Top Free Dispersed Camping near Belgrade, MT

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Belgrade, MT (14)

    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed

    2. Olson Creek Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    20 Photos
    98 Saves

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

    Rules for dispersed camping Groups over 75 people are not allowed. Dispersed camping is NOT allowed at trailheads, picnic sites, and fishing areas and within close proximity of campgrounds. You need to be self-contained. No amenities are provided; such as water, restrooms or trash cans. Please pack out all your trash. For information on occupancy and use, camping stay limits, weed free forage, visit Region 1 - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov). Travel to campsites must not create resource damage. Travel to campsites must not create resource damage Contact local district office for information on fire restrictions. It is your responsibility to know if fire restrictions are in effect before camping. Be bear aware and know the food storage regulations before camping. These regulations are strictly enforced. Where can I disperse camp? Please refer to each district's Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM). These maps will show which roadways allow disperse camping and it tells you the distance you are allowed to drive off the road to camp. Please note that some roads have more limitations and restrictions than others. Please consult the Motor Vehicle Use Map or call the district office for more details.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

    3. South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

    4 Reviews
    13 Photos
    117 Saves

    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 anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no services (such as trash removal), and little or no facilities (such as tables and fire pits) are provided.

    Rules for dispersed camping Groups over 75 people are not allowed. Dispersed camping is NOT allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas. You need to be self-contained. No amenities are provided; such as water, restrooms or trash cans. Please pack out all your trash. You may camp in a dispersed area for up to 16 days. After 16 days, you must move at least 5 road miles for camping in another dispersed area and you can not return to your original campsite for 7 days. Please use existing fire rings and avoid creating new fire rings. Contact your local district office for information on fire restrictions. It is your responsibility to know if fire restrictions are in effect before you go camping. Be bear aware and know the food storage regulations before camping. These regulations are strictly enforced. Where can I disperse camp? To find out where you are allowed to disperse camp, please refer to each district's Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM). These maps will show which roadways allow disperse camping and it tells you the distance you are allowed to drive off the road to camp. Please note that some roads have more limitations and restrictions than others. Please consult the Motor Vehicle Use Map or call the district office for more details. To see our Motor Vehicle Use Maps, click here.

    Can I have a campfire? Please use existing sites and fire rings. Firewood permits are not needed if wood is used on the forest. If wood is transported home for personal use, you will need to purchase a firewood permit at the closest district office. This permit should be obtained prior to you gathering or transporting any wood.

    Before you leave your campfire make sure is it completely out. You should be able to put your whole hand into the ashes without being burned; it should be cool to the touch. Stir the ashes to make sure all embers have cooled. This is very important! Many forest fires are caused by abandoned campfires that were not completely out.

    The National Forest has wildfires each year. Many of these are human caused from escaped campfires in dispersed sites. Campfires are allowed unless there are fire restrictions in effect due to high fire danger conditions. It is your responsibility to know if fire restrictions are in effect before you go camping. You can learn about any fire restrictions by contacting the nearest Forest Service office.

    Dispersed camping means no bathrooms and no outhouses. That means extra care has to be taken in disposing of human waste. To dispose of feces, dig a hole six to eight (6-8) inches deep at least 200 feet away from any water source. When you are done, fill the hole with the dirt you dug up and take your toilet paper with you to dispose of in a proper waste container. Never defecate or leave toilet paper on top of the ground. Do not simply cover it with a rock. It could easily get into the local water source and contaminate it.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM

    4. Copper City BLM

    4 Reviews
    1 Photo
    32 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping

      7. Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping

      3 Reviews
      2 Photos
      37 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Standard (Tent/RV)
      • No image available

        8. Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp

        4 Reviews
        21 Saves
        • Pets
        • Fires
        • Phone Service
        • RVs
        • Tents
        • Equestrian
        • No image available
          • No image available

            10. Meadow Creek Dispersed Campground

            1 Review
            18 Saves

            There are many opportunities for dispersed camping on the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.

            Forest-wide stay limit: Camping in an area, campsite, or developed campground is limited to 16 accumulated days within any 30 day period.

            • Pets
            • Fires
            • RVs
            • Tents
            • Dispersed
            • Alcohol
          Showing results 1-10 of 14 campgrounds

          Recent Dispersed Reviews In Belgrade

          35 Reviews of 14 Belgrade Campgrounds


          • H
            Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM
            Sep. 22, 2024

            Copper City BLM

            Bridge closed, no access!

            The road to this location is closed, the bridge is out. There is no access.

          • Tristan S.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Fork Road Dispersed
            Sep. 20, 2024

            Taylor Fork Road Dispersed

            Easy Access Campground

            This is a fantastic campground with lots of empty sites along Taylor Creek. The site I stayed at had a fire pit with lots of room to setup a tent or camper if you’re interested. Lots of distance between each campsite and again, a pretty valley view with a beautiful creek.

          • TexasRe D.
            Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
            Sep. 1, 2024

            South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

            2 peaceful nights

            We were looking for an easy dispersed site to stay at while visiting a friend in Bozeman. This was an easy option for us with a 20ft camper. We stayed at the first pull off a few minutes off the main road. This site was easily accessible, right off the main road, close to town and close to some hikes.

          • SThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping
            Sep. 1, 2024

            Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping

            Very hard to find at night

            This place seemed promising at first. It was hard to find a decent spot at night due to only using headlights of my van. Most of the road is extremely rugged/uneven/full of large holes. The only place I was able to stay for the night was the road leading up to the locked gate. This is about the only nice spot. Other than that this place is • quiet w/occasional traffic along the high way (right next to reservoir) • very few people here, but far enough away from me • no fee required • provides OK view to the mountains • great when you bring along a pet • you will need to be fully prepared for primitive camping

          • Erik W.
            Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
            Aug. 8, 2024

            Olson Creek Dispersed

            No trespassing signs everywhere

            Not to mention the single-lane cobblestone road, I have a truck and was bouncing up and down the whole way! I didn't find one area big enough to set up camp. I definitely would NOT recommend this spot

          • Cody K.
            Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Fork Road Dispersed
            Aug. 7, 2024

            Taylor Fork Road Dispersed

            Beautiful Site

            We stayed one night on our way back from Yellowstone. My RTT was perfect for this. There was a small corral for horses and plenty of room for a horse trailer and truck.

          • John H.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping
            Jul. 29, 2024

            Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping

            Amazing camp site with tree cover and fire ring

            This is an amazing camp spot that is almost almost to the top of the trail to fairy Lake campground. There’s an established firing, and there’s room for multiple vehicles.

          • christian L.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
            Jul. 27, 2024

            Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046

            Bozeman visit

            We stayed here for a few days off one of the main trail head. There are not many sites off the main trail head and we’re all full when we arrived.

            We have a 25ft off road travel trailer and attempted to go down two side trail heads. The further one was so bad we had to back all the way out. The closest side trail head was slightly better. We made down the road. However there wasn’t many sites here as well. There was maybe 3-4 sites along this whole trail head. We needed up stay in a pull in a valley early on in this trail head

          • Bobby J.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
            Jul. 24, 2024

            South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

            Ok stay

            This was an ok stay outside of Bozeman. The coordinates took me to a spot which was occupied but looked like the only spot on that stretch of road. It began to get extremely rutted and I didn’t want to push any farther after that spot. I camped in what looked to be a dispersed campsite that they closed off

          • Renee G.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM
            Jul. 24, 2024

            Copper City BLM

            Classic blm camping

            Lots of open space and locations to pull out--beautiful views as well! To access this place we went towards Copper City Trail Head, and drove by the entrance onto BLM lands. Also, note that this place seems common for mountain bikers and trail bikers, so you'll likely run into a few of those. Also also, this place is DRY--so be sure to bring your own water (but on the plus side, no bugs!!)

          • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
            Jul. 17, 2024

            Olson Creek Dispersed

            Fine for a night but not many options

            A bit confusing with all the no trespassing and no parking on/off the road signs. Felt more comfortable once we saw another van parked, and drove past the coordinate location a few minutes to use a tiny widened part of the road. No services.

          • KThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
            Jul. 15, 2024

            Olson Creek Dispersed

            Peaceful and Easy Access

            Great spot and easy to get to. Exactly where the coordinates are pull off was big enough for my sprinter 170 extended was even able to get it perfectly level a few dirt bikes on the road that stopped at sunset. It’s very quiet and beautiful views and 15° cooler than Bozeman.

          • Jenna B.
            Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
            Jul. 14, 2024

            South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

            Beautiful secluded Mountain views

            Gorgeous campsite only 20ish min from the outskirts of Bozeman. Stopped in for 1 night passing through on a bigger road trip and couldn’t be luckier with this location. Fire rings at all campsites. Very quite road. Level ground for car camping. Would 100% come back just for this gem.

          • Alex C.
            Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM
            Jul. 14, 2024

            Copper City BLM

            Open range

            Plenty of pull out sites with some scattered man made fire rings. Secluded quiet and great views

          • Ashley M.
            Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM
            Jul. 8, 2024

            Copper City BLM

            Summer Biking

            Great spot right on parts of the trial! It’s open and you can see miles in each direction. No shade, no bathrooms, but most have man made fire pits.

          • MThe Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
            Jul. 6, 2024

            Olson Creek Dispersed

            Really a 4.5 star spot

            Beautiful space with views and birdsongs aplenty. Spaces are small and right off the road, but for a free night not far from I-94 with solitude and nature, it’s fantastic. There are a few more pull-offs (again, no privacy and right off the Forest Road) if you drive on down toward Skunk Rd, but road gets rougher (high clearance and/or 4WD fine) from especially if it has recently rained. Those spots were also all taken. Went about a 1/2 mile beyond the GPS coordinates for spot with wee bit more space but the pull-off with these exact coordinates ended up getting claimed by an RV at some point in the night—this road gets solid use in the summer—saw at least a dozen vehicles in the 14 hours here.

          • E
            Camper-submitted photo from Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp
            Jun. 15, 2024

            Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp

            Good spot above

            There’s a spot down by the water that someone took with a tent who we let by us. We took a spot just above before you drive down to the water. I wasn’t sure if I could turn around my 20’ travel trailer down by the water. Very buggy.

          • Rebecca V.
            Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
            May. 24, 2024

            Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046

            Spot was closed

            The gate was closed when we went. We were also in an RV that doesn't do great with snow so we were going out to turn around anyway. Found a spot in the town of Bozeman. Would be great to know when these gates are open or closed though.

          • owen T.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp
            Mar. 30, 2024

            Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp

            Fishing access site. No developed sites. State of Montana lands .

            Rough camp. No amenities. Not large enough for motor home. But ok for pull camper. First come first serve. Looking for that free spot. Between the hotels and hassle.

          • owen T.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping
            Mar. 29, 2024

            Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping

            Cottonwood reservoir wilsall montana

            Cottonwood Reseravoir DNRC land section.  accessible for overnight camping under DNRC rules.  The reservoir has Yellowstone cutthroat trout and white suckers.  No wifi, no trash, no bathrooms. Completely wild. Stars at night amazing. All kinds of waterfowl passing seasonal. No amenities.

          • Nicki S.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
            Feb. 22, 2024

            Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046

            Good Stuff

            My partner and I stayed here in September. It wasn’t the easiest spot to find, but we stayed two nights and nothing happened to our tent set up while we took the car to go hiking for a whole day. Definitely busier than I expected, especially with the condition of the road; we had multiple cars coming down the road we were on and then they would turn around and come back but it wasn’t obnoxious. The sight we stayed at actually had been moved across the road from its original site so the car was a little further away than it normally is but it was still a quality site to stay at.

          • Jenny&Tobias P.
            Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping
            Sep. 9, 2023

            Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping

            Overnight at a lake with mountain view

            A few sites, close toe Hyw 89 through a Texas gate. We camped for a night and it's a beautiful space with stunning views and a reservoir right at the spots. No fire rings a little bit a rough road 4x4 and higher clearance recommended. Better no enter with big rigs or trailer. But a beautiful place to spend time.

          • Katherine C.
            Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
            Aug. 11, 2023

            Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046

            Close to Bozeman

            About 25 minutes from downtown Bozeman. There’s more spots available up this FS road and the FS roads off-shooting from it, like FS 3164, so explore your options. Quite and very pretty views, road is easily navigable.

          • Antha A.The Dyrt PRO User
            Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
            Aug. 10, 2023

            Olson Creek Dispersed

            Beautiful views with little to no traffic

            Spent 3 nights here and aside from a few cars, main traffic coming through was a few dirt bikes and dune buggies and a few folks on bikes. Pullout is on a corner turn and very obvious. Decent tent spot over the hill and on top if needed. Spot is exactly where coordinates are and cell service is decent. Wildlife did start getting a bit too close by day 4, so make some noise every so often.



          Guide to Belgrade

          Camping near Belgrade, Montana, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from.

          What to do

          • Explore the Lewis & Clark Caverns: This is a must-see! One camper mentioned, "Be sure to unhook and get to the caverns early in the morning to get a reservation to tour." The caverns are not just beautiful; they also offer educational experiences, like talks about the local bat population.
          • Enjoy water activities at Carter Lake: Many campers love the lake for its scenic views and activities. One review noted, "Nice pull-through sites with electric. Boats allowed. Very pleasant experience."
          • Hiking and nature walks: The area has trails that cater to all skill levels. A visitor shared, "The paved trail is really nice and is far enough off the road for a great morning run."

          What campers like

          • Friendly hosts: Campers often rave about the welcoming atmosphere. One review stated, "Hosts were super friendly and nice," which adds to the overall experience.
          • Clean facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A camper remarked, "The bathrooms and showers were clean," making it easier to enjoy your stay.
          • Scenic views: Campgrounds like Hood Creek Campground offer stunning views right by the water. One visitor said, "The sites and bathrooms were very clean. Highly recommend if you want water and mountain views."

          What you should know

          • Mosquitoes can be a problem: If you're camping at Missouri Headwaters State Park Campground, be prepared for bugs. One camper warned, "The mosquitos were so bad we immediately left and found another place to stay for the night."
          • Reservations are recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor advised, "They do have drop-in non-reservation sites, but recommend getting reservations as well as cave tour reservations online in advance."
          • Limited amenities at some sites: Campgrounds like Spire Rock Campground may not have water or electric hookups. A camper noted, "For the price, the lack of water is not great but overall was worth it."

          Tips for camping with families

          • Choose campgrounds with activities: Look for places like Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV, which offers hot springs and a friendly atmosphere. One family shared, "Between the free coffee, breakfast, & hot spring access, our stay was worth it."
          • Find sites with space for kids to play: Campgrounds that have open areas or nearby lakes are ideal. A camper mentioned, "The KOA is tucked away from the main road. It has beautiful views of the mountains and is very quiet."
          • Plan for some noise: If you're near busy roads or train tracks, be prepared for some sounds. One camper said, "If you like trains this place is for you. If not... well they’re pretty prevalent."

          Tips from RVers

          • Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spots. A review noted, "The sites are very small and very crowded," which can be a hassle for larger RVs.
          • Look for full hookups: Campgrounds like Yellowstone Edge RV Park offer full hookups, making it easier for RVers. One visitor praised, "Nice level spots with lots of space and awesome river views."
          • Be ready for dirt roads: Some campgrounds may have rough access roads. A camper warned, "The area is stunning, but we could not get to the campground. Our campervan felt like it was going to tip over because of the ruts."

          Camping near Belgrade, Montana, has something for everyone, from families to solo adventurers. Just be prepared for the unique quirks of each campground!

          Frequently Asked Questions

          • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Belgrade, MT?

            According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Belgrade, MT is Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046 with a 4.1-star rating from 8 reviews.

          • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Belgrade, MT?

            TheDyrt.com has all 14 dispersed camping locations near Belgrade, MT, with real photos and reviews from campers.