Camping in Montana Just Got Pricier: BLM Raises Fees

If you thought groceries, gas, and rent were the only things getting more expensive—think again. Now, even your weekend escape into Montana's public lands is feeling the squeeze.

Sorry to be the barrier of bad news, but The Bureau of Land Management has announced fee increases at several recreation sites across the state, with some changes already in effect as of April 1.

As someone who spends a lot of time hiking, camping, and exploring our public lands, this one hits a little close to home. I am ok with paying a small fee for these places, especially if they have some luxuries like bathrooms and such.... but these prices add up if you stay for several days, not to mention their projected "future fee." But who knows, maybe this is for the greater good.

Why Are the Campground Fees Being Raised?

"The approved fee adjustments are a direct response to rising operational and maintenance costs and reflect our ongoing commitment to reinvesting every dollar of recreation fee revenue back into the sites where it was collected," said Germann. "These investments ensure that public lands remain safe, accessible, and enjoyable for current and future generations." - The Bureau of Land Management Montana/Dakotas State Director Sonya Germann

What Campgrounds In Montana Are Having A Price Increase?

Dillion Field Office Jurisdiction

Camping fees will increase from $12 to $20 for the first five years, with a future rate of $30 projected. This change affects the following campgrounds:

• Red Mountain
• Ruby Creek
• Palisades

In Addition to Campground prices, next year, a new Recreation Use Permit fee of $5 per person per day, or an individual $40 Annual Pass will take effect at the day-use campgrounds below:

• Warm Springs
• California Corner
• Canaday
• Bear Trap Road South
• Bear Trap Road North
• Palisades
• Ruby Creek
• Red Mountain
• Trapper Springs
• Storey Ditch
• Kobayashi Beach
• Clute's Landing
• Windy Point

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If you would like to see the full list of sites being affected in Montana, check them out HERE.