Map showing campground location near Colstrip, Montana

Camper submitted image from Custer National Forest

Custer National Forest

SUMMARY PRESENTED BY

Off Highway 212 near Colstrip, this dispersed camping area sits a quarter-mile down a dirt road from the main route. The Custer National Forest location allows stays up to 16 days and provides basic amenities including fire rings and pit toilets.

Campers can access the area by vehicle, though RVs are not accommodated due to space constraints. The site maintains cell service coverage and permits both pets and alcohol. For those needing additional facilities, Red Shale Campground - Custer National Forest provides more developed camping nearby. The location works well for travelers seeking an overnight stop along the highway corridor.

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Map & DirectionsCuster National Forest is located in Montana near Colstrip

Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

45.56932818729035 N
106.14773906732475 W

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Access

Drive-In
Park next to your site
Walk-In
Park in a lot, walk to your site.

Site Types

Tent Sites
Standard (Tent/RV)
Group

Features

For Campers

Picnic Table
Phone Service
Toilets
Alcohol
Pets
Fires

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.

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Reviews6 Camper Reviews - Custer National Forest

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5 Stars

4 Stars

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1 Star

5.0

out of 5

6 Reviews

J W.

Guide

Reviewed Aug. 4, 2026

Very nice

Quite camping. Clean vaulted toilets. What else do you need? 🤷‍♂️

Month of VisitAugust

Glenn B.

Guide

Reviewed Jun. 29, 2026

Convenient free

This is an overnight stop for us on the way to Glacier NP. It is right on US 212. We have a 26 foot travel trailer and our total length is about 45 feet. Don't worry about the dirt road as it is adequate and maybe a quarter mile back to where we are in the furthest loop. We found a site where we could be level front to back without unhitching. It is extremely quiet and a very nice setting. Our neighbor is a hundred yards away and beat us to a spot with a beautiful view. There is no fee here and no apparent water, dump or trash receptacle. We did not use the pit toilet. Decent Verizon and T-MOBILE. Travlfi is delivering 5G. Great for our stated purpose.

Siten/a

Month of VisitJune

(4) View All

Tyler S.

Ranger

Reviewed Jun. 29, 2026

Peaceful and beautiful

Large spots to access. Nice picnic tables and fire pits. 2 outdoor bathrooms. Access is easy don’t be intimidated at how it looks up front. You’ll drive over a cattle guard and less than 100 yards you’ll enter the campground!

Month of VisitJune

(4) View All

Kirsten L.

Guide

Reviewed Jun. 26, 2026

Private spots

Back spots you can hear less traffic noise. Cell service is 3 bars…fire rings and level spots vault toilet is clean but door broken🥴

Sitetop of the hill

Month of VisitJune

(5) View All

Wendy T.

Traveler

Reviewed Jun. 8, 2026

Quick overnight stop

Beautiful location, plenty of space for our class A with jeep in tow

Siten/a

Month of VisitJune

Laurie F.

Guide

Reviewed Sep. 8, 2025

Level sights, light first

Came across by accident. Was looking for a place to park for the night near Ashland, Montana on Rt 212. This is just off the highway with an easy 1/4 mi. Drive on a dirt road. Stay up to 16 days. Fire rings, pit toilets.

SiteAbout 100 yds from the highway.

Month of VisitSeptember

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find camping options in Colstrip, Montana?

Custer National Forest provides camping opportunities near Colstrip, Montana. One specific camping option can be found just off Route 212 near Ashland, which is a short drive from Colstrip. The campsite is accessible via an easy quarter-mile drive on a dirt road. This makes it convenient for travelers passing through the area who need a place to stay overnight or for longer periods.

What amenities are available at Colstrip campgrounds?

Campgrounds near Colstrip in the Custer National Forest offer basic amenities to support an authentic outdoor experience. The facilities include fire rings for campfires and pit toilets for sanitation needs. These simple amenities allow campers to enjoy a more rustic camping experience while still having essential facilities available.

Are there any RV hookups at Colstrip camping areas?

The camping areas near Colstrip within Custer National Forest do not offer RV hookups. These sites are more suited for self-contained camping, whether in an RV that can operate without external connections or in tent setups. While hookups aren't available, the accessible location just off the highway makes these sites practical for overnight RV parking for those who can dry camp.

What activities are available near Colstrip camping areas?

The Custer National Forest camping areas near Colstrip offer various outdoor recreation opportunities. Visitors can enjoy hiking on nearby trails, wildlife viewing, and stargazing in the relatively remote location. The proximity to Route 212 makes it easy to explore the broader region, including the natural attractions of southeastern Montana. The campsites' fire rings enable evening campfires, perfect for relaxation after a day of outdoor activities. The forest setting provides a peaceful environment for nature appreciation and photography.