Pine Grove Campground

For Montanans looking for a serene and genuine outdoor experience, Pine Grove Campground offers a perfect retreat into the heart of the Custer Gallatin National Forest near Absarokee. This isn’t a bustling, amenity-packed resort; it’s a tranquil, no-frills campground that focuses on what truly matters: a connection with nature. Known for its quiet atmosphere and spacious sites, Pine Grove is an ideal destination for those who want to get away from the noise of daily life and immerse themselves in the peaceful beauty of our state's wilderness.

The campground is well-regarded by visitors for its family-friendly environment and clean, quiet setting. It provides a fantastic base camp for exploring the surrounding area, including the popular West Rosebud Creek drainage and access to the majestic Beartooth Mountains. Whether you're a seasoned camper with an RV or a family looking to pitch a tent for the first time, Pine Grove has a spot for you. It's a place where you can enjoy the simple pleasures of camping, like quiet evenings around a campfire and the feeling of being completely surrounded by trees. While it offers essential amenities to make your stay comfortable, its true appeal lies in its rugged, natural charm and the feeling of being truly out in the Montana wild.

Pine Grove Campground is located at Absarokee, MT 59001, USA, situated in the Custer Gallatin National Forest. Specifically, it is located in the West Rosebud drainage, along the banks of West Rosebud Creek. Its proximity to other popular destinations like Emerald Lake Campground and the West Rosebud Trail makes it a strategic hub for extended outdoor adventures. The road to the campground can be a bit of a journey, but it is well-traveled by other outdoor enthusiasts. The directions from the Beartooth Ranger District office involve traveling on US Hwy 212, MT-78, and MT-419 towards Fishtail before turning onto West Rosebud Rd.

The accessibility of Pine Grove is a key feature. While it is a bit of a drive on rural roads, the location is part of its charm, as it feels more secluded than a roadside park. Visitors can enjoy the scenic journey, which is a great way to transition into a more relaxed, nature-focused mindset. The campground is also large, with plenty of spaces available for campers and RVs, which means it can accommodate a significant number of visitors without feeling overly crowded. Its first-come, first-served policy means that arriving early is a good idea, especially on busy weekends, but the number of available sites makes it a promising option for a spontaneous trip. The well-defined camp sites and the overall spaciousness of the area ensure a peaceful experience even when the campground is full.

Services Offered:

• RV and Tent Camping: The campground provides a variety of spaces to accommodate both RVs and tent campers. With 46 camp sites available, it is a large campground that offers plenty of options. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of visitors, from those traveling in fully-equipped RVs to those who prefer a more traditional tenting experience.

• Public restroom: The campground is equipped with public restrooms, which are a necessary convenience for campers. While they are vault toilets, their presence ensures that visitors have access to a basic but essential facility during their stay. This is a crucial amenity for families and others who prefer not to rely solely on nature.

• Running water: Pine Grove Campground provides running water for visitors. This is a highly valued feature, as it allows campers to have access to potable water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning without having to bring a large supply with them. The availability of water pumps on-site is a significant convenience that enhances the overall camping experience.

• On-site parking: Each campsite provides on-site parking, ensuring that campers can keep their vehicles close to their tents or RVs. This makes unloading and setting up camp much easier and more secure. The presence of parking at each site is a practical benefit that adds to the convenience of the campground.

Features / Highlights:

• Hiking: The campground is an excellent base for hiking enthusiasts. Located in the West Rosebud drainage, it provides access to various trails, including the West Rosebud Trail, which can lead to places like Mystic Lake. Visitors frequently highlight the area’s hiking opportunities, making it a key attraction for those who love to explore on foot.

• Good for kids: Pine Grove Campground is described as being "family friendly" and is a great place for children. The quiet, clean, and open environment allows kids to safely explore and enjoy the outdoors. The variety of spaces, from camp sites to open areas, gives families plenty of room to play and relax together.

• Dogs allowed: For those who consider their dogs part of the family, Pine Grove Campground is a welcoming destination. It is a dog-friendly location, allowing you to bring your pets along on your camping trip. This is a major highlight for many Montanans who enjoy sharing their outdoor adventures with their furry companions.

• Proximity to other attractions: The campground's location in the Custer Gallatin National Forest means it is just a short trip away from other beautiful and popular spots. A day trip to Mystic Lake or a longer excursion to explore the surrounding wilderness are easily planned from this central location, giving you a wealth of options for activities.

Contact Information:

Address: Absarokee, MT 59001, USA

Phone: (406) 587-6701

Mobile Phone: +1 406-587-6701

What is worth choosing:

Pine Grove Campground is worth choosing for its authentic and tranquil Montana camping experience. It offers a perfect balance for those who want to be close to nature without being completely off the grid. The campground's spacious sites and quiet atmosphere provide a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. This is a place where you can truly relax, enjoy the sounds of the forest, and appreciate the clear night skies.

The availability of both RV and tent sites makes it a versatile option for a wide range of campers, and the essential amenities like running water and public restrooms ensure a comfortable stay. The family-friendly environment is a huge plus, as it allows parents to feel confident bringing their children to a safe and clean outdoor space. Furthermore, the dog-friendly policy means no one gets left behind.

Ultimately, what sets Pine Grove apart is its role as a gateway to the stunning wilderness of the Custer Gallatin National Forest. It serves as a great starting point for incredible hikes, fishing trips, and other outdoor activities. While some visitors have mentioned a desire for better maintenance from the forest service, the overall experience is overwhelmingly positive, with campers appreciating the clean area and the sense of solitude. Choosing Pine Grove is a decision to embrace the simple, quiet beauty of Montana's outdoors, making it a special place for any local adventurer.

Pine Grove Campground

Absarokee, MT 59001, USA