Best Dispersed Camping near Columbia Falls, MT

Alaska offers a diverse range of camping experiences across its vast wilderness areas, with numerous established campgrounds providing amenities for both tent and RV campers. The region includes developed sites like Homer Spit Campground along the coast and Eklutna Lake Campground in Chugach State Park, which accommodate various camping styles including tent, RV, and cabin options. Many campgrounds feature essential amenities such as drinking water, fire rings, picnic tables, and toilets, while some provide additional conveniences like electric hookups and shower facilities.

Seasonal considerations heavily influence camping in Alaska, with most campgrounds operating from May through September. Winter camping is available at select locations like Riley Creek Campground in Denali National Park, which remains open year-round. Road conditions can vary significantly, with some campgrounds requiring travel on gravel or unpaved roads. Weather patterns change dramatically throughout the camping season, with potential for rain, wind, and varying temperatures. "This is a very nice campground set back from Mendenhall lake and the famous Mendenhall Glacier. Bears frequent this area and sometimes wolves too. If you are looking for that wild Alaska experience you can have it here," noted one visitor about Mendenhall Lake Campground.

Waterfront camping locations receive particularly high ratings from visitors, with sites along lakes, rivers, and ocean shores being especially popular. Campgrounds like Seward City Campgrounds offer oceanfront RV sites with views of Resurrection Bay, while inland options such as Quartz Creek Campground provide access to both creek and lakefront camping. Wildlife viewing opportunities represent a significant draw for many campers, with several reviews mentioning bear and beaver sightings. A visitor to Mendenhall Lake Campground shared, "Once the salmon start running you can walk on the man-made walkway next to the creek and watch bears catch salmon to feed their cubs!" Mosquitoes and other insects can be prevalent during summer months, particularly in areas near water, with several reviews mentioning the need for bug protection. Public lands throughout Alaska also offer dispersed camping options for those seeking more remote experiences.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Columbia Falls, Montana (38)

    1. Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed

    39 Reviews
    Coram, MT
    8 miles
    Website

    "The road is nice gravel for most of the way in, but the last 500 ft to the shore is a very bumpy dirt road so trailers might have an issue."

    "We were glad to have 4WD and high clearance. The beach spots are packed, but plenty of space and lots of rafters having themselves a good time, so if thats your scene go for it!"

    2. Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    30 Reviews
    Coram, MT
    8 miles

    "In this video we review 2 more of the free boondocking(dispersed camping) sites near Glacier National Park and Columbia Falls, Montana."

    "This free camping area has unbelievable breathtaking views especially at sunrise/sunset! The stars are also extremely visible since you’re staying on the rocks right along the river."

    3. Ryan Road Dispersed Camping

    23 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    13 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 387-3800

    "Rolled in around 8pm and easily found a spot for a car and multiple tents toward the beginning of the road, before we reached the dropped pin."

    "This was a great campsite really close to the West Glacier entrance. The road is easily accessible by most cars. There’s around 10 designated camp site of different sizes."

    4. North fork Flathead River dispersed camping

    24 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    14 miles

    "Dispersed campground right on the Flathead river. Great to hear the river at night. Only downsides are it’s a busy boat launch with people coming all day long and it can get loud on the weekends."

    "I’m in a camper van and had no issues accessing the site. Dirt road, but very passable leading here. Large 30+’ motorhomes here, too. Bathroom onsite, too."

    5. Glacier Rim River Access 10363

    9 Reviews
    Coram, MT
    9 miles
    Website

    "This site is tucked away between the road and the river. It's super peaceful and there weren't many people around (some stayed in their car, and there was one other tent pitched by the river)."

    "I was at the first campsite on the right, less than a quarter mile walk down to the pit toilets and river."

    6. McGinnis Creek

    7 Reviews
    West Glacier, MT
    10 miles
    Website

    "In this video we provide a comprehensive review of 3 of the free boondocking(dispersed camping) sites near Glacier National Park and Columbia Falls, Montana."

    "This is dispersed camping with no amenities, but it makes up for that with the views. Pack in, pack out, LNT, and be bear aware!"

    7. GooseHead Camping Area

    7 Reviews
    Martin City, MT
    11 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 758-5208

    "If you have a small overlanding camper, 4WD, or a text/van, this secluded spot just past the recreation area is STUNNING. 270 views of the reservoir."

    "Pit toilet, well maintained, and walkable from all spots in the area."

    8. Hungry Horse Reservoir Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    Martin City, MT
    7 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 387-3800

    "The GPS coordinates for this place are slightly off. Look for Hungry Horse Rd and follow it 4 miles until you reach the Hungry Horse Reservoir Dam."

    "Here’s the coordinates of the site! Please call if you find the keys! 2089705945

    (48.3172798, -113.9820563)"

    9. Teakettle River Access

    2 Reviews
    Columbia Falls, MT
    1 mile

    "You can park in the tea kettle river access and walk south along the rivers bank to access large areas of public land for free camping. There are toilets and trash bins available at the river access."

    10. Blankenship #1

    2 Reviews
    Coram, MT
    9 miles

    "We tried to go down by the river (1.5 miles further), but our ground clearance was too low. So we came back to this nice, secluded spot, just of the road."

    "This site has an easy pull off of Blankenship Rd. near Lake Five. Trees and a fire ring. The road was busy until sundown. No toilet. 2 bars and 5G on ATT."

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Showing results 1-10 of 38 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Columbia Falls, MT

170 Reviews of 38 Columbia Falls Campgrounds



Guide to Columbia Falls

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Columbia Falls, Montana, where nature meets adventure. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those looking to escape into the wild.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Columbia Falls, Montana

Fishing and Water Activities While Free Camping Near Columbia Falls

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience breathtaking views at McGinnis Creek, where the surrounding landscape is filled with wildflowers and wildlife.
  • The GooseHead Camping Area provides stunning sunset views over the reservoir, making it a picturesque spot for evening relaxation.
  • For those seeking a more secluded experience, Stanton Lake offers hidden gems with beautiful vistas, perfect for photography and quiet contemplation.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Columbia Falls, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Columbia Falls, MT is Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed with a 4.3-star rating from 39 reviews.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 38 dispersed camping locations near Columbia Falls, MT, with real photos and reviews from campers.