Best Dispersed Camping near Flathead National Forest
Flathead National Forest offers several free dispersed camping areas along the Swan and North Fork Flathead Rivers and near Hungry Horse Reservoir. Blair Flats provides three designated riverside sites with fire rings, a vault toilet, and bear box for food storage. The sites accommodate vehicles up to 30-foot motorhomes, though campers note tree roots make tent placement challenging. One camper described it as "right next to the swan river...gorgeous" with "a vault toilet and food storage."
Multiple dispersed options exist around Hungry Horse Reservoir, including GooseHead Camping Area and Lakeview. GooseHead features lake access with sunset views and space for larger rigs, though it becomes crowded during summer weekends. Lakeview has five smaller sites with picnic tables, fire pits and trails leading to the water, but requires navigating approximately 20 miles of unpaved forest roads. North Fork Flathead River dispersed camping allows boat, drive-in, and hike-in access. Most sites permit campfires and have a 14-day stay limit. Be prepared for primitive conditions—pack out trash, bring water, and expect no cell service throughout the area.
