Best Camping Near Missoula, MT

Discover the ultimate camping adventure in Missoula, MT with scenic views, outdoor activities, and family-friendly fun.

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Nearby Campgrounds

315

Nearby Camp Sites

4.6

Average Camper Rating

Best places to camp near Missoula, Montana

4 Campgrounds Within 100 Miles

Things to do near
Missoula, Montana

  • Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Wildlife Visitor Center - Explore the wildlife art gallery and view original paintings, prints, and bronzes. Marvel at world-record elk displays and life-size mounts of various animals. Located in Missoula, MT.

  • United States Forest Service Smoke Jumper and Aerial Fire Depot Visitor Center - Discover murals, videos, a reconstructed lookout tower, and exhibits on wildfire fighting history. Located in Missoula, MT.

  • Historical Museum of Fort Missoula - Situated on 32 acres at the core of Fort Missoula with over 18,000 objects in its collection. The museum features both indoor galleries with long-term and temporary exhibits as well as an outdoor interpretive area with historic structures. Located in Missoula, MT.

  • World-Class Fishing - Enjoy fishing opportunities on four world-class rivers: Blackfoot River (famous from "A River Runs Through It"), Clark Fork River (runs through Missoula), Bitterroot River, and Rock Creek (a blue-ribbon trout stream). Guided outfitter services are available or you can venture out on your own around Missoula.

  • Flathead Lake - Just an hour north of Missoula is Flathead Lake surrounded by mountains. July is cherry season around the lake where you can enjoy local fruit stands selling fresh cherries along with scenic drives around the lake's perimeter.

  • Garnet Ghost Town - For a glimpse into Montana's gold-mining past from 1895 to 1911 visit Garnet Ghost Town where many abandoned houses, stores, and mines remain preserved for visitors to explore. Located near Drummond but within driving distance from Missoula.

  • Missoula’s People’s Market - Held every Saturday morning downtown featuring food and crafts by local artists along West Pine Street in Missoula.

  • Museum of Mountain Flying – Montana’s only public aviation museum located at the east end of the airport showcasing antique airplanes dedicated to mountain flying history in northern Rockies. Open seven days a week during summer months in Missoula.

Ways to camp near Missoula, Montana

RV Camping
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RV Camping

RV camping at KOA campgrounds offers clean, level sites with full hookups, laundry facilities, and pet-friendly amenities. Enjoy the comforts of home while exploring over 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada.

Cabin Camping
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Cabin Camping

Cabin camping at KOA offers a cozy outdoor experience with options like rustic Camping Cabins and fully-equipped Deluxe Cabins. Enjoy nature with amenities such as beds, electricity, and private bathrooms.

Tent Camping
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Tent Camping

Tent camping offers a blend of traditional camping with modern amenities. Enjoy level sites, hot showers, clean restrooms, and options like electric hookups and patios for a comfortable outdoor experience.

Extended Stays Camping
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Extended Stay

KOA campgrounds offer extended stay options that allow extended stay campers to enjoy amenities like upgraded Wi-Fi and on-site dining, whether you’re a snowbird, or just want to enjoy the outdoors longer.

Frequently Asked Questions

The Flathead Lake Cherry Festival is a popular event held every July, featuring local cherry orchards and fruit stands.

Out to Lunch at Caras Park offers live entertainment and a variety of food vendors every Wednesday from June to August.

The University of Montana offers campus tours by appointment and features the iconic "M" trail overlooking the city.

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation Wildlife Visitor Center features an art gallery, world-record elk displays, life-size mounts, and educational films about elk habitats.

The Museum of the Arts provides visitors with a range of activities including changing exhibits, special events, and gift shopping at their Museum Shop.

The Mission Mountain Golf Course offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains while you play golf.

Plan a trip to Missoula, Montana

Planning a camping trip to Missoula, MT is an adventure waiting to happen! Nestled in the heart of Western Montana, Missoula offers a perfect blend of outdoor beauty and vibrant city life. With four KOA campgrounds nearby—Missoula KOA Holiday, Polson / Flathead Lake KOA Holiday, Butte KOA Journey, and Helena North KOA Journey—you'll find the ideal spot to set up camp and explore.

Best Time of Year to Visit

Missoula is a year-round destination with each season offering unique experiences. Spring brings blooming wildflowers and mild temperatures perfect for hiking. Summer is ideal for water activities on the Clark Fork River or Flathead Lake. Fall showcases stunning foliage and crisp air—great for scenic drives or fishing trips. Winter transforms the area into a snowy wonderland with opportunities for skiing at Snowbowl Ski Area.

Weather Expectations

  • Spring: Mild days with cool nights; pack layers.
  • Summer: Warm days; bring sunscreen, hats, and plenty of water.
  • Fall: Cool mornings/evenings; warm afternoons—ideal for layered clothing.
  • Winter: Cold temperatures; essential gear includes thermal wear and snow boots.

What to Pack

Your packing list will vary by season but should include:

  • Comfortable hiking shoes
  • Weather-appropriate clothing (layers are key)
  • Camping essentials (tent/sleeping bag if tent camping)
  • Cooking supplies (portable stove/grill)
  • First aid kit
  • Insect repellent & sunscreen

Important Considerations

  1. Reservations: Book your campsite in advance as spots fill up quickly during peak seasons.
  2. Local Attractions: Don’t miss out on local gems like A Carousel for Missoula or the National Bison Range.
  3. Safety: Always check weather forecasts before heading out on hikes or other outdoor activities.
  4. Wildlife Awareness: Be mindful of local wildlife; store food securely to avoid attracting animals.

Whether you're exploring historic sites like Garnet Ghost Town or enjoying fresh produce at the Farmers Market, Missoula has something for everyone! So pack your bags, reserve your spot at one of our fantastic KOAs, and get ready for an unforgettable camping experience in beautiful Montana!

Family Eating Outside of Airstream
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Save money when camping near Missoula, Montana with KOA Rewards

If you like camping, then you will love being a part of the Kampgrounds of America KOA Rewards Program. Designed with campers and outdoor enthusiasts in mind, KOA Rewards is both a discount and rewards program. From earning rewards while camping to receiving discounts at select merchants, our loyalty program is designed to help you save money in a few different ways.

Reserve Your Stay Today!

Unwind at a campground near Missoula, Montana, and enjoy the outdoors where camping is fun and for everyone, and s'mores are always on the menu.