Best Dispersed Camping near Cut Bank, MT
Dispersed camping around Cut Bank, Montana concentrates primarily in areas near Glacier National Park's eastern boundaries and along reservoir access points. Bynum Reservoir Fishing Access Site, located about 30 miles southwest of Cut Bank near Choteau, permits primitive camping with minimal amenities. Several unofficial sites exist along Highway 89 approaching East Glacier, though reviews indicate conflicting information about their legality, with some areas apparently located on tribal lands where camping may be prohibited without proper permission. The Lubec area also contains primitive dispersed sites, located approximately 25 miles west of Cut Bank.
Road access to most dispersed sites varies considerably by location and season. Bynum Reservoir can be reached via gravel roads approximately two miles from the highway, with most sites accessible to standard vehicles, though some areas may require higher clearance. Sites near Highway 89 East Glacier and Lubec are primarily accessed by dirt roads that may become difficult after rain or snow. Most dispersed camping locations lack amenities such as drinking water, trash service, or hookups. Bynum Reservoir does provide vault toilets, picnic tables, and fire rings at some sites, though camping there reportedly costs $18 rather than being free as sometimes indicated.
The camping experience differs significantly between locations. Bynum Reservoir offers water access for fishing and swimming when water levels permit, though recent reviews note the reservoir has been "very low" with "the lake drying up." The Highway 89 East Glacier area provides mountain views and potential wildlife sightings including wild horses, though camping legality remains unclear. One reviewer received "a citation even though there are roads leading here with no signs while others have signs stating camping is prohibited." The Lubec sites provide convenient access to Glacier's East Entrance but experience noise from nearby train lines. According to a visitor, "there is a train nearby that is somewhat loud but it usually didn't wake me up. No amenities. It's good if you need a place to sleep before Glacier."
