Top Free Dispersed Camping near Hardin, MT
Looking for dispersed camping near Hardin? Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Hardin, including photos, reviews, and tips. Find the perfect dispersed campsite for your next adventure.
Best Dispersed Sites Near Hardin, MT (2)
1. Captain Clark
11 Reviews•32 Photos•111 SavesAccessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/
- Pets
- Fires
- Phone Service
- ADA Access
- RVs
- Tents
2. General Custer Fishing Access Road
1 Review•4 Saves- Pets
- Fires
- Alcohol
Recent Dispersed Reviews In Hardin
10 Reviews of 2 Hardin Campgrounds
Morgan B.
Traveler
Captain Clark
Convenient, views, swimming hole
There are only four spots to camp here but they are large and grassy. Each of them faces the river with a firepit and a table. There is a vault toilet near the boat launch. The spots are relatively secluded. The Yellowstone River is a fast moving and dangerous ricer but there is a great swimming hole on the other side of the boat launch. It’s easy to get to the campsites. There is a train track near by. LOTS of cool bird activity.
- KKevin C.
GuideCaptain 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.
- MMike C.Traveler
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.
- Zach S.Traveler
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.
Niki U.TravelerCaptain Clark
Great place to stop for a night
Beautiful spot by the river. Kind of crowded for how secluded it was, but we got a good camp site by a gorgeous old cottonwood tree that provided some privacy. Downside is people come in and out all night long to load boats in and out, which got obnoxious, but overall we had a really nice night there.
Kirsten B.
ScoutCaptain 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
- SSteve N.Traveler
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.
Robert B.GuideCaptain 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.
- CChad L.Guide
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.
- Luke H.Scout
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.
Guide to Hardin
Camping near Hardin, Montana, offers a mix of beautiful landscapes and friendly campgrounds. Whether you're looking for a cozy spot to pitch a tent or a full-service RV park, there’s something for everyone.
What to do:
- Explore Little Bighorn National Memorial: Just a short drive from the campgrounds, this site is a must-see for history buffs. One camper mentioned, “Great park! We stayed 2 nights. Close to Little Big Horn National Memorial (must see)” at 7th Ranch RV Park.
- Fishing and boating: The Captain Clark site is perfect for fishing enthusiasts. A visitor noted, “There are only four spots to camp here but they are large and grassy... The Yellowstone River is a fast-moving and dangerous river but there is a great swimming hole on the other side of the boat launch.”
- Hiking: The Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area offers trails for all skill levels. One reviewer at Afterbay Campground said, “Lots of hiking, fishing, boating, great people and guides. Such a beautiful place.”
What campers like:
- Clean facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A visitor at 7th Ranch RV Park said, “Very clean bathrooms and laundry. The full hookup was fantastic.”
- Friendly staff: Many campers rave about the welcoming atmosphere. One camper at Hardin KOA mentioned, “New owners have been here about a year and you can see all of the new improvements! Cute store! Bathrooms are clean and staff is very friendly.”
- Pet-friendly options: Campgrounds like 7th Ranch RV Park allow pets, making it easier for families to bring their furry friends along. A reviewer noted, “They allowed us to let our hunting dog run in the open fields.”
What you should know:
- Train noise: Some campgrounds, like 7th Ranch RV Park, are near train tracks. One camper mentioned, “One reviewer complained bitterly about the train keeping him awake. I’m a light sleeper and had no trouble sleeping.”
- Limited amenities at some sites: Campgrounds like Grandview Campground have mixed reviews about cleanliness and facilities. A visitor said, “The office behind the front counter is really gross. Unclean. Junk piled up to the ceiling.”
- Permit requirements: For camping at Captain Clark, a Montana State Parks Conservation Permit is required. One camper advised, “You do have to have a MT Conservation License to stay here.”
Tips for camping with families:
- Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Sites like Hardin KOA have amenities like playgrounds and dog parks. A camper shared, “2 Huge dog parks and pet wash. Bathrooms are clean and staff is very friendly.”
- Plan for activities: Look for campgrounds with nearby attractions. One camper at Billings KOA said, “Kids had a blast with both mini golf and the pool.”
- Pack for comfort: Bring along games and outdoor gear to keep everyone entertained. A visitor at Yellowstone River RV Park noted, “The campground was gorgeous and staff was incredibly friendly.”
Tips from RVers:
- Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have limited space for larger RVs. A camper at Grandview Campground mentioned, “Pads mostly seem to be a dirt/gravel mix but mostly level.”
- Full hookups are available: Campgrounds like 7th Ranch RV Park offer full hookups, which many RVers appreciate. One camper said, “All sites are pull thru with full hookup.”
- Be prepared for weather: Montana can have unpredictable weather, so pack accordingly. A visitor at Afterbay Campground advised, “Campsite is well maintained with drop toilet but no water.”
Camping near Hardin, Montana, provides a great mix of outdoor fun and community spirit. Whether you're in an RV or pitching a tent, you'll find plenty to enjoy in this beautiful area.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Hardin, MT?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Hardin, MT is Captain Clark with a 4.3-star rating from 11 reviews.