Canyon Ferry Lake offers several dispersed camping options on public lands managed by the BLM and Forest Service. Confederate Disperse Camping Area provides free camping with vault toilets and allows fires, though the sandy terrain makes staking tents difficult and offers little wind protection. Goose Bay BLM features lakefront spots with shade and room for rigs up to 50 feet, with a 14-day stay limit. A recent review noted, "Pretty much can find a nice spot and most all are lake accessible."
Kelly Gulch Road Dispersed Camping offers free primitive sites accessible via drive-in or walk-in, though the gate typically remains closed until May 15. Canyon Ferry Lake Dispersed Camping Area lacks shade and experiences significant wind, but provides vault toilets, fire pits, and picnic tables. A visitor commented, "Plenty of boondocking sites as you approach the campground." Most dispersed sites around Canyon Ferry become crowded during weekends and summer months, with many lacking basic amenities like drinking water or trash service, requiring campers to pack everything out.
"Canyon Ferry has great dispersed camping all around it. The specific site we stayed at was right next to the beach. Great views and right down from a pit toilet."
"Pit toilet available."
"Tons of spots for camping and big rigs up to 50 ft long with spots a couple of hundred feet from the reservoir itself and lots of shade in places with decent privacy and picnic tables and fire rings at"
"Access is very easy and many open spots with fire pits all over. Grounds on some spots are pretty beaten up and some others are very grassy and clean."
"Plenty of boondocking sites as you approach the campground. The campground, offers full hooks and dry camp."
"Easy dispersed camping, quiet, neighbors few and far between. Went swimming."
"I was able to walk up about less than a quarter mile and find a flat ground where I was able to set up my shelter. I’m sure this gets busy in the summertime."
"There were just a few cars driving back down the mountain in the evening. But no one bothered."
"Road going around to the other side of the reservoir is gated and closed now."
"Lots of open space and locations to pull out--beautiful views as well! To access this place we went towards Copper City Trail Head, and drove by the entrance onto BLM lands."
"This parking is perfect for campers, car camping, throwing a tent up. There are 360 views. 2 pit bathrooms with toilet paper (veryyyy nice facility) and a covered picnic area."
"This place has 2 pit toilets in a veryyyy nice facility. Amazing 360 views. And a picnic area. You will see the copper city sign off of route 287 then follow copper city road right up."
"Beautiful site with plenty of room if you venture further down the road from the entrance."
"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."
"This was an easy to get to camping spot with nice, dispersed sites and we had the place all to ourselves. "
ScoutGated road at this location, maybe still good from other starting point but no viable sites coming from Rimini that I saw. Road gets a bit rough, did find a rough roadside spot for the night but for the 8-9 mile drive in on dirt roads definitely not worthwhile.
LegendFairly long road to get to the campground and last mile and a half is a bit rutted but can still be managed by your average vehicle. Not much shade and only three or four spots but right on the beach and a beautiful calm Lagoon right at the campsite
LegendClean Vault toilets and lots of room even for very large rigs. Not a ton of privacy as most sites are open but lots of access to the lake and water available at the marina 2 mi away
GuideThere are a bunch of sites here! The long driving paths are all different camping spots. It is first come first serve, and there are a decent amount of them to choose from. If you dive further down just before the lake shore there is one on a hill. It is very secluded and has amazing views of the mountains and the water. There is a fire pit but you have to bring your own chairs. It is very quiet and peaceful. Highly recommended this spot.
ScoutCampsites have a nice distance between them so we didn’t feel overcrowded. Fire rings and picnic tables are very convenient. Bathroom is a short walk away. Most of the sites have a trail leading to the water which the kids loved and bonus our spot actually had another fire pit by the water! Beautiful sunrise and stunning sunset. Arrived at 5pm on a Saturday 8/1 and no problem finding a site. Would definitely stay again!
GuideThis parking is perfect for campers, car camping, throwing a tent up. There are 360 views. 2 pit bathrooms with toilet paper (veryyyy nice facility) and a covered picnic area. I would highly recommend stopping here.
GuideAbsolutely breathtaking views, especially sunset over the lake. Very dog and kid friendly. Lots of dead fish though.
TravelerThe gate to this particular site is closed. However, 50 yards up the road is a single spot. On the way up there were a few spots, I assume if you keep going on this road there would be a few more spots. The road is in great condition…smooth as can be
TravelerPacked full of people (memorial day weekend) but a good spot. Felt very safe. And it was gorgeous next to the water.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Canyon Ferry Lake in Montana, where nature meets tranquility. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle and enjoy the great outdoors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are the dispersed camping areas at Canyon Ferry Lake?
Canyon Ferry Lake offers several dispersed camping areas around its shores. Goose Bay BLM is a popular dispersed camping area with numerous spots for camping, including locations just a couple hundred feet from the reservoir. Another option is the Canyon Ferry Lake Dispersed Camping Area, which provides boondocking sites as you approach the main campground. Both areas are accessible for various camping setups, including larger rigs at Goose Bay. The lake's shoreline has multiple pullouts and designated areas where dispersed camping is permitted, though it's best to arrive early during peak season as these spots fill up quickly.
Do you need permits for dispersed camping at Canyon Ferry Lake?
No special permits are required for dispersed camping at Canyon Ferry Lake, but there are stay limits and regulations to follow. At Confederate Disperse Camping Area, signs indicate a 14-day stay limit, which is typical for most dispersed camping areas around Canyon Ferry. The Copper City BLM area follows similar BLM regulations. While permits aren't needed, campers should be aware of and respect fire restrictions, pack out all trash, and follow Leave No Trace principles. It's also important to camp only in established dispersed sites to minimize environmental impact. Always check current regulations before your trip, as rules can change seasonally.
What amenities are available at Canyon Ferry Lake dispersed camping areas?
Dispersed camping areas at Canyon Ferry Lake offer basic amenities, varying by location. At Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite, you'll find large flat areas suitable for tents and several RVs right next to the creek. Goose Bay BLM provides more amenities than most dispersed sites, featuring picnic tables, fire rings at each site, and vault toilets. Most dispersed areas have natural features like shade trees and proximity to water, but lack hookups, potable water, or garbage service. Near the main campground, you can access additional facilities including a dump station, drinking water, showers, and a boat ramp. Come prepared with all necessary supplies, as services are limited at the dispersed sites themselves.
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