The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dispersed Camping near Hardin, MT

11 Reviews

Captain Clark Fishing Access Site offers riverside dispersed camping along the Yellowstone River near Hardin, Montana. The site features four primitive campsites with fire rings and picnic tables, each facing the river. A vault toilet is available near the boat launch. A Montana Conservation License is required for camping, costing $10 for out-of-state visitors and valid for one year. The access road is dirt and may be challenging in wet conditions. Vehicle length is restricted to 20 feet for both tow vehicles and trailers.

The camping area provides opportunities for fishing, swimming, and wildlife viewing, particularly birds and wild turkeys. While close enough to Interstate 94 for convenience, sites are sufficiently removed to limit highway noise. Campers can stay up to 7 days. General Custer Fishing Access Road offers alternative dispersed camping options but has received poor reviews due to limited sites, overgrown access, and persistent mosquito problems. Both locations are used regularly by boaters, which may cause occasional nighttime disruptions.

Map showing campgrounds near Hardin, MontanaExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Hardin, Montana (2)

Show More
Showing results 1-2 of 2 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Hardin Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Hardin, MT

5 Photos of 2 Hardin Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Hardin, MT

11 Reviews of 2 Hardin Campgrounds

  • D
    Nov. 6, 2024

    Captain Clark

    Convenient overnight near the interstate

    We needed an easy stop crossing from WA to the Midwest. When we arrived, a number of sites were being used, but they were just there for the day. We loved our spacious spot with an amazing view of the river. Few bugs in September. We backtracked the next morning to explore Pompey's Pillar National Monument.

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    May. 14, 2024

    Captain Clark

    Montana Conservation License Required!

    A Montana State Parks Conservation Permit is now required to camp here. Don't know if they enforce that requirement. Here's the link. Your permit is good all year.

    https://ols.fwp.mt.gov/landing_input

    This is a great spot. I was here on a week night very quiet. Only one other couple. Lots of birds. You can see where the beavers have been at work felling trees on they way in. Wild turkeys were pretty vocal last evening.

    Easy to imagine Capt. William Clark floating past in 1806 in his lashed together canoes on his way to the Missouri to rejoin Capt. Merriweather Lewis.

    It is actually a fishing access point with boat ramp. A little slow going in on the dirt road. Could be slick if rainy. There are 4 campsites with fire rings and a pit toilet at the far end.

    Length limit on vehicles is 20 feet. They clarify 20 ft tow vehicle and 20 ft trailer. Don't know how strict they are on this. It would be tough to get anything big in here anyway. You can stay here up to 7 days.

  • K
    May. 16, 2024

    Captain Clark

    Hidden gem convenient location

    Fortunately, there is good signage guiding you in here from the frontage road. If there wasn’t, one would almost feel as though they were driving onto someone’s property as opposed to public land.

    I loved this place because it was close enough to I94 to feel convenient but far enough away that the noise from the freeway wasn’t bothersome although it’s so peaceful here, you can still hear the road. But you’re hearing it from a distance. It’s far from overpowering.

    We were lucky enough to get the site under this truly massive tree that was likely here when captain clark was on his expedition. The pics don’t do justice to its size but use my camper for comparison. Haha

    Sites are well spread apart. Fire rings and picnic tables at each. FYI, there is no place nearby to purchase firewood. Stop in Miles City or Billings on your way in depending on the direction you’re coming from if you need it.

    You do have to have a MT Conservation License to stay here. They out of state variety that I had to purchase was $10 and is good for an entire year at this and any other location in the state that requires it. The good news is that the sign board at the campground has a QR code on it and I had three bars of Verizon to do it from the campsite.

    No one ever came through to check if I had it, but one would have to understand that they do maintain these places to some degree and that maintenance has a cost.

    We saw several geese. Heard several wild turkeys but never saw them. And we were greeted with an amazing sunrise right before we set out on our way.

    Definitely recommend this place if you’re traveling I94. Would most definitely stay again.

  • S
    Aug. 15, 2021

    Captain Clark

    Loved it

    Dirt road to get to, keep going all the way back past train tracks and houses. Sites are nice, everyone dispersed pretty well. Vault toilet super clean. Right on the river, so silent.

  • Zach S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 14, 2023

    Captain Clark

    Right on the Yellowstone River

    Approx 4 spots right on the Yellowstone River. Pretty buggy. Bring your mosquito repellent. The. site is experiencing some river bank erosion due to runoff. Fire grates at each site. Some overflow make due sites that could work at the boat ramp.

  • Kirsten B.
    Sep. 6, 2021

    Captain Clark

    Great spot along river

    This spot is a hidden gem. If you like a view along the river where it’s quiet even with other campers this is the spot! Some nice tall trees, but up against the river and some bluffs off on the other side of the river

  • Robert B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 12, 2021

    Captain Clark

    Good views and easy to get too.

    Great spot right next to the river. Has toilet and boat ramp. Shade is good. Not too many things to do around the area unless a boat is brought in, but great for quick one night camping.

  • Luke H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 26, 2019

    Captain Clark

    River camping

    Jam up camp site by the river. Off the main highway and doesn’t look like too many people know about it. A small tow behind camper would fit in here. There is a boat launch too.

  • C
    Sep. 5, 2020

    Captain Clark

    Nice spot with boat launch

    A few miles off of the highway and you will find this nice camping area along the Yellowstone River. Very windy the day we were there, but the campsites were nice with fire rings and the scenery was exceptional. This is close to Pompey’s Pillar(which is currently closed for repair), and the Little Bighorn battlefield. Also not far from Billings.

Guide to Hardin

Dispersed camping near Hardin, Montana, offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying the freedom of camping away from crowded sites. With stunning landscapes and a variety of activities, this area is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • Experience breathtaking river views at Captain Clark, where spacious sites provide a perfect backdrop for relaxation and fishing.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Hardin, Montana

  • Be sure to obtain a Montana Conservation License before camping at Captain Clark, as it's required for all visitors and can be easily purchased online.

Fishing Opportunities While Free Camping Near Hardin

  • For those looking to cast a line, Captain Clark features a boat ramp and access to the Yellowstone River, making it an ideal spot for fishing enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find dispersed camping near Hardin, MT?

The Hardin area offers excellent dispersed camping options along the Yellowstone River. Captain Clark is a prime location with spacious spots right on the river, offering exceptional scenery. It's accessible via a dirt road that continues past train tracks and houses, with good signage from the frontage road. This hidden gem is relatively quiet and can accommodate small tow-behind campers. Another option is General Custer Fishing Access Road, though access conditions can vary, so check ahead for current status. Both sites are within driving distance of Pompey's Pillar National Monument, making them convenient bases for exploring the area.

What amenities or facilities are available at dispersed camping sites near Hardin?

Dispersed camping sites near Hardin offer basic amenities while maintaining their rustic charm. General Custer Fishing Access Road provides vault toilets and a limited number of campsites. Sites typically include fire rings or grates for controlled campfires. Many locations feature boat ramps for river access, making them ideal for fishing enthusiasts. Some sites have picnic tables, particularly at Captain Clark where some spots include tables facing the river. You'll find grassy areas suitable for tent camping and sufficient space for small to moderate-sized RVs at most locations. Be prepared for no hookups, potable water, or garbage service - these are true dispersed sites requiring self-sufficiency. Cell service can be spotty throughout the region.

What are the regulations for dispersed camping around Hardin, Montana?

Dispersed camping near Hardin requires a Montana State Parks Conservation Permit, which is valid for the entire year. You can purchase this permit online through Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks. Sites typically have fire restrictions, with camping limited to designated areas that contain fire rings or grates to control environmental impact. Camping is generally permitted for short stays, though specific duration limits may apply. The number of available sites is limited, particularly at fishing access points, so arriving early is recommended during peak seasons. Campers should practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out all trash, and respect quiet hours. Always verify current regulations before your trip, as requirements can change seasonally.

Keep Exploring