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Best Dispersed Camping near Cardwell, MT

59 Reviews

Dispersed camping dominates the landscape around Cardwell, Montana, with numerous free sites managed by the Bureau of Land Management and Forest Service. Homestake Pass Dispersed and Homestake Lake Camp, both located near Interstate 90, provide convenient options for travelers seeking quick overnight stops. Maiden Rock Dispersed, situated along the Big Hole River, stands out with its well-maintained sites featuring picnic tables, fire rings, and bear boxes despite being free. Humbug Spires Trailhead Basecamp offers access to dramatic rock formations and hiking trails. These areas primarily accommodate both tent and RV camping, with most sites lacking developed amenities like running water or electric hookups.

Road conditions vary significantly throughout the region, with many sites accessible via dirt or gravel roads that may become challenging during wet weather. Most dispersed areas implement a 14-day stay limit and operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation systems. Cell service is surprisingly good at some locations, with one camper noting "I got 3-4 bars LTE of Verizon" at Homestake Lake Camp. Summer brings warmer temperatures but also increased insect activity, particularly horseflies in July. Fire restrictions commonly apply during dry periods, requiring campers to monitor current regulations. Water sources are limited, making it essential to bring adequate supplies, as one visitor noted about Copper City BLM: "This place is DRY, so be sure to bring your own water."

Proximity to water features significantly enhances camping experiences in the area. Sites along rivers and reservoirs receive consistently higher ratings from visitors, with fishing opportunities being a major draw. One camper described Maiden Rock as "an incredible spot to fish" with "gorgeous scenery." Many dispersed sites include established fire rings and flat areas for tents or RVs, though amenities remain minimal. Noise levels vary by location, with highway-adjacent sites like Homestake Pass experiencing occasional traffic sounds and OHV activity. Privacy can be found by venturing further down access roads, as one camper noted: "We followed a rough dirt road 1/2 a mile to find a spot in the trees." Wildlife sightings, including cattle on public lands, add to the authentic Montana camping experience.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Cardwell, Montana (18)

    1. Homestake Pass Dispersed

    14 Reviews
    Butte, MT
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 683-3900

    "There’s a big area that had a dozen RVs & tents, but it was late & we wanted space so we followed a rough dirt road 1/2 a mile to find a spot in the trees."

    "The dispersed camping is super easy to find, and it's right off the highway! It was perfect for a quick spot to camp on our way home to Colorado instead of getting a hotel room."

    2. Pipestone Trailhead Camp

    1 Review
    Whitehall, MT
    14 miles

    3. Copper City BLM

    4 Reviews
    Three Forks, MT
    21 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 533-7600

    "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."

    "No shade, no bathrooms, but most have man made fire pits."

    4. Homestake Lake Camp

    1 Review
    Butte, MT
    22 miles

    "This campsite is right off the exit, but not very noisy. There were several other campers and RVs and trucks there. Even just parts of cars."

    5. Four Corners Eastern Camp

    Be the first to review!
    Whitehall, MT
    16 miles

    6. Meadow Creek Dispersed Campground

    1 Review
    Norris, MT
    24 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 682-4253

    7. Maiden Rock Dispersed

    13 Reviews
    Divide, MT
    39 miles

    "The spot is close to the freeway, but far enough that you won’t hear any of the noise so it’s perfect if you are on a road trip. :)

    There are some train tracks that run by it, but I didn’t notice if"

    "Picnic benches, tent camping spots, rv spots! We might have been lucky but no mosquitos! It’s across the bridge in case you can’t find it from google maps :)"

    8. Confederate Disperse Camping Area

    10 Reviews
    Canyon Ferry Lake, MT
    48 miles

    "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."

    9. Humbug Spires Trailhead Basecamp

    1 Review
    Divide, MT
    36 miles

    "Only 3 miles from the highway, this campsite is at the end of a well maintained, slightly rutted gravel road. It’s wide enough for trailers."

    10. Mill Creek Road Camp

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    Sheridan, MT
    27 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Cardwell, MT

36 Photos of 18 Cardwell Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Cardwell, MT

59 Reviews of 18 Cardwell Campgrounds

  • Dexter I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 30, 2021

    Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite

    Big Roomy Disperse campsite along the little Blackfood River

    Bumped in to this disperse campsite while heading out for a hike.  This is one of three disperse campsite along the Little Blackfoot River in the Helena National Forest that have been marked by the Forest Service as a disperse camping area. This is a nice large flat right next to the creek with plenty of room for multiple tents or RVs.  The site has a large rock fire ring and the big bonus of having a picnic table.  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.  Another short trail goes up a small hill and leads to an area with lots of fallen trees which can be cut for firewood if fire restrictions are not in place.  The only bad thing about this disperse site is that it is right next to the road.

  • Dexter I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2021

    Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite #3

    Roomy disperse site with easy river access

    This is the 3rd and final disperse site that the Helena National Forest has marked along the little Blackfoot River.  It is nice to be sure that you are on public land when in an area checker boarded with private land.  This is a large flat camping area with plenty of room for tents and several RV's.  Site has a large rock fire ring, and the river is only a few short flat feet away.  Plenty of wood can be found for making a fire.  Site is near the road, but very little traffic comes this way as you are almost at the roads end.  Water can be easily filtered from the river (more like a creek at this point)

  • Dexter I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 1, 2021

    Little Blackfoot River 2nd Disperse Campsite

    Small disperse campsite along the Little Blackfoot RIver

    This is the second disperse camping sit along the Little Blackfoot River that has been marked as a disperse campsite by the Helena National Forest.  It is nice having these sits marked by the Forest Service as their are several parcels of private land along the road.  This site is small with only one small level area for a tent of mid sized RV.  The site has a large rock fire ring in the center.  Their is no easy trail access to the river.  Plenty of down trees in the area for firewood if you have a way to cut them, their is also plenty of small stuff that can be easily collected for a fire.   Site is right next to the road, but road noise should be little to none as a few curves will slow vehicles down and their isn't much more road left until the campground and trailhead at the end of the road.

  • Maddie F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 26, 2025

    Maiden Rock Dispersed

    BEST SPOT YET

    Hands down the best spot I’ve found on this app so far!!

    Literally was talking to myself as I pulled up making weird noises because I was in so much awe at how beautiful the spot was! The sunsets here are amazing or at least the night I stayed was!

    The camping spots are somewhat close together so that’s good to keep in mind.

    But omg, the spot is insane. The mosquitoes were not bad at all. The spot feels like a perfect little oasis.

    The spot is close to the freeway, but far enough that you won’t hear any of the noise so it’s perfect if you are on a road trip. :)

    There are some train tracks that run by it, but I didn’t notice if the train was noisy or going by as I was car camping!

    Getting to the spot - you will get off the main road and drive through some dirt roads and past some private property. At the end of one of the roads you’ll see a small bridge you’ll drive over and the camping spots are maybe 30 seconds past the bridge.

    Also an incredible spot to fish!

  • Dexter I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 22, 2018

    Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area

    Primitive campground on the Ruby Reservoir

    The BLM's Ruby Reservoir is a disperse camping area. The only facilities at this campground is a double vault toilet. There is no signage on the highway to indicated the campground. After passing the dam look for the first paved turn with a stop sign on the right side of the road, this is your turn, the pavement will stop after a couple hundred feet. Lots of campsite can be found by following the web of roads once the pavement ends. Off road travel is not allowed. Their are no metal fire rings, all the fire rings in the area are made of rocks. Being a primitive camping area this is a trash-in-trash-out site, and you will need to bring your own water. This is a nice area, and I have camped here several times during hunting season. The fishing is decent as well. If you want to find garnets just head to the lake shore and start digging. Small ones can be found on the surface, bring a shovel and dig deeper if you want something decent. If you use a gold pan shake the gravel around for several minutes then flip the pan is the easiest way to find them as the garnets are heavy and will settle to the bottom of the pan. Site is free with a 16 day stay limit.

  • Ann A.
    Aug. 14, 2022

    Homestake Pass Dispersed

    Popular, spacious

    There’s a big area that had a dozen RVs & tents, but it was late & we wanted space so we followed a rough dirt road 1/2 a mile to find a spot in the trees. The Homestake Trailhead down the road has a bathroom. We did have a weird experience: a truck camped near us with two people who openly watched us the entire morning & followed us to the trailhead before driving on.

  • James C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2025

    Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping

    On the road to Fairy Lake

    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. I went all the way to the dispersed campsite above Fairy Lake. I felt it was adequate but the 2 remaining sites were full sun and the trailhead right below the CG was packed (approx. 30 vehicles)

  • Tee C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 29, 2023

    Humbug Spires Trailhead Basecamp

    Total hidden gem!

    Only 3 miles from the highway, this campsite is at the end of a well maintained, slightly rutted gravel road. It’s wide enough for trailers.

    Along the road, there are a handful of pull offs that are big enough for an RV to pull into.

    The coordinates bring you to an open gravel lot with nice clean pit toilets. There’s a creek nearby. Big beautiful rocks, some shade, pretty epic views on the way in. Beautiful!

    No cell service, unfortunately. Another con is that there’s another road that goes in further, but it’s narrow and eroded. I attempted it in my campervan, but ultimately decided it wasn’t worth the hassle and parked in the open lot instead.

  • Avery S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 27, 2022

    Homestake Pass Dispersed

    Great quick spot!

    The dispersed camping is super easy to find, and it's right off the highway! It was perfect for a quick spot to camp on our way home to Colorado instead of getting a hotel room.

Guide to Cardwell

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Cardwell, Montana, where nature meets tranquility. This area offers a variety of spots for those looking to escape into the wilderness without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Outdoor Adventures Await While Free Camping Near Cardwell

  • Enjoy the stunning vistas and spacious sites at Homestake Pass Dispersed, which is just a short drive from the highway, making it an ideal stop for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • For mountain bikers and trail runners, Copper City BLM provides access to numerous trails, allowing you to explore the rugged terrain while soaking in the breathtaking views.
  • If you're into OHV and horseback riding, Meadow Creek Dispersed Campground is a beautiful area that caters to these activities, offering a chance to connect with nature.

Unique Experiences for Dispersed Campers

  • Encounter wildlife up close at Homestake Lake Camp, where you might spot cows wandering through your site, adding a unique touch to your camping experience.
  • For those seeking solitude, Tizer Lakes Dispersed Camping offers a peaceful retreat, perfect for hiking and enjoying the serene lakeside views.
  • If you prefer a hidden gem, Humbug Spires Trailhead Basecamp features beautiful rock formations and a nearby creek, making it a picturesque spot for relaxation.

Scenic Views and Accessibility for Dispersed Camping

  • The well-reviewed Pipestone Trailhead Camp is conveniently located off the highway, providing easy access for those looking to enjoy a quick getaway.
  • With its open spaces and stunning landscapes, Copper City BLM is perfect for stargazing at night, away from city lights.
  • Four Corners Eastern Camp offers a drive-in experience that allows you to set up camp quickly and start your outdoor adventures without delay.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Cardwell?

Several free dispersed camping options exist near Cardwell. Homestake Pass Dispersed is easily accessible right off the highway, making it perfect for overnight stays without getting a hotel. The area has multiple sites including a large open area that can accommodate several RVs and tents, plus more secluded spots along rough dirt roads about half a mile in. Another excellent option is Humbug Spires Trailhead Basecamp, located just 3 miles from the highway at the end of a well-maintained gravel road with multiple pull-offs suitable for RVs along the way. The basecamp itself features an open gravel lot with clean surroundings.

What amenities are available at Cardwell dispersed camping areas?

Dispersed camping areas near Cardwell typically offer minimal amenities. Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite and its companion sites provide large, flat camping areas adjacent to the creek with room for both tents and RVs, but no developed facilities. These Forest Service-marked sites ensure you're camping on public land in an area checker-boarded with private property. For basic facilities, Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area offers a double vault toilet but nothing else. Most dispersed sites in the region have no potable water, trash services, or electrical hookups. For bathroom access near some dispersed areas, the Homestake Trailhead has public restrooms. Plan to pack in all water and supplies and pack out all waste.

What are the regulations for dispersed camping in Cardwell?

Dispersed camping regulations near Cardwell typically follow standard national forest and BLM guidelines. At Confederate Disperse Camping Area, a plywood sign posted after crossing a cattle guard displays important rules including length-of-stay limitations. Generally, these areas permit 14-day stays within a 30-day period. Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area, managed by the BLM, follows similar regulations though signage is minimal from the highway. When camping in these areas, practice Leave No Trace principles, maintain appropriate distance from water sources (usually 100-200 feet), properly dispose of human waste, and follow any fire restrictions in place. Always check for area-specific regulations before setting up camp.

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