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Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site

Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site, near Gardiner, Montana, is a fantastic spot for those who crave a bit of solitude in nature. This area offers a variety of flat sites tucked away along a bumpy road, perfect for pitching a tent and enjoying the great outdoors.

Campers have noted the peacefulness of the location, with some even spotting elk and enjoying stunning sunsets. While there are no amenities like drinking water or toilets, the fire rings at each site allow for cozy evenings under the stars. As one visitor shared, “We made dinner on our solo stove,” highlighting the simplicity and charm of cooking outdoors.

If you're up for a little adventure, there are nearby hiking trails to explore, and the north entrance to Yellowstone National Park is just a short drive away. Some campers have mentioned the good Verizon service, making it easier to stay connected if needed, though AT&T service can be hit or miss.

While the road can be a bit rough, it’s manageable for most vehicles, and you’ll find plenty of spots to set up camp. Just remember to clean up after yourself, as this is bear country. Whether you're looking for a quick getaway or a longer stay, Little Trail Creek Road offers a laid-back camping experience surrounded by Montana's natural beauty.

Description

National Forest

Custer Gallatin National Forest

The Gardiner district covers the southeast part of Custer Gallatin National Forest, bordering Yellowstone National Park. Both Gardiner, MT and Cooke City, MT are within the Gardiner district.

Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. It also means no services (such as trash removal), and little or no facilities (such as tables, fire pits or toilets) are provided.

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Location

Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site is located in Montana

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

45.05260452 N
110.72447055 W

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Access

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

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Good
  • Verizon
    Unknown
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Good

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

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.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site needs a permit.


Reviews

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5 Reviews

Reviewed Aug. 18, 2024

Good place to stay outside of Yellowstone

Quiet, secluded dispersed sites about 15 minutes outside of Gardiner. No trees so it gets pretty hot without shade. There are random animal bones scattered around the sites from what I assume previous hunting trips, which is a bit eerie. 

I’d certainly stay here again for a couple nights!

Month of VisitAugust
  • Review photo of Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site by Viet N., August 18, 2024
  • Review photo of Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site by Viet N., August 18, 2024
Reviewed Jul. 17, 2024

Great dispersed site

Drove through a few open gates but there were clearly dispersed sites in this area. Nice flat sites, road was rocky and bumpy but not bad. Quiet area until a group of teenagers started a loud party at the site next to us

Month of VisitJuly
  • Review photo of Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site by Rachel S., July 17, 2024
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Reviewed Jun. 23, 2024

Perfect for a night or two

Perfect pull outs off Travertine up Trail Creek/FS 1701 just 7-10 minutes out of Gardine. We ended up at the very end of the road where it loops back on itself in our truck camper. Road was a bit washboard and bumpy, but didn’t need 4wd. Saw elk, a beautiful sunset, and a full moon rise. No river views, but wildflowers all over. Some hikes nearby. We went to the end out of curiosity and passed about 5 other campers, but were alone at the end. Made dinner on our solo stove. Clean up though, because it is still bear country. ATT and Verizon service, mid to full bars. 30 minutes to the YNP north entrance.

Sitethe last spot
Month of VisitJune
  • Review photo of Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site by Allison S., June 23, 2024
  • Review photo of Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site by Allison S., June 23, 2024
  • Review photo of Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site by Allison S., June 23, 2024
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Reviewed Jun. 21, 2024

Roadside sites with fire rings

Several roadside sites along this road that branches off Travertine Rd. A few sites are large enough for multiple tents/vans. Good Verizon service, poor AT&T service . We snagged the last site available the night we stayed, first site on left as you drive in. It is small but worked for our Sprinter.

SiteFirst site on left
Month of VisitJune
Reviewed Oct. 10, 2023

Secluded camping spots along the road.

There is no single designated campsite area but there are multiple spots along this road.

If you are looking at online maps it looks like there are lots of little roads you can go off and find a spot. You cannot. All side roads are locked as there is a quarry there. If you continue down this Red Quarry Rd you will see multiple little campsites right off the road you can park or camp at. They each had a fire pit and that was it. Beautiful area. If you don't see any just keep going I promise you will find at least 3 in the first mile or so. 

Does have Verizon service. Road is bumpy but manageable. Wouldn't bring an RV though.

Month of VisitOctober

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site?

    Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site is located at 6154 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is unknown, AT&T is unknown, and T-Mobile is good.