Are you in need of a campground near Custer Gallatin National Forest, MT? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Custer Gallatin National Forest campgrounds just for you. Find the best campgrounds near Custer Gallatin National Forest, MT. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
"No amenities, so pack in everything you need and leave no trace. Would 100% come back for the views alone. One of the best dispersed sites I’ve stayed at."
"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."
"This is very remote feeling with no cell reception or views of any paved roads or buildings. You cannot hear traffic from the highway which is about 1/3 miles away."
"Overall a great sites with a pit toilet and campfire rings for use. I recommend it for any Yellowstone visitors looking for a spot."
"We arrived to the Yellowstone area in the evening, and since we had been traveling around the U.S. for almost a year, we were well-versed in finding alternative camping options near national parks."
"Take a left and drive in 3 miles on National Forest Road to areas where camping is allowed. There are mile marker signs."
"Perfect pull outs off Travertine up Trail Creek/FS 1701 just 7-10 minutes out of Gardine. We ended up at the very end of the road where it loops back on itself in our truck camper."
"Drove through a few open gates but there were clearly dispersed sites in this area. Nice flat sites, road was rocky and bumpy but not bad."
"Easy to drive into, and parking lot is easy to turn around in. You can't see the main road from here, so very private."
"We took the last one (just after 2ish miles from the entrance at the road) and it was absolutely gorgeous. Our little site sat on small ridge with a somewhat steep but short trail down to the creek."
"This spot is one of my favorite dispersed sites I’ve ever stayed at. We stayed for 3 nights but could stay up to 16. Next time, I may stay the whole time."
"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."
"Dispersed camping all along a pass through the canyon. Very remote and private. I drove up the mountain a ways and found a perfect spot to set up ."
"Great spot with easy access. Beautiful views and the blue mountains in the distance at sunset make this site a crowd pleaser."
"Great dispersed camp area . Rugged 2 track with established ( flat clearing with rock fire ring) camp spots on both sides."
ScoutAbsolutely stunning spot. The mountain views from camp were unreal — especially at sunrise. Super peaceful, with minimal noise. No amenities, so pack in everything you need and leave no trace. Would 100% come back for the views alone. One of the best dispersed sites I’ve stayed at.
LegendCow Creek Disperse camping area is a large fairly flat grassy area just off the road. Area is in the wide open on a high spot above the Ruby River meaning less bugs as you are unprotected from any breeze that may be blowing. The site has great views of the surrounding mountains and of the Ruby River below. Site has on large rock fire ring. Plenty of room to fit a large group at this location, with no problem finding flat spots for your tents. Disperse camping along FS route 100 is only allowed in designated locations in this part of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. All forest service disperse camping rules are in affect. Stay is limited to 16 days. No facilities at this site(so come prepared. Site is at an elevation of 6428 feet.
LegendA Outhouse!!!. Dispersed Camping Area 6100J is a large camping area a short distance off forest road 100 with four to six established sites depending on how you look at it. But the best thing of all is just across FS road 100 is a vault toilet. The camping area sits between FS 100 and the Ruby River, unfortunately none of the sites are along the river. I said 4-6 sites as a few of the rock fire rings are very close to another fire ring, could fit to groups of campers at these sites, but why would you want to be so close to someone else while disperse camping. Good size fire rings at nice flat locations with plenty of room to set up camp. The vault toilet did not have any paper in it when I visited, but it was after the usual camping season and the middle of hunting season. The site also has 3 tie up rails for horses at the entrance to the camping area. Disperse camping along FS route 100 is only allowed in designated locations in this part of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. All forest service disperse camping rules are in affect. Stay is limited to 16 days. No facilities at this site(except for the vault toilet) so come prepared. Site is at an elevation of 6472 feet
ScoutPerfect 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. Also wouldn't want to drive it if rain forecasted as I bet the dirt turns to impassible mud real fast.
The spots themselves are wonderful, some very open, some tucked away along the rocks, all very spread out from each other. Super quiet. I can't believe how quiet it was.
If you want to feel like you are camping on a mountain in the middle of no where, this is it.
LegendCamp among wide meadows, lush forests, towering peaks and wildlife
Yellowstone National Park's back-country site 2S1 is definitely the most amazing back-country site our Venturing Crew has backpacked to this summer, and we have been to quiet a few. Back-country site 2S1 is located along Slough Creek in a beautiful valley where Sandhill Cranes calls fill the valley in the evening and early morning. It is a 4.3 mile hike along the Slough Creek Trail to the spur trail for site 2S1, then a.6 mile hike to the campsite. Being.6 miles from the trail would usually mean solitude, but this site appears to be a popular fishing location as well as their was always someone fishing in the area. But don't worry, the campsite is fairly hidden from the creek and those fishing were very considerate. The campsite has numerous flat locations to pitch a tent. Their is a pole suspended between two trees for handing your food, but you don't need to use it as a bear proof locker has been placed at the site. A rock fire ring is available for fires and has large logs on two sides to sit on. Plenty of firewood is available in the form of large trees that are scattered on the ground through out the area, just find one of the older ones that are rotting and pull them apart and in a few minutes you have a nice pile of wood that will start easy. You don't need much wood at any one time on the fire to have a nice hot fire as this dry rotted wood really burns hot. If you are planning on having a fire be sure to bring a container to bring water from the creek to put it out with, as you are at least 50 yards from the creek. The view is amazing from camp, a wondering creek going though a wide valley with steep mountains on each side. In the evening we were treated to the alpine glow on the mountain tops for a good 15 minutes. Do you want to see wildlife, well we say plenty on this backpack trip. Hundreds of bison on the drive to the trail head, watched a black bear munching on various vegetation 100 feet from the trail, a young fox walked right by us on the trail, squirrels, chipmunks, a badger, sandhill cranes and other song birds as well. To get to back-country site 2S1 start at Slough Creek Trail head(2K5) and hike the 4.3 miles to the spur trail to the campsite. You will have one hard climb right of the bat, the first.7 miles is a steep climb, after that it is a easy hike. A warning, don't be shocked when you see lots of tourist heading out on the trail completely unprepared. We are talking about hiking in flip flops, no water, no bear spray, and this on a steep trail to start where we spotted the bear along the trail edge.8 miles in.
Ranger review of the Morsel Spork XL
We have been using the Morsel XL spork with out Scouts on several backpacking trips this summer and the unanimous opinion is a big thumbs up. We have used our Morsels with MRE's, and they truly out perform compared to the plastic spoon those meals provide. With backpacking dehydrated meals we are able to get out every little bit out of the corners of the bag without getting our hands messy. Bowls, cups, and plates, no problem getting to all the food, which makes clean-up after a meal easier. The variety of colors is helpful as well, as we can give each scout a different color so no one confuses their Morsel with anyone else, and we can quickly figure out who dropped theirs or left it laying around. The Morsel Spork XL is now our go to utensil for our backpacking adventures.
TravelerThis site is about 20 miles west of Yellowstone in Idaho. Great spot with easy access. Beautiful views and the blue mountains in the distance at sunset make this site a crowd pleaser. Gravel roads on the way in get a little more rough the further in you go and down towards the creek. About 8+ sites off gravel road including a group site. There are also a few dirt roads closer to entrance that may lead to more but we didn’t go up since they were a little closer to the road. The traffic was a bit loud at times but as the night went on and the traffic died down and this was a beautiful area overlooking a meadow. Unfortunately, a few people have forgot the importance of leave no trace and therefore be careful of the toilet paper scattered throughout this site.
GuideA good amount of dispersed areas here. All the areas in the open meadow area closer by the road was occupied. We choose a dead end road and had the area all to ourselves. Had to back up the road about 200 feet because there was no turn around for the size of our rig (36 foot 5th wheel). But it is doable.
ScoutGreat dispersed camp area . Rugged 2 track with established ( flat clearing with rock fire ring) camp spots on both sides. We camped at the very end of the track, about 2 miles in, on the edge of a beautiful rushing stream. Site was level and had a bear box , very peaceful. Other sites were occupied on the way in, area was clean ( no trash) and there was a large group area and trail head just before the end. Area is about 9 miles from the West Yellowstone Park gate. No facilities/ dispersed, so be prepared to pack in/ pack out.
GuideA lot of boondocking opportunities in that area. Must of the spots in the open meadow area were full. Therefore, we went with this spot up a dead end road. With the size of r rig 36 foot Solltude I had to back up the road about 200 feet. Road in was a little rough but we managed.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Custer Gallatin National Forest in Montana, where nature lovers can find serene spots away from the crowds. With stunning views and a variety of wildlife, this area offers an unforgettable outdoor experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping in Custer Gallatin National Forest?
When dispersed camping in Custer Gallatin National Forest, you must follow Leave No Trace principles, packing out all trash. Camp at least 100-200 feet from water sources, trails, and developed sites. Most areas limit stays to 14 days within a 30-day period. Campfires are permitted in established fire rings when no fire restrictions are in place—check current conditions before your trip. 6100J Dispersed Camping Area exemplifies the Forest Service's approach to managing dispersed sites with established use areas and nearby vault toilets in some locations. At Targhee Creek, bear boxes are provided at certain sites, indicating bear safety protocols are important throughout the region. Always store food properly and check for area-specific regulations before your visit.
Are there any free dispersed camping sites along Travertine Road in Custer Gallatin National Forest?
Yes, Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone offers free dispersed camping with stunning mountain views, especially magnificent at sunrise. These sites are completely free and operate on a first-come, first-served basis. The area is peaceful with minimal noise, making it ideal for those seeking solitude. However, be aware that the road is windy and dirt, suitable for pickup trucks and camper vans but not recommended for Class A or Class C RVs. A 20-foot trailer can navigate it, but it likely becomes impassible during rain when the dirt turns to mud. The sites have no amenities, so campers must be fully self-sufficient, bringing all necessities including water and waste disposal options, while practicing Leave No Trace principles.
Where are the best dispersed camping spots in Custer Gallatin National Forest?
Custer Gallatin National Forest offers several excellent dispersed camping areas. Bootjack - Dispersed Camping provides numerous spots in meadow areas and along dead-end roads, accommodating even larger rigs like 36-foot fifth wheels. For mountain views and water access, Falls Creek offers beautiful sites with stunning vistas despite the initial drive through ranch lands. Other notable options include Cow Creek with its flat grassy area and mountain views, Olson Creek with abundant birdsongs, and Taylor Fork Road for easy access. Most sites feature basic fire rings and flat areas for tents or vehicles, but remember to bring all necessary supplies as amenities are minimal throughout the forest.
Is dispersed camping available near Hyalite Canyon in Custer Gallatin National Forest?
Yes, dispersed camping is available near Hyalite Canyon in Custer Gallatin National Forest. Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046 offers free dispersed camping with drive-in access that can accommodate larger vehicles. The area provides beautiful mountain scenery and outdoor recreation opportunities. Like other dispersed sites in the forest, these locations have minimal or no amenities, so campers should come prepared with water, food, and waste disposal plans. Many spots are first-come, first-served, so arriving early, especially during peak summer months, is recommended. The nearby Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site offers additional options for those seeking alternatives in the general vicinity. Remember to follow all forest regulations and Leave No Trace principles.
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