Canoe Launch Campground

Introduction / Overview

For Montana residents seeking a blend of rich local history, peaceful riverside camping, and exceptional affordability, the Canoe Launch Campground in Fort Benton is a truly special find. Known as the “Birthplace of Montana,” Fort Benton is a historically significant town, and this campground allows you to set up your basecamp right where the action—or rather, the tranquility—is. Situated uniquely on the grounds behind the local Fairgrounds, the campground offers a calm, secluded atmosphere away from highway noise and traffic, even while being conveniently close to downtown Fort Benton.

The key feature of the Canoe Launch Campground is its prime location along the legendary Missouri River. As its name implies, it provides direct access to the water, making it a perfect starting or ending point for canoeists, kayakers, and rafters exploring the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument. The setting is ideal for relaxing and unwinding, with guests frequently praising the quiet, calm, and friendly environment. Whether you're pulling in late with a large motorhome or setting up a tent for a weekend escape, this spot offers a comfortable, reasonably priced, and very welcoming stay, underscored by the dedicated service of its camp hosts. It is a fantastic option for families, solo travelers, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for an authentic, small-town Montana experience.

The campground offers sites suitable for everything from large RVs to simple tent setups, making it versatile for all types of Montana adventurers. The sunrise over the river and the chance to relax in a peaceful setting are highlights that keep guests coming back year after year.

Location and Accessibility

The Canoe Launch Campground is excellently located at 205 Fair Ground Lp, Fort Benton, MT 59442, USA. Its placement is both central to the town and sufficiently private, creating an appealing duality for campers.

Key location features include:

Riverside Setting:

The campground is nestled right along the banks of the Missouri River, providing picturesque views and easy water access for boating.

Fairgrounds Seclusion:

Located on the backside of the Fort Benton Fairgrounds, the site is effectively separated from major traffic and town noise, ensuring a quiet, peaceful night’s rest.

Downtown Proximity:

Despite the quiet location, it remains close to downtown Fort Benton. Campers are only a short drive—or even a brisk walk—from historic sites, museums, and local dining, including the famous Old Fort Benton.

Access for Large Rigs:

The campground’s access roads and spacious sites can easily accommodate large RVs and motorhomes, such as the 33-foot units successfully backed into sites by previous visitors.

For Montanans traveling across the state, Fort Benton is readily accessible via major state highways, making this an ideal, historically significant stopover point before heading further into the Hi-Line or the Missouri River Breaks.

Services Offered

Canoe Launch Campground provides fundamental, high-quality services aimed at maximizing comfort and convenience while maintaining its affordable, rustic charm.

RV and Trailer Accommodations:

Spacious, level, back-in trailer sites are available. Sites are designed to accommodate large rigs with minimal difficulty.

Utility Hookups:

Sites typically include essential hookups such as water and electricity, though availability and amperage (e.g., 30-amp or 50-amp) should be confirmed upon booking.

Restroom and Hygiene:

Access to clean restroom facilities is provided for all campers.

Host Services:

A friendly and helpful Camp Host is available on-site, offering local assistance, check-in services, and a famously warm welcome. They often go above and beyond to assist travelers, especially those arriving late.

Pet Friendly:

The campground proudly welcomes pets, making it easy for residents to travel with their furry companions.

Affordable Rates:

The pricing is notably reasonable, providing excellent value for a riverside location with utilities, making it a great budget-friendly option for extended stays.

Features / Highlights

The highlights of Canoe Launch Campground are centered around its location, its peaceful atmosphere, and the exceptional hospitality that visitors repeatedly praise.

Missouri River Access:

As the name suggests, the campground provides direct and easy access to the Missouri River for launching canoes, kayaks, and small boats, perfect for those exploring the Upper Missouri River Breaks National Monument.

Exceptional Hospitality:

The friendly nature of the Camp Host is a defining feature. Their willingness to assist guests, even when full, creates a uniquely welcoming atmosphere that enhances the entire stay.

Perfect Tranquility:

Despite its proximity to town, the campground is renowned for its peaceful, quiet, and calm environment, allowing guests to fully relax and enjoy the natural setting.

Stunning Natural Views:

Guests can enjoy beautiful natural scenery, including river views and spectacular Montana sunrises and sunsets over the water and surrounding landscape.

Historic Fort Benton Basecamp:

It provides an ideal base for exploring Fort Benton, including the Frontier Gateway Museum and the history of the steamboat era, which gave the town its historical nickname.

Contact Information

For the most up-to-date information on seasonal availability, rates, and to make reservations for your next riverside stay, please contact the campground directly.

Address: 205 Fair Ground Lp, Fort Benton, MT 59442, USA

Phone: (406) 622-5505

Mobile Phone: +1 406-622-5505

It is advisable to call ahead, especially during peak season, as the campground can fill up quickly, a testament to its popularity.

What is worth choosing

Choosing the Canoe Launch Campground is a no-brainer for any Montanan looking for an excellent value and a peaceful retreat in a location steeped in history. What makes this campground truly worth choosing is its triple threat of riverside access, convenience, and superior hospitality. You get to park your rig right by the legendary Missouri River, perfect for a relaxing afternoon or an early morning paddle, yet you are minutes from the rich historical sites of Fort Benton.

For RV owners, the spacious sites and available hookups, combined with a very reasonable price, mean you can settle in comfortably without straining your budget. But perhaps the most enduring reason to choose this spot is the friendly and welcoming atmosphere fostered by the management. The dedication of the camp host to ensuring every traveler finds a spot, even when full, speaks volumes about the level of care and customer service you can expect. It’s more than just a place to park; it’s a quiet, friendly, and well-located community basecamp that lets you experience the best of Central Montana's history and natural beauty. For a calm, well-priced, and pet-approved stop on the Missouri, Canoe Launch Campground is an exceptional choice.