Red Cliff Campground is located in the scenic Gallatin Canyon, on the Bozeman Ranger District of the Gallatin National Forest, in Montana. Bozeman is 46 miles north of the campground and West Yellowstone is 45 miles south. The campground is adjacent to the Gallatin River and Highway 191. The surrounding area offers many outdoor recreational opportunities, including fishing, rafting, hiking and viewing local wildlife.
Water is now available. The water pump has been replaced. 6/22/2026. Bears frequent the area; all food must be stored in approved containers and secured when campsite is unoccupied. No RV Dump Station is located in any of the USFS campgrounds managed by ExplorUS in the Custer-Gallatin National Forest. Click here for more information on the Gallatin National Forest. Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org. Firewood is available for sale at host site for $10.00/bundle. Camping fee covers the first 2 vehicles or RV/Trailer with tow vehicle. $9.00/vehicle is charged for any additional vehicles. There are NO Shower facilities available at this campground.
This is a Custer Gallatin NF campground—one of the Forest Service camps that define Montana camping for travelers who want a fire ring, a picnic table, and quiet timber rather than full-hookup convenience. Amenities are modest by design. Confirm water, trash, and fire restrictions with the local ranger district before you drive in.
Nearest town: Bozeman. Elevation about 5800 feet.
Campground snapshot
- Agency / unit: USFS — Custer Gallatin NF
- Sites: 61
- Type: Tent/RV
- Fee range: $26
- Season: May-Sep
- Reservations: FCFS, Recreation.gov
- Best for: Madison River
Amenities
Campfire Rings, Day Use Area, Drinking Water, Electric Hookups, Entrance Station, Firewood, Host, Pets Allowed, Picnic Tables, Recycling, Self Pay Station, Shade, Trailheads, Water Spigot, Waterfront Sites
How to book
Reservations and site details typically run through FCFS, Recreation.gov. Many Forest Service camps keep first-come, first-served loops; remote camps may be entirely FCFS. Confirm current fees, water status, and fire restrictions before arrival. Official listing: www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/233736.
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
- Camping reference: reservations, bears, and fire rules
- Open this stop on the Backroads Guided Trails map
- Campgrounds directory
Visitor Access
- Nearest town: Bozeman
- Focus: National Forest
- Coordinates: 45.1436, -111.3233
- 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.