BLM Devil's Elbow Recreation Site

Devil's Elbow Campground

Open

Open for reservations. Temporary closure June 8-23, 2026 for potable water and irrigation line replacement. Alternative camping available at White Sandy, Holter Lake, or Log Gulch during the closure.

From Recreation.gov

Construction to replace the potable water and irrigation lines at Devil’s Elbow will occur June 8–23. To ensure visitor and contractor safety, the site will be temporarily closed during this period. This upgrade will provide visitors with more dependable water service, reduce maintenance downtime, and support long‑term recreational use. Alternative camping may be available at White Sandy, Holter Lake, or Log Gulch. Additional recreation options may be found through Montana FWP or the Bureau of Reclamation at Canyon Ferry. For more information, call (406) 233‑1093.

About

Devil's Elbow Campground occupies a prime position on the distinctive bend of Hauser Lake, offering stunning views of the Big Belt and Elkhorn mountains. Located just a short drive from Helena, Montana's capital, the campground provides easy access to world-class recreation while maintaining a secluded feel. The shrub-steppe landscape of sagebrush and bunch grasses means limited natural shade, though scattered ponderosa pines and the lake itself help moderate summer temperatures. The 48-site campground includes 42 RV-compatible sites with spacious level gravel pads, five designated tent-only sites, and a group facility with a ramada/pavilion featuring power and lights. Every campsite comes equipped with a fire ring with grill grate and a picnic table. Vault toilets are located throughout each loop, and potable water is available throughout the campground and day use areas. A concrete boat launch with courtesy dock provides lake access, with first-come, first-served dock slips for overnight campers. Beyond camping, the area offers fishing, hunting, wildlife viewing, and boating on Hauser Lake. A network of non-motorized dirt, gravel, and paved trails connects Devil's Elbow to Two Camps Vista and Clark's Bay, allowing exploration without vehicle traffic. Several world-class mountain biking trails are accessible nearby.

Directions

From Helena: Head east on Custer Avenue, turn left onto York Road, and continue 16 miles to Devil's Elbow Recreation Area. From I-90 (Bozeman direction): Exit 274 onto US-287 north for 57 miles, right onto Lake Helena Drive, continue 4 miles through the roundabout, right onto York Road for 6.2 miles to the recreation area. Address: 5965 York Road, Helena, MT 59601.

Amenities

Water Yes
Fires Allowed Yes
Toilets Yes
Dump Station No
Wifi
Pets Allowed
Showers No
Electric Hookups
Water Hookups
Sewer Hookups
Camp Store
Price $25

Vehicle

Max RV Length 60ft
Max Trailer Length
Big Rig Friendly
Pull Through Sites No

Contact

Phone +1 (406) 227-3570

Cell Service

AT&T Yes
Verizon None
T-Mobile Yes

Availability

Photos

BLM Devil's Elbow Recreation Site
C-Loop ramada overlooking the Elkhorn mountains and Hauser Lake
Overview of Devil's Elbow Campground looking southeast
Overview of Devil's Elbow Campground from the walking path leading to Clark's Bay Day Use Area
Overview of Devil's Elbow Campground looking southeast
Walking path near boat ramp
C-Loop ramada overlooking the Elkhorn mountains and Hauser Lake
Pet exercise area at Devil's Elbow Campground
A-Loop entrance
Walking path within Devil's Elbow Recreation Site
Devil's Elbow Recreation Fee Site.
Docks at Devil's Elbow Recreation Site
BLM Devil's Elbow Campground.

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