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Best Dispersed Camping near Gallatin Gateway, MT

125 Reviews

Hyalite Canyon offers several dispersed camping options approximately 25 minutes from downtown Bozeman. Forest Service Road 1046 provides access to multiple primitive sites, some suitable for tents and RVs with established fire rings. The road quality varies seasonally, with some sections becoming muddy and potentially impassable during wet periods. Sites fill quickly, particularly those near water.

Several other dispersed camping areas exist around Gallatin Gateway. Olson Creek Dispersed provides free camping with easy access, though reviews note numerous "no trespassing" signs and limited suitable pull-offs. Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping accommodates both tents and RVs, including larger vehicles. South Fork Brackett Creek offers tent camping with drive-in and walk-in access. Most dispersed sites maintain the standard 14-day limit and provide no amenities - no drinking water, toilets, or trash service. According to one visitor, "Creekside spots are high demand, but other spots are nice also." Another camper described their experience: "We had to park in a tiny road and walk about 5 minutes to our campsite. Super comfy and quiet though for a getaway night."

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Gallatin Gateway, Montana (28)

    1. Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046

    14 Reviews
    Gallatin Gateway, MT
    10 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 522-2520

    "Definitely busier than I expected, especially with the condition of the road; we had multiple cars coming down the road we were on and then they would turn around and come back but it wasn’t obnoxious."

    "Dispersed camping all along a pass through the canyon. Very remote and private. I drove up the mountain a ways and found a perfect spot to set up ."

    2. Blackmore Campground

    1 Review
    Gallatin Gateway, MT
    13 miles

    3. Hyalite Canyon Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Emigrant, MT
    15 miles

    "We had to park in a tiny road and walk about 5 min to our campsite. Super comfy and quiet tho for a getaway night ! The spot only had 3-4 sites tho"

    4. Olson Creek Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Bozeman, MT
    22 miles
    Website

    "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"

    "It mentions private property but I think that’s the areas off the road. A few trucks with Mtn. bikes drove past at dusk but after that it was peaceful and a nice solitary overnight spot."

    5. Chestnut Mountain Trailhead Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Bozeman, MT
    16 miles

    6. South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

    5 Reviews
    Bozeman, MT
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 587-6701

    "I went a little further up the mountain than the coordinates (about 5 miles) and found a spot off the road (4wd highly recommended, no big rigs)."

    "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."

    7. Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone

    46 Reviews
    Gardiner, MT
    44 miles

    "No amenities, so pack in everything you need and leave no trace. Would 100% come back for the views alone. One of the best dispersed sites I’ve stayed at."

    "Perfect dispersed camping. Note it is a windy dirt road, so a pickup or camper van can make it, but don't try a Class A or Class C RV. Our 20 footer made it fine."

    8. South Bozeman Camp

    Be the first to review!
    Bozeman, MT
    10 miles

    9. Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping

    3 Reviews
    Belgrade, MT
    25 miles

    "There is a Meadow about 4 miles in front of the highway that has at least 3 dispersed sites. I went to the one furthest from the dirt road and had nice shade and privacy here."

    "There is sun, shade, a fire ring and 3 other neighboring sites. 2 of those sites aren’t very accessible by car but this site is big enough for multiple vehicles."

    10. Battle Ridge Dispersed

    1 Review
    Wilsall, MT
    26 miles
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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Gallatin Gateway, MT

76 Photos of 28 Gallatin Gateway Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Gallatin Gateway, MT

125 Reviews of 28 Gallatin Gateway Campgrounds

  • E
    Aug. 7, 2025

    Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone

    Beautiful view

    Absolutely stunning spot. The mountain views from camp were unreal — especially at sunrise. Super peaceful, with minimal noise. No amenities, so pack in everything you need and leave no trace. Would 100% come back for the views alone. One of the best dispersed sites I’ve stayed at.

  • m
    Jun. 8, 2021

    Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone

    Perfect dispersed camping

    Perfect dispersed camping. Note it is a windy dirt road, so a pickup or camper van can make it, but don't try a Class A or Class C RV. Our 20 footer made it fine. Also wouldn't want to drive it if rain forecasted as I bet the dirt turns to impassible mud real fast.

    The spots themselves are wonderful, some very open, some tucked away along the rocks, all very spread out from each other. Super quiet. I can't believe how quiet it was.

    If you want to feel like you are camping on a mountain in the middle of no where, this is it.

  • Marasha L.The Dyrt PRO User
    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.

  • owen T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 29, 2024

    Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    Cottonwood reservoir wilsall montana

    Cottonwood Reseravoir DNRC land section.  accessible for overnight camping under DNRC rules.  The reservoir has Yellowstone cutthroat trout and white suckers.  No wifi, no trash, no bathrooms. Completely wild. Stars at night amazing. All kinds of waterfowl passing seasonal. No amenities.

  • Kimberly L.
    Aug. 2, 2022

    South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

    Gorgeous mountain views

    I went a little further up the mountain than the coordinates (about 5 miles) and found a spot off the road (4wd highly recommended, no big rigs). The mountains were pink and purple at sunrise, awesome views! I went for a little walk in the woods and saw a black bear (keep your food and trash stored safe!) No amenities of course but most sites have a fire ring already there. It's about 20-30 minutes outside of Bozeman, MT. Happy camping!

  • McKenna R.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 28, 2021

    Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone

    Stunning Views, Challenging Drive

    Got into a spot around 6 or 7pm after spending the day at Yellowstone in late May and wow, you can’t beat the views for $0! We took the first spot we saw due to road conditions (we were towing a Uhaul trailer with our Subaru Forester) so we didn’t bother going up further.

    Definitely a bumpy and steep ride for our towing situation but dang the views were insane over Gardiner and the mountains. Only one other camper van in view a ways down. Our spot had pretty bumpy ground so we ended up skipping the tent and just sleeping in the car. Woke up to a serious snowfall in the morning so we got out of there quickly, but we’d definitely stay here again if we weren’t towing.

  • SwitchbackKids
    Jul. 27, 2017

    Custer-Gallatin National Forest Dispersed Camping

    An oasis from the hustle and bustle of Yellowstone, with all the wilderness

    We arrived to the Yellowstone area in the evening, and since we had been traveling around the U.S. for almost a year, we were well-versed in finding alternative camping options near national parks.

    Instead of camping somewhere in the park, we decided to drive through Gallatin National Forest, to the north of the park, until we found a good place to camp. We found a perfect overlook where we pitched our tent and watched the most gorgeous sunset. The best part? No people around for miles and miles.

    Dispersed camping in the U.S. Forest Service land is almost always a win: the sites are free and remote; there are usually plenty of available spots; and you get a very unique camping experience. Just remember to look up regulations for the specific area you’re looking at, and don’t forget the toilet paper!

    In Yellowstone, we worked our way from north to south, hitting the highlights. Many of the hiking trails were closed due to bear activity, so we stuck mostly to the close sights: driving through Lamar Valley, viewing Old Faithful & many other geysers, seeing Grand Canyon of the Yellowstone, and spotting wildlife everywhere we went.

    You can read much more about our five days in the park on our blog: Switchback Kids (Yellowstone)

  • M
    Sep. 14, 2020

    Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone

    Sketchy... Not for Tent Camping

    I'm sorry, I have to be the voice of reason here y'all. Or at least the realistic one.

    If you are sleeping in your car, camper, van, etc, then this could totally work for you. 

    If you are camping alone, using a tent, looking for enough space to camp (cook, sleep, etc), this is most likely not for you.

    The road itself is fine.

    As a young woman traveling alone in a Subaru Outback, sleeping in a tent, this was such a huge hell no for me.

    Some of the pullouts have graffiti with extremely offensive language and a crapload of shotgun shells. I could tell local people use the space as a party ground quite often. I know this all sounds like I have a stick up my butt, but I'm not some conservative person. I am all for foul language and partying in the mountains. This wasn't that. This was sketchy. Maybe that's just because I am traveling alone.

    A few years back I traveled in a converted Toyota Sequoia with a sleeping dock in the back with my partner and this spot would be good for a situation like that, but not my current situation. 

    I do not think there's really any reasonable place up there to set up a tent between the exposure, wind, noise, space, and threat of danger.

    The overlook spot is awesome... its also only about 10 feet of sand on the side of the dirt road with steep drops on all sides. Might be cool for a small van or if you are sleeping in your car. You will still be dealing with noise all night. I saw people going up the road all through the late evening and coming back down.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 11, 2024

    Custer-Gallatin National Forest Dispersed Camping

    Eagle Creek Road/ NF-3243

    Just passed the Eagle Creek Campground on Jardine Road. Take a left and drive in 3 miles on National Forest Road to areas where camping is allowed. There are mile marker signs. These are mostly little pull offs along the side of the road with great views into Yellowstone/Mammoth Hot Springs. There are more than a dozen good spots, but it also seems popular as I saw at least 10 occupied sites on a Monday evening. No cellphone service. No amenities, just the view and personal space. My Honda fit made it up the road no problem.

Guide to Gallatin Gateway

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Gallatin Gateway, Montana, where nature meets adventure. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy stunning landscapes, peaceful surroundings, and the freedom to explore.

Dispersed campers should check out Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046

  • This area offers easy drive-in access, making it convenient for both tent and RV camping.
  • Campers have reported a friendly atmosphere, with features like fire pits and the ability to have pets.
  • The proximity to Bozeman allows for quick trips into town while still enjoying the tranquility of nature.

Top activities while free camping near Gallatin Gateway

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the nearby trails, especially those leading from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046, which provide breathtaking views and a chance to connect with the outdoors.
  • Fishing opportunities abound in the nearby streams and lakes, perfect for those looking to cast a line after setting up camp.
  • Wildlife watching is a highlight, with many campers spotting various species during their stay, particularly in the serene environment of Olson Creek Dispersed.

Scenic spots for dispersed campers

  • For stunning mountain views, South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site is a must-visit, offering a peaceful retreat just a short drive from Bozeman.
  • The Taylor Fork Road Dispersed area features spacious sites along a beautiful creek, ideal for those seeking a quiet escape.
  • Campers looking for a unique experience should explore Copper City BLM, known for its open spaces and scenic views, perfect for stargazing at night.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is dispersed camping allowed along the Gallatin River?

Yes, dispersed camping is permitted along sections of the Gallatin River that run through public lands. Travertine Road Dispersed - Yellowstone offers sites relatively close to the Gallatin with stunning mountain views, though road conditions can be challenging—avoid taking large RVs or travel during rainy periods when roads become muddy. Taylor Fork Road Dispersed provides additional options near the river system. Remember that camping on private property is prohibited, and some river sections have restrictions to protect riparian areas. Always camp at least 100-200 feet from water sources, pack out all waste, and follow fire restrictions in place.

Are there any free campgrounds near Gallatin Gateway with amenities?

True free campgrounds with amenities are limited near Gallatin Gateway, as most dispersed sites offer no facilities. Falls Creek stands out as a free option with basic amenities including picnic tables and fire rings. Sites are situated among trees and moss alongside the Boulder River, with parking nearby. For a different experience, Olson Creek Dispersed offers beautiful spaces with views and birdsongs, though sites are small and right off the road. Most truly free sites require self-sufficiency—you'll need to pack in water, pack out waste, and bring your own toilet facilities. For more amenities, consider established campgrounds that charge nominal fees.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Gallatin Gateway, Montana?

Free dispersed camping is abundant in the Gallatin Gateway area. Custer-Gallatin National Forest Dispersed Camping offers numerous options throughout the forest where you can set up camp. South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site is another excellent choice, offering stunning mountain views that turn pink and purple at sunrise. Most dispersed sites require you to pack in everything you need and practice leave-no-trace ethics. These areas typically have no facilities, so come prepared with water and waste management solutions. Many sites are accessible by standard vehicles, though 4WD is recommended for exploring further up forest roads. Always check current forest regulations before your trip.

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