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Judith Landing

The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is responsible for 1 in every 10 acres of land in the U.S.

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The Judith Landing Campground sits on the shores of the majestic Missouri River in central Montana. The scenic camping area, which is located on federal land protected by the Bureau of Land Management (BLM), is an especially popular spot for fans of water-based recreation. Fishing, boating, and hiking are all frequent activities for those who visit the site. Many who make the trip to Judith Landing, though, do so to participate in BLM camping. The BLM administers many stretches of natural land, and the majority of these areas feature beautiful campgrounds like the one found at Judith Landing. Because these campgrounds are typically inexpensive and are kept in great condition, BLM camping is becoming more and more popular with those who love the outdoors and getting closer to nature. If you live in the western half of the United States, you can search for "BLM camping near me."

What to See and Do

What to See and Do

Hiking and BikingHiking and Biking

Neat Coulee Canyon

Neat Coulee Canyon is an out-and-back trail near the town of Big Sandy, MT, which is about 30 miles northwest of Judith Landing. The trail takes hikers through a sparsely forested area with beautiful views of the nearby canyons and the Missouri River. The hike only takes about an hour to complete, so it's a great option if you're on a tight schedule. There are also some very cool rock formations to check out as you're moving along the trail.

Length: 2 miles

Intensity: Moderate

Grand Union Hotel Riverside Trail

Located near Fort Benton, MT, the Grand Union Hotel Riverside Trail is a paved path that's popular for walking, trail running, and road biking. Visitors who walk the trail will enjoy a nice, pleasant walk through a quiet community near the Missouri River. You're more than welcome to bring your dogs on the trail, and the ideal time to visit is between March and October. However, since the trail is paved, you'll never need to worry about it getting muddy or becoming difficult to traverse.

Length: 1.1 miles

Intensity: Easy

Upper Missouri Breaks Interpretive Center Trail

The Upper Missouri Breaks Interpretive Center Trail is also found near Fort Benton. The trail is paved and kid friendly, and it sees frequent use with runners, bikers, and hikers. The trail starts at the visitor center then takes visitors on a relaxing scenic walk along the riverbanks. If you want to learn more about the area before or after exploring the trail, you can also check out the many exhibits at the nearby museum.

Length: 1.1 miles

Intensity: Easy

Fishing and BoatingFishing and Boating

Fishing enthusiasts visiting Judith Landing will be in for a treat as the nearby Missouri River is one of the top fly-fishing destinations in Montana. You'll have a great chance to catch a few rainbow or brown trout when you cast your line. Alternatively, you can try your luck fishing in the Judith River, which connects to the Missouri River. The Judith River has a large population of brook, brown, and rainbow trout. The Judith Landing BLM site also offers a boat ramp and serves as a popular location for launching watercraft. Many visitors to the area use the river for kayaking, canoeing, and floating.

Wildlife ViewingWildlife Viewing

The region around Judith Landing is known for its huge population of elk and deer. Visitors will have an excellent chance of spotting a few of them, especially during winter. Black bears and grizzly bears have also been occasionally seen roaming the area. While you're camping or hiking through the nearby forests, you may also observe a variety of small mammals, raptors, and songbirds.

Picnicking

There's no need to stray from the Judith Landing Campground to enjoy your picnic; each of the campsites features a picnic table and a designated fire ring. The campground will make for a quiet and peaceful eating experience with the ambient sound of the nearby river serving as a perfect backdrop. You're also free to bring along a blanket or towel and find a pleasant spot away from the campground to have your picnic.

Camping

Bureau of Land Management Camping

RV Camping Caravan Icon

Though the Judith Landing Campground doesn't offer any electric, water, or sewer hookups, the site does cater to RV camping. Eight of the campground's sites can accommodate trailers and RVs up to 40 feet long. The campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis. The area around the site is very remote, so you aren't likely to encounter any other Bureau of Land Management campgrounds. However, if you head west toward Fort Benton, you will have several RV parks to choose from with hookups and amenities. A couple of quality choices in the area are Benton RV Park and Campground and Canoe Launch Campground.

Free Camping Campground Icon

Visitors to the Judith Landing BLM site will have a variety of options for dispersed camping. If you travel either east or west along the Missouri River, you'll find plenty of peaceful wooded areas. Within those forested areas, you shouldn't have any trouble finding a secluded clearing for Bureau of Land Management free camping.

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Planning Your Trip

Credit: Vanna Mae, @vannamaeart

Planning your Judith Landing BLM trip

When you're planning your trip to Judith Landing, don't forget that the campground is only open seasonally from May 15 until October 15. Because there are so few campgrounds in the area, the campground occasionally fills up during the most desirable camping times, such as holiday weekends. If you're visiting the site during a popular time, you'd be wise to have a backup plan for your overnight camping. If you do find that the campground is out of spaces, your easiest options will be to set up your own primitive campsite or head northwest to either the Hole-in-the-Wall Campground or the Eagle Creek Campground. Before you head out on your trip, check out our blog for all you need to know about BLM camping.

Leave No Trace Leaf

While visiting the Judith Landing BLM site, please treat the land as you'd want people to treat your home. When visitors to the area clean up after themselves, avoid disturbing nature, and treat the local wildlife with respect, it helps keep the site in good condition. Please make an effort to leave the natural site exactly the way it was when you found it. With your help in preserving the land, you and many others can continue visiting Judith Landing for many decades to come.

Leave No Trace
Location

Judith Landing Location

To reach the Judith Landing BLM site from Big Sandy, travel south on Montana State Highway 236. Continue down the highway for approximately 41 miles, and follow the signs for the Judith Landing Campground.

Ready to visit Judith Landing? An RV rental is a great way to experience your destination. Not only will you be close to all the action, but at the end of a long day exploring, you’ll have your RV to return to for the night where you’ll enjoy a full kitchen, bathroom, and nice soft bed. Not sure about renting an RV? Here’s a step-by-step guide to renting an RV with RVshare.

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