Sheridan Campground

For Montanans, the Beartooth Highway is more than just a road; it’s an iconic journey that defines a core part of our state's wild spirit. As the gateway to this breathtaking drive, the area around Red Lodge offers a multitude of camping opportunities, but few provide the quiet, rustic charm of Sheridan Campground. Located in the Custer Gallatin National Forest, this small, single-family campground is a perfect basecamp for those who want to immerse themselves in the high country without a lot of frills. It's a place where the sound of the nearby Main Fork of Rock Creek and the whisper of the wind through the pines replace the noise of the city, offering a true sense of escape.

This article is designed to be a comprehensive guide for local Montanans looking to explore this specific corner of our state. We will provide a factual and detailed overview of Sheridan Campground, from its location and the amenities it offers to the recreational activities that make it a compelling destination. We understand that finding the right camping spot is a key part of any successful outdoor adventure, and by providing this information, we hope to help you decide if Sheridan Campground is the perfect fit for your next trip. Its small size and peaceful atmosphere, coupled with its prime location, make it a valuable and cherished resource for those in the know.

Sheridan Campground embodies the classic Montana camping experience. It’s nestled in a forest of aspen and pine, sitting in the shadow of the rugged Beartooth Range. The natural features are its main draw; the campground is located on the banks of Rock Creek, which is known for its excellent rainbow trout fishing. The air is fresh and crisp, and a variety of wildlife, including deer and elk, make their home in the surrounding area. It’s a place where you can feel connected to the land, an experience that resonates deeply with the spirit of Montanans.

It is important to understand that Sheridan is a rustic campground. It's ideal for tents and smaller RVs, as some sites have tight turnarounds. While it provides essential amenities, it is not a full-service park with hookups or extensive facilities. The fees are reasonable, ranging from $18 to $36 a night, making it an accessible option for many. It’s a place for campers who appreciate the simpler things in life: a campfire under the stars, the sound of a bubbling creek, and a peaceful night's rest before a day of hiking or exploring.

The campground's proximity to the Beartooth Highway and the charming town of Red Lodge is a major advantage. Red Lodge offers a variety of dining, shopping, and galleries, providing a great opportunity to resupply or enjoy a meal after a day in the wilderness. The Beartooth Highway, hailed as "the most beautiful drive in America," is an attraction in itself, offering sweeping views and a gateway to the Yellowstone National Park’s northeast entrance. This makes Sheridan Campground a strategic and valuable basecamp for a multi-day adventure, allowing you to explore a wide range of attractions from a single, tranquil location.

Sheridan Campground is conveniently located at 6811 US-212, Red Lodge, MT 59068, USA. It is situated seven miles south of the town of Red Lodge, just off the scenic Beartooth Highway. The campground’s entrance is on Eastside Road, which is about two miles off the main highway. While the road is manageable, visitors should be aware that the turnaround for trailers and RVs can be tight. The campground's location on the banks of the Main Fork of Rock Creek provides both scenic beauty and easy access for fishing.

The site's accessibility is designed for a traditional camping experience. It provides on-site parking at each of its nine single-family sites. While a single site is noted as suitable for those with limited mobility, it is important to contact the campground directly to confirm specific site details and accessibility standards. The on-site parking is a key feature, making it easy to unload gear and set up camp.

Sheridan Campground is a rustic and basic camping site, providing essential services for a comfortable stay in a natural setting.

• Public restrooms: The campground provides vault toilets, which are accessible and well-maintained.
• Running water: There is drinking water available from a hand pump, but visitors should be aware that this is a seasonal amenity and may not be available outside of peak season.
• Tent sites: All sites are suitable for tent camping, with picnic tables and fire rings provided.
• On-site parking: Each campsite has a designated parking area for a vehicle.
• Picnic tables and fire rings: Each site is equipped with a picnic table and a campfire ring with a grill, perfect for cooking and gathering.
• Food storage: Most sites have bear-safe food lockers, which are essential for storing food and other scented items safely from wildlife.

It is important to note that the campground has no electric or water hookups for RVs, and campers should be prepared to be self-sufficient.

The highlights of Sheridan Campground are its natural setting and its proximity to a wide range of outdoor activities.

• Peaceful and secluded atmosphere: The small number of sites and the natural surroundings make this a quiet and peaceful retreat, ideal for those seeking solitude.
• Excellent fishing access: The campground's location on the banks of the Main Fork of Rock Creek provides easy access for anglers looking to catch rainbow trout.
• Proximity to Red Lodge: The campground is just a short drive from the charming town of Red Lodge, which offers dining, shopping, and events.
• Gateway to Beartooth Highway: As a basecamp for the scenic Beartooth Highway, the campground is a fantastic starting point for a drive that is hailed as one of the most beautiful in America.
• Hiking opportunities: Nearby trailheads, including Hellroaring and Lake Fork, provide access to the Beartooth Wilderness and a variety of scenic hiking trails.
• Wildlife viewing: The surrounding forest is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk and deer, offering opportunities for viewing from the safety of the campground.

For reservations and up-to-date information on Sheridan Campground, it is best to contact the Custer Gallatin National Forest office or use the official reservation system.

Address: 6811 US-212, Red Lodge, MT 59068, USA

Phone: (406) 587-9054. For reservations, it is best to use the dedicated national reservation line at (877) 444-6777 or the recreation.gov website, as some sites can be reserved in advance.

For a Montanan, choosing Sheridan Campground is about embracing a classic, authentic outdoor experience. It's a pragmatic and peaceful choice for a number of reasons. While the campground is small and the amenities are basic, this is precisely its appeal. It prevents the site from becoming overcrowded and commercialized, preserving the quiet atmosphere that makes it so special. Its affordability is also a significant draw, allowing you to spend your money on exploring the area rather than on expensive camping fees.

The campground’s value lies in its prime location and its tranquil setting. It’s an ideal basecamp for anyone looking to fish, hike, or simply enjoy the majestic beauty of the Beartooth Range. The fact that it is a family-friendly site, with features like picnic tables and a safe environment, makes it a great place to introduce kids to the joys of rustic camping. Sheridan Campground is a testament to the idea that you don't need a lot of modern luxuries to have an incredible outdoor adventure in Montana. It offers a genuine and accessible taste of the wilderness, and for that reason, it is a truly worthwhile and valuable destination for any local looking for a peaceful retreat.

Sheridan Campground

6811 US-212, Red Lodge, MT 59068, USA