Chisholm Campground

For Montanans, finding a campground that perfectly captures the spirit of the state—vast, beautiful, and full of adventure—is the key to a great outdoor escape. Chisholm Campground, nestled in the stunning Hyalite Canyon near Bozeman, offers exactly that. It's more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s a gateway to some of the region's most spectacular scenery and outdoor activities. Located adjacent to the Hyalite Reservoir and the East Fork Hyalite Creek, the campground provides a serene setting surrounded by a forest of pine and fir trees, giving campers a true sense of being immersed in the Montana wilderness. This spot is a favorite for those who want a convenient base camp for exploring the Gallatin National Forest, and its reputation for cleanliness and natural beauty is well-deserved.

The glowing reviews from real customers paint a clear picture of the Chisholm Campground experience. One reviewer highlights the excellent fishing opportunities, stating, "The stream fishing is great. Never even got around to fishing the lake but it looked beautiful." This speaks to the abundance of natural resources and the high quality of the recreational offerings. Another camper praised the quiet and spacious nature of the sites: "Great campground. Quiet and sites are really spaced out. Lots of trees." These testimonials underscore the sense of tranquility and privacy that the campground provides, allowing visitors to truly relax and enjoy their surroundings. The mention of the lake access being "a little swampy" in one review is a helpful, factual note that manages user expectations, while the overall sentiment remains overwhelmingly positive.

Chisholm Campground is designed to accommodate a variety of campers, from families with young children to solo adventurers and those with pets. The provided information highlights its family-friendly nature, noting that it is "Good for kids" and has "Kid-friendly hikes." The accessibility features, such as a "Wheelchair accessible entrance" and "Wheelchair accessible parking lot," demonstrate a commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that more people can enjoy the beauty of Hyalite Canyon. With its blend of natural splendor, thoughtful amenities, and a reputation for being a great place to stay, Chisholm Campground stands out as a top-tier destination for any local looking for an unforgettable camping experience.

Chisholm Campground is conveniently located about 18 miles south of Bozeman, Montana, on Hyalite Canyon Road (FS Road 62). The address, 18M S R, Hyalite Canyon Rd, Bozeman, MT 59718, USA, signifies its position within the vast Custer Gallatin National Forest. The drive from Bozeman is scenic and straightforward, taking you from the urban center into the heart of the mountains. The road is paved for the majority of the way, with the last mile being gravel, which makes it easily accessible for most vehicles, including RVs. This accessibility is a major benefit, as it allows for a quick escape from city life without a long, difficult journey.

Its location is a key selling point. Situated at an elevation of 6,700 feet, the campground is adjacent to the beautiful Hyalite Reservoir and the East Fork Hyalite Creek. This prime positioning provides campers with immediate access to water-based activities and stunning scenery. The campground itself is set among towering pine and fir trees, offering natural shade and a sense of seclusion despite its proximity to a popular reservoir. The on-site parking at each campsite adds a layer of convenience, allowing for easy unloading and setup, and a secure place to leave your vehicle.

For those who enjoy hiking, the location is a dream. Chisholm Campground is a starting point for numerous trails, including the famous Hyalite Peak Trail, which climbs past multiple waterfalls to a breathtaking alpine lake. Its strategic location makes it a perfect base for exploring the wider Hyalite Canyon area, a destination known for its world-class ice climbing in the winter and its abundant hiking, fishing, and boating opportunities in the summer. The combination of easy access from Bozeman and an immersive mountain location makes Chisholm Campground an ideal spot for both short trips and extended stays.

Chisholm Campground is a well-equipped site that offers a solid range of services to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable stay. These amenities are designed to provide the necessary comforts without compromising the natural, rustic feel of the campground.

• Running Water and Restrooms: A significant convenience at the campground is the presence of running water and public restrooms. The restrooms are often praised in reviews for being clean and well-maintained. This is a crucial service that greatly enhances the camping experience, particularly for families and those who prefer not to rely on more primitive facilities.

• Tent Sites and RV Camping: The campground caters to a variety of campers, with both designated tent sites and RV camping options. While the sites are non-electric, they are spacious and can accommodate a range of vehicles and camping setups. This flexibility allows for a diverse group of visitors to enjoy the campground’s beautiful setting.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a convenient and clean surface for meals and gathering. This simple amenity is a hallmark of a well-organized campground and makes a significant difference in daily camp life.

• On-site Parking: Dedicated on-site parking is available at each campsite. This allows for easy access to vehicles and ensures that campers can unload their gear directly at their site, which is a major convenience, especially for those with a lot of equipment or for those with accessibility needs.

• Camping Fee and Reservations: Chisholm Campground operates on a camping fee system, and many sites can be reserved in advance, which is a valuable service. This allows campers to plan their trip with certainty and avoids the stress of a first-come, first-served site. The fee helps to maintain the high quality of the facilities and the surrounding area.

The features and highlights of Chisholm Campground are what truly set it apart as a premier destination for camping in Montana. These aspects are what make the experience memorable and unique.

• Wheelchair Accessibility: The campground is noted for having a "Wheelchair accessible entrance" and "Wheelchair accessible parking lot." Some facilities, like the vault toilets, are also handicapped accessible. This commitment to accessibility ensures that people of all abilities can enjoy the beauty of Hyalite Canyon.

• Kid-Friendly Environment: With its "Good for kids" and "Kid-friendly hikes" designations, Chisholm Campground is an excellent spot for families. The spacious sites, opportunities for wildlife viewing, and safe environment provide a perfect setting for children to learn about and enjoy the outdoors.

• Picnicking and Water Access: The camp’s proximity to Hyalite Reservoir makes it ideal for picnics and a wide range of water activities, including fishing, canoeing, and boating. The review mentioning the beautiful lake and great stream fishing confirms this. While the main boat ramp is a short drive away at a nearby campground, the access from Chisholm is still excellent for enjoying the water.

• Dogs Allowed: The fact that dogs are welcome at Chisholm Campground is a major highlight for pet owners. It allows the entire family, including four-legged members, to participate in the trip. It’s an important consideration for many campers who want to bring their pets along for the adventure.

• Hiking and Outdoor Activities: Chisholm is a hub for outdoor recreation. Its location at the end of Hyalite Canyon Road provides access to a multitude of hiking trails, from easy strolls to challenging treks like the one to Hyalite Peak. The area is also popular for climbing and wildlife viewing, making it a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts.

For reservations and inquiries about Chisholm Campground, you can contact the Custer Gallatin National Forest.

Address: 18M S R, Hyalite Canyon Rd, Bozeman, MT 59718, USA

Phone: (406) 646-1012

Mobile Phone: +1 406-646-1012

What is worth choosing about Chisholm Campground is its unique combination of natural beauty, thoughtful amenities, and superb accessibility. It provides a classic Montana camping experience with the added comfort and convenience of well-maintained facilities. The fact that it is both "Good for kids" and allows "Dogs allowed" makes it a perfect, inclusive destination for the entire family. Its a place where you can introduce your children to the joys of camping in a safe and engaging environment, with plenty of kid-friendly hikes and opportunities for exploration.

The camp's proximity to Hyalite Reservoir is a major draw, offering endless opportunities for fishing, paddling, and enjoying the water. The serene, forested setting and the "well spaced out" sites, as mentioned by a reviewer, ensure a peaceful and private stay. Furthermore, the wheelchair accessibility features demonstrate a commitment to making the great outdoors available to a wider audience, which is a rare and commendable quality. The camping fee is a small price to pay for the high quality of the sites, the clean restrooms, and the peace of mind that comes with staying in a well-managed area. For Montanans looking for a quintessential camping experience—one that is both a relaxing escape and a hub for adventure—Chisholm Campground in Hyalite Canyon is the perfect choice. It offers the best of Montana's wilderness with the essential comforts that make a great trip truly unforgettable.

Chisholm Campground

18M S R,, Hyalite Canyon Rd, Bozeman, MT 59718, USA