Swan Creek Campground
4.5863 reviewsSwan Creek Campground
$26.00 - $26.00 / 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$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Reservations are $26 per night for a standard non-electric site during peak season. Additional vehicles are charged $8.00 per night.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Gallatin Canyon, Swan Creek Campground is a hidden gem where the gentle murmur of Swan Creek provides the soundtrack to your mountain retreat. This intimate campground features just 13 thoughtfully spaced sites across two loops, offering a peaceful alternative to busier destinations. Here, thick vegetation creates natural privacy screens between creekside sites, while modern amenities like vault toilets, hand-pump drinking water, and regular trash collection ensure comfort without compromising the wilderness experience.
Swan Creek Campground accommodates single-family camping with options for tent camping and smaller RVs. It is a primitive campground offering privacy and scenic settings.
Weather and SeasonsFrom May through September, Swan Creek transforms with the seasons. Early summer welcomes campers with warm days perfect for creek exploration, though June and July visitors should come prepared with insect repellent as the lush, moisture-rich environment attracts mosquitoes. For those seeking crisp mountain air and fewer bugs, late spring and early fall deliver ideal conditions with comfortable temperatures and the added bonus of watching the forest transition through its seasonal changes.
ElevationPerched at 5,800 feet in Montana's high country, Swan Creek Campground offers a refreshing escape from summer heat. This elevation creates an ideal habitat for diverse wildlife, where morning mists often reveal grazing elk and the crisp mountain air carries the calls of eagles soaring overhead. The altitude ensures cool evenings perfect for campfire gatherings, even during the warmest months.
Natural Features and ScenerySwan Creek Campground immerses visitors in a pristine mountain ecosystem where towering spruce and fir create a cathedral-like canopy overhead. The namesake creek winds through camp, its crystal-clear waters providing both a soothing ambiance and opportunities for quiet reflection. This remarkable habitat supports an impressive array of wildlife—from majestic bald eagles circling above to elusive moose browsing in nearby meadows. Lucky visitors might spot bighorn sheep navigating rocky outcrops, while elk, deer, and coyotes are regular visitors. Both black and grizzly bears call this forest home, reminding campers they're truly in the wild heart of Montana.
Geological RegionSwan Creek Campground sits within the dramatic landscape of Gallatin Canyon in southwestern Montana's Gallatin National Forest. This spectacular region showcases nature's artistry through towering canyon walls that frame dense forests of spruce and fir. At 5,800 feet elevation, the campground rests alongside Swan Creek, a pristine tributary that eventually joins the mighty Gallatin River. The surrounding terrain tells the story of millions of years of geological forces, creating a rugged paradise that epitomizes the untamed beauty of the Northern Rockies.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features include reasonable space between campsites and proximity to Swan Creek. Bear-proof food storage lockers are available at most sites but not all. Some reviews indicate rocky trails that may be challenging for individuals with mobility issues.
Sites SizeSites are described as spacious, with some variability. For example, site #5 is noted to be smaller without a regular tent area, while the upper loop sites are larger and more spread out.
Sites PrivacySites offer good privacy due to dense vegetation and spacing. The upper loop in particular provides more secluded campsites.
Total Campsites13 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUpper loop sites (#7-#13) offer more privacy and direct creek access. Campsite #1 is ideal for tent camping with great creek access and privacy.
Best CampsitesCampsite #4 is praised for privacy and creek proximity. Campsite #11 offers spaciousness and convenience to Swan Creek with great creek noise masking other sounds. Campsite #12 has been described as "stupendous" by visitors with families.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time is 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay allowed is up to 16 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
- Maximum of two vehicles per reservation
- additional vehicle fee applies ($8).
Groups
Group camping sites are not explicitly mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo loops: lower loop (#1-#6) and upper loop (#7-#13). Upper loop offers more privacy and proximity to hiking trails.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens May 16 and closes September 27 during peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilitySites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis during and outside the reservation season. Call (406) 646-1012 for availability details.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before arrival are refunded minus a $10 cancellation fee and the reservation fee. Late cancellations (less than 24 hours before check-in) also forfeit the first-night camping fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreation opportunities at Swan Creek Campground include hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, berry picking, birding, mushroom picking, photography, stargazing, and scenic driving. Kayaking and rafting are also popular in the nearby Gallatin River. The Swan Creek Trail begins within the campground, offering an accessible entry point for hiking.
Hiking
The Swan Creek Trail originates within the campground, offering hikes through varied terrain including waterfalls, ponds, wildflower meadows, and forested areas. Another popular trail, Golden Trout Lakes Trail, is located five miles south of the campground. User reviews praise the hiking opportunities: 'Hiking behind (east) of the campground was amazing...pretty waterfall and marshy beaver pond back there, then onto wildflowers and more forest.'Fishing
Fishing is available in Swan Creek and the nearby Gallatin River. Species include rainbow, brown, brook, and cutthroat trout, whitefish, and Arctic grayling. User quotes highlight fishing access: 'Pleasant evening hike to pond and beyond with fishing available, judging by the hikers we saw going in and out with rods.'Boating
Boating activities like rafting and kayaking are popular in the Gallatin River nearby.Wildlife viewing
A variety of wildlife can be observed in the area, including bald eagles, bighorn sheep, moose, elk, mountain goats, deer, coyotes, black bears, and grizzly bears. User reviews frequently mention bird activity and proximity to wildlife.Winter Activities
The campground is closed during winter months, and no winter-specific activities are mentioned.Water Sports
Opportunities for kayaking and rafting are available in the nearby Gallatin River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed when restrictions are not in place. Firewood must be purchased locally due to pest concerns.
Hazards
General hazardsMosquitoes are a significant nuisance during peak summer months (June-July). Black and grizzly bears frequent the area; campers must store food securely.
Weather forecast
82
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 14%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.4 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
Closest emergency services are located in Bozeman, approximately 31 miles north; nearby ranger stations and Big Sky offer limited support.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 16 - September 27
Trash and recyclingTrash collection is provided and recycling stations are available at lower campsites. Some user reviews noted trash left in bushes near campsites, suggesting occasional maintenance issues.
Proximity to water featuresDirect access to Swan Creek from many campsites. Gallatin River nearby for fishing and rafting.
Common complaintsMosquitoes are frequently mentioned as a major issue during late June and July. Trash and maintenance concerns raised in a few reviews.
HostCamp hosts are frequently complimented for being helpful and maintaining cleanliness. Hosts sell firewood ($8-$10 per bundle) and are often available to provide assistance.
Campground Map
Driving directionsFrom Bozeman, travel south on Highway 191 for 30 miles to the Swan Creek turnoff. Turn left and go a half-mile to the campground. From West Yellowstone, travel 58 miles north on Highway 191. Turn right at Swan Creek turnoff and go a half-mile to the campground.
Roads within the campground are paved, but parking spurs are gravel. The turnoff road from Highway 191 is narrow but manageable for trailers. Firewood is available at Greek Creek Campground, located nearby.Nearby places
Bozeman - 31 miles (approx. 30-minute drive)
West Yellowstone - 58 miles (approx. 1-hour drive)
Big Sky - 8 miles (approx. 15-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Closest gas, ice, coffee, and food supplies are available in Big Sky, 8 miles away. Firewood can be purchased at Greek Creek Campground for $8.00-$10.00 per bundle.
Camper Reviews
4.6
63 reviews
Swan Creek Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user sentiment is highly positive, emphasizing the campground's beauty, privacy, and proximity to Swan Creek. Common complaints include mosquitoes and occasional maintenance issues with trash. Seasonal reviews underscore the importance of bug spray in summer months.
Review Summaries
Based on 63 reviews
What Campers Love
Beautiful creekside location, spacious and private campsites, clean vault toilets, friendly camp hosts, proximity to hiking trails, wildlife viewing opportunities.
Based on 63 reviewsCommon Concerns
Mosquito problems during warmer months, occasional trash left in bushes, lack of bear proof food storage at some sites, smaller site sizes (e.g., site #5).
Based on 63 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bug spray and repellents (Picaridin recommended), consider reserving upper loop sites for added privacy and family-friendly settings. Purchase firewood at Greek Creek Campground. Arrive early...
Based on 63 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer reviews frequently highlight mosquito issues and the importance of bug spray. Late spring and early fall reviews emphasize quieter experiences and easier access to hiking trails.
Based on 63 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The campground sits next to the creek, so we slept like angels.' - Jonathan Hannon
2. 'Lovely campground far enough off the highway that you don't get road noise.' - Peggy S
3. 'Neighbors are a...
Based on 63 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site #4: Private and creekside; Site #5: Smaller with limited tent space; Site #7-12: More spacious, private, and family-friendly; Site #1: Set back from the main road with great creek access.
Based on 63 reviewsAccessibility Features
Sites are fairly spread out, offering accessibility for most campers. However, rocky trails may be challenging for individuals with mobility concerns.
Based on 63 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
No specific information about pet policies or experiences.
Based on 63 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025