Jo Bonner Campground

For Montana locals seeking a picturesque lakeside camping experience, Jo Bonner Campground, nestled on the northeastern end of Canyon Ferry Lake, offers a tranquil and engaging outdoor adventure. Named in honor of Josephine Agnes Martin Bonner, this quaint campground provides direct access to the expansive waters of Canyon Ferry Reservoir, making it an ideal destination for those who love boating, fishing, and a variety of water-based activities. Located just a short drive from Helena, Jo Bonner Campground is a convenient escape for residents looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of the Big Sky Country.

Known for its serene setting between the Big Belt and Elkhorns mountain ranges, Jo Bonner Campground is a popular choice for both RV and tent campers. While it offers essential amenities for a comfortable stay, it’s important to note that planning ahead is key, as reservations are required to secure a spot at this beloved lakeside haven. Its appeal lies in its straightforward access to the lake and the numerous recreational opportunities it presents, from leisurely swims to exciting fishing excursions.

Jo Bonner Campground is situated at 3828 E Shore Dr, Helena, MT 59602, USA. It lies approximately 30 miles east of Helena, making it an accessible getaway for city residents. To reach the campground from Helena, you'll generally head east along Canyon Ferry Road (County Road 430/Canyon Ferry Road). Specific directions from Townsend, MT involve heading north along MT Highway 12/287, turning right onto Spokane Creek Road, then another right onto County Road 430/Canyon Ferry Road, and finally a right onto East Shore Drive which leads directly to the campground.

The campground's location on Canyon Ferry Lake provides easy access to one of Montana's largest and most popular reservoirs. While the roads leading to and within the campground are primarily gravel, they are generally suitable for both cars and RVs, accommodating vehicles up to 50 feet in length. It's a drive-in access campground, ensuring convenience for campers with equipment. Due to its popularity, especially during peak seasons, it is crucial to remember that reservations are required to guarantee a campsite, a detail that cannot be overlooked when planning your visit.

• Designated Campsites: Jo Bonner Campground features 17 designated campsites. Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, perfect for enjoying meals outdoors and having a traditional campfire experience.

• Vault Toilets: Two well-maintained vault toilets are available for public use, providing basic sanitation facilities within the campground.

• Potable Water: During the recreation season, potable water is available, ensuring campers have access to fresh drinking water.

• Trash Dumpster: A trash dumpster is provided for waste disposal, encouraging campers to keep the area clean and minimize their environmental impact.

• Campground Host: A dedicated campground host is typically on-site during the recreation season, assisting campers and helping to maintain the grounds.

• Gravel Boat Launch: Just outside the campground, there is a gravel boat launch with a courtesy dock, offering convenient access to Canyon Ferry Lake for boating activities.

• Reservations Required: All campsites at Jo Bonner Campground require reservations. This is a key policy to remember when planning your trip.

• Lakeside Location on Canyon Ferry: The primary highlight of Jo Bonner Campground is its direct access to Canyon Ferry Lake. This vast reservoir offers an abundance of year-round recreational opportunities, from swimming and fishing to sailing, motor-boating, jet-skiing, windsurfing, canoeing, and kayaking in its quiet backwater bays. During winter, the lake attracts ice fishermen, ice boaters, and ice skaters.

• Fishing Paradise: Canyon Ferry Lake is renowned for its excellent fishing, with popular catches including rainbow trout, walleye, and perch. Anglers will appreciate the easy access to prime fishing spots directly from the campground or by boat.

• Scenic Mountain Backdrop: The campground is nestled between the Big Belt and Elkhorns mountain ranges, offering stunning scenic views that enhance the outdoor experience.

• Proximity to Helena and National Parks: Jo Bonner Campground's location is halfway between Yellowstone National Park and Glacier National Park, making it a strategic stop for those on a larger Montana adventure. It's also just 30 miles east of Helena, allowing for easy access to city amenities and attractions.

• Quiet Bay Access: The campground sits on a quiet bay of Canyon Ferry Lake, providing a more sheltered and calm environment for water activities and relaxation compared to more open, wind-swept areas of the reservoir.

• Camping Amenities: Each site offers a picnic table and fire ring, providing the basic necessities for a comfortable camping setup. The campground is suitable for both tent and RV camping, with good accessibility for vehicles.

• Year-Round Recreation: While the campground facilities are seasonal, the broader Canyon Ferry Reservoir area offers recreational opportunities throughout the year, catering to different interests in every season.

Address: 3828 E Shore Dr, Helena, MT 59602, USA

Phone: (406) 475-3921

Mobile Phone: +1 406-475-3921

For reservations and the most up-to-date information, it is highly recommended to visit the official booking website, typically Recreation.gov, or contact the Bureau of Reclamation, which manages the campground, at the provided phone numbers. The Canyon Ferry Field Office can also be contacted for inquiries.

Jo Bonner Campground offers a compelling reason for Montana locals to embrace their state's magnificent outdoors. Its prime location on Canyon Ferry Lake provides unparalleled access to water-based recreation, a staple of Montana summers. For families and individuals in the Helena area, the short drive makes it an ideal spot for weekend getaways or even longer vacations without the need for extensive travel planning. The ability to reserve campsites in advance, while requiring foresight, ensures that locals can secure their preferred dates, minimizing the uncertainty often associated with popular first-come, first-served campgrounds.

Despite a review highlighting potential issues with privacy in certain campsites, the overall consensus points to Jo Bonner as a well-maintained facility with excellent amenities for its type. The presence of a dedicated camp host, clean restrooms, and convenient access to potable water and trash disposal all contribute to a comfortable and enjoyable camping experience. For Montanans who cherish their fishing rods and boats, the direct lake access and gravel boat launch are invaluable. The opportunity to cast a line for trout or walleye, or simply enjoy a day sailing or kayaking on the lake, is a significant draw.

Moreover, the campground's setting amidst the Big Belt and Elkhorns mountain ranges provides a picturesque backdrop for any outdoor activity, offering opportunities for scenic walks and wildlife viewing, even if extensive hiking trails aren't the primary focus directly from the campsites. For locals, Jo Bonner Campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent or park an RV; it’s an accessible gateway to the vast recreational playground that is Canyon Ferry Lake, offering a genuine taste of Montana's natural splendor right on their doorstep. It’s a place where lasting memories of sun-drenched days on the water and peaceful evenings under the stars are made.

Jo Bonner Campground

3828 E Shore Dr, Helena, MT 59602, USA