Tent campsites near Big Timber, Montana range from campgrounds with basic facilities to remote dispersed sites along mountain roads and riverbanks. East Boulder Campground, located 19 miles south of Big Timber and 6 miles east on County Road 205, offers two designated tent sites with picnic tables and fire rings along the Boulder River. Other options include West Boulder Trailhead Campground and several dispersed camping areas in the surrounding Custer Gallatin National Forest.
Most tent camping areas feature primitive setups with minimal amenities. East Boulder Campground provides vault toilets but no drinking water, requiring campers to filter water from the nearby river or pack in their own supply. Fire rings are available at many sites, though seasonal fire restrictions may apply during dry summer months. Many dispersed sites lack designated tent pads, so campers should be prepared to find level ground and clear small rocks or debris. Several access roads, particularly to West Boulder and dispersed areas like South Fork Brackett Creek, become rough and may require high-clearance vehicles, especially after rain or early in the season.
The region offers excellent opportunities for secluded tent camping with mountain views and water access. Sites along Boulder River provide both fishing access and pleasant ambient sound for sleeping. Tree cover varies by location, with some sites offering ample shade while others are more exposed. Campers frequently report wildlife sightings, including deer near East Boulder Campground. Early arrival is recommended for popular tent campsites, especially during summer weekends. According to one visitor, "There are only two campsites in this no-cost Forest Service campground. There's no water, except from the stream, but there are good picnic tables and a well-maintained vault toilet." Dispersed camping areas generally offer more solitude but require self-sufficiency and adherence to Leave No Trace principles.
"Site: 2 RESERVATIONS NO
FCFS
FEES: NONE
Open all year
No water Picnic table, fire ring, pit toilet
This campground is located right off East Boulder Road."
"There's no water, except from the stream, but there are good picnic tables and a well-maintained vault toilet."
"Fishing access site with several designated campsites, each with a picnic table and fire ring. I didn’t think the noise from the interstate or trains was too bad."
"No water or power. Great for the night. Could see ALL the stars at night! There is noise from the I90 and you can see straight to the highway but still nice nonetheless."
"If you want to hammock there are a couple trees behind the cabin that would work but it’s kind of away from everyone if they’re hanging out up front."
"Huge, open space, great views, hiking, and privacy. Stayed in our rv this time, but the cabin is spacious and well appointed. Too bad they doubled the rates. Maybe making a reservation will be easier?"
Campground full this weekend
Get a text when availablefrom $65 / night
"Sign said tent camping only but I stayed one night in my Sprinter van with no problem. Did not use vault toilet so cannot speak to its condition."
from $12 / night
"6 sites, each has a picnic table and a bear proof container. You can hear the West Fork of the Stillwater River from each site and trails lead down to the river."
"One vault toilet and no water source(other than the river) make this a primitive camp. We had cell service but not LTE."
"You are along a fast moving creek and the campsites are well spaced out with trees, vegetation or roads between each site. The sites themselves are well sized."
"5 big spots with rings, 1 pull through. 4 or five day spots on the other side of road, you could tent camp in. 2 hole fwp outhouse. Small creek River runs through one side. Not far from town."
"Campsite 1 was probably not the best choice but we loved the view… so did our wild life friends For sure there is 1 grizzly that’s pretty big. He checked out our truck tent."
"Sites were readily available the night we stayed, about 12 in the main campground and several more sites with fire rings outside by the trail entrance."
"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."
"I went for a little walk in the woods and saw a black bear (keep your food and trash stored safe!) No amenities of course but most sites have a fire ring already there."
TravelerThe complimentary parking, fishing access, picnic facilities, and fire pits are notable amenities. The abundance of local wildlife, particularly deer, provides a pleasant atmosphere. Although temperatures were quite low on October 16, 2026, this environment currently remains quiet and exclusive, with only two guests on-site.
ScoutWe got here after dark and were very confused by the no trespassing signs and small pull offs. We didn’t go very high up on the road but camped right where the pin was set up. Gorgeous in the morning and very quiet peaceful place to stay for the night. Not necessarily “camping” with room to move around or set up but easy for one night.
LegendOne night at a spot with water and electric off season is $80. Just about turned back around and kept driving. I know, KOA is costly. The upside, nice showers, laundry. Nice enough spot in the shade which is great since it is very hot today.
GuideFreeway visible and audible from site. Active railroad nearby. However, campground clean, vault toilet stalled with toilet paper, river front camping. Easy access from highway. Required state conservation license for use.
RangerLong and to bad road you can pull off an set up. Not a ton of shade but the river is right behind you. Amazing veiws, good cell signal. Spent 2 days, awesome little spot.
ScoutThere’s not many spots and there were about 5 groups already here. Not much privacy but very pretty my the river.
TravelerNice spot! Convenient to Bozeman - 10 minutes away. Hookups, shower, pool, playground in a compact but reasonable layout. More sports for tents or self contained rigs (vans or pickup campers) then many places.
Closed in fall and winter - in2026 open until the end of September.
RangerWe needed a good spot for an overnight stop between Mt Rushmore and Yellowstone… And, Itch Kep Pe City Park was the perfect place. Scenic, quiet and free! We did put a donation in the drop box though. Would have wet a fishing line if I had more time!
LegendVault toilets, fire pits, tables, right on the river. Great spot.
Tent camping near Big Timber, Montana provides access to the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness and the Crazy Mountains, with elevations ranging from 4,000 to 10,000 feet across camping areas. Summer temperatures typically range from 50-85°F, with cooler nights in higher elevation sites. Dispersed camping options often require high-clearance vehicles to navigate unmaintained Forest Service roads, particularly after spring snowmelt.
Fishing access points: East Boulder Campground sits alongside excellent trout fishing waters. "The site next to the creek is totally open, great for solar. The other site is wooded and shady. With so many of the sites in Montana you will have amazing mountain views," notes a camper at East Boulder Campground.
Mountain hiking: For hikers seeking challenging terrain, the Green Mountain Trail provides a 6-mile route to Natural Bridge. Near the Bridger Mountains, Fairy Lake offers "awesome views of the surrounding mountains and dense forest" with "the perfect place to relax, hike, fish, or just sit back and take in the beauty of Montana," according to a visitor at Fairy Lake Campground.
River swimming: During hot summer days, the Stillwater River provides cooling relief. "Some algae near the shore of river but waded out deeper for refreshing dip," reports one camper at Cliff Swallow.
Privacy between sites: Many tent campers appreciate separation from neighbors. At Swinging Bridge Fishing Access Site, "sites are really separated down along the river. There's lots of trees and bushes that separate sites," according to one reviewer who appreciated the natural screening.
Wildlife viewing: Mountain goats and deer frequent several camping areas. "Lots of deer in the area!" notes one camper at East Boulder Campground. Another camper warns about larger wildlife: "For sure there is 1 grizzly that's pretty big. He checked out our truck tent... Mountain Goats will come in your camp and they will do what goats do and want to check you out. They are not scared."
Campfire locations: Many dispersed sites feature established fire rings. At South Fork Brackett Creek, "Got up to this spot after picking my buddy up from the airport and we stayed here for two days. Had a fire ring, but no other amenities. Could hear some of the louder vehicles traveling through the valley at night time, but otherwise super quiet. Awesome view of the Northern Lights too!"
Road conditions: Several campgrounds require navigating rough forest roads. The road to Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping is particularly challenging, with one camper noting it's "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."
Water availability: Most tent camping sites near Big Timber lack potable water. Campers should pack in sufficient water or bring filtration systems for stream or river water. "No water, except from the stream, but there are good picnic tables and a well-maintained vault toilet."
Site availability: Popular campgrounds fill quickly during peak season. "Only 8 spots available," notes one camper at Rosebud Isle, while another mentions "I would love to review this site but any time I've gone it's been full."
Stream exploration: Shallow creek areas provide safe water play for children. "There was a perfect little creek that my 5yo fully enjoyed for a few days," shares a parent who camped near West Boulder Trailhead and Campground.
Food storage: Bear-proof containers or vehicles are essential for food storage. "1 bear box for the whole camp ground so be prepared to store food in car or tree," advises one camper, highlighting limited secure storage options.
Toilet facilities: Vault toilets vary in cleanliness and availability. One visitor noted "The toilet is right at the entrance and the toilet was very clean," while another mentioned "Needed fly spray for the toilet. Toilet didn't smell the flies were just so BAD."
Site access limitations: Many tent camping areas near Big Timber have restricted access for larger vehicles. "The narrow dirt road is really only wide enough for one vehicle. Perhaps this isn't the best spot for big rigs," notes a reviewer at Swinging Bridge Fishing Access Site.
Level parking spots: Finding suitable parking for small trailers or vans can be challenging. "Would not recommend for trailers or campers, even a small teardrop would be tough to maneuver," warns one camper.
Alternative options: Some RV campers use dispersed sites along forest roads. "I towed my small camper up the mountain fairly easily... 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."
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Big Timber, MT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Big Timber, MT is East Boulder Campground with a 4.3-star rating from 9 reviews.
What is the best site to find tent camping near Big Timber, MT?
TheDyrt.com has all 14 tent camping locations near Big Timber, MT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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