Best Dispersed Camping near Glen, MT
Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Glen, Montana, with several free BLM and Forest Service sites offering primitive camping experiences. Maiden Rock Dispersed stands out with well-maintained sites featuring picnic tables, fire rings, and bear boxes despite its free status. According to campers, it's "like actual campgrounds, only free" with approximately 15 designated spots along the Big Hole River. Humbug Spires Trailhead Basecamp provides access via a well-maintained gravel road suitable for trailers, with clean pit toilets and creek access just 3 miles from the highway.
Most dispersed sites in the region operate on a 16-day stay limit and follow standard Forest Service or BLM regulations. Campers should arrive prepared with sufficient water supplies as drinking water is unavailable at most locations. Fire restrictions may apply seasonally; all sites with fires allowed require proper containment within established fire rings. Cell service varies significantly; Homestake Pass Dispersed offers good coverage while Maiden Rock has none. Several locations experience highway noise, particularly Barretts Station Park Campground where railroad tracks run between the campground and interstate.
The Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area offers unique recreational opportunities beyond camping. Visitors can search for garnets along the shoreline with just basic equipment like shovels and screens. The reservoir provides fishing access and swimming opportunities during warmer months. Weather conditions can change rapidly at higher elevations; the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest sites sit above 6,000 feet where unexpected snow can occur even outside winter months. Campers should practice proper food storage techniques as this is bear country, particularly in more remote locations.
