Primitive camping near Canyon Creek, Montana offers several dispersed options on public land managed by Helena National Forest. The landscape features rolling hills with pine forests at elevations between 4,500-6,000 feet, creating temperature variations between valley and higher sites. Most areas maintain 10-15°F cooler temperatures than Helena during summer months, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite provides excellent fishing opportunities with minimal hiking required. "Easy access to the creek for fishing. Great little fire pit," notes Laura M. about the Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite #3.
Wildlife viewing: Early mornings at Scott Reservoir offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. "Great place to camp for overlooking the reservoir. Ran into one local taking pictures but left soon after," reports Don S. about Scott Reservoir Dispersed.
Mountain biking: Several forest service roads near Kelly Gulch provide terrain for various skill levels. "I took my bike and rode the Road a little bit and found an opening with an amazing spot to put up a hammock," shares Matt K. about his experience at Kelly Gulch.
What campers like
Waterfront access: Many sites offer direct water access for cooling off during hot days. "This is a nice large flat right next to the creek with plenty of room for multiple tents or RVs," writes Dexter I. about Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite.
Solitude on weekdays: Mid-week camping provides significantly more privacy than weekends. "I arrived on a Thursday with only one other person camping within 100 yards of me. By Saturday, there were 12 different campers packed in like sardine along the same 100 yard stretch," explains Josh B. at Confederate Disperse Camping Area.
Scenic views: Several sites offer notable mountain and water vistas. "You're right by the water with a great mountain view, couldn't ask for more," shares Ashley C. about Scott Reservoir Dispersed.
What you should know
Seasonal road closures: Forest Service roads may close during winter months. "Gate is closed, I'm assuming for the winter? Anyways, camped next to the gate there's a little pull out. But not ideal," reports Emma G. about Elliston Dispersed Camping on Forest Road 314.
Limited shade at lakeside sites: Most waterfront areas lack significant tree cover. "No shade and lots of wind! Skip the first entrance on the right and go to the second or third to get to the NF land before you go to the marina," advises Steve M. regarding Canyon Ferry Lake areas.
Cell service varies: Some sites maintain usable reception while others have none. "ATT and Verizon service. Accessible to low clearance vehicles," confirms Drifting M. about Confederate camping areas.
Bugs in summer: Prepare for insects, particularly in July and August. "Didn't see any wildlife but the horseflies were a bit out of control this time of the year," warns Azaali J. about Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite #3.
Tips for camping with families
Tent placement considerations: Rocky ground affects tent setup at some locations. "I took the first site, just off road. Rocky, no tent stakes. Beautiful sunset, no neighbors," reports Jenny P. about Elliston Dispersed Camping.
Site selection timing: Arrive early for better spots, especially near water. "Definitely recommend getting there a little earlier to get the good spots," suggests Katie T. about Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite.
Swimming spots: Some river access points have gentler entry areas for children. "A short trail leads to the river, but does require a little bit of scrambling. The River (more of a creek at this point) has a nice spot if you need to cool off from the summer heat," describes Dexter I.
Tips from RVers
Backing challenges: Some sites require advanced maneuvering skills. "I will say if you have a long trailer it is a difficult spot to get into as you have to back your trailer down it and then when you're done, you have to back your trailer back up into a brush area in order to get back on the road," cautions Laura M. about Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite #3.
Seasonal road conditions: Forest roads deteriorate after rainfall. "Up a forest service road, so four-wheel-drive came in handy. A bit muddy. There are a variety of sites available, some are easier to access than others," explains Ryan Z. about Elliston Dispersed Camping.
Larger RV locations: Certain sites specifically accommodate bigger rigs. "Tons of spots for camping and big rigs up to 50 ft long with spots a couple of hundred feet from the reservoir itself," notes Steve M. about Goose Bay BLM areas.
