M-K Campground

Secluded yet accessible, the M-K Campground near Red Lodge, Montana, stands out for its pristine creekside setting, simplicity, and connection to a network of scenic hiking trails. Tucked within the Custer Gallatin National Forest, this small, free campground offers ten sites, most with bear-resistant food lockers, fire rings, and picnic tables, while vault toilets serve as the primary facility. However, it lacks water and trash services, requiring campers to pack in essentials and pack out waste.

The campground provides an ideal base for nature enthusiasts, with nearby trails like the Glacier Lake Trail or Parkside National Recreation Trail delivering breathtaking views and ample opportunities for wildlife watching. Situated just 11 miles south of Red Lodge and a short drive from the famed Beartooth Highway, it is perfectly positioned for day trips exploring the area’s rugged beauty. Accessible via a rocky forest road, the campground is best suited for high-clearance vehicles and offers a tranquil escape immersed in Montana’s wild landscapes.