Beaver Creek Campground

If you and your buddy are looking for a fur-friendly place to stay in Montana’s gorgeous Hegben Lake region, Beaver Creek Campground might just be the paw-fect place for you two to pitch your tent! That’s if you’re after a true wilderness experience, of course. Facilities at Beaver Creek are at the same standard as most US Forest Service campgrounds in the area -- that is to say, pretty rustic. Don’t expect any showers, electricity, or RV hookups. Speaking of RVs, access to Beaver Creek is via a steep, winding road, so larger rigs might struggle.

But you and your pooch might find that the location is worth sacrificing a few creature comforts! Beaver Creek is situated in West Yellowstone, just a bone’s throw away from Earthquake Lake. Sites are well-shaded by pines and aspen, and the forest floor is carpeted with colorful wildflowers in spring and early summer. Spots up the hill also have fabulous views. There are a couple of ways to stay -- as well as the standard sites, tent-only sites are available for those who don’t want to deal with the noise of their neighbors' vehicles. There’s no entrance fee to the area, and sites start at $20.

You and your pupper will have no trouble finding something to do during your stay! The area is particularly paw-pular with avid anglers. Earthquake Lake is a great place to cast a line, but if you’re willing to go a little further afield, Hegben Lake is known as the best place for stillwater fishing in the entire state.

One of the main draws to Beaver Creek is its proximity to Yellowstone National Park, but the park doesn’t exactly welcome wagging tails with open arms -- doggos aren’t allowed on any of the trails at all. Hound-dog hikers might want to stick to several routes closer to camp. The nine-mile, moderately rated Beaver Creek Trail provides access to several wilderness areas and other trail systems. Just keep an eye out for hunters!

WiFi isn’t available at Beaver Creek, and cellular coverage varies from spotty to non-existent, so consider your camping choice carefully if you need to stay in constant contact. One further note: this is grizzly bear country, so take precautions! Remember to bring waste bags for your pup, and have a furrific stay at Beaver Creek Campground!