Wild Bill Lake

For those of us in Montana, the mountains are our playground, and few places offer the quintessential Montana experience quite like the area around Red Lodge. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Beartooth Mountains, Wild Bill Lake provides a perfect blend of accessible outdoor fun and breathtaking scenery. More than just a simple campground, it is a well-maintained recreation area that is a destination in its own right. It's an ideal spot for families, anglers, and anyone looking for a peaceful escape into nature without having to venture too far into the backcountry. The site is known for its serene atmosphere and its suitability for all ages, making it a favorite among locals for a day trip or a relaxing overnight stay.

Wild Bill Lake is a place where you can create lasting memories with your loved ones. The calm, stocked lake provides a perfect setting for kids to try their hand at fishing, and the easy trail around the lake offers a gentle way to take in the stunning mountain views. A review notes that it’s a “great place for fishing with younger kids as well as a nice little walk around the lake,” which speaks to its reputation as a family-friendly destination. This article will provide a clear and engaging overview, giving you all the necessary factual information to plan your visit and make the most of your time at this beautiful Red Lodge gem.

Our goal as professional content writers specializing in local SEO is to provide a detailed, accurate, and helpful guide from a local perspective. We understand what matters to Montanans: a quiet spot, good amenities, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors. Wild Bill Lake delivers on all these fronts. The presence of essential services like restrooms and running water, combined with its fantastic natural features, makes it a top-tier choice for a hassle-free and enjoyable camping or day-use experience. We’ll delve into the specifics, drawing on public data and real customer feedback to paint a complete picture of what to expect.

The surrounding landscape is what truly makes Wild Bill Lake special. The area is part of the Custer Gallatin National Forest, and the drive to the lake is a scenic journey in itself, taking you through beautiful elk country and along the West Fork of Rock Creek. The mountain air is crisp, the views are expansive, and the tranquility is palpable. It’s a place where you can escape the noise of daily life and truly unwind, whether you're casting a line, taking a leisurely stroll, or simply enjoying a picnic by the water.

For a camping or day-use spot that is both beautiful and functional, Wild Bill Lake is an excellent choice. It’s a testament to Montana’s commitment to preserving accessible, family-friendly outdoor spaces for everyone to enjoy. We hope this information helps you plan a trip that is both relaxing and full of adventure.

Wild Bill Lake is conveniently located approximately seven miles southwest of the town of Red Lodge, Montana. The general address is Red Lodge, MT 59068, USA. It is situated in the Custer Gallatin National Forest and is easily accessible by car. From Red Lodge, you can drive south on US Highway 212, turn onto West Fork Road, and continue for several miles until you reach the site. The road leading to the lake is well-maintained, with a review from a camper noting that the drive is paved and passes through a scenic area.

The campground offers on-site parking, which is a significant convenience. However, a review mentions that the parking lot is fairly small and can get full quickly, especially during the busy summer months. This suggests that arriving early is a good idea to secure a spot. The area is suitable for vehicles, but as with all forest roads, care should be taken, particularly with larger vehicles. The site's close proximity to Red Lodge makes it a great home base for exploring the town and the famous Beartooth Highway, providing a perfect blend of convenience and outdoor immersion.

Wild Bill Lake offers a range of simple but highly appreciated amenities that make a camping or day-use visit comfortable and enjoyable for all.

Services offered at Wild Bill Lake:

• On-site parking is available for visitors.
• Restroom facilities are provided, with reviews mentioning that the public vault toilets are clean and well-maintained. Some are even noted as being ADA compliant.
• Running water is available at several pump spigots throughout the campground.
• The area is well-suited for families, as it is known to be "good for kids."
• There are kid-friendly hikes around the lake, making it a great option for all skill levels.
• Picnic tables and fire rings are available at each of the four designated picnic sites.
• Two wheelchair-accessible fishing decks are provided, along with wheelchair-accessible picnic tables and toilets, highlighting the site's commitment to accessibility.

These amenities demonstrate that Wild Bill Lake is a thoughtfully designed recreation area that prioritizes comfort and accessibility, making it an excellent choice for a wide range of visitors.

Wild Bill Lake stands out from other campgrounds and recreation areas in Montana due to its unique and appealing features.

• Excellent fishing opportunities for all ages, with the lake being regularly stocked with rainbow trout. A review notes that it’s a “great place for fishing with younger kids.”
• A scenic, easy, and kid-friendly hiking trail circles the lake, making it a perfect activity for the whole family. The trail is noted as being a "nice little walk."
• The site is barrier-free and accessible, with wide, hard-surfaced paths and wheelchair-accessible fishing docks, tables, and restrooms.
• A peaceful, serene setting around a small mountain lake, providing a sense of escape and tranquility.
• The lake is popular for picnics and day-use, offering a great alternative for those not staying overnight.
• The beautiful location in the West Fork Rock Creek drainage offers stunning mountain views and a picturesque backdrop.

These highlights combine to create a special destination that caters to a diverse group of visitors, from families and anglers to those with mobility challenges.

For all official information regarding the campground, including opening dates and current conditions, it is best to contact the Custer Gallatin National Forest.

Address: Red Lodge, MT 59068, USA

Phone: You can contact the Beartooth Ranger District office at 406-446-2103 for up-to-date information on the site's status.

Wild Bill Lake is worth choosing for your next outdoor adventure for its exceptional family-friendly atmosphere and its perfect balance of natural beauty and functional amenities. It’s a place where you can introduce young children to the joys of fishing and hiking in a safe and welcoming environment. The fact that the lake is regularly stocked with trout ensures that even the most novice of anglers will likely have a successful day, which adds to the fun for kids.

The site’s commitment to accessibility is another major reason to choose it. The barrier-free trail and accessible fishing docks ensure that everyone, regardless of mobility, can enjoy the beauty of the lake and the surrounding scenery. While the small parking lot can be a challenge during peak season, it speaks to the site's popularity and charm. The a sense of peace and tranquility, despite its popularity, makes it a true escape. For a fun, relaxing, and memorable day or weekend trip with the family in the Red Lodge area, Wild Bill Lake is an outstanding choice that promises a delightful time for all.

Wild Bill Lake

Red Lodge, MT 59068, USA