Dispersed camping near Glen, Montana sits at elevations ranging from 5,000 to 6,500 feet in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. The region experiences rapid temperature fluctuations with summer highs reaching 85°F and overnight lows dipping into the 40s even in July and August. Most free camping sites near Glen require high-clearance vehicles to access, with road conditions deteriorating after rainfall.
What to do
Garnet hunting at reservoir edges: Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area offers unique recreational opportunities beyond standard camping activities. Visitors can search for garnets along the shoreline with basic equipment. As camper Hannah S. notes, "It is a perfect adventure for beginners, as all you need is a shovel and some screens to begin your search. The garnets are beautiful, and keep the kids (college age or elementary!) entertained for hours."
Fishing access at multiple sites: Several dispersed camping locations provide direct river or reservoir access. At Maiden Rock Dispersed, campers mention excellent fishing opportunities. One visitor commented, "Also an incredible spot to fish!" The Big Hole River running alongside many campsites offers trout fishing with required Montana fishing license.
Mountain biking on established trails: The area surrounding Homestake Pass Dispersed features extensive trail networks. A camper noted, "There are MTB OHV and walking trails nearby." These trails range from beginner-friendly paths to more technical routes through boulder fields and forest terrain.
What campers like
Well-maintained free sites: Many dispersed sites near Glen feature surprising amenities despite their free status. At Humbug Spires Trailhead Basecamp, visitors appreciate the facilities: "Only 3 miles from the highway, this campsite is at the end of a well maintained, slightly rutted gravel road. It's wide enough for trailers... with nice clean pit toilets."
Accessibility from major routes: Free camping near Glen, Montana offers convenient highway access. One Homestake Pass visitor reported, "The spot was close to the highway - lots of potential spots... we had no problem and got a good night sleep to carry on our journey." Most dispersed sites can be reached within 3-15 minutes of leaving interstate highways.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The region hosts diverse wildlife including deer, elk, and various bird species. At Clark Canyon Reservoir, campers can view migratory birds and waterfowl. One visitor at Ruby Reservoir mentioned unexpected wildlife encounters: "While it was quiet people wise, I'm pretty sure you can hear the dam because we had rumbling noise that woke both of us up."
What you should know
Bear activity in specific areas: Multiple campers report bear sightings and activity. One Maiden Rock visitor warned, "As of September 1st 2025 a Bear might still be active in the area. It tried to get into our camper... Apparently his name is Boo-boo, and he was orphaned as a cub and fed by miners making him not so human afraid."
Cell service varies widely: Connectivity differs dramatically between locations. At Homestake Pass, campers report "excellent cellular coverage" while others note complete dead zones. Before arrival, download offline maps and essential information as most free sites lack informational signage.
Extreme weather preparation needed: High elevation camping requires preparation for sudden temperature changes. At Barretts Station Park Campground, campers should prepare for significant temperature swings. One visitor noted practical concerns: "Bugs are INTENSE though!" while another advised to "prepare for the skeeters our thermacell was no match for these guys."
Limited level spots at some sites: Some dispersed camping areas feature challenging terrain. At Ruby Reservoir, a camper warned, "Almost impossible to level a camper. There are absolutely no trees so come with a bucket of sunscreen or a canopy."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with designated spaces: Families benefit from more structured dispersed sites. At Maiden Rock, a parent shared: "I picked this because the family (5) can have space and it's super clean and quiet. Now that I've explored the area I know some other sweet spots to try in vicinity."
Bring sufficient water supplies: No free camping areas near Glen provide potable water sources. Plan for 1 gallon per person per day minimum. One Homestake camper warned about local water concerns: "I do not recommend getting water from Butte other than from 'Ultimate Big Spring Water' which cost $15 for 5gal with a jug. Apparently Butte has occasional toxic leakage into the mains from the Toxic Pits."
Consider noise factors: Highway and railroad noise affects several locations. One Barretts Station visitor mentioned: "It's basically a park with 2 RV spots tucked in at the end that were taken. The rest of 'camping' is free in the gravel lot... It was close to the freeway, so there was lots of road noise all night."
Tips from RVers
Access road assessment: RVers should evaluate access roads before commitment. At Homestake Lake Camp, a camper noted: "This campsite is right off the exit, but not very noisy. There were several other campers and RVs and trucks there... down the various 2 tracks, there are hidden sites that afford some shade and privacy."
Site selection timing: Arrive early for optimal site selection. Most free camping areas fill by mid-afternoon in summer months. One Homestake Pass visitor advised: "Several big classA's in and out. Several other campers running gens all day."
Leveling challenges: Many free sites feature uneven terrain requiring leveling blocks. At Ruby Reservoir, a camper reported challenges: "There isn't a level place in sight. Be prepared for steep inclines in some situations."
