Do I need to book Montana RV campgrounds in advance?

For Glacier in-park sites and Flathead Lake state parks in July and August: yes, six months out, the morning reservations open. For private KOAs and Bozeman-area campgrounds, a few weeks ahead is generally fine. Shoulder-season trips (May, September) typically have walk-up availability even at the popular sites.

Can you camp in Glacier National Park with an RV?

Yes, with size limits. Apgar and St. Mary handle RVs up to 40 feet at a limited number of sites. Many Glacier mostly fits towed units 21 feet or shorter, and slide-outs are prohibited at most sites. Always check the individual site's "vehicle length" field on recreation.gov before you reserve — the site number determines the actual fit, not the campground average.

What's the biggest RV that can drive Going-to-the-Sun Road?

Per Glacier National Park, vehicles longer than 21 feet (including bumpers) or wider than 8 feet (including mirrors) are prohibited between Avalanche Campground and the Rising Sun picnic area. Anything over 10 feet tall has rock-overhang issues west of Logan Pass. If your rig is bigger, park it at Apgar or St. Mary and take the free shuttle, or book a Red Bus tour from West Glacier. Rangers do enforce the limit at the trailheads.

Is West Yellowstone or Gardiner better for an RV?

West Yellowstone generally has the bigger and easier RV inventory — Yellowstone Park / Mountainside KOA and several other large parks. Gardiner is smaller-town with tighter sites and steeper terrain, better suited for vans and short trailers under 22 feet. If you're driving a 30-footer, West Yellowstone is the easier call.

Are dogs allowed at Montana state park campgrounds?

Yes, on a leash. Most Montana FWP campgrounds welcome pets at the campsite and on developed trails. Inside Glacier and Yellowstone, dogs are restricted to paved roads, parking areas, and campgrounds — not on trails. Plan day-care or boarding for trail-heavy itineraries; both gateway towns have options.

What's the RV season in Montana?

Mid-May through late September for most sites. Mountain campgrounds and high-elevation passes (Beartooth Highway, parts of Going-to-the-Sun) open later, generally around May 22, and close by October 15. Lower-elevation parks like Beavertail Hill and Black Sandy run May through October with potable water on shoulder dates that vary by year. Always check each park's page before booking.

Can you boondock on public land in Montana?

Yes. Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service land in Montana allows dispersed camping in most areas for up to 14 days. You're responsible for your own water, waste, and fire safety — and during fire restrictions (typically July and August), no campfires of any kind. Start at the Custer Gallatin or Flathead National Forest recreation pages for current rules.

Do Montana state parks take RV reservations?

Yes. The Montana FWP state-park system uses montanastateparks.reserveamerica.com for advance bookings. Most parks hold a portion of sites for first-come walk-ups; the rest are reservable. Fees generally run from $4 (no hookups) to $34 (50-amp electric) in peak season, plus a $9 reservation fee per stay.