Why Winter RV Camping Is Worth the Chill: Adventure Awaits in Montana

When the temperatures drop and the mountains transform into snow-covered playgrounds, many travelers pack away their camping gear and wait for spring. But for those who love winter activities such as skiing, snowboarding, snowshoeing, ice fishing, snowmobiling, winter hiking, or soaking in a hot spring, winter RV camping is one of the most rewarding ways to experience the season.

Missoula, Glacier, and the greater Yellowstone Region offer some of the best cold-weather recreation in the country, making an RV the perfect basecamp for snowy exploration. Whether you’re a seasoned winter warrior or curious beginner, here’s why RVing in winter is worth trying, plus expert tips and great destinations you can enjoy this season.

So, Why RV in the Winter?

RVing in the winter lets you wake up right where you want to play. You can skip those long morning drives to trail heads or ski resorts by setting up close to the action. You will spend less time commuting and more time enjoying the fresh powder, frozen lakes, or scenic hikes while also saving money avoiding expensive hotels and resorts.

Compared to summer, campgrounds in the winter are quiet. You’ll find better campsite availability, peaceful landscapes, and more privacy, all while enjoying premier outdoor activities. Not to mention, prices at campgrounds are often cheaper in the off season. Not only this, but unlike tent camping, winter RVing keeps you warm and cozy after long days outdoors by bringing the comforts of home with you. You won’t have to worry about unpacking or complicated set ups, enjoy hot water, a real mattress, and get that beautiful “backcountry” view, all without sacrificing comfort. Nothing beats watching the snow fall from your RV window or stargazing on crisp, clear nights.

Tips to Keep You Cozy

To stay warm efficiently during winter RV camping, be sure to bring extra propane, as heating systems consume it quickly, and consider using heated blankets or 12-volt mattress pads to help conserve energy while keeping you comfortable at night. RV skirting is also helpful if you’re staying in one place for a while, since it reduces heat loss underneath your rig. It’s important to protect your plumbing by using a heated water hose, or filling your fresh tank and disconnecting your exterior water line, while insulating exposed plumbing, and keeping your interior warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing. Adding RV anti-freeze to your holding tanks can also help protect your RV from freeze damage, just remember to bring some jugs of water for brushing your teeth and making your morning coffee. Proper winter gear is essential, so pack snow boots, warm layers, traction devices for icy roads, snowshoes or touring skis, shovels and ice melt, flashlights or headlamps, and plenty of extra blankets. A generator with fuel is useful not only for powering appliances, but also for extending your battery life in cold conditions. When traveling, check road conditions often, use chains or winter tires, avoid storms when possible, and always bring extra food and water. Since batteries drain faster in freezing temperatures, it’s smart to monitor your power closely; if you’re not on hookups, a generator or solar panel setup helps keep you charged so you can enjoy the snow without worry.

Where to Go

Missoula is an incredible launch point for snowy fun. Here are some favorite spots where RVers love to winter camp and play:

1. Lolo Hot Springs

Soak in steaming mineral pools while snow falls around you. Access trails for:

Snowshoeing

Cross-country skiing

Snowmobiling

RV camping is available nearby and is perfect for combining adventure and relaxation.

2. Snowbowl (Skiing & Snowboarding)

Just minutes from Missoula, Montana Snowbowl offers great skiing with steep terrain and glorious views. RV camping nearby allows dawn-patrol parking.

3. Seeley Lake

A top destination for:

Snowmobiling

Nordic skiing

Ice fishing

Campgrounds remain accessible year-round, and the community embraces winter tourism.

4. Georgetown Lake / Philipsburg

This area draws winter enthusiasts for:

Ice fishing

Snowmobiling

Downhill skiing at Discovery Ski Area

Nearby campgrounds make this a great weekend RV getaway.

5. Yellowstone

Yellowstone in the winter is breathtaking. With fewer tourist and animals more visible against the snow, the wildlife viewing is unbeatable. There is also a wide range of activities you can partake in such as:

• Snowshoeing and Nordic Skiing
• Snowmobile tours
• Wildlife photography
• Geothermal sightseeing

Camping within the park can be more limited in the winter but there are campgrounds near by in the Gardiner, West Yellowstone, and Cody, WY area.

6. Glacier

While parts of Glacier become inaccessible in the winter, much of the lower park still remains open in the winter providing beautiful hikes and other exciting opportunities around Apgar Village, St. Mary’s, and Lake McDonald. 

What Kind of RV is best for Winter Camping?

You don’t need the most rugged RV on the market to enjoy winter camping, but there are a few features to keep in mind while choosing the best camper for you. Many RV manufactures have some variation of a Four Season or Polar Package. Looking for this designation on an RV is a great place to start. Things like and enclosed and heated underbelly, good insulation, large furnace, and quality seals and windows are important for keeping warm and avoiding freeze damage.

Many people like toy haulers for their winter RV. Toy Haulers offer a garage space that can fit things like snowmobiles, skis, snowboards, and has room to dry out gear at the end of the day.

If you are unsure whether your RV is winter-ready, many dealerships (including us!) can help with winterization, protection packages, or upgrades to keep you cozy in your RV this winter.

Your Winter Adventure Awaits!

Just because temperatures are dropping and snow is just around the corner doesn’t mean you can’t still get out and enjoy your RV and all that winter seasons have to offer. With your RV you will be able to stay close to adventure, keep warm and cozy, save money by avoiding expensive hotels and resorts, get away from the crowds, and extend the camping season. Let your RV turn every snowy weekend into an unforgettable getaway!

Ready to Try Winter RVing?

From Missoula’s backyard mountains to the vast beauty of Yellowstone, winter opens a new world of scenery and adventure and your RV is the perfect way to enjoy it.

If you are looking to upgrade, outfit your current rig for winter, or learn more about winter RVing, our team is happy to help. Let’s get outside this season!