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Map showing campground location near Belgrade, Montana
Camper submitted image from Fairy Lake Dispersed CampingView 10 Photos
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Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping

3 ReviewsAdd Review
SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile

Hiking and lake access draw campers to this free dispersed area in Gallatin National Forest, where a handful of established sites sit within walking distance of the Fairy Lake trailhead. The access road is rough and gains significant elevation, making it manageable for small campers and high-clearance vehicles but challenging for larger rigs. Sites include fire rings and a mix of sun and shade. Weekends bring heavy trailhead traffic, with one reviewer counting around 30 vehicles at the upper sites. Fairy Lake Campground is 0.3 miles southwest for campers who prefer a more developed setup.

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Map & DirectionsFairy Lake Dispersed Camping is located in Montana near Belgrade

Detail location of campground
Dispersed Camping

Coordinates

45.911398179986776 N
110.96055911702409 W

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Connectivity

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    Verizon
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    Verified by 6 users
    Last on 7/25/26

Connectivity

Presented byT-MobileT-Mobile is introducing T-Satellite to extend coverage in the outdoorsLearn More
  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    Verizon
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage
    Verified by 6 users
    Last on 7/25/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)
  • Dispersed
  • Group

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Big Rig Friendly

DISPERSED CAMPING

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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Reviews3 Camper Reviews - Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping

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5.0

out of 5

3 Reviews

Campers regularly cited spacious sites with established fire rings and room for multiple vehicles. The rough mountain road requires careful driving but leads to private, shaded camping spots near Fairy Lake trailhead.

SUMMARY PRESENTED BYT-Mobile
Reviewed Sep. 27, 2025

Great spot!

I towed my small camper up the mountain fairly easily, although this is by far the roughest road I’ve encountered so far. Not for the faint of heart! I saw a couple sprinter vans coming up but no other RV’s. There are a handful of spots to camp on the way up the mountain but I found one about 1/4 mile before the campground. There is sun, shade, a fire ring and 3 other neighboring sites. 2 of those sites aren’t very accessible by car but this site is big enough for multiple vehicles. It’s also walking distance to the Fairy Lake trailhead and to the lake itself, which is very popular on the weekends. Would absolutely stay here again. No bugs, no bear scat nearby, some traffic but still private.

Site45.9101098, -110.9636954
Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping by Ariana N., September 27, 2025
  • Review photo of Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping by Ariana N., September 27, 2025
  • Review photo of Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping by Ariana N., September 27, 2025
  • (5) View All
Reviewed Jul. 14, 2025

On the road to Fairy Lake

There is a Meadow about 4 miles in front of the highway that has at least 3 dispersed sites. I went to the one furthest from the dirt road and had nice shade and privacy here. I went all the way to the dispersed campsite above Fairy Lake. I felt it was adequate but the 2 remaining sites were full sun and the trailhead right below the CG was packed (approx. 30 vehicles)

Sitefurthest site from Road
Month of VisitJuly
Showing results 1-3 of 3 reviews

Frequently Asked Questions

What amenities are available at Fairy Lake Campground?

Fairy Lake Campground offers basic amenities typical of a more rustic camping experience. The dispersed sites include established fire rings, which are perfect for campfires and cooking. The area provides enough space for multiple vehicles at most sites. While the campground is primitive in nature, the beautiful natural surroundings and lake access compensate for the limited facilities. There are no hookups, showers, or other modern conveniences, so campers should come prepared with all necessary supplies and be ready for a self-sufficient camping experience.

What activities can you do at Fairy Lake in Montana?

Fairy Lake offers numerous outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Hiking is popular, with trails including the path to the top of Fairy Lake campground that provides scenic views. The lake itself is perfect for fishing, swimming, and paddling during summer months. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound in the surrounding forest areas. Photography enthusiasts will appreciate the beautiful mountain landscapes and alpine scenery. The meadow areas are ideal for picnicking and relaxing. For the more adventurous, exploring the various trails in the area provides opportunities to discover the natural beauty of this Montana destination.

Where is Fairy Lake Campground located in Montana?

Fairy Lake Campground is located in the Bridger Mountains of southwestern Montana. To reach the campground, you'll travel along a dirt road that extends about 4 miles from the highway. The campground sits at a high elevation in a scenic mountain setting. Dispersed sites are available both in a meadow area along the access road and near the top of the trail leading to Fairy Lake itself. The location provides a remote, peaceful camping experience while still being accessible from Bozeman. For specific directions, contacting the Custer Gallatin National Forest office is recommended.

Is dispersed camping allowed at Fairy Lake?

Yes, dispersed camping is definitely allowed at Fairy Lake. There are multiple established dispersed sites available. Some sites are located about 4 miles from the highway in a meadow area with at least 3 dispersed spots, offering shade and privacy. Additional dispersed sites can be found near the top of the trail to Fairy Lake campground. These sites typically have established fire rings and room for multiple vehicles. Sites tend to fill up quickly during peak season, so arriving early is recommended.

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