Dispersed camping sites near Butte, Montana sit at elevations ranging from 5,500 to 7,000 feet with dramatic temperature variations common throughout the camping season. Winter conditions can persist into late May at higher elevations, with nighttime temperatures dropping below freezing even in summer months. Many campsites feature granite boulder formations that create natural windbreaks but limit vehicle access.
What to do
Mountain biking access: The Homestake Pass Dispersed camping area connects to several mountain biking trails. "Lots of mountain bike trails nearby. We were there for a couple of nights. Lots of rigs came in just for one night stays," reports Marc M. from Homestake Pass Dispersed.
OHV recreation: Pipestone OHV Recreation Area offers extensive off-highway vehicle trails within riding distance of campsites. A visitor noted, "Awesome camp sites all throughout. There is small areas for single campers and lager sites for glamping caravans. Lots of awesome rock outcrops to climb and explore. Just a short drive to Delmo lake from any of them." The area requires high-clearance vehicles on access roads.
Rock formations exploration: Toll Mountain Campground features unique boulder formations ideal for climbing and exploration. "This campground has about 10 sites on a small loop. The ones on the left on you way in are up in the rocks...very cool," writes Brad T. from Toll Mountain Campground. Sites positioned among massive granite boulders provide natural privacy barriers.
What campers like
Continental Divide Trail access: Lowland Campground offers proximity to the CDT. "Short trail in the campground, and about five miles from entrance was the Continental Divide Trail. We didn't know about that until we were leaving, so we will come back to explore," writes Lisa K. about Lowland Campground.
Wildlife viewing: Campgrounds north of Butte provide opportunities to observe local wildlife. "It has a moose!" reports Tom P. from Toll Mountain Campground. Other campers mention regular visits from deer, chipmunks, and prairie dogs at multiple campsites.
Solitude and night skies: Remote campgrounds offer isolation from light pollution and crowds. "Really solid and absolutely beautiful. Spent one night, didn't see any one else camping," writes Sammo Y. about Lowland Campground. Star visibility rates as exceptional due to minimal light pollution from surrounding communities.
What you should know
Water access concerns: Many dispersed camping areas lack reliable water sources. "Bring drinking water! I do not recommend getting water from Butte other than from 'Ultimate Big Spring Water' which cost $15 for 5gal with a jug. Apparently Butte has occasional toxic leakage into the mains from the Toxic Pits," warns TheFoxphire F. about Homestake Pass Dispersed.
Road conditions: Access roads to many campgrounds require high-clearance vehicles. "Road was some of the worst washboard I've ever experienced. Also note that road is labeled Rader Rd as well as Toll Mountain Rd," cautions William M. about Toll Mountain Campground.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds at higher elevations have limited seasons. "Even in July, the mornings and evenings were cool and pleasant," notes Lisa K. about Lowland Campground, with temperatures often dropping into the 40s overnight even during summer.
Tips for camping with families
Hot springs proximity: Family-friendly amenities exist at certain campgrounds. "Within walking distance of the hot springs resort," mentions Doug P. about Fairmont RV Resort. The nearby hot springs features indoor/outdoor pools suitable for children of various ages.
Playground availability: Some campgrounds offer dedicated recreation areas. "They have a general store thats cute and homey and the park itself is very spacious. Clean restroom and shower areas. Just be sure to NEVER drive over 5mph as its the the number one rule," advises Casey L. about Fairmont RV Resort.
Safety considerations: Some areas have specific safety concerns. "We did have a creepy experience. Three trucks drove by our spot and parked just staring at us and would leave. They did this 3 times before we decided to pack up and go elsewhere. Also saw a bunch of bear poop," reports Natalie P. about Homestake Pass Dispersed.
Tips from RVers
Accessibility considerations: Some campgrounds have attempted to accommodate mobility needs. "They made an attempt to make the bathrooms handicap accessible in both the men's and women's. A single shower stall with two grab bars and a flip down bench with a low step shower can be used but not easily by somebody in a wheelchair," notes Lara O. about 2 Bar Lazy H RV Campground.
Leveling conditions: Many sites require minimal leveling. "This campground is adequate and has easy access from I90. It is located west of Butte, Montana. There are restrooms, showers and a laundry room. The restrooms could have been cleaner. However the camp sites are nearly level," writes Joe D. about 2 Bar Lazy H RV Campground.
Generator policies: Campground rules vary regarding generator use. "So quiet at night!! We stayed four days here and it was great! From Wednesday through Friday, we basically had the entire place to ourselves. Will accommodate RV off grid, but no generators after 10 pm, which is good," explains Lisa K. about Lowland Campground.
