5.0
Public Campground
1st Dredge Shelters
Montana
Federal campground in Montana.
Photos shown are stock images and may not represent the actual campground.
About Red Shale Campground
Campground in Montana.
Red Shale Campground sits in the heart of Montana's stunning landscape, offering RV travelers an authentic experience of the American West. This public campground welcomes visitors looking to escape the hustle of city life and immerse themselves in natural beauty, wide open spaces, and the kind of peaceful solitude that defines Montana camping.
The surrounding terrain showcases the region's distinctive geology and dramatic scenery. Red-hued rock formations rise against big Montana skies, creating a visual backdrop that changes throughout the day as sunlight shifts across the landscape. Whether you're watching sunrise paint the rocks in golden light or enjoying sunset's amber glow, the natural color palette here is nothing short of spectacular. The area is perfect for photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking to reconnect with the outdoors.
Beyond the campground itself, this location serves as an excellent base for exploring Montana's remarkable attractions. Nearby hiking trails offer varying difficulty levels, from gentle walks suitable for families to more challenging treks for experienced hikers. The region's wildlife viewing opportunities appeal to birders and animal enthusiasts, with chances to spot native Montana fauna in their natural habitat. Fishing opportunities in nearby waters attract anglers of all skill levels throughout the year.
The campground appeals to a wide range of travelers. Families appreciate the open space for kids to explore safely, while retirees enjoy the peaceful setting and manageable crowds outside peak seasons. Adventure seekers find plenty of outdoor activities, and those simply seeking a quiet retreat from daily routines discover exactly what they're looking for. The public campground setting ensures reasonable rates while maintaining quality facilities that RV travelers need.
Montana's small towns and communities nearby provide supplies, services, and local character without overwhelming commercialization. The combination of natural beauty, accessibility, and genuine Montana hospitality makes this an ideal stop whether you're passing through or planning an extended stay to fully explore the region.
The surrounding terrain showcases the region's distinctive geology and dramatic scenery. Red-hued rock formations rise against big Montana skies, creating a visual backdrop that changes throughout the day as sunlight shifts across the landscape. Whether you're watching sunrise paint the rocks in golden light or enjoying sunset's amber glow, the natural color palette here is nothing short of spectacular. The area is perfect for photography enthusiasts, nature lovers, and anyone seeking to reconnect with the outdoors.
Beyond the campground itself, this location serves as an excellent base for exploring Montana's remarkable attractions. Nearby hiking trails offer varying difficulty levels, from gentle walks suitable for families to more challenging treks for experienced hikers. The region's wildlife viewing opportunities appeal to birders and animal enthusiasts, with chances to spot native Montana fauna in their natural habitat. Fishing opportunities in nearby waters attract anglers of all skill levels throughout the year.
The campground appeals to a wide range of travelers. Families appreciate the open space for kids to explore safely, while retirees enjoy the peaceful setting and manageable crowds outside peak seasons. Adventure seekers find plenty of outdoor activities, and those simply seeking a quiet retreat from daily routines discover exactly what they're looking for. The public campground setting ensures reasonable rates while maintaining quality facilities that RV travelers need.
Montana's small towns and communities nearby provide supplies, services, and local character without overwhelming commercialization. The combination of natural beauty, accessibility, and genuine Montana hospitality makes this an ideal stop whether you're passing through or planning an extended stay to fully explore the region.
4.7
Rating
101
Reviews
Park Details
Tips & Tricks
Book Early
This area is popular during peak season. Reserve 2-4 weeks in advance for weekends and holidays.
Check-in Time
Most parks have check-in after 1:00 PM and check-out by 11:00 AM. Call ahead if you'll arrive late.
Local Weather
Montana weather can change quickly. Pack layers and check the forecast for the area.
Explore the Area
Don't miss local attractions near the park. Ask the camp host for hidden gems and trails.
Red Shale Campground Reviews
Sign in to Review
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Mark Chrzescian
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Mark Chrzescian
Free National Forest campground. No water or garbage disposal. Pretty sites, highway is next to campground and can be loud. The price is right can stay up to 14 days
G
Mark Chrzescian
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Mark Chrzescian
Free National Forest campground. No water or garbage disposal. Pretty sites, highway is next to campground and can be loud. The price is right can stay up to 14 days
G
Mark Chrzescian
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Mark Chrzescian
Free National Forest campground. No water or garbage disposal. Pretty sites, highway is next to campground and can be loud. The price is right can stay up to 14 days
G
K Miller
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by K Miller
Basic free Campground. Scenery is nice sites are rustic but clean. There are fire rings and pit toilets. Bring your one toilet paper and light.
G
K Miller
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by K Miller
Basic free Campground. Scenery is nice sites are rustic but clean. There are fire rings and pit toilets. Bring your one toilet paper and light.
G
K Miller
Mar 18, 2026
4.0
Google Review by K Miller
Basic free Campground. Scenery is nice sites are rustic but clean. There are fire rings and pit toilets. Bring your one toilet paper and light.
G
DLM-Distribution Campervans
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by DLM-Distribution Campervans
Red Shale Campground is a hidden gem! This BLM-managed campground offers a serene and scenic retreat, perfect for a peaceful getaway. Nestled among towering trees, this free campground provides tranquility and natural beauty, making it an ideal escape. Despite the lack of electricity, having a solar panel and auxiliary battery on my Mini-T Campervan keeps everything powered up for my stay. Daytime... Red Shale Campground is a hidden gem! This BLM-managed campground offers a serene and scenic retreat, perfect for a peaceful getaway. Nestled among towering trees, this free campground provides tranquility and natural beauty, making it an ideal escape. Despite the lack of electricity, having a solar panel and auxiliary battery on my Mini-T Campervan keeps everything powered up for my stay. Daytime hikes reveal stunning vistas and abundant wildlife, while evenings offer a spectacular starry sky. Red Shale Campground in the Custer National Forest is a great place to visit, camp, and relax!
G
DLM-Distribution Campervans
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by DLM-Distribution Campervans
Red Shale Campground is a hidden gem! This BLM-managed campground offers a serene and scenic retreat, perfect for a peaceful getaway. Nestled among towering trees, this free campground provides tranquility and natural beauty, making it an ideal escape. Despite the lack of electricity, having a solar panel and auxiliary battery on my Mini-T Campervan keeps everything powered up for my stay. Daytime... Red Shale Campground is a hidden gem! This BLM-managed campground offers a serene and scenic retreat, perfect for a peaceful getaway. Nestled among towering trees, this free campground provides tranquility and natural beauty, making it an ideal escape. Despite the lack of electricity, having a solar panel and auxiliary battery on my Mini-T Campervan keeps everything powered up for my stay. Daytime hikes reveal stunning vistas and abundant wildlife, while evenings offer a spectacular starry sky. Red Shale Campground in the Custer National Forest is a great place to visit, camp, and relax!
G
DLM-Distribution Campervans
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by DLM-Distribution Campervans
Red Shale Campground is a hidden gem! This BLM-managed campground offers a serene and scenic retreat, perfect for a peaceful getaway. Nestled among towering trees, this free campground provides tranquility and natural beauty, making it an ideal escape. Despite the lack of electricity, having a solar panel and auxiliary battery on my Mini-T Campervan keeps everything powered up for my stay. Daytime... Red Shale Campground is a hidden gem! This BLM-managed campground offers a serene and scenic retreat, perfect for a peaceful getaway. Nestled among towering trees, this free campground provides tranquility and natural beauty, making it an ideal escape. Despite the lack of electricity, having a solar panel and auxiliary battery on my Mini-T Campervan keeps everything powered up for my stay. Daytime hikes reveal stunning vistas and abundant wildlife, while evenings offer a spectacular starry sky. Red Shale Campground in the Custer National Forest is a great place to visit, camp, and relax!
G
Genesis
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Genesis
This was our first time here and we absolutely loved it. Would totally come back again if in this area. The way in was a bit bumpy, but if you drive slow, you'll be fine. We tow a 43 foot rig and we were. The campsites we saw were to the right when you enter. It goes a bit uphill and they were spread out from one another a perfect distance. There is an incredible picnic bench at the sites with ha... This was our first time here and we absolutely loved it. Would totally come back again if in this area. The way in was a bit bumpy, but if you drive slow, you'll be fine. We tow a 43 foot rig and we were. The campsites we saw were to the right when you enter. It goes a bit uphill and they were spread out from one another a perfect distance. There is an incredible picnic bench at the sites with handicap accessibility and a bonfire pit too. There is an outhouse toilet if needed. No water, sewer or electric. We used our generator during the day and it was fine. Beautiful stars at night too! There was also room to put up a tent! Overall, amazing spot to stay. Just for one night or for a couple.
G
Genesis
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Genesis
This was our first time here and we absolutely loved it. Would totally come back again if in this area. The way in was a bit bumpy, but if you drive slow, you'll be fine. We tow a 43 foot rig and we were. The campsites we saw were to the right when you enter. It goes a bit uphill and they were spread out from one another a perfect distance. There is an incredible picnic bench at the sites with ha... This was our first time here and we absolutely loved it. Would totally come back again if in this area. The way in was a bit bumpy, but if you drive slow, you'll be fine. We tow a 43 foot rig and we were. The campsites we saw were to the right when you enter. It goes a bit uphill and they were spread out from one another a perfect distance. There is an incredible picnic bench at the sites with handicap accessibility and a bonfire pit too. There is an outhouse toilet if needed. No water, sewer or electric. We used our generator during the day and it was fine. Beautiful stars at night too! There was also room to put up a tent! Overall, amazing spot to stay. Just for one night or for a couple.
G
Genesis
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Genesis
This was our first time here and we absolutely loved it. Would totally come back again if in this area. The way in was a bit bumpy, but if you drive slow, you'll be fine. We tow a 43 foot rig and we were. The campsites we saw were to the right when you enter. It goes a bit uphill and they were spread out from one another a perfect distance. There is an incredible picnic bench at the sites with ha... This was our first time here and we absolutely loved it. Would totally come back again if in this area. The way in was a bit bumpy, but if you drive slow, you'll be fine. We tow a 43 foot rig and we were. The campsites we saw were to the right when you enter. It goes a bit uphill and they were spread out from one another a perfect distance. There is an incredible picnic bench at the sites with handicap accessibility and a bonfire pit too. There is an outhouse toilet if needed. No water, sewer or electric. We used our generator during the day and it was fine. Beautiful stars at night too! There was also room to put up a tent! Overall, amazing spot to stay. Just for one night or for a couple.
G
Sharon Martin Andre
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Sharon Martin Andre
January 27, 2026 the gate is locked 🔒 Little pull in behind the sign we used
G
Sharon Martin Andre
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Sharon Martin Andre
January 27, 2026 the gate is locked 🔒 Little pull in behind the sign we used
G
Sharon Martin Andre
Mar 18, 2026
5.0
Google Review by Sharon Martin Andre
January 27, 2026 the gate is locked 🔒 Little pull in behind the sign we used
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