Camping at Pine Creek Campground

Introduction

Pine Creek Campground is a scenic campground located within the Custer Gallatin National Forest in Montana, United States. It offers a serene environment ideal for campers interested in enjoying the great outdoors, including activities like hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and more.

Location and Access

Pine Creek Campground is situated in the Paradise Valley, south of Livingston, Montana, and near the Absaroka Mountain Range. Access to the campground is typically via East River Road and then Pine Creek Road. Exact directions should always be verified through the Custer Gallatin National Forest's official sources or map services before traveling, as road conditions and routings can change.

Campsites and Reservations

Campsite Details:

• The campground usually provides several individual sites suitable for tents, trailers, and RVs.
• Each site often features basics such as a picnic table, fire ring, and access to vault toilets.
• Availability of potable water should be confirmed as it can vary by season or due to maintenance issues.

Reservations:

• Some campsites may be available on a first-come, first-served basis, while others might be reservable in advance.
• Reservations, if available, can typically be made through the Recreation.gov website or calling their reservation hotline.

Facilities and Amenities

Basic Amenities:

• Drinking water (seasonal)
• Vault toilets
• Picnic tables
• Fire pits

Not Available:

• Electrical hookups
• Showers
• Waste disposal stations

Campers should plan to be self-sufficient and pack out what they pack in.

Recreation and Activities

Hiking:

• Pine Creek Campground can serve as a starting point for various trails, including a popular hike to Pine Creek Falls and Pine Creek Lake.

Fishing:

• The nearby Pine Creek and Yellowstone River are known for their blue-ribbon trout fishing.

Wildlife Viewing:

• The area is home to an array of wildlife, including elk, deer, and various bird species.

Other Activities:

• Photography, picnicking, and simply enjoying the mountain scenery.

Season and Weather

Operating Season:

• The camping season usually varies depending on weather and snow levels, but the campground is typically open from late spring to early fall.

Weather:

• Mountain weather can be unpredictable. Campers should prepare for a range of conditions and check the forecast before their trip.

Safety and Regulations

Fire Safety:

• Always follow current fire regulations and restrictions.
• Use designated fire rings for campfires and fully extinguish them before leaving.

Wildlife Precautions:

• Properly store food and scented items to avoid attracting bears and other wildlife.
• Familiarize yourself with bear safety guidelines if in bear country.

Leave No Trace:

• Respect nature by following Leave No Trace principles, such as packing out all garbage, leaving what you find, and minimizing campfire impacts.

Pets:

• Pets must be under control at all times, and their waste should be properly disposed of.

Before visiting Pine Creek Campground, always verify the most current information regarding reservations, access, facilities, and regulations with the Custer Gallatin National Forest’s official resources. Conditions and policies can change, and ensuring a safe and enjoyable experience requires staying informed.