Best Dispersed Camping near Helena, MT
Several dispersed camping sites exist around Helena, Montana on public lands managed by the Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service. The Little Blackfoot River area features multiple Forest Service-designated dispersed sites, while other options include Scott Reservoir, Kelly Gulch Road, and areas near Canyon Ferry Lake. Confederate Dispersed Camping Area provides lakeside camping opportunities about a mile north of the established Confederate Campground. Most sites are primitive with minimal development beyond occasional fire rings.
Access roads to many sites require careful navigation, with several reviewers noting washboard conditions and rough terrain. Most dispersed areas lack amenities such as drinking water, toilets, or trash service, though Confederate Dispersed Area does provide access to a vault toilet approximately half a mile from camping spots. Fire restrictions vary seasonally, with rings available at some sites when fires are permitted. The standard 14-day camping limit applies to most locations, particularly at Canyon Ferry Lake and other BLM-managed areas. Vehicle clearance requirements differ by location, with some sites accessible to standard vehicles while others need high-clearance or 4WD.
The region's camping areas provide varying experiences based on proximity to water features and surrounding terrain. Scott Reservoir offers waterfront camping with mountain views, while Little Blackfoot River sites feature creek access for fishing and cooling off. One camper noted that at Kelly Gulch Road, "Since it's on a mountain, the amount of flat areas are limited so it's first come first serve." Privacy levels vary considerably between locations, with a reviewer at Confederate commenting, "Enough space along the banks to find a spot and still feel private." However, the same area receives mixed reviews, with another camper stating it was "too crowded with lots of full timers" despite posted 14-day limits.
