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.
What to do
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.
What campers like
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!"
What you should know
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."
Tips for camping with families
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."
Tips from RVers
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."
