Rumbaugh Ridge

Open — Open year-round, first-come first-served. One of the few campgrounds on the south shore of Hebgen Lake that remains accessible after the end of September.

About

Rumbaugh Ridge is a primitive dispersed camping area in the Custer Gallatin National Forest on the south shore of Hebgen Lake near West Yellowstone. The campground features 4-5 designated sites that are roughly defined but marked, with sites 2-5 situated directly on the lake bank. Site 1 is located along the narrow access road and is difficult to access with anything larger than a van. Access to the campground is via Denny Creek Road (not West Denny Creek Road), which starts as pavement for 2.5 miles before becoming a washboarded gravel road. At approximately mile 7.5, an unmarked narrow dirt road on the right leads down to the campground, across from the Rumbaugh Ridge Summer Homes sign. The access road features deep ruts, tight corners with trees, and is not suitable for trailers over 20-30 feet or larger RVs. High clearance 4WD vehicles are recommended. The campground is known for its seclusion and natural beauty, with opportunities to see moose and elk. Hebgen Lake is known for large brown and rainbow trout, and there is a rutted boat ramp available for launching. Campers should be vigilant about bear safety as this is deep bear country. The lake has experienced toxic algae blooms, so water should not be filtered from the lake for drinking or given to animals. Mosquitoes and horseflies can be severe during summer months.

Directions

From West Yellowstone, take Highway 20 north. Turn onto Denny Creek Road (not West Denny Creek Road) just north of the KOA campground. Follow for approximately 7.5 miles (paved for first 2.5 miles, then washboarded gravel). Look for an unmarked narrow dirt road on the right, across from the Rumbaugh Ridge Summer Homes sign.

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