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This popular campground provides access for boating, water-skiing, walleye and trout fishing, and other water activities. It is located on the shores of Hauser Reservoir.

29 campsites with electricity and one tent site are reservable, 5 tent sites without electricity are first come-first served. No lifeguard on duty. Electrical hookups available May 1-November 30. Potable water available approximately May 15-October 10.

Montana State Parks camping sits between wild Forest Service sites and private RV parks: clearer rules, maintained facilities, and often water or showers, while still keeping you close to the landscape the park was created to protect.

Nearest town: Helena. Elevation about 3800 feet.

Campground snapshot

  • Agency / unit: FWP — State Parks
  • Sites: 35
  • Type: Tent/RV
  • Fee range: $4-$34
  • Season: All year (Park), All year (Campground), May 1-Nov 30 (electrical hookups), May 15-Oct 10 (potable water)
  • Reservations: ReserveAmerica, FCFS
  • Max RV length: 35 ft
  • Best for: Hauser Lake

Amenities

ADA Accessible, Boat Launch, Electricity, Established Fire Pits, Maps, Parking, Pets Allowed, Public Restroom, RV Dump Station, Toilets (Flush), Toilets (Vault), Trash Removal, Water

How to book

Montana State Parks camping generally books through ReserveAmerica, FCFS. Peak season is typically late May through mid-September. Confirm cabin/yurt options and current fees on the park page. Official listing: fwp.mt.gov/stateparks/black-sandy.

Bear country & campcraft

This stop sits in classic Montana bear country. Store all attractants—food, trash, toiletries, cookware, and pet food—in a hard-sided vehicle, an IGBC-approved container, a provided bear box, or a proper hang. Never bring food or cooking clothes into the tent.

Campfires belong only in provided metal rings when restrictions allow. Drown, stir, and feel the ashes with the back of your hand before leaving or sleeping. In Stage II restrictions, open fires are banned even in developed sites—use a shut-off stove only.

Follow Leave No Trace: camp on durable surfaces, pack out everything you pack in, and leave the site cleaner than you found it.

Plan the rest of the trip

Visitor Access

  • Nearest town: Helena
  • Focus: State Park
  • Coordinates: 46.8836, -111.9333
  • Access note: Confirm road conditions, water availability, and fire restrictions before arrival. Mountain weather can drop below freezing even in midsummer.
  • Legal reminder: Follow agency food-storage orders, stay within designated sites in developed camps, and respect private land and tribal boundaries.
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