About Trapper Springs (MT)
Overview The Dillon Field Office is unable to make reservations for you. Please call Recreation.gov (877-444-6777) to book a reservation or book online. Campsites are available for reservation for the Peak-Season times of May 1st through September 15th. All sites are first-come-first-serve from September 16th through April 30th. Trapper Springs Campground is adjacent to the lower Madison River and provides good access for camping, fishing and floating. The campground has 15 camp sites, 9 available for reservations. There is no boat launch available at this site, but there are several in the vicinity. The campground serves as a great central location to access the lower Madison River. The day use area has a large pavilion with parking for 20 vehicles. The pavilion can be reserved for groups ($50/day). The campground has 15 camping sites with two accessible vault toilets. Organized Group permits are required for groups larger than 15 people. Recreation The Madison River is well known for its robust trout fishery. The lower Madison River is a very popular destination for non-angling floaters (tubers) during the warm summer months. Trapper Springs sits roughly half way between Warm Springs boat launch and Black's Ford Fishing Access Site. Facilities 15 campsites, 3 accessible vault toilets, drinking water, group use pavilion, fire pits, and picnic tables. Firewood is available for purchase at Red Mountain Campground, when the volunteer campground host is present. Natural Features Madison River Contact Info This location is unstaffed. To speak with our main office for general information, please call: (406) 683-8000. Nearby Attractions Lower Madison River, Bear Trap Canyon unit of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness Area, Norris Hot Springs, Ennis Charges & Cancellations Failing to arrive on the first night of your reservation will result in a forfeiture of your reservation and your site may be made available to someone else.
How to Get There
From Bozeman; Head west on MT Hwy 84 (Norris Road). Continue on MT Hwy 84 for 20.5 miles. Turn left (south) at South Bear Trap Canyon Road. If you cross the Madison River you have just passed the turn. From Norris; Head East on MT Hwy 84 (Norris Road) travel for 8 miles and turn right (south) at South Bear Trap Canyon Road after you cross the Madison River.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 10 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
- ☔
Rain jacket / shell
50% chance of precipitation in the forecast.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
- 🛍
Dry bags for electronics
Phone, camera, and snacks should stay dry.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Trapper Springs (MT)
Heading to Trapper Springs (MT)? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Trapper Springs (MT)?
No central reservation system listed for Trapper Springs (MT). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/261802) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Trapper Springs (MT)?
From Bozeman; Head west on MT Hwy 84 (Norris Road). Continue on MT Hwy 84 for 20.5 miles. Turn left (south) at South Bear Trap Canyon Road. If you cross the Madison River you have just passed the turn. From Norris; Head East on MT Hwy 84 (Norris Road) travel for 8 miles and turn right (south) at South Bear Trap Canyon Road after you cross the Madison River.
How do I contact Trapper Springs (MT)?
You can reach the park at phone: 406-683-8000.
References & Official Resources
