Dispersed camping in Custer Gallatin National Forest ranges from 4,500 to 9,500 feet elevation with stark temperature differences between day and night, often dropping 30-40 degrees after sunset. The forest encompasses over 3.1 million acres with tent camping opportunities concentrated around the forest's northern sections where washboard roads require careful driving. Sites typically offer minimal shelter with exposure to mountain weather patterns including sudden rain and wind.
What to do
Wildlife viewing at dawn/dusk: Tent campers can spot elk, bears, and other wildlife, particularly in meadow areas. At Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone, one camper reported, "It was last minute I read about this spot on Dyrt and was pretty relieved to find something with great reviews and relatively close to home in Bozeman. We are literally the only people up here off this FS road. Strange to see so many dead elk carcasses all around but it's Montana so not surprised."
Hiking nearby trails: Several trails lead from camping areas into higher elevations. At WF1 Backcountry Campsite, a visitor noted, "Yellowstone National Parks back country campsite WF1 sits on the edge of a large meadow of wildflowers with amazing views of the mountains to the west. Campsite WF1 is the first back country site along Black Butte Trail in the North West corner of the park. It is about a 2.2 mile hike to the campsite from the trail head."
Stargazing from high-elevation sites: Minimal light pollution creates excellent night sky viewing. At Targhee Creek, a camper shared, "We got luck and got the best spot along the creek as a family was about to leave when we pulled in midday on a Monday. It was absolutely beautiful and very secluded at the end of the road."
What campers like
Mountain views from exposed sites: The higher elevation camping areas provide panoramic vistas. At Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone, a camper noted, "One of the most beautiful places I've stayed! The sites are straight up from Gardiner on your usual rocky, washboard road. There were quite a few spots and it wasn't busy at all (arrived at 5:30pm on a holiday weekend). No amenities (ie fire pit) but you really can't beat those views!"
Cell service availability: Many dispersed sites maintain connectivity despite remote locations. At Custer-Gallatin National Forest Dispersed Camping, a visitor wrote, "Just passed the Eagle Creek Campground on Jardine Road. Take a left and drive in 3 miles on National Forest Road to areas where camping is allowed. There are mile marker signs. These are mostly little pull offs along the side of the road with great views into Yellowstone/Mammoth Hot Springs."
Wildflower meadows in summer months: June through August brings abundant wildflowers to many sites. One camper at Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site shared, "Perfect pull outs off Travertine up Trail Creek/FS 1701 just 7-10 minutes out of Gardiner. We ended up at the very end of the road where it loops back on itself in our truck camper. Road was a bit washboard and bumpy, but didn't need 4wd. Saw elk, a beautiful sunset, and a full moon rise. No river views, but wildflowers all over."
What you should know
Limited flat tent sites at some locations: Many areas have uneven terrain requiring careful tent placement. At Targhee Creek, a visitor cautioned, "Turn on FR 057. The end of the road is about 1 mile in. There are two very nice spots at the end of the road right along the creek. Across the bridge from the road closed sign there is also an excellent tent spot right along the creek."
Road conditions vary seasonally: Spring runoff and summer rains can create deep ruts and potholes. One camper noted, "Great spot with great views. Washboard road for a bit but it's ok."
Water access is limited: Bring sufficient water for your stay or reliable filtration systems. A visitor stated, "Water is no problem at this site, the creek is just next to the cooking area, best spot to filter the water is right where you cross to enter the campsite."
Bear activity requires proper precautions: All food must be secured and trash packed out. One camper warned, "Remember, this is bear territory, follow all bear safety guidelines. The road leading to the area is pretty well maintained."
Tips for camping with families
Arrival timing affects site selection: Most sites fill by early afternoon during peak season. At Cache Creek Cabin, a camper advised, "Not somewhere I'd typically go camping but nice place for others to enjoy."
Pack extra layers year-round: Even summer nights drop below 40°F, requiring warm sleeping gear. One visitor noted, "It was absolutely freezing though, the inside of the truck bed had frost in the morning (22°!)."
Prepare for insects: Mosquitoes and flies can be intense near water sources. A camper at Targhee Creek reported, "I pulled up around 7pm and it was the best view somehow, loved the spot wide open before the trails of the pass. I wasn't near the creek, but the flies were unbearable despite using spray of all kinds. Night time was enjoyable when they went away but it was hard to enjoy while being attacked in the eyes and face."
Tips from RVers
Small trailers only on most roads: Many access roads are unsuitable for larger RVs. A visitor to Little Trail Creek Road warned, "This location was almost impossible to get to, my father took his RV up the hill before we took ours up & his almost bottomed out. There's no way to know how bad that road is until you actually start driving up it (it's a tiny road on the side of the mountain) super bumpy, rocks everywhere. Don't recommend for a camper of any kind."
Scout sites before committing: Drive routes first without towing to assess conditions. One camper shared, "Great camping spot, the views were great and it's within a 10 min driving from Yellowstone. My only complaint was that the dirt road you have to drive on to access it is super bumpy due to many potholes and large rocks. This is likely no problem for truck or suv but my sedan had a difficult time getting up the road."
Level parking at pullouts: Some roadside pullouts offer better parking than designated areas. A visitor reported, "There are a few spots but the overlook is amazing! Perfect for a van camper or for a small bumper pull trailer - tent camping, too."
