen on May 16, 2025 after bridge repairs.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 14%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 3.3 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
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Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16, 2025 - September 27, 2025 (Peak season).
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is available at the campground. Recycling facilities are mentioned but specific details about their scope or locations are not provided.
Proximity to water featuresSituated directly along Mill Creek with creek access mentioned for multiple sites. "There was a creek right by our site also." (User review: Debbie H, 2021)
Common complaintsSmelly vault toilets after rainfall due to standing water. "The bathroom was really smelly after it’s rained as there is standing water around the toilet." (User review: Lyndsey B, 2021)
HostManagement is noted as polite and accommodating, although staffing is limited. "Camp host (Gish) was very friendly and helpful." (User review: Steven M, 2020)
Campground Map
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Driving directionsFrom Livingston, travel south on Highway 89 for 16 miles to the Mill Creek Road/Forest Road 486 (Pray turnoff). Turn left (east) onto Mill Creek Road, cross the East River Road (Highway 540) and continue east for 11 miles to the campground. From Gardiner, take Highway 89 north for 36 miles to the Mill Creek Road/Forest Road 486 (Pray turnoff). Turn right (west) onto Mill Creek Road, cross the East River Road (Highway 540) and continue east for 11 miles to the campground.
This campground is accessible via paved Highway 89 and then transitioning to Mill Creek Road, which may be unpaved. The road is reportedly narrow and includes a 5-mile rough dirt road section. "With the exception of the 5 miles of rough dirt road; this campground was great." (User review: James G, 2021)Nearby places
Livingston is approximately 29 miles north, Gardiner is 36 miles south.
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
4.6
34 reviews
Snowbank Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Most user reviews praise Snowbank Campground for its serene atmosphere, privacy, proximity to Mill Creek, and friendly camp hosts. Common themes include scenic beauty, clean facilities, and manageable site sizes.
Review Summaries
Based on 34 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects frequently mentioned include the peaceful environment, privacy of sites, clean facilities, and the sound of Mill Creek enhancing the camping experience. "Very relaxing - right next...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include issues with small site sizes, difficulty navigating larger trailers, and standing water near vault toilets after rain. "The bathroom was really smelly after it's rained as there is...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include reserving sites well in advance due to high demand, choosing creekside locations for enhanced privacy and scenic beauty, and being cautious with pets near the fast-moving creek.
Based on 34 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviews indicate the campground is ideal for summer camping due to open roads and clear creek access. Winter usability is not discussed.
Based on 34 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Large sites with lots of privacy and the sound of Mill Creek just adds to the experience." (user review by John Reddersen, 6/4/2018). "Nice hosts, great site, definitely plan to come back!" (user...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 10 is highly recommended for its privacy and proximity to the river. "Best site is #10 right on the river, very private." (user review by Richard S, 7/30/2021). Site 12 is notable for its group...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not explicitly discussed in user reviews.
Based on 34 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the campground, but users recommend caution near the creek due to its fast movement. "Creek was moving faster than expected, so we had to keep an extra eye out for our dog's...
Based on 34 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025