Hilltop Campground

For those who call Montana home, or for visitors who seek the authentic Big Sky Country experience, finding a perfect campground is key to a memorable outdoor adventure. In the heart of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, nestled between the stunning Cliff and Wade Lakes, lies a truly special place: Hilltop Campground. This isn't just another stop along the way; it's a destination for those who value quiet, space, and a genuine connection with nature. While the area is famous for the bustling recreation at the nearby lakes, Hilltop offers a serene alternative, making it a beloved spot for those in the know.

Hilltop Campground is often considered the ideal overflow option for when the more popular lakeside campgrounds at Cliff and Wade Lakes are full. However, many campers choose it as their first choice precisely because of its peaceful, laid-back atmosphere. It provides the perfect blend of being close to the action without being in the middle of the crowd. The sprawling, well-spaced sites offer a sense of privacy that is a rare luxury at many other public campgrounds. Here, you can truly unwind and enjoy the sounds of the forest without the constant noise of a busy recreational area.

This overview will guide you through everything you need to know about Hilltop Campground. We will explore its strategic location on a rolling hill, its essential services that cater to both tent and RV campers, and the unique features that make it stand out. From its family-friendly environment to its pet-friendly policies, Hilltop Campground is designed for a broad range of outdoor enthusiasts. Whether you are an avid angler looking for a quiet base camp, a family introducing your kids to the wonders of camping, or simply a local seeking a weekend retreat, you’ll find that Hilltop offers a compelling reason to put down roots, even if just for a few nights.

The elevation and surrounding Douglas Fir forest provide a natural and picturesque setting. The air is crisp, the nights are starry, and the days are filled with endless possibilities for exploration. It's a place where you can feel the spirit of Montana in every rustling leaf and every whisper of the wind. This quiet sanctuary is the perfect place to recharge and create lasting memories, proving that sometimes, the best experiences are found a little bit off the beaten path.

Location and Accessibility

Hilltop Campground is situated in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest near Cameron, Montana. Its strategic location is a significant part of its appeal. The campground is perched on a hill mid-way between the famous Cliff and Wade Lakes, offering a degree of separation from the crowds that frequent the lakefront areas. To reach the campground from Highway 287, you turn west at the Cliff and Wade Lakes sign and continue for a few miles on a winding, unpaved Forest Road. While the drive is relatively short, it’s a scenic journey that builds anticipation for the tranquil setting.

Despite its seemingly remote location, Hilltop Campground is surprisingly accessible. It is approximately 37 miles south of Ennis and less than 40 miles from the west entrance of Yellowstone National Park, making it a convenient base camp for exploring a much wider region. The road leading to the campground is generally in good condition, and while it can be a bit steep and winding, it is manageable for most vehicles, including those towing smaller RVs or trailers. This balance of being both secluded and accessible is what makes Hilltop Campground such a prized find for Montana locals and seasoned travelers alike. The location truly offers the best of both worlds: a quiet haven with easy access to some of Southwest Montana’s most popular attractions, including world-class fishing on the Madison River and the iconic scenery of Yellowstone.

The positioning of the campground on a hill not only provides quietude but also gives campers a unique perspective of the surrounding old-growth Douglas Fir forest. The sites are well-shaded, providing a welcome respite during warm summer days. The short hike or drive to either Cliff or Wade Lake means you are never far from fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities, allowing for spontaneous day trips and adventures.

Services Offered

• Public Restroom: The campground provides rustic outhouse facilities, offering a basic but essential convenience for campers. These are spread throughout the grounds, ensuring they are easily accessible from all campsites.

• Running Water: There are fresh water hydrants located in various spots within the campground. This running water is a major benefit for campers, as it can be used for cooking, washing hands, and filling water bottles. While the water is generally potable, it's always wise for visitors to take precautions as they would in any wilderness setting.

• Tent Sites: Hilltop Campground is ideal for tent camping. The sites are spacious, shaded, and spaced far enough apart to provide a sense of privacy. The rustic nature of the campground is particularly appealing to those who prefer a more traditional camping experience.

• Picnic Tables and Fire Rings: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for enjoying meals outdoors and a fire ring, perfect for campfires and cooking. Visitors should be mindful of fire restrictions and bring their own firewood, as it is often a pack-in/pack-out situation in the national forest.

Features / Highlights

• Good for Kids: The campground's quiet and spacious layout makes it an excellent choice for families with children. The low-traffic environment and ample space allow kids to play and explore safely, while the nearby lakes offer endless opportunities for outdoor fun like swimming and fishing.

• Dogs Allowed: Hilltop Campground is a pet-friendly destination, welcoming dogs on-site. This is a significant highlight for Montana residents who love to bring their four-legged family members along on their adventures. It's an ideal spot for dogs to enjoy the great outdoors alongside their owners.

• Quiet and Spacious Sites: One of the most praised features of Hilltop Campground is its quiet and peaceful atmosphere. Unlike the often-crowded campgrounds right on the lake shores, Hilltop provides a tranquil escape. The campsites are generously spaced, ensuring a sense of seclusion and privacy that is highly valued by campers seeking a true retreat.

• Proximity to Cliff and Wade Lakes: Although not directly on the lakes, the campground's close proximity is a major benefit. It’s just a short hike or drive to either body of water, allowing campers to easily access all the recreational activities they offer, from fly-fishing to small craft boating, without having to deal with the noise and traffic of the lakefront campgrounds.

• Bear-Safe Environment: Located in an area with a healthy bear population, the campground encourages and facilitates proper food storage practices, with food storage boxes often available to ensure visitor safety and responsible wildlife coexistence. This highlights the campground's commitment to safety and conservation.

Contact Information

Address: Cameron, MT 59720, USA

For inquiries, Hilltop Campground is managed by the U.S. Forest Service. The main contact for the area is the Madison Ranger District.

Madison Ranger District

Address: 5 Forest Service Road, Ennis, MT 59729

Phone: 406-682-4253

What is worth choosing

Hilltop Campground is a top choice for campers in Montana for a multitude of reasons, but its most compelling attribute is its unique positioning as a peaceful alternative to the busy lakeside campgrounds. For many, the quiet and spaced-out sites are far more appealing than the crowded, noisy atmosphere of other popular destinations. The opportunity to find solitude and space to breathe is a rare luxury in today's world, and Hilltop provides it in abundance. This makes it an ideal spot for anyone looking to truly disconnect and immerse themselves in the sounds and sights of the forest.

The dual benefit of being secluded yet having easy access to recreational hot spots like Cliff and Wade Lakes makes this campground incredibly versatile. It caters to those who want a quiet evening by the campfire and an adventurous day on the water. Families will appreciate the good-for-kids environment, while pet owners will be grateful for a place that welcomes their dogs. The basic but functional amenities, including restrooms and running water, provide a level of comfort that makes the camping experience more enjoyable without losing the rustic charm. In short, Hilltop Campground offers a balanced, authentic, and restorative Montana camping experience that is perfect for a wide range of outdoor enthusiasts. It’s a testament to the idea that sometimes, the best spots are the ones that don't shout for attention but simply offer a quiet, welcoming space to enjoy the world-class beauty of Montana.

Hilltop Campground

Cameron, MT 59720, USA