Tent camping opportunities near Dayton, Montana include walk-in sites and wilderness locations within the Flathead National Forest. The area sits at approximately 3,000 feet elevation and experiences warm summer days with temperatures often dropping into the 50s at night. Many dispersed camping locations remain accessible from late May through early October, though higher elevation sites may have more limited seasons.
What to do
Swimming and water activities: Yellow Bay State Park Campground offers excellent swimming conditions with a relatively shallow protected bay. One camper noted, "The bay itself is relatively shallow, protected a bit from the wind and the bottom is smooth mid sized rocks, all making for an excellent place to swim."
Fishing opportunities: Ashley Lake South Campground provides access to clear waters ideal for fishing. "I have stayed here several times... it's nice and there's still that beautiful clear blue water... Relaxing. Peaceful," reports one regular visitor.
Kayaking and canoeing: Mere's Magic Trout Pond provides a small body of water perfect for beginners. According to a reviewer, "There is potable well water and a canoe if you wanted to row in the pond."
River relaxation: Blankenship Bridge Dispersed Camping offers direct river access with multiple riverside tent sites. One camper shared, "I loved this spot! I was able to get a spot back in the trees and shade a bit, but could still just walk down to the river."
What campers like
Proximity to Glacier National Park: Ryan Road Dispersed Camping serves as a convenient base for park exploration. A visitor remarked, "This spot is only about 5 minutes down the road from the West entrance to Glacier National Park."
Quiet locations: Many tent sites offer seclusion and peaceful settings. One camper at Ryan Road Dispersed Camping observed, "I am happy to have a place close to the park free of charge! There are only about 10 sites so get there early."
Natural soundscapes: Water features near many campsites create pleasant ambient noise. A visitor at Yellow Bay State Park Campground appreciated that "the nearby stream drowns out most of [the highway noise]."
Access to clear water: The region's lakes and rivers typically feature exceptional water clarity. One camper at Ashley Lake South Campground commented, "Ashley Lake never disappoints. The camp sites are a bit rough to get too but as long as you're tent camping or have a very small and agile pull behind you'll be okay."
What you should know
Road conditions: Many of the best tent camping near Dayton, Montana requires navigating rough roads. A reviewer at Blankenship Bridge warned, "Rough roads make it a bit tricky to get down, but the area is relaxing and easy for a night or two."
Permit requirements: Some locations require special permissions, particularly on tribal lands. According to a visitor at North Crow Creek, "This campground was difficult to find online so we drove out anyways. Campers should know that it is on Tribal land and permits are required for use."
Site availability: First-come, first-served sites fill quickly during summer months. At Ashley Lake South Campground, a camper noted, "There are only about 6-7 spots, first come first serve, and it's on a real rough road to get there."
Seasonal closures: Some dispersed camping areas close temporarily for various reasons. As one visitor to Hungry Horse Reservoir Dispersed reported, "The road is closed, due to fire hazard."
Tips for camping with families
Look for swim-friendly locations: Areas with gradual water entry work best for children. A camper at Yellow Bay State Park Campground reported, "The bay itself is relatively shallow, protected a bit from the wind and the bottom is smooth mid sized rocks, all making for an excellent place to swim."
Consider noise levels: Some sites near roads experience traffic noise. At Yellow Bay State Park Campground, "The highway is just above the campsite so there is road noise from time to time but it quiets down at night."
Check for bathroom facilities: Mission Meadows RV Campground offers more developed facilities. One camper shared, "Great place. Has all the hook ups and public restrooms and laundry room. Place for tents."
Wildlife considerations: Proper food storage remains essential. At Blankenship Bridge, visitors enjoy wildlife viewing but must take precautions: "When I was there they also had porta potties available, because it's illegal to even bury waste in this location."
Tips from RVers
Vehicle clearance limitations: Many dispersed camping areas require high-clearance vehicles. A visitor to Hungry Horse Reservoir noted, "This is a good spot for smaller rv's or tents but any spot I seen for rv larger than 30' was taken or really not available."
Consider site leveling: Some campgrounds have uneven terrain challenges. At Mission Meadows RV Campground, a camper observed, "Campground is no frills, but beautiful mountain views and fairly quiet... There are a few spots with hookups, but the ground is very uneven."
Space constraints: SpiritWorks Herb Farm Campground and other locations may have limited parking. According to a former manager, "The campsites are on an organic herb farm. No food in the camping areas due to wildlife. Communal area for cooking, eating and campfire."
RV access considerations: Ryan Road Dispersed Camping offers limited large vehicle options. One visitor explained, "We have a 42' trailer and thought we would give this spot a shot. There's a slightly rough dirt road to get to the camp spots. There were about 3-4 sites that could fit our RV."
