Dispersed camping near Helena, Montana centers on public lands within a 40-mile radius of the city. The region features elevations ranging from 3,900 feet near Canyon Ferry Lake to over 5,500 feet in the Helena National Forest areas. Summer temperatures typically reach 80-90°F during day and drop to 45-55°F at night, with strong afternoon winds common at lakeside sites.
What to do
Fishing access: At Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite #3, campers enjoy creek fishing just steps from their site. "Easy access to the creek for fishing. Great little fire pit," notes one visitor, though they caution about trailer access challenges.
Wildlife viewing: The region's free camping areas offer opportunities to spot local wildlife. While one camper at Little Blackfoot reported they "didn't see any wildlife," sites near water sources often attract deer, small mammals, and various bird species during morning and evening hours.
Mountain biking: The roads around Kelly Gulch Road Dispersed Camping provide trails suitable for mountain biking. One visitor reports, "I took my bike and rode the Road a little bit and found an opening with an amazing spot to put up a hammock."
What campers like
Water proximity: Several dispersed sites offer direct water access. At Scott Reservoir Dispersed, campers appreciate waterfront access. One reviewer notes, "You're right by the water with. Great mountain view, couldn't ask for more."
Solitude on weekdays: Midweek camping offers the greatest chance for privacy. A Scott Reservoir visitor reported, "I had the entire place to myself on a Thursday night. Some bugs but not too bad." Similarly, at Canyon Ferry Lake Dispersed Camping Area, a reviewer advises, "Come early for boondocking, it fills up by the weekend."
Cost-free camping: Free camping remains a major draw, especially with longer-term options. At Confederate Disperse Camping Area, one camper mentions, "Overall it was a great stay, especially since it was free. The reception was good, the road just leading to the camping spots was a little bumpy."
What you should know
Site availability challenges: Flat, usable areas can be limited in mountainous dispersed sites. At Kelly Gulch Road, a camper explains, "Since it's on a mountain, the amount of flat areas are limited so it's first come first serve."
Fire restrictions: Seasonal fire bans affect camping options. At Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite, one reviewer notes, "Plenty of wood can be found for making a fire," but adds that "fire restrictions are not in place" during their visit, suggesting this changes seasonally.
Ground conditions: Soil type affects tent setup and stability. At Confederate Disperse, a camper warns, "You can not stake anything down here. It's all sand. No cover from wind."
Tips for camping with families
Insect preparation: Summer brings increased bug activity to many sites. A camper at Little Blackfoot River Dispersed Campsite #3 shared, "The horseflies were a bit out of control this time of the year," suggesting families bring adequate insect repellent.
Water safety: Sites near Canyon Ferry Lake require supervision for children. A reviewer at Goose Bay BLM notes, "Pretty much can find a nice spot and most all are lake accessible," meaning parents should maintain constant supervision near water.
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings require layered clothing. At Canyon Ferry Lake, one camper warns about "No shade and lots of wind!" adding that the "Shore is Rocky but beautiful with fantastic sunsets to the west over the hills across the reservoir but again, very little shade."
Tips from RVers
Road condition alerts: Many access roads require careful navigation. At Scott Reservoir, one visitor noted, "Not the best roads but I got up there fine with my 2015 Outback just fine."
Parking space limitations: RVs need to assess site dimensions before attempting access. At Elliston Dispersed Camping on Forest Road 314, a camper advises, "Up a forest service road, so four-wheel-drive came in handy. A bit muddy. There are a variety of sites available, some are easier to access than others."
Limited amenities: RVers should plan for complete self-sufficiency. At Goose Bay BLM, a camper describes, "Tons of spots for camping and big rigs up to 50 ft long with spots a couple of hundred feet from the reservoir itself and lots of shade in places with decent privacy and picnic tables and fire rings at each site, and vault toilets provided."
