Dispersed camping opportunities near Frenchtown, Montana primarily exist within Lolo National Forest and along riverbanks within a 30-mile radius. The area sits in western Montana's mountain valleys at elevations ranging from 3,000-5,000 feet, where summer temperatures typically reach 85-95°F during day and cool to 45-55°F at night. Local camping regulations generally allow stays up to 14 days, with most sites requiring campers to be at least 100 feet from water sources.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: The Clark Fork River at Muchwater Recreation Area provides accessible fishing spots throughout the camping area. "The river was so soothing to hear. Didn't go in due to the current being so strong," notes one camper, making it better for fishing than swimming during high water periods.
Wildlife viewing: Many dispersed sites offer chances to spot local wildlife. At Muchwater Recreation Area, campers report unique sightings: "There was a young lonely moose crossing the river and sleeping in the camp at night during my stay. Sheep can be seen across the river sometimes."
Hiking trails: Blue Mountain Forest Rd 365 serves as a gateway to multiple trails. One visitor shared: "We drove about 45 minutes up the mountain on the 365 road, and found a very secluded camping spot with a absolute beautiful view." The area connects to trails suitable for day hikes of varying difficulty levels.
What campers like
River access: Campers at Lolo National Forest Recreation Area particularly appreciate the riverside locations. "Beautiful site right next to the river. Sites were clean but well used, so thank you to all the campers that took care of this place!" The riverfront sites have paths to the water, though some require navigating steep slopes.
Privacy between sites: Free camping near Frenchtown offers good separation between campsites. As one camper at Lolo National Forest Recreation Area mentioned: "Very spaced out campsites, nice for lots of privacy and quiet! Tent camped along the river!"
Cell service: Surprisingly strong connectivity exists at many dispersed sites. At Big Pine Campground, a camper reported: "T-mobile 5G UC signal from campgrounds. Day use area has wide open sky to recharge if needed."
What you should know
Road conditions vary: Access to free dispersed camping near Frenchtown can be challenging. At Blue Mountain Forest Rd 365, a camper warned: "Road is absolutely clapped out going up for like ten miles. Wouldn't recommend a rv or trailer unless you don't mind washboards. I got a flat tire going up so be careful of sharp rocks."
Train noise: Several riverside sites experience railroad noise. At Muchwater Dispersed Campground, a camper noted: "Huge ol' freight rail runs RIGHT along the other side of the river. I can sleep through a midwestern thunderstorm, but the night trains shook me awake even with earplugs in."
Early arrival recommended: Popular sites fill quickly during peak season. "We stayed for a night and were in good company. By the end of the day each site was filled and there were several folks driving through still looking for sites," reported a camper at Muchwater Dispersed Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Accessible swimming spots: Several sites offer water access for kids. A camper at Lolo National Forest Recreation Area shared: "Absolutely beautiful river, beautiful spot. Great for fishing, swimming, etc."
Toilet availability: For families, knowing which sites have facilities matters. At Petty Creek Road Dispersed Camping, facilities are absent, but Big Pine Campground offers vault toilets and bear boxes, with a camper noting they're "very nice!"
Wildlife awareness: Teach children about local wildlife safety. One camper at Petty Creek Road Dispersed Camping advised: "Something is eating big game out here so lock up your food," indicating the importance of proper food storage in bear country.
Tips from RVers
Turn radius limitations: RVers should scout ahead or research carefully. At Petty Creek Road Dispersed Camping, one camper shared their experience: "If you have an RV don't miss the turn! We have a 27 foot RV towed with a truck that has a 8ft bed. Initially we missed the turn and had nowhere to turn around since this is on the side of a mountain."
Concrete pad options: Some sites offer better stabilization. A camper at the informal campsite at Fish Creek Properties noted: "There is a concrete slab that is level and about 12'x25' in size which could be good for a trailer or van without having to do much for leveling."
Size limitations: Larger rigs have fewer options. At Petty Creek Road, a camper advised: "We are parked in the front, I wouldn't recommend parking a 20ft plus rig in the back site," suggesting front sites work better for larger vehicles.
