Devil's Elbow Recreation Area
Scenic Missouri River campground with spacious sites, offering a natural escape with limited amenities. Ideal for self-sufficient campers.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Devil's Elbow Recreation Area
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Scenic Missouri River campground with spacious sites, offering a natural escape with limited amenities. Ideal for self-sufficient campers.
"Awesome campground on the Missouri River. No utilities but scenery is worth the stay. "
Reserve Your Spot Online
Securing a river view spot online is recommended, especially for weekends. :ticket:
Self-Sufficiency is Key
No water or dump stations available, so come prepared with all your needs. :water_wave:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Missouri Riverfront Campsites
Along the Missouri River
Wake up to scenic river views and the gentle sounds of nature. Many sites offer direct access or stunning vistas.
Spacious and Secluded Sites
Throughout the campground
Enjoy ample space between campsites, offering a sense of privacy and a true escape into nature.
Proximity to Lakeside Bar and Grill
Near the campground
Conveniently located for a casual meal or drinks after a day of outdoor activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Outdoors, Mind the Amenities
Respect the Quiet Hours
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Reserve Your Spot Online
Securing a river view spot online is recommended, especially for weekends. :ticket:
Self-Sufficiency is Key
No water or dump stations available, so come prepared with all your needs. :water_wave:
Be Prepared for Noise
Weekends can be busy with boaters and parties; consider a weekday for tranquility. :speaker:
Explore the Walking Path
A pleasant walking path offers a nice way to stretch your legs and enjoy the surroundings. :walking:
Tips
from all over the internet
Reserve Your Spot Online
Securing a river view spot online is recommended, especially for weekends. :ticket:
Self-Sufficiency is Key
No water or dump stations available, so come prepared with all your needs. :water_wave:
Be Prepared for Noise
Weekends can be busy with boaters and parties; consider a weekday for tranquility. :speaker:
Explore the Walking Path
A pleasant walking path offers a nice way to stretch your legs and enjoy the surroundings. :walking:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Devil's Elbow Recreation Area is praised for its awesome campground, spacious sites, and stunning Missouri River views, making it a scenic escape. However, the lack of amenities like water and electricity, coupled with potential noise and disturbances on busy weekends, can detract from the experience for some visitors. +2
"I've read a few reviews that were not favorable towards the camp host saying how harsh they were. Where, I ask was that camp host? 07/18/25 and there were generators running until 2-3am. There was a loud drunken party with screaming and shouting women later than that. Someone decided to run their dirt bike around at about 4am and no site nor sound from the worthless hosts. What a joke. Been camping 30+ years and it is the single worst experience I've had. The campground is just ok but has huge sites. The narcissistic guests and the worthless host made for a terrible experience."
Paul Gillum
"Awesome campground on the missouri River. No utilities but scenery is worth the stay."
JoAnn Godin
"This was a great campground! It's a nice location outside of Helena, but not too far away that you can run into town if you needed something. There are no hookups, so the price is a tad pricey compared to some others that I have stayed at with no hook ups, but the camp was clean and nicely maintained. There were plenty of vault toilets as well which was nice. I'd say it's worth the extra little fee to reserve a campsite online and snag a river view spot!"
Jessica Scanlan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Devil's Elbow Recreation Area is located outside of Helena, Montana. While specific directions can vary, it's generally accessible by car. Some TikTok videos mention road conditions, with one noting trees down, so it's wise to check local road reports before heading out.
The area is situated in a natural setting, so while it's a destination for outdoor enthusiasts, it's not a bustling urban center. GPS and a good map are recommended.
The campground is noted as being a nice location outside of Helena, Montana, making it accessible for supplies if needed.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Devil's Elbow Recreation Area is a campground, and while there isn't a traditional 'ticket' for entry, there are fees associated with camping. It's recommended to reserve your campsite online in advance, especially for popular spots like river view sites.
As a recreation area and campground, it's generally open for access, but specific hours for amenities or services might vary. Camping is typically available year-round, but it's best to check with the managing authority for any seasonal closures or restrictions.
There are camping fees at Devil's Elbow Recreation Area. Some reviews mention the price being a 'tad pricey' for sites without hookups, but the scenery is considered worth the cost.
Yes, reserving a campsite online is a good idea, particularly if you want a specific spot like a river view. This helps ensure you get a site, especially during peak times.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The area is ideal for camping, enjoying the scenery, and potentially boating due to the river access. Some visitors enjoy the walking paths.
No, Devil's Elbow Recreation Area does not have utilities like water or electricity at the campsites. Visitors need to be self-sufficient.
Camping sites are described as spacious and the campground is clean and well-maintained. Vault toilets are available. +1
With its location on the Missouri River and a boat ramp within the campground, it's likely suitable for fishing and boating enthusiasts, though the ramp can make maneuvering difficult on busy weekends.
The atmosphere is generally described as awesome with great views. However, some reviews mention that weekends can be 'crazy' with noise from parties and vehicles. +1
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no food services directly within the recreation area itself. However, it is noted as being close to the Lakeside Bar and Grill, which offers a convenient dining option.
Yes, as a campground, visitors are expected to bring their own food and drinks. There are no facilities for purchasing food on-site.
📸 📸 Photography
The Missouri River views are a major draw for photography, especially from the riverfront campsites. The natural scenery and spacious sites also offer great photographic potential.
Absolutely. The expansive river views and the surrounding natural landscape provide excellent opportunities for landscape photographers.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🎣 Anglers and Boaters
🏕️ Self-Sufficient Campers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding the 'Devil's Elbow' Name
It's worth noting that the name 'Devil's Elbow' can appear in different contexts. For instance, one TikTok mentions 'Devil's Elbow' in relation to Obudu Mountain Resort in Nigeria, highlighting a 'scary part' of the trip involving arriving late at night.
Camping Experience: What to Expect
However, it's crucial to be aware of the limited amenities. There are no utilities such as water or electricity at the campsites, and no dump station.
Navigating Weekend Crowds and Noise
One particularly negative review detailed a terrible experience with 'narcissistic guests' and 'worthless hosts' who did not address disturbances.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit