Best Dispersed Camping near Bozeman, MT

Dispersed camping opportunities surround Bozeman, Montana, with several free sites located within 20-30 minutes of town. Hyalite Canyon Dispersed offers multiple pull-offs along Forest Service Road 1046, while South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site provides mountain views and established fire rings. Olson Creek Dispersed features small spaces directly off forest roads with limited privacy. According to recent visitors, South Fork Brackett Creek sites offer "gorgeous mountain views that turn pink and purple at sunrise." Cottonwood Reservoir and Copper City BLM lands provide additional options for those willing to travel slightly farther.

Most dispersed sites near Bozeman lack amenities such as toilets, trash service, or drinking water. Visitors must pack in all supplies and pack out all waste. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for many locations, particularly after rain when dirt roads can become impassable. Several campers noted that Olson Creek has "rough, single-lane roads" with limited turnaround space for larger vehicles. Bear activity occurs throughout the region; proper food storage is essential. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with complete bans possible during dry periods.

The Custer-Gallatin National Forest manages most dispersed camping areas around Bozeman. Sites typically allow 14-day stays. Summer brings higher usage, especially on weekends. Winter access becomes limited or impossible at higher elevations. Campers seeking solitude should arrive mid-week when possible. Cell service is unreliable at most locations. Visitors should obtain current maps and information from the Bozeman Ranger District office before departure, as conditions and regulations change frequently. Weather can shift rapidly in mountain environments, with overnight temperatures dropping significantly even in summer.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Bozeman, Montana (20)

    1. Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046

    10 Reviews
    Gallatin Gateway, MT
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 522-2520

    "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."

    "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."

    2. Olson Creek Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Bozeman, MT
    13 miles
    Website

    "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"

    "It mentions private property but I think that’s the areas off the road. A few trucks with Mtn. bikes drove past at dusk but after that it was peaceful and a nice solitary overnight spot."

    3. South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

    5 Reviews
    Bozeman, MT
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 587-6701

    "I went a little further up the mountain than the coordinates (about 5 miles) and found a spot off the road (4wd highly recommended, no big rigs)."

    "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."

    5. Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping

    2 Reviews
    Belgrade, MT
    16 miles

    "There is a Meadow about 4 miles in front of the highway that has at least 3 dispersed sites. I went to the one furthest from the dirt road and had nice shade and privacy here."

    "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."

    6. Hyalite Canyon Dispersed

    1 Review
    Emigrant, MT
    17 miles

    "We had to park in a tiny road and walk about 5 min to our campsite. Super comfy and quiet tho for a getaway night ! The spot only had 3-4 sites tho"

    8. Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone

    39 Reviews
    Gardiner, MT
    47 miles

    "Perfect dispersed camping. Note it is a windy dirt road, so a pickup or camper van can make it, but don't try a Class A or Class C RV. Our 20 footer made it fine."

    "Got into a spot around 6 or 7pm after spending the day at Yellowstone in late May and wow, you can’t beat the views for $0!"

    9. Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    4 Reviews
    Wilsall, MT
    30 miles

    "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."

    "Rough road to get to the water, then beautiful views. 11 mph winds tonight but supposed to die down."

    10. Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp

    7 Reviews
    Livingston, MT
    34 miles

    "I feel very safe because there is another group camping here in an RV, because someone had mentioned some guys in trucks scaring them off. I'm protected so I'm not worried."

    "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."

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Bozeman, MT

106 Reviews of 20 Bozeman Campgrounds



Guide to Bozeman

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Bozeman, Montana, where nature meets adventure. With a variety of stunning locations, campers can enjoy the great outdoors while experiencing the tranquility of the wilderness.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

Outdoor Activities While Free Camping Near Bozeman

  • Enjoy hiking and exploring the trails around Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046, where you can immerse yourself in nature and discover the local wildlife.
  • The Copper City BLM area is popular among mountain bikers, offering open spaces and scenic views that are perfect for biking enthusiasts.
  • Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunities at Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping, where you can catch Yellowstone cutthroat trout and enjoy the surrounding natural beauty.

Unique Features for Dispersed Campers

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Bozeman, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Bozeman, MT is Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046 with a 4.2-star rating from 10 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 20 dispersed camping locations near Bozeman, MT, with real photos and reviews from campers.