Goose Bay BLM

Free dispersed camping along Canyon Ferry Lake draws RV and tent campers to this BLM-managed area on the reservoir's east shore. The campground accommodates big rigs up to 50 feet with numerous sites spread across grassy and more worn terrain, most positioned within a couple hundred feet of the water. Fire rings and picnic tables mark individual spots, while vault toilets serve the area though they lack running water or toilet paper.

Access proves straightforward from the main road, and campers can drive, walk, or boat to available sites. Water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting shoreline proximity and lake access. The 14-day stay limit applies to all campers using this free camping option near campgrounds near Townsend.

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Location

Dispersed Camping

Goose Bay BLM is located in Montana

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

46.54267498549234 N
111.57503390157078 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 28 users
    Last on 4/23/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 39 users
    Last on 4/23/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 9 users
    Last on 4/23/26

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 28 users
    Last on 4/23/26
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Good Coverage
    Verified by 39 users
    Last on 4/23/26
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T5G
    Excellent Coverage
    Verified by 9 users
    Last on 4/23/26

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site
  • Walk-In
    Park in a lot, walk to your site.
  • Boat-In
    Sites accessible by watercraft.

Site Types

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

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

For Vehicles

  • Pull-Through Sites
  • 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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Reviews

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3 Reviews

Reviewed Apr. 11, 2026

Spacious and Open

This is my first time camping on the east shore of Canyon Ferry. Access is very easy and many open spots with fire pits all over. Grounds on some spots are pretty beaten up and some others are very grassy and clean. Several bathrooms around, but no running water or tp stocked. Doesn’t look like this spot is loved on by BLM too much but that’s fair it’s free. Currently the water level is very low and I’m excited to return when it’s full. I like being able to park right near the edge of the reservoir and see all the water out my camper windows.

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Goose Bay BLM by Brodie B., April 11, 2026
Reviewed Aug. 7, 2025

Easy to get to and a beautiful location

Tons of spots for camping and big rigs up to 50 ft long with spots a couple of hundred feet from the reservoir itself and lots of shade in places with decent privacy and picnic tables and fire rings at each site, and vault toilets provided. 14 day stay limit.

SiteNo numbered sites so I pulled into the left in an area with a tree that has trunks coming out of the ground and a view of the reservoir
Month of VisitAugust

Frequently Asked Questions

Where is Goose Bay dispersed camping located on Canyon Ferry?

Goose Bay dispersed camping is located directly on the shores of Canyon Ferry Reservoir in Montana. The camping area offers lake-accessible sites with many spots situated just a couple hundred feet from the water's edge. The location provides excellent access to the reservoir for water activities while offering shaded areas with decent privacy between campsites.

What BLM camping rules apply at Goose Bay in Montana?

At Goose Bay BLM, campers must observe a 14-day stay limit. The area provides designated sites with picnic tables and fire rings, and visitors are expected to use these established facilities. Vault toilets are available for public use. As with all BLM land, campers should follow Leave No Trace principles, properly dispose of waste, respect quiet hours, and adhere to any fire restrictions that may be in effect.

Is dispersed camping allowed year-round at Goose Bay?

Goose Bay offers dispersed camping with numerous available sites accommodating a range of camping styles. The area can handle large RVs up to 50 feet long, and sites feature amenities like picnic tables and fire rings. While the campground infrastructure suggests seasonal accessibility, it's advisable to check with BLM officials regarding potential winter closures or access limitations due to Montana's severe winter weather conditions.