Greenough Lake Campground

For Montana locals and visitors alike, a trip to the Beartooth Mountains is a quintessential experience, and Greenough Lake Campground offers the perfect starting point for your adventure. Located near the charming town of Red Lodge, this campground provides a scenic and convenient basecamp for exploring one of the most breathtaking regions in the state. Situated at the base of the Beartooths and just off the famous Beartooth Highway, the campground is a haven for those who love hiking, fishing, and soaking in spectacular mountain views. It’s a place that balances a natural, rugged feel with essential amenities, making it a popular choice for families and solo travelers.

While a previous visitor noted that it might be more suitable for shorter stays rather than long ones, this perspective underscores its strength as a strategic launching point for wider exploration. Whether you're heading to Yellowstone National Park or simply want a couple of nights of serene mountain air, Greenough Lake Campground fits the bill. It's a place where the majestic scenery compensates for any lack of seclusion between campsites, offering stunning vistas of the surrounding peaks. The campground's location on the banks of Rock Creek and less than a quarter-mile from its namesake lake provides a serene and picturesque setting that is both calming and inspiring.

The campground’s appeal is also found in its family-friendly atmosphere and its welcoming nature towards pets. The availability of kid-friendly hikes and a beautiful lake makes it an excellent destination for families. As a Forest Service site, it is well-maintained and provides the necessary facilities to ensure a comfortable stay while still maintaining a wild and natural feel. For those who want to experience the grandeur of the Beartooth Mountains without committing to a full-fledged backcountry expedition, Greenough Lake Campground offers an ideal middle ground.

Location and Accessibility

Greenough Lake Campground is nestled at the base of the Beartooth Mountains, located at Red Lodge, MT 59068, USA. More precisely, it is situated off the scenic Beartooth Highway (U.S. Highway 212), approximately 12 miles south of Red Lodge. Access to the campground is via Rock Creek Road (Forest Road 2421), which is a one-mile drive from the main highway. While the road is paved, it is a single-lane road in some sections, so caution is advised, especially with oncoming traffic.

The accessibility of the campground makes it a convenient stop for those traveling along the Beartooth Highway, which is often considered one of the most beautiful drives in America. It provides an excellent stepping stone for a trip to the northeast entrance of Yellowstone National Park, which is about 55 miles away. The campground's location offers a fantastic balance of being close to the amenities and charm of Red Lodge while providing a true mountain camping experience.

On-site parking is available at each of the 18 single-family campsites, accommodating tents, trailers, and RVs. It's worth noting that the campground operates on a first-come, first-served basis for most sites, so arriving early is a good idea during peak season. A few sites may be available for reservation on Recreation.gov. The accessibility, combined with its stunning location, makes it a highly desirable spot for those looking to explore this magnificent part of Montana.

Services Offered

• Tent Sites: The campground is well-suited for tent camping, with a variety of sites that offer a comfortable and scenic place to set up camp. While not all sites have extensive tree cover for privacy, they are spacious and well-maintained.

• Public Restroom: Accessible vault toilets are provided for guests, ensuring that essential sanitation needs are met. These facilities are kept clean to enhance the camping experience.

• Running Water: Hand-pumped drinking water is available at a single source within the campground. While it may not be at every site, it provides a crucial and convenient amenity for all campers.

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table, providing a dedicated space for dining and meal preparation. This simple feature adds a lot of convenience to the outdoor experience.

• On-site Parking: Dedicated on-site parking is available at each campsite, making it easy to unload your vehicle and have quick access to your gear throughout your stay.

• Dogs Allowed: The campground is pet-friendly, allowing dogs as long as they are kept on a leash. This is a great feature for those who want to bring their furry friends along on their Montana adventures.

Features / Highlights

• Scenic Beartooth Mountains: The campground is nestled at the base of the stunning Beartooth Mountains, offering unparalleled views and a majestic backdrop for your stay. The scenery is a major draw for visitors.

• Access to Hiking Trails: Greenough Lake Campground is a hub for hiking enthusiasts. A trail leads from the campground directly to Greenough Lake, and from there, you can connect to a network of more challenging trails, including the Hellroaring and Lake Fork trailheads, which lead into the Beartooth Wilderness.

• Kid-Friendly Hikes and Activities: The area is known for being good for kids, with easy, kid-friendly hikes around the lake. The opportunity to explore and play in a safe, natural environment makes it an excellent choice for families.

• Proximity to Greenough Lake: The campground’s close proximity to its namesake lake is a key highlight. While not primarily known for fishing, the lake is perfect for scenic enjoyment, canoeing, kayaking, and even a quick dip. The nearby Main Fork of Rock Creek is also a popular fishing stream, providing another option for anglers.

• Wildlife Viewing: The area is home to a variety of wildlife, including deer and elk, with the possibility of spotting grizzly bears. Campers are advised to store food in provided food lockers or locked vehicles to ensure their safety and the safety of the animals.

• Convenient Basecamp: Greenough Lake Campground serves as an ideal basecamp for exploring the Beartooth Highway and is a convenient stopping point before heading into Yellowstone National Park, which is a major benefit for road-trippers and those on a multi-day adventure.

Contact Information

For inquiries, it is best to contact the Custer Gallatin National Forest, which manages the campground. The provided phone number is (928) 537-8888, and the physical address is Red Lodge, MT 59068, USA. It is recommended to call ahead for the most current information on site availability and any special alerts or fire restrictions in the area.

What is worth choosing

Greenough Lake Campground is worth choosing for its prime location and its exceptional value as a basecamp for exploring the Beartooth Mountains. It offers an authentic Montana camping experience with the right balance of rustic charm and necessary amenities. The stunning scenery, coupled with a vast network of hiking trails, makes it an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. Whether you're an avid hiker, a casual angler, or a family looking for a fun and engaging outdoor trip, the campground provides something for everyone.

The convenience of being close to both the Beartooth Highway and the town of Red Lodge is a major benefit, allowing for easy access to supplies and attractions. While some may prefer more seclusion between sites, the open layout offers a chance to enjoy panoramic views that are hard to find elsewhere. The dog-friendly policy and the "good for kids" atmosphere make it a stress-free option for families. In short, Greenough Lake Campground is a smart choice for anyone seeking a true taste of Montana's majestic landscapes and a memorable outdoor adventure.

Greenough Lake Campground

Red Lodge, MT 59068, USA