East Rosebud Campground

For Montanans who crave breathtaking scenery and easy access to some of the state's most iconic hiking trails, East Rosebud Campground is a perfect destination. Tucked away in one of the most scenic drainages of the Beartooth Mountains, this campground offers a peaceful and rustic setting that feels both wild and welcoming. It's a place where you can wake up to fantastic views, spend your days exploring pristine wilderness, and unwind in a quiet, natural environment. East Rosebud Campground is a favorite among locals and a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the true essence of Montana's outdoors.

This campground is not a large, commercialized park but rather a secluded, intimate spot with just a handful of campsites. Its popularity stems from its incredible location and the feeling of being right in the heart of the action without being on top of your neighbors. Visitors consistently praise the peaceful atmosphere and the close proximity to world-class hiking. It's an ideal base camp for those planning to tackle challenging trails or simply enjoy a quiet weekend getaway. The serene environment and stunning views of the surrounding mountains are what make East Rosebud a truly special place, a hidden gem that delivers an authentic and unforgettable camping experience.

East Rosebud Campground is located on E Rosebud Rd, near Roscoe, MT 59071, USA. It is nestled in the Custer Gallatin National Forest, a short distance from the stunning East Rosebud Lake. To reach the campground from the Beartooth Ranger District office, you would typically drive north on US Hwy 212, then west on MT-78, south on Roscoe Rd, and finally onto East Rosebud Rd. The road to the campground can be challenging, particularly for the last few miles. While the initial part of the road is generally manageable, the final stretch is known to be rough, with a rocky and narrow surface. It's important to note that the maximum trailer length is 20 feet, and the road can be a difficult drive for larger RVs.

Despite the rough road, the accessibility of the campground to the trailhead for the Beaten Path and other popular hikes is a major draw. The journey itself is a scenic one, offering glimpses of the spectacular landscape that awaits you. The campground's first-come, first-served policy means that arriving early, especially on weekends and holidays during the summer, is recommended to secure one of the 14 available sites. The location's remoteness ensures a peaceful stay, and the effort to get there is well worth it for the stunning views and direct access to some of the best hiking in the state.

Services Offered:

• Public Restroom: The campground provides public vault toilets, which are a convenient and essential amenity for campers. These facilities are maintained during the peak season from approximately Memorial Day to Labor Day. While it may not have running water in the restrooms, their presence is a welcome comfort in a rustic setting.

• Tent Sites: East Rosebud Campground is a perfect spot for tent camping. It has 14 individual campsites, many of which offer good privacy. The sites are clean and well-maintained, providing a great place to set up camp and enjoy the natural surroundings. It is a popular campground, so arriving early is a good idea to secure one of these peaceful spots.

• On-site Parking: Each of the campsites at East Rosebud has on-site parking. This allows campers to keep their vehicles close to their tents and makes unloading and setting up gear much easier. It's a practical amenity that adds to the convenience of the camping experience.

• Camping Fee: During the peak summer season, there is a fee to stay at the campground. The site is part of a fee area, which helps with the maintenance of the facilities. However, outside of the peak season, the campground is ungated, free, and available for use, though with no services or maintenance. Visitors should bring their own water and pack out their trash during the off-season.

Features / Highlights:

• Hiking: The campground is a premier destination for hikers. It is located near three major trailheads: East Rosebud Trail, Spread Creek Trail, and Phantom Creek Trail. The East Rosebud Trail is part of "The Beaten Path," a renowned backcountry hike through the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. The proximity to these trails is a major highlight, offering everything from short, kid-friendly hikes to multi-day backpacking adventures.

• Fantastic Views: Visitors consistently praise the fantastic views of the surrounding Beartooth Mountains. The campground is nestled in a valley that provides a majestic backdrop of towering peaks, creating a peaceful and inspiring atmosphere. These stunning vistas are a key reason why so many people are drawn to East Rosebud Campground.

• Good for Kids & Kid-Friendly Hikes: This campground is well-suited for families with children. The natural environment provides a great playground for kids to explore. While the main trails can be challenging, there are plenty of kid-friendly options for younger hikers to enjoy. The scenic beauty and peaceful setting make it a perfect place for families to bond and create lasting memories.

• Dogs Allowed: For many Montanans, a camping trip isn't complete without their four-legged friends. East Rosebud Campground is dog-friendly, allowing you to bring your pets along for the adventure. It's important to keep dogs under control to respect wildlife and other campers, but the ability to have your pet with you is a huge plus.

Contact Information:

Address: E Rosebud Rd, Roscoe, MT 59071, USA

Phone: (406) 587-6701

Mobile Phone: +1 406-587-6701

What is worth choosing:

East Rosebud Campground is worth choosing for its unbeatable combination of natural beauty and access to premier hiking. The spectacular mountain views and peaceful, secluded atmosphere make it a truly special place. Unlike a more commercialized campground, East Rosebud offers a genuine wilderness experience. It provides just enough in the way of amenities, such as vault toilets and tent sites, to make your stay comfortable, while still allowing you to feel fully immersed in nature.

For those with a passion for hiking, this campground is a dream. Being just a short walk from the trailhead to "The Beaten Path" is an incredible advantage. Even if the trailhead parking is full, the quiet nature of the campground ensures you can still find peace and a spot to relax after a long day on the trails. The commitment to a no-frills, nature-focused experience is a huge part of its appeal.

While it may not be for everyone, particularly those with large RVs or who expect full-service amenities, East Rosebud is perfect for campers who are willing to trade some modern conveniences for unparalleled scenery and a sense of adventure. The fact that it's family-friendly and dog-friendly makes it an ideal destination for the whole family. Choosing East Rosebud is a decision to embrace the raw, majestic beauty of the Beartooth Mountains and create a camping experience that is truly unforgettable. It is, without a doubt, a special place that has earned its reputation as a local favorite.

East Rosebud Campground

E Rosebud Rd, Roscoe, MT 59071, USA