Trapper Springs Campground

For Montanans seeking an authentic outdoor experience deeply rooted in the state's iconic landscapes, Trapper Springs Campground offers an ideal destination. Nestled alongside the renowned lower Madison River near Manhattan, this campground is a gateway to some of Big Sky Country's most beloved activities: world-class fly fishing, exhilarating river floating, and peaceful camping under vast, open skies. It’s a place where the grandeur of Montana’s outdoors takes center stage, inviting you to unplug and immerse yourself in the natural beauty that defines our state.

Trapper Springs Campground is known for its fundamental amenities and expansive setting. While it's considered "basic" with outhouses, fire rings, and picnic tables, it provides the essential comforts needed for a genuine outdoor adventure. The sheer amount of space between sites is a highlight, offering a sense of privacy and freedom often hard to find in more developed campgrounds. Visitors frequently commend the fantastic river access, making it a prime spot for anglers and those looking to spend their days on the water. It’s a testament to Montana's spirit of open-air living, where the simple pleasures of nature are the main attraction.

Trapper Springs Campground is located on an unnamed road near Manhattan, MT 59741, USA, perfectly positioned adjacent to the lower Madison River. This strategic location places it within convenient reach of Bozeman, making it an accessible escape for residents of the Gallatin Valley and surrounding areas. To reach the campground from Bozeman, travelers typically head west on Montana Highway 84 (Norris Road) for approximately 20.5 miles, then turn left (south) onto South Bear Trap Canyon Road. If you cross the Madison River, you've just passed the turn, so be mindful of that landmark. For those coming from Norris, head East on MT Hwy 84 for about 8 miles and turn right (south) onto South Bear Trap Canyon Road after crossing the Madison River.

The road leading into the campground is described as gravel, with a "little washboardy" section for about a mile. While this might require a slightly slower pace, it's generally manageable for most vehicles, including RVs. There is no boat launch directly at the campground, but several are available in the vicinity, offering easy access for various water activities on the Madison River. This combination of prime riverside location and relatively straightforward access makes Trapper Springs a popular choice for Montanans looking to enjoy the iconic Madison River without venturing too far off the beaten path.

• 15 individual campsites available
• 9 campsites reservable online via Recreation.gov (May 1st - September 15th)
• 6 campsites available on a first-come, first-served basis (sites 10-15)
• All sites are first-come, first-served from September 16th through April 30th
• Accessible vault toilets (3 accessible vault toilets available)
• Drinking water available
• Picnic tables at each campsite
• Fire rings/pits at each campsite (check for current fire restrictions)
• Group use pavilion available for reservation (for groups up to 20 vehicles, $50/day)
• Organized group permits required for groups larger than 15 people
• ADA accessible trail to the Madison River
• Firewood available for purchase at nearby Red Mountain Campground (when host is present)

• Direct Madison River Access: The campground is immediately adjacent to the lower Madison River, providing excellent opportunities for fly fishing, floating (especially popular for tubing during warm summer months), and simply enjoying the scenic river.
• Spacious, Open Sites: Unlike many campgrounds, Trapper Springs offers "wide open" areas with "lots of room between sites," ensuring privacy and a sense of freedom. This also means a lack of shade trees, so campers should plan accordingly for sun exposure.
• Basic but Essential Amenities: While not a full-hookup RV park, it provides fundamental necessities like fresh water, vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings, perfect for those who appreciate a more rustic experience without completely roughing it.
• World-Class Fishing: The Madison River is renowned globally for its robust trout fishery, making this campground a prime destination for serious anglers.
• Popular Floating Destination: During the summer, the lower Madison River becomes a very popular spot for non-angling floaters, particularly tubers, offering a lively and refreshing way to spend the day.
• Mix of Reservable and First-Come Sites: The combination of sites available for reservation (especially during peak season) and first-come, first-served options provides flexibility for both planned trips and spontaneous adventures.
• Group Pavilion: A large day-use pavilion with parking for 20 vehicles is available for group reservations, making it suitable for gatherings, family reunions, or small events.
• Central Location for Lower Madison: The campground is strategically located roughly halfway between Warm Springs boat launch and Black's Ford Fishing Access Site, serving as a convenient base for exploring this popular stretch of the river.
• Bear Trap Canyon Proximity: Nearby attractions include the stunning Bear Trap Canyon unit of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness Area, offering additional opportunities for hiking and exploring. Norris Hot Springs is also a short drive away for a relaxing soak.
• Potential for Wind: Due to its wide-open nature and lack of tree cover, the area can experience strong winds, which some campers have noted can challenge tent setups. Bringing extra tent stakes and strong canopies is advisable.

Address: Unnamed Road, Manhattan, MT 59741, USA

Trapper Springs Campground is managed by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM) Dillon Field Office.

For campground inquiries, current conditions, or assistance with reservations (especially concerning any staffing changes impacting placards), it is best to contact the BLM Dillon Field Office directly:

BLM Dillon Field Office Phone Number: (406) 683-8000

Reservations for sites 1-9 during peak season (May 1st - September 15th) must be made through Recreation.gov or by calling 877-444-6777.

For Montanans, Trapper Springs Campground embodies the essence of a classic Big Sky Country outdoor experience. Its prime location on the lower Madison River makes it an immediate draw for local anglers, floaters, and anyone who cherishes the state's renowned waterways. The accessibility from major population centers like Bozeman means a quick and convenient escape to nature is always within reach, perfect for weekend warriors or those seeking a mid-week refresh without extensive travel.

The "basic" nature of the campground, with its vault toilets and fresh water, aligns perfectly with the independent spirit of Montana's outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate simplicity and self-sufficiency. The generous spacing between sites offers a rare sense of privacy and open space, allowing residents to fully immerse themselves in the quiet solitude that Montana's landscapes provide. While the lack of shade and potential for wind are practical considerations, they are well-understood elements of camping in the wide-open West, and experienced Montanan campers will come prepared with appropriate gear.

The combination of reservable and first-come, first-served sites offers flexibility, accommodating both planned family trips and spontaneous ventures. Moreover, its proximity to other regional attractions like Norris Hot Springs and the Bear Trap Canyon Wilderness provides additional opportunities for exploration, making it a versatile basecamp. Trapper Springs Campground isn't just a place to stay; it's an invitation for Montanans to fully embrace their state's iconic recreation, from the thrill of catching a trout on the Madison to the simple joy of a campfire under an endless Montana sky.

Trapper Springs Campground

Unnamed Road, Manhattan, MT 59741, USA