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Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Elliston, Montana, primarily along the Little Blackfoot River in Helena National Forest. The Forest Service has designated three specific dispersed sites along this waterway, each offering different amenities and access points. These primitive camping areas feature established fire rings and flat areas suitable for tents and some RVs. According to reviews, the first Little Blackfoot site includes the bonus of a picnic table and offers "a nice large flat area right next to the creek with plenty of room for multiple tents or RVs."
Four-wheel drive vehicles are recommended for accessing Elliston Dispersed Camping on Forest Road 314, particularly during wet conditions. The road becomes increasingly rough as you travel deeper into the forest. No drinking water is available at any of these sites; campers must filter water from the Little Blackfoot River or bring their own supply. Vault toilets are limited to certain areas, so visitors should come prepared with proper waste disposal equipment.
Seasonal considerations affect camping in this region. Many forest roads open around mid-May, with some sites inaccessible until then. Fire restrictions frequently apply during summer months; check current regulations before planning to collect firewood or build campfires. The sites vary in size and privacy; Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite #3 provides easy river access but can be challenging for larger trailers. Several campers noted that "backing a trailer requires some skill" at this location. The dispersed sites are generally quiet with minimal road traffic, though weekend popularity increases during summer months. All sites operate on a first-come, first-served basis with no reservation system.
"Up a forest service road, so four-wheel-drive came in handy. A bit muddy. There are a variety of sites available, some are easier to access than others."
"This was an easy to get to camping spot with nice, dispersed sites and we had the place all to ourselves. "
"Bumped in to this disperse campsite while heading out for a hike. "
"Easy access to the creek for fishing. great little fire pit."
"We didn’t stay at this exact site as it was taken but there one more dispersed site about a mile or so down the road."
"There were just a few cars driving back down the mountain in the evening. But no one bothered."
"Road going around to the other side of the reservoir is gated and closed now."
"There’s a big area that had a dozen RVs & tents, but it was late & we wanted space so we followed a rough dirt road 1/2 a mile to find a spot in the trees."
"The dispersed camping is super easy to find, and it's right off the highway! It was perfect for a quick spot to camp on our way home to Colorado instead of getting a hotel room."
"A good chunk of mostly flat spots with a few fire rings. The road in is pretty bumpy but otherwise maintained. Keep this one close to your chest… keep it clean and less traveled haha."
"Canyon Ferry has great dispersed camping all around it. The specific site we stayed at was right next to the beach. Great views and right down from a pit toilet."
"Pit toilet available."
"Tons of spots for camping and big rigs up to 50 ft long with spots a couple of hundred feet from the reservoir itself and lots of shade in places with decent privacy and picnic tables and fire rings at"
"Access is very easy and many open spots with fire pits all over. Grounds on some spots are pretty beaten up and some others are very grassy and clean."
"I was able to walk up about less than a quarter mile and find a flat ground where I was able to set up my shelter. I’m sure this gets busy in the summertime."
ScoutGated road at this location, maybe still good from other starting point but no viable sites coming from Rimini that I saw. Road gets a bit rough, did find a rough roadside spot for the night but for the 8-9 mile drive in on dirt roads definitely not worthwhile.
ScoutGreat internet & Very well maintained & Relaxing, Great Spot
LegendFairly long road to get to the campground and last mile and a half is a bit rutted but can still be managed by your average vehicle. Not much shade and only three or four spots but right on the beach and a beautiful calm Lagoon right at the campsite
LegendClean Vault toilets and lots of room even for very large rigs. Not a ton of privacy as most sites are open but lots of access to the lake and water available at the marina 2 mi away
GuideThere are a bunch of sites here! The long driving paths are all different camping spots. It is first come first serve, and there are a decent amount of them to choose from. If you dive further down just before the lake shore there is one on a hill. It is very secluded and has amazing views of the mountains and the water. There is a fire pit but you have to bring your own chairs. It is very quiet and peaceful. Highly recommended this spot.
ScoutCampsites have a nice distance between them so we didn’t feel overcrowded. Fire rings and picnic tables are very convenient. Bathroom is a short walk away. Most of the sites have a trail leading to the water which the kids loved and bonus our spot actually had another fire pit by the water! Beautiful sunrise and stunning sunset. Arrived at 5pm on a Saturday 8/1 and no problem finding a site. Would definitely stay again!
GuideSpent the entire 16day limit camping here and overall it was enjoyable. Its pretty heavy traffic at all times (day and night) since its located pretty close to the entrance of the 17mile NF road loop, and off-roaders will zip by. There were ample spots to pick from, many with tables and most with established fire rings. My main complaints are nonstop offroading traffic, and the herd of freerange cattle that loved using my van as a scratching post every time they wandered through (roughly 20 times over my 16 days).
ScoutQuick access off i90 and road was not too bad. For free dispersed camping it was a dream! Fire pit, picnic table, no water or toilet but that’s ok. Plenty of Large RVs and OTVs but plenty of space to spread out. Can hear some interstate noise but it was not that loud. Free roaming cattle were wandering around but they were chill
TravelerDidn't see a parking over night so gave it a try. Not bad, just a big lot
Dispersed camping sites around Elliston, Montana concentrate in the Helena National Forest area with elevations ranging from 5,800 to 6,500 feet. Weather patterns can shift rapidly in this mountainous region, with summer thunderstorms forming quickly in afternoons. Road conditions vary significantly after rain events, making pre-trip planning essential for rustic camping near Elliston.
Fishing access points: The Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite provides multiple spots to cast for trout. As one camper mentions, "Easy to find, road isn't too rough, no service with t mobile, nice little fire ring."
Mountain biking trails: Several free camping areas connect to trail networks. At Homestake Pass Dispersed, "There are MTB OHV and walking trails nearby," according to one reviewer who appreciated the recreational options just steps from camp.
Wildlife viewing: Cattle frequently roam through the dispersed areas. One camper at Homestake Pass reported, "Cows did come to our campsite nightly and dig through our fire pit," showing the authentic rural Montana camping experience.
Relative solitude: Midweek offers the quietest experience at free camping areas. A camper at Confederate Disperse Camping Area noted, "Pulled in early on a Friday and it was already filling up. Stayed 1 week and was by myself for most of it besides the weekend."
Cell reception: Some primitive sites maintain connectivity. At Homestake Pass, "It has excellent cellular coverage and is not far from town," making it suitable for remote workers needing occasional connection.
Quick highway access: For travelers passing through, locations like Scott Reservoir Dispersed provide convenient overnight options. One camper found it "Pretty easy to get to from Helena. Just take Rimini road all the way up, past the town, past private property."
Vehicle requirements: Many forest roads deteriorate after rain. One camper at Elliston Dispersed Camping on Forest Road 314 reported, "Up a forest service road, so four-wheel-drive came in handy. A bit muddy."
Site limitations: Flat areas can be scarce. At Kelly Gulch Road, "Since it's on a mountain, the amount of flat areas are limited so it's first come first serve," requiring early arrival for best spots.
Seasonal closures: Gates restrict access to some areas into mid-May. A Kelly Gulch camper noted, "The gate was closed and does not open until May 15. I was able to walk up about less than a quarter mile and find a flat ground."
Water sources: Filter all water from streams or bring your own supply. No potable water exists at these rustic sites around Elliston.
Site selection: Choose areas with creek access for kid-friendly activities. At Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite #3, "Easy access to the creek for fishing. great little fire pit," provides natural entertainment.
Weekend crowds: Plan for busier conditions Friday-Sunday. One camper observed at Confederate, "I arrived on a Thursday with only one other person camping within 100 yards of me. By Saturday, there were 12 different campers packed in like sardine along the same 100 yard stretch."
Wildlife precautions: Bring proper food storage containers. A camper at Scott Reservoir mentioned seeing wildlife: "Ran into one local taking pictures but left soon after. About 4-5 rock fire rings fairly close together."
Weather preparation: Summer thunderstorms develop quickly. Pack extra tarps and rain gear even for overnight stays.
Site access challenges: Larger trailers struggle at certain spots. At Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite #3, a reviewer cautioned, "If you have a long trailer it is a difficult spot to get into as you have to back your trailer down it and then when you're done, you have to back your trailer back up into a brush area in order to get back on the road."
Level parking: At Racetrack Dispersed Campsite, "A good chunk of mostly flat spots with a few fire rings. The road in is pretty bumpy but otherwise maintained... Came in with our 28' travel trailer and had ample room for turning around etc."
Road conditions: Washboard surfaces challenge RVers. A Racetrack camper warned, "Road in was 100% washboard, but the campsite was decent."
Generator etiquette: Be mindful of generator use. At Homestake Pass, campers noted "Several other campers running gens all day," which can disturb tent campers seeking quiet.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are propane refills available near the dispersed camping areas in Elliston?
Yes, propane refills are available near Elliston's dispersed camping areas. Canyon Ferry Lake Dispersed Camping Area offers propane exchange service alongside other amenities like a small store, dump station, showers, and drinking water. This makes it a convenient stop for restocking supplies while enjoying the dispersed camping experience in the region. For other options, check with gas stations in Helena or Butte, both within reasonable driving distance from Elliston's dispersed camping locations.
Where can I find dispersed camping sites near Elliston, Montana?
The Elliston area offers several dispersed camping options on public lands. Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite is a popular choice with a large flat area next to the creek, offering plenty of space for tents and several RVs. There are actually three marked dispersed sites along this river within the Helena National Forest, making it easy to know you're on public land in an area mixed with private property. For a more remote experience, Kelly Gulch Road Dispersed Camping provides mountain camping options, though flat areas are limited and it's best to arrive early in peak season (opens May 15).
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Elliston, MT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Elliston, MT is Elliston Dispersed Camping on Forest Road 314 with a 3.4-star rating from 5 reviews.
What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Elliston, MT?
TheDyrt.com has all 17 dispersed camping locations near Elliston, MT, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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