Top Free Dispersed Camping near Gallatin Gateway, MT

Searching for the perfect place to dispersed camp near Gallatin Gateway? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campgrounds for your Montana camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Gallatin Gateway, MT (24)

    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone
    Camper-submitted photo from Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone
    Camper-submitted photo from Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone
    Camper-submitted photo from Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone
    Camper-submitted photo from Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone
    Camper-submitted photo from Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed

    3. Olson Creek Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    20 Photos
    98 Saves

    People enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no services (such as trash removal), and little or no facilities (such as tables and fire pits) are provided.

    Rules for dispersed camping Groups over 75 people are not allowed. Dispersed camping is NOT allowed at trailheads, picnic sites, and fishing areas and within close proximity of campgrounds. You need to be self-contained. No amenities are provided; such as water, restrooms or trash cans. Please pack out all your trash. For information on occupancy and use, camping stay limits, weed free forage, visit Region 1 - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov). Travel to campsites must not create resource damage. Travel to campsites must not create resource damage Contact local district office for information on fire restrictions. It is your responsibility to know if fire restrictions are in effect before camping. Be bear aware and know the food storage regulations before camping. These regulations are strictly enforced. Where can I disperse camp? Please refer to each district's Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM). These maps will show which roadways allow disperse camping and it tells you the distance you are allowed to drive off the road to camp. Please note that some roads have more limitations and restrictions than others. Please consult the Motor Vehicle Use Map or call the district office for more details.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

    4. South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

    4 Reviews
    13 Photos
    117 Saves

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no services (such as trash removal), and little or no facilities (such as tables and fire pits) are provided.

    Rules for dispersed camping Groups over 75 people are not allowed. Dispersed camping is NOT allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas. You need to be self-contained. No amenities are provided; such as water, restrooms or trash cans. Please pack out all your trash. You may camp in a dispersed area for up to 16 days. After 16 days, you must move at least 5 road miles for camping in another dispersed area and you can not return to your original campsite for 7 days. Please use existing fire rings and avoid creating new fire rings. Contact your local district office for information on fire restrictions. It is your responsibility to know if fire restrictions are in effect before you go camping. Be bear aware and know the food storage regulations before camping. These regulations are strictly enforced. Where can I disperse camp? To find out where you are allowed to disperse camp, please refer to each district's Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM). These maps will show which roadways allow disperse camping and it tells you the distance you are allowed to drive off the road to camp. Please note that some roads have more limitations and restrictions than others. Please consult the Motor Vehicle Use Map or call the district office for more details. To see our Motor Vehicle Use Maps, click here.

    Can I have a campfire? Please use existing sites and fire rings. Firewood permits are not needed if wood is used on the forest. If wood is transported home for personal use, you will need to purchase a firewood permit at the closest district office. This permit should be obtained prior to you gathering or transporting any wood.

    Before you leave your campfire make sure is it completely out. You should be able to put your whole hand into the ashes without being burned; it should be cool to the touch. Stir the ashes to make sure all embers have cooled. This is very important! Many forest fires are caused by abandoned campfires that were not completely out.

    The National Forest has wildfires each year. Many of these are human caused from escaped campfires in dispersed sites. Campfires are allowed unless there are fire restrictions in effect due to high fire danger conditions. It is your responsibility to know if fire restrictions are in effect before you go camping. You can learn about any fire restrictions by contacting the nearest Forest Service office.

    Dispersed camping means no bathrooms and no outhouses. That means extra care has to be taken in disposing of human waste. To dispose of feces, dig a hole six to eight (6-8) inches deep at least 200 feet away from any water source. When you are done, fill the hole with the dirt you dug up and take your toilet paper with you to dispose of in a proper waste container. Never defecate or leave toilet paper on top of the ground. Do not simply cover it with a rock. It could easily get into the local water source and contaminate it.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    • No image available
      Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM

      6. Copper City BLM

      4 Reviews
      1 Photo
      32 Saves
      • Pets
      • Fires
      • Phone Service
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Custer-Gallatin National Forest Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Custer-Gallatin National Forest Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Custer-Gallatin National Forest Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Custer-Gallatin National Forest Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Custer-Gallatin National Forest Dispersed Camping
      Camper-submitted photo from Custer-Gallatin National Forest Dispersed Camping

      8. Custer-Gallatin National Forest Dispersed Camping

      11 Reviews
      38 Photos
      418 Saves
      • Phone Service
      • Reservable
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Dispersed
      • Firewood Available
      Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Fork Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Fork Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Fork Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Fork Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Fork Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Fork Road Dispersed
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site

      10. Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site

      5 Reviews
      17 Photos
      100 Saves

      The Gardiner district covers the southeast part of Custer Gallatin National Forest, bordering Yellowstone National Park. Both Gardiner, MT and Cooke City, MT are within the Gardiner district. Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. It also means no services (such as trash removal), and little or no facilities (such as tables, fire pits or toilets) are provided.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Group
      • Dispersed
    Showing results 1-10 of 24 campgrounds

    Recent Dispersed Reviews In Gallatin Gateway

    79 Reviews of 24 Gallatin Gateway Campgrounds


    • H
      Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM
      Sep. 22, 2024

      Copper City BLM

      Bridge closed, no access!

      The road to this location is closed, the bridge is out. There is no access.

    • Tristan S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Fork Road Dispersed
      Sep. 20, 2024

      Taylor Fork Road Dispersed

      Easy Access Campground

      This is a fantastic campground with lots of empty sites along Taylor Creek. The site I stayed at had a fire pit with lots of room to setup a tent or camper if you’re interested. Lots of distance between each campsite and again, a pretty valley view with a beautiful creek.

    • TexasRe D.
      Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
      Sep. 1, 2024

      South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

      2 peaceful nights

      We were looking for an easy dispersed site to stay at while visiting a friend in Bozeman. This was an easy option for us with a 20ft camper. We stayed at the first pull off a few minutes off the main road. This site was easily accessible, right off the main road, close to town and close to some hikes.

    • SThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping
      Sep. 1, 2024

      Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping

      Very hard to find at night

      This place seemed promising at first. It was hard to find a decent spot at night due to only using headlights of my van. Most of the road is extremely rugged/uneven/full of large holes. The only place I was able to stay for the night was the road leading up to the locked gate. This is about the only nice spot. Other than that this place is • quiet w/occasional traffic along the high way (right next to reservoir) • very few people here, but far enough away from me • no fee required • provides OK view to the mountains • great when you bring along a pet • you will need to be fully prepared for primitive camping

    • V
      Camper-submitted photo from Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone
      Aug. 18, 2024

      Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone

      Not supposed to camp here

      Based on the dispersed camping guide provided by the Forest Service office in Gardiner, you’re not supposed to camp in the spot listed on this site. Take a left off Traveltine road, go past the rock quarry to find good sites

    • V
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site
      Aug. 18, 2024

      Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site

      Good place to stay outside of Yellowstone

      Quiet, secluded dispersed sites about 15 minutes outside of Gardiner. No trees so it gets pretty hot without shade. There are random animal bones scattered around the sites from what I assume previous hunting trips, which is a bit eerie. 

      I’d certainly stay here again for a couple nights!

    • Erik W.
      Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
      Aug. 8, 2024

      Olson Creek Dispersed

      No trespassing signs everywhere

      Not to mention the single-lane cobblestone road, I have a truck and was bouncing up and down the whole way! I didn't find one area big enough to set up camp. I definitely would NOT recommend this spot

    • Cody K.
      Camper-submitted photo from Taylor Fork Road Dispersed
      Aug. 7, 2024

      Taylor Fork Road Dispersed

      Beautiful Site

      We stayed one night on our way back from Yellowstone. My RTT was perfect for this. There was a small corral for horses and plenty of room for a horse trailer and truck.

    • Voyager D.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone
      Jul. 30, 2024

      Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone

      Stunning veiws

      There's about three good spots up on the hill, the two out on the edge have reliable service. But as soon as you go back up a bit, it vanishes.

      Stunning views of Yellowstone and the mountains. Be aware, there are NO trees, so it will get stiflingly hot with no clouds. But, close to town, and the road isn't the worst. For sure go slow, but even low clearance should be able to pick out a path.

    • John H.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping
      Jul. 29, 2024

      Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping

      Amazing camp site with tree cover and fire ring

      This is an amazing camp spot that is almost almost to the top of the trail to fairy Lake campground. There’s an established firing, and there’s room for multiple vehicles.

    • christian L.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
      Jul. 27, 2024

      Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046

      Bozeman visit

      We stayed here for a few days off one of the main trail head. There are not many sites off the main trail head and we’re all full when we arrived.

      We have a 25ft off road travel trailer and attempted to go down two side trail heads. The further one was so bad we had to back all the way out. The closest side trail head was slightly better. We made down the road. However there wasn’t many sites here as well. There was maybe 3-4 sites along this whole trail head. We needed up stay in a pull in a valley early on in this trail head

    • Bobby J.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
      Jul. 24, 2024

      South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

      Ok stay

      This was an ok stay outside of Bozeman. The coordinates took me to a spot which was occupied but looked like the only spot on that stretch of road. It began to get extremely rutted and I didn’t want to push any farther after that spot. I camped in what looked to be a dispersed campsite that they closed off

    • Renee G.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM
      Jul. 24, 2024

      Copper City BLM

      Classic blm camping

      Lots of open space and locations to pull out--beautiful views as well! To access this place we went towards Copper City Trail Head, and drove by the entrance onto BLM lands. Also, note that this place seems common for mountain bikers and trail bikers, so you'll likely run into a few of those. Also also, this place is DRY--so be sure to bring your own water (but on the plus side, no bugs!!)

    • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site
      Jul. 17, 2024

      Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site

      Great dispersed site

      Drove through a few open gates but there were clearly dispersed sites in this area. Nice flat sites, road was rocky and bumpy but not bad. Quiet area until a group of teenagers started a loud party at the site next to us

    • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
      Jul. 17, 2024

      Olson Creek Dispersed

      Fine for a night but not many options

      A bit confusing with all the no trespassing and no parking on/off the road signs. Felt more comfortable once we saw another van parked, and drove past the coordinate location a few minutes to use a tiny widened part of the road. No services.

    • KThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
      Jul. 15, 2024

      Olson Creek Dispersed

      Peaceful and Easy Access

      Great spot and easy to get to. Exactly where the coordinates are pull off was big enough for my sprinter 170 extended was even able to get it perfectly level a few dirt bikes on the road that stopped at sunset. It’s very quiet and beautiful views and 15° cooler than Bozeman.

    • Jenna B.
      Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
      Jul. 14, 2024

      South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

      Beautiful secluded Mountain views

      Gorgeous campsite only 20ish min from the outskirts of Bozeman. Stopped in for 1 night passing through on a bigger road trip and couldn’t be luckier with this location. Fire rings at all campsites. Very quite road. Level ground for car camping. Would 100% come back just for this gem.

    • Alex C.
      Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM
      Jul. 14, 2024

      Copper City BLM

      Open range

      Plenty of pull out sites with some scattered man made fire rings. Secluded quiet and great views

    • Ashley M.
      Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM
      Jul. 8, 2024

      Copper City BLM

      Summer Biking

      Great spot right on parts of the trial! It’s open and you can see miles in each direction. No shade, no bathrooms, but most have man made fire pits.

    • MThe Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
      Jul. 6, 2024

      Olson Creek Dispersed

      Really a 4.5 star spot

      Beautiful space with views and birdsongs aplenty. Spaces are small and right off the road, but for a free night not far from I-94 with solitude and nature, it’s fantastic. There are a few more pull-offs (again, no privacy and right off the Forest Road) if you drive on down toward Skunk Rd, but road gets rougher (high clearance and/or 4WD fine) from especially if it has recently rained. Those spots were also all taken. Went about a 1/2 mile beyond the GPS coordinates for spot with wee bit more space but the pull-off with these exact coordinates ended up getting claimed by an RV at some point in the night—this road gets solid use in the summer—saw at least a dozen vehicles in the 14 hours here.

    • Samantha G.
      Camper-submitted photo from Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone
      Jun. 30, 2024

      Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone

      BEST CAMPING!

      This is the most beautiful place I have ever, and probably will ever, camp in. Safe and easy to find. Rough road coming up, but lots of spaces tucked away. Saw several elk on the drive in and heard some coyotes howling at dusk, but nothing bothered us. I wish I could live here!

    • Allison S.
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site
      Jun. 23, 2024

      Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site

      Perfect for a night or two

      Perfect pull outs off Travertine up Trail Creek/FS 1701 just 7-10 minutes out of Gardine. We ended up at the very end of the road where it loops back on itself in our truck camper. Road was a bit washboard and bumpy, but didn’t need 4wd. Saw elk, a beautiful sunset, and a full moon rise. No river views, but wildflowers all over. Some hikes nearby. We went to the end out of curiosity and passed about 5 other campers, but were alone at the end. Made dinner on our solo stove. Clean up though, because it is still bear country. ATT and Verizon service, mid to full bars. 30 minutes to the YNP north entrance.

    • Don&Becca W.The Dyrt PRO User
      Camper-submitted photo from Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site
      Jun. 21, 2024

      Little Trail Creek Road - Dispersed Site

      Roadside sites with fire rings

      Several roadside sites along this road that branches off Travertine Rd. A few sites are large enough for multiple tents/vans. Good Verizon service, poor AT&T service . We snagged the last site available the night we stayed, first site on left as you drive in. It is small but worked for our Sprinter.

    • E
      Camper-submitted photo from Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp
      Jun. 15, 2024

      Pig Farm Fishing Access Camp

      Good spot above

      There’s a spot down by the water that someone took with a tent who we let by us. We took a spot just above before you drive down to the water. I wasn’t sure if I could turn around my 20’ travel trailer down by the water. Very buggy.



    Guide to Gallatin Gateway

    Camping near Gallatin Gateway, Montana, offers a mix of stunning scenery and outdoor adventures. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or a fun family getaway, this area has something for everyone.

    What to do:

    • Explore the Lewis & Clark Caverns: This is a must-see! One camper mentioned, "Be sure to unhook and get to the caverns early in the morning to get a reservation to tour." The caverns are not just beautiful; they also offer fascinating tours.
    • Fishing and Water Activities: The Mallard's Rest - TEMPORARILY CLOSED is a great spot for fishing. One reviewer said, "Beautiful CG spot for fishing access," highlighting its appeal for anglers.
    • Hiking: Trails abound in the area. A visitor at Missouri Headwaters State Park Campground noted, "Some hiking in the area, but... bears!" So, keep an eye out for wildlife!

    What campers like:

    • Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate cleanliness. At Yellowstone Edge RV Park, one guest said, "The restrooms, laundry, and all of the grounds are spotless."
    • Friendly Staff: Many campers rave about the helpful hosts. A reviewer at Three Forks KOA Journey shared, "The staff were very friendly and as helpful as possible."
    • Scenic Views: Campgrounds like Red Cliff Campground offer beautiful river views. One camper mentioned, "Nice campground near Adjacent to Gallatin River."

    What you should know:

    • Mosquitoes: Be prepared for bugs, especially at Missouri Headwaters State Park Campground. A camper warned, "The mosquitos were so bad we immediately left and found another place to stay for the night."
    • Road Noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A visitor at Red Cliff Campground noted, "Great place for dogs. Lots of road noise unfortunately."
    • Limited Amenities: Not all campgrounds have full hookups or amenities. A reviewer at Hood Creek Campground mentioned, "No water is available so come prepared."

    Tips for camping with families:

    • Choose Campgrounds with Activities: Look for places like Bozeman Hot Springs Campground & RV, which offers hot springs access. One camper said, "Between the free coffee, breakfast, & hot spring access our stay was worth it."
    • Plan for Early Reservations: Popular spots fill up fast. A visitor at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park advised, "They do have drop-in non-reservation sites, but recommend getting reservations."
    • Pack Bug Spray: With the presence of mosquitoes, it's wise to bring repellent. A camper at Missouri Headwaters State Park Campground noted, "I tried 3 different bug repellants, burned multiple mosquito coils."

    Tips from RVers:

    • Check Road Conditions: Some campgrounds have rough access roads. A reviewer at Spire Rock Campground mentioned, "The area is stunning, but we could not get to the campground."
    • Look for Full Hookups: If you need amenities, check campgrounds like Yellowstone Edge RV Park that offer full hookups. One guest said, "Nice level spots with lots of space and awesome river views."
    • Be Mindful of Space: Some sites can be tight. A visitor at Three Forks KOA Journey noted, "The sites are very small and very crowded."

    Camping near Gallatin Gateway, Montana, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors, but being prepared can make all the difference!

    Frequently Asked Questions

    • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Gallatin Gateway, MT?

      According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Gallatin Gateway, MT is Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046 with a 4.1-star rating from 8 reviews.

    • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Gallatin Gateway, MT?

      TheDyrt.com has all 24 dispersed camping locations near Gallatin Gateway, MT, with real photos and reviews from campers.