Top Free Dispersed Camping near Bitterroot National Forest

Searching for a dispersed camping spot near Bitterroot National Forest? The Dyrt can help you find the best dispersed campsites for your next trip. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Montana camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Bitterroot National Forest, MT (11)

Showing results 1-10 of 11 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Bitterroot National Forest

6 Reviews of 11 Bitterroot National Forest Campgrounds


  • Camper-submitted photo from Squaw Creek Road
    June 18, 2024

    Squaw Creek Road

    Beautiful Spot And Very Remote

    We camped along a lovely creek, we were hyper aware of the fact that we were in bear country but we didn't seeing any traces of them. We didn't have any phone service and were very far away from any civilization, which made us uneasy, but if that's your thing, then this is the perfect place for you! No one traveled the gravel road while we were there.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lost Horse Dispersed Campground
    August 7, 2023

    Lost Horse Dispersed Campground

    Pretty spot, but full of trash

    A ton of dispersed sites right near the creek, but poorly taken care of by campers. We encountered more trash here than we’ve ever seen camping before. I mean, full trash bags left behind that were of course then scavenged by wildlife and spread all over. We also found human poop and used toilet paper in multiple spots, even though there IS a toilet provided here! We found tampons too…it was seriously disgusting…and obviously a popular spot for burning pallets because we found handfuls of nails scattered around, so be mindful of your tires!! This area just seems to attract a different kind of camping crowd, one that doesn’t respect the land or keeping it clean and better than you found it. It was pretty unfortunate because it really is a pretty and overall peaceful area.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lost Horse Dispersed Campground
    July 23, 2023

    Lost Horse Dispersed Campground

    Very busy road

    From the highway 93 turn it is 4.6 miles to where we camped. The last 2.3 miles of the drive was on a fairly rough, but very manageable, forest road. (Mostly washboard and a few holes) It was 11.8 miles from our camp to Darby, and about 13 miles to the Yellowstone Ranch.

    We grabbed a nice big spot right next to Lost Horse Creek late Friday afternoon. Another RV came into the area later in the evening and crowded us a little bit but we still had plenty of room to spread out. The road in is BUSY. We have camped at a number of dispersed locations over the years and this was BY FAR the busiest forest road we have seen. On Friday night we counted 50 cars passing by before we stopped counting. We drove west down the road a ways Saturday and saw a handful of other sites, but not enough to justify the traffic. We found out that “Twin Lakes” is about 20 miles down the rough forest road from our campsite. We didn’t venture that far as we could only go about 8-10 MPH max in our truck on the washboard road. Maybe we should have tried because it seemed to be quite the attraction given the traffic. This place will do in a pinch but if you are looking for a quiet dispersed camping area kept driving. This is not for you!

  • Camper-submitted photo from Lost Horse Dispersed Campground
    June 16, 2023

    Lost Horse Dispersed Campground

    My go too dispersed area in the bitterroot .

    This is my favorite area for dispersed camping in the area. Lost Horse creek is beautiful. Can get a little tight with campers in peak season.

  • Camper-submitted photo from Stanley Hot Springs - Backcountry Dispersed Campsite
    September 28, 2020

    Stanley Hot Springs - Backcountry Dispersed Campsite

    Wilderness camp with a hot springs soak

    If a backpacking trip in to a wilderness area with a hot springs next to your campsite sounds like the perfect trip, then Stanley Hot Springs is for you.  Stanley Hot Springs located in the Selway-Bitterroot Wilderness is just under a 5 mile hike from the trail head located in the Wilderness Gateway Campground.  The trip in to the hot springs gains about 1500 feet, but the climb is worth it as you get to soak your tired legs after the hike. 

    Plenty of campsites can be found around and near the Hot Springs.  Water can be filtered from the near by creek.  You are backpacking so be prepared to bring out everything you bring in.  You are also in Bear Territory so be prepared to hang your food in a tree and bring bear spray.

    Getting to the hot springs can be a little tricky as their is no bridge over the creek, so you will have to ford the creek, unless you can find a series of log jams to cross on.  Best bet for finding you way is to ask someone hiking out for suggestions on crossing the creek.

    The creek crossing will not be possible in the spring or during high water flows.   We managed an easy crossing over log jams in July, but others a week earlier forded the creek in waist deep water.

    The area was clean during our visit, so please keep it that way.



Guide to Bitterroot National Forest

Camping near Bitterroot National Forest, Montana, offers a fantastic escape into nature with stunning views and a variety of campgrounds to choose from. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot by a creek or a more established campground with amenities, there's something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the numerous trails in the area. Many campers enjoy the scenic hikes that lead to breathtaking views. One visitor at Indian Trees Campground mentioned, "The camp hosts are very welcoming and accommodating," making it a great starting point for your adventures.
  • Fishing: The rivers and lakes around Bitterroot are perfect for fishing. A camper at Blodgett Campground shared, "Great wild trout fly-fishing. MY father loved it," highlighting the area's fishing opportunities.
  • Boating: If you enjoy being on the water, check out Three Frogs Campground for lake access. A reviewer noted, "Beautiful! Walk to Lake Como, campfires, canoes, excellent beach and boating."

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. One visitor at Lake Como Campground said, "Nice walk to dam overlooking lake. Quiet and pleasant stay."
  • Privacy: Many campgrounds offer spacious sites. A camper at Anglers Roost Campground mentioned, "Trees created privacy. Right on the river," which adds to the overall experience.
  • Clean Facilities: Cleanliness is a big plus. A reviewer at Indian Trees Campground stated, "Small quiet campground just off the highway... Nice host," emphasizing the well-maintained facilities.

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Black Bear Campground, do not offer drinking water or electric hookups. A camper noted, "You have access to the creek with most sites... no potable water, and no trash service so pack it out."
  • First-Come, First-Served: Many sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis. A visitor at Lake Como Campground mentioned, "First come first serve but mid September easy to get site," which is helpful to know for planning.
  • Wildlife: Be cautious of wildlife in the area. A camper at O'Hara Bar Campground reminded others, "The wildlife includes black bears and rattlesnakes, so remember to be cautious."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Spacious Sites: Look for campgrounds with larger sites. A family at Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground found, "Plenty of room to explore and have a good time."
  • Activities for Kids: Choose campgrounds that offer activities like swimming or hiking. A visitor at Anglers Roost Campground mentioned, "They had activities over the weekend—music over the weekend," which can be fun for the whole family.
  • Safety First: Always keep an eye on kids, especially near water. A camper at Lost Horse Dispersed Campground advised, "This area just seems to attract a different kind of camping crowd," so be aware of your surroundings.

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Hookups: Make sure to verify if the campground has electric hookups. A reviewer at Black Rabbit RV noted, "The park is in a perfect location... However, I truly believe maintenance is her only asset," indicating some issues with management.
  • Plan for Crowds: Some campgrounds can get busy, especially on weekends. A camper at Blodgett Campground shared, "Only five sites so come early to this free Campground," which is a good reminder for RVers.
  • Stay Connected: If you need internet access, be aware that some areas have poor service. A visitor at Wagonhammer RV Park & Campground mentioned, "No cell service, but serviceable WiFi," so plan accordingly.

Camping near Bitterroot National Forest, Montana, offers a mix of adventure and relaxation, making it a great choice for your next outdoor getaway!

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Bitterroot National Forest?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Bitterroot National Forest is Lost Horse Dispersed Campground with a 3.8-star rating from 4 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Bitterroot National Forest?

    TheDyrt.com has all 11 dispersed camping locations near Bitterroot National Forest, with real photos and reviews from campers.