Top Free Dispersed Camping near Lakeside, MT

Looking for dispersed camping near Lakeside? The Dyrt provides you with a diverse selection of places to camp, from dispersed backcountry camping to boondocking, and everything in-between. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Montana camping adventure.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Lakeside, MT (26)

    Camper-submitted photo from Blair Flats
    Camper-submitted photo from Blair Flats
    Camper-submitted photo from Blair Flats
    Camper-submitted photo from Blair Flats
    Camper-submitted photo from Blair Flats
    Camper-submitted photo from Blair Flats

    1. Blair Flats

    10 Reviews
    22 Photos
    253 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispersed Camping

    3. Ryan Road Dispersed Camping

    14 Reviews
    42 Photos
    501 Saves

    “Dispersed camping” is the term used for camping anywhere outside of a developed campground, including in some campgrounds with minimal development. Dispersed camping is free, and permitted almost everywhere on the Flathead National Forest. Camping in undeveloped areas requires you to help keep the sites in good condition. Rules for dispersed camping Groups over 75 people are not allowed. Dispersed camping is NOT allowed near developed recreation areas including campgrounds, trailheads and day-use areas. Water, restrooms, and trash cans are not provided. Pack out all your trash. There is a 16-day stay limit at any site. After that you must move 5-miles away, and you can not return to your original campsite for 7 days. Use existing fire rings. Avoid creating new fire rings. Your fire must be attended at all times and be dead out before leaving. Contact a local office about possible campfire restrictions before you go. Be bear aware and know the food storage regulations before camping. These regulations are strictly enforced. Additional rules or regulations may apply to the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex and Flathead Wild and Scenic River corridor.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeview
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeview
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeview
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeview
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeview
    Camper-submitted photo from Lakeview

    4. Lakeview

    4 Reviews
    20 Photos
    198 Saves

    3600-foot elevation. 5 sites near the west shore of Hungry Horse Reservoir. Fishing for trout and whitefish in the reservoir; access at Lost Johnny Point boat ramp. Pack it in, pack it out. Lakeview campsite Campsite picnic area Campsite fire-ring

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Picnic Table
    • Toilets
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Rim River Access 10363
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Rim River Access 10363
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Rim River Access 10363
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Rim River Access 10363
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Rim River Access 10363
    Camper-submitted photo from Glacier Rim River Access 10363
    Camper-submitted photo from GooseHead Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from GooseHead Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from GooseHead Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from GooseHead Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from GooseHead Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from GooseHead Camping Area

    6. GooseHead Camping Area

    3 Reviews
    12 Photos
    92 Saves

    Free Dispersed Campsites along the northern part of Hungry Horse Resevoir.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Group
    Camper-submitted photo from Hungry Horse Reservoir Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hungry Horse Reservoir Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hungry Horse Reservoir Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hungry Horse Reservoir Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hungry Horse Reservoir Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hungry Horse Reservoir Dispersed

    7. Hungry Horse Reservoir Dispersed

    5 Reviews
    7 Photos
    177 Saves

    “Dispersed camping” is the term used for camping anywhere outside of a developed campground, including in some campgrounds with minimal development. Dispersed camping is free, and permitted almost everywhere on the Flathead National Forest. Camping in undeveloped areas requires you to help keep the sites in good condition. Rules for dispersed camping Groups over 75 people are not allowed. Dispersed camping is NOT allowed near developed recreation areas including campgrounds, trailheads and day-use areas. Water, restrooms, and trash cans are not provided. Pack out all your trash. There is a 16-day stay limit at any site. After that you must move 5-miles away, and you can not return to your original campsite for 7 days. Use existing fire rings. Avoid creating new fire rings. Your fire must be attended at all times and be dead out before leaving. Contact a local office about possible campfire restrictions before you go. Be bear aware and know the food storage regulations before camping. These regulations are strictly enforced. Additional rules or regulations may apply to the Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex and Flathead Wild and Scenic River corridor. Human Waste Disposal Dispersed camping generally means no bathrooms. Keep your site clean for the next campers and prevent disease spread and pollution of water by following these rules:

    Urinate on rocks and avoiding vegetation if possible, and well away from water and camp. Do not leave toilet paper or wipes on the ground after you pee. Carry a zipper-lock plastic bag and pack out your toilet paper. Dig a cathole 6-8 inches deep and 8-inches wide at least 200-feet away from water, camp and trails to bury feces. Cover all waste with the soil you removed, and sprinkle the disturbed ground with leaves, pine needles, or other organic debris. If you carry a portable camping toilet, treat and pack out all treated waste and dispose of according to instructions on the digestant. The Flathead Wild and Scenic River Corridor rules require all solid human waste be carried out in leak-proof manner and disposed of properly off-forest.

    Camping with a vehicle Motorized use is limited to roads and trails designated on the Motor Vehicle Use Map. Know and follow all seasonal closures and never go beyond gates or other barriers on roads. Do not park or camp in front of closed gates. This prevents authorized users, including emergency responders, from accessing the road. Find and select your campsite on foot and scout the most direct route to your campsite for your vehicle. Driving your vehicle more than 300 feet from a motorized route for purposes of dispersed camping is prohibited. You may not cut or damage trees or vegetation to access your campsite. Never drive across wet areas or areas with soft ground.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from McGinnis Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from McGinnis Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from McGinnis Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from McGinnis Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from McGinnis Creek
    Camper-submitted photo from McGinnis Creek

    8. McGinnis Creek

    7 Reviews
    14 Photos
    382 Saves

    Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

    • Pets
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    • Alcohol
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispered #2
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispered #2

    9. Ryan Road Dispered #2

    2 Reviews
    5 Photos
    24 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Stanton Lake
    Camper-submitted photo from Stanton Lake
Showing results 1-10 of 26 campgrounds

Recent Dispersed Reviews In Lakeside

132 Reviews of 26 Lakeside Campgrounds


  • bThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Oct. 5, 2024

    North fork Flathead River dispersed camping

    Great stay close to West entrance Glacer NP

    I really enjoyed this boondocking site. They have great tent options right beside the river but not too close for flooding. Also they have a hard structured bathroom which was nice. Would stay here again. Also the road was bumpy but I managed it with my Honda Accord.

  • Sarah M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 22, 2024

    Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    Huge pot holes and water puddles + crowded

    You can only park on the one side of the river and it’s very crowded. Additionally the road going down to the camping area has huge pot holes and and water so you need high clearance to get down there.

  • Ben H.
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Sep. 20, 2024

    Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    Easy and convenient

    Only about 15 minutes away from Glacier National Park Westgate. I was able to stay here for multiple days. Each time was no trouble in finding a place to park. This area is popular for rafting and fishing. The surrounding area is also beautiful. There are outdoor restrooms located nearby. The camping limit for this area is 3 days. I was able to have good Verizon signal. Overall a great spot to camp.

  • Kaitlin K.
    Camper-submitted photo from GooseHead Camping Area
    Sep. 5, 2024

    GooseHead Camping Area

    Good for the night

    This campsite was very accommodating for our rig (40ft long x 13.5ft tall) and the road in wasn’t too bad either. Plenty of space for lots of rigs and turning around.

    Pros:

    • the reservoir access and sun set views were really neat!

    Cons:

    • there were a few shady characters about with some weird tent set-ups (lawn mowers, abandoned bikes, and tarps) so we didn’t feel entirely safe leaving our stuff alone for a day trip.
  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from GooseHead Camping Area
    Aug. 24, 2024

    GooseHead Camping Area

    Dispersed site

    Drove in on a Wednesday and found a site right on the water. A number of spots were occupied with campers/tents with no one there. Really peaceful spot in my experience and an unbeatable view. Rented SUPs from in town to enjoy on the reservoir.

    Pit toilet, well maintained, and walkable from all spots in the area.

  • Josh S.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispered #2
    Aug. 22, 2024

    Ryan Road Dispered #2

    Quiet solitude near West Glacier

    Got here on a Monday at about 1pm.

    There were about 3-4 sites available, 2 of which could fit a camper. We grabbed one. It could fit a 20-25' camper with vehicle at most.

    The place emptied out pretty well mid week (peak season).

    Pros:

    Many sites Some flat/level sites Some very big sites (2-3 could probably fit a larger 30'+ rig) Very quiet 15 min to west glacier entrance gate Clean Full 5 bar Tmobile

    Cons:

    Not much for turn around space, especially for a larger rig. If sites at end of road are packed you may be up a creek. Weekends it's packed. Still quiet, just nit much availability. No water. The spigot that used to be available outside the park gates are no longer available. Closest water is inside the park at the picnic areas.

    We stayed 6 nights and it was great. Very quiet, and an easy 25 minute drive to Columbia falls for grocery. 15-20 to hungry horse for gas.

  • Elizabeth F.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Aug. 20, 2024

    North fork Flathead River dispersed camping

    Nice stay near West Glacier

    This was a nice site for the night. I came around 6pm and all 4 sites were full so we just car camped in one of the parking spots. The four spots look really nice, but they most likely fill up quick, as we came on a Monday night. It’s a very beautiful place to camp and the bathroom is a perk! I definitely recommend if wanting a free place to camp outside of the West Glacier entrance!

  • CThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispered #2
    Aug. 7, 2024

    Ryan Road Dispered #2

    Super close to the West Entrance Glacier NP

    Many little sites, some with stone rings for fire, some without. Road is easily doable without 4WD. But has some potholes. You will sleep surrounded by forest in nature and close to the west entrance of the glacier National Park.

  • Bethany S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyland Rd Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 31, 2024

    Skyland Rd Dispersed Camping

    Peaceful and Convenient

    This was the perfect spot for us to rest after Glacier before driving to the Tetons. We had beautiful views and a very peaceful night. No bears or signs of bears! Enjoyed hammocking with the sound of the stream throughout the night. There was no service for Verizon

  • Mary B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 31, 2024

    Ryan Road Dispersed Camping

    Last Minute Find Near West Glacier Entrance

    Not sure where we were going g to spend the night, but discovered this great campsite through the Dyrt! Large campsites but was pretty full for the night. We were able to get a space for our Mercedes Sprinter next to another van. Score!

  • WThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 30, 2024

    Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    Decent spot

    It's a good spot right on the river. Rocky Beach that has a somewhat difficult road to get into. Any stock 4 x 4 truck SUV can do it though. Are some sketchy types sometimes in peak season. There are porta potties, but they are not recently pumped out.

  • Renee G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blair Flats
    Jul. 24, 2024

    Blair Flats

    Easy access!

    Solid place for camping. They have a few spots at the end of the road, and few places to pull off on the road. There's also a bear box at the end of the road.

  • Vincent B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 23, 2024

    Ryan Road Dispersed Camping

    I can't believe this is an option outside Glacier National Park!!!

    This spot is so close from the west entrance. There's plenty of spots and it's absolutely free. This is an absolute gem of free national Park camping. Very easy to access with minimal clearance needed. I had absolutely no issue finding a spot with a Subaru Crosstrek pulling a square drop for 4 days over the 4th of July weekend. Truly a fantastic find.

  • Bobby J.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 23, 2024

    Ryan Road Dispersed Camping

    Nice stay close to Glacier

    It was a nice stay near glacier but something just felt off about it. There was someone shooting a little too close for comfort, people walking down the dirt road late at night, and cars coming and going throughout the night. It was a nice spot though just felt off

  • k
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 19, 2024

    Ryan Road Dispersed Camping

    Beautiful spot!

    We have a 42’ trailer and thought we would give this spot a shot. There’s a slightly rough dirt road to get to the camp spots. There were about 3-4 sites that could fit our RV. We chose the very last site before the gate leading back to the Ryan air strip. Our site was quiet, loaded with trees and flowers and had a fire pit. We could have easily got a 2nd trailer back there as well. This spot is only about 5 minutes down the road from the West entrance to Glacier National Park. It is next to a used airstrip and we did hear planes taking off and landing a couple times.

  • BThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Skyland Rd Dispersed Camping
    Jul. 9, 2024

    Skyland Rd Dispersed Camping

    Solid camping spot with gorgeous drive

    Driving along the skyland road’s ridge was amazing, gorgeous mountain views. Spots are few but very spaced out for privacy. The spots were a tad small depending on your rig, just big enough for a pickup truck and tent. Really quiet and peaceful, felt like you had the whole place to yourself.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blair Flats
    Jun. 30, 2024

    Blair Flats

    Pretty Good, A Couple Negatives

    Pros: Was a decent site, nice fire pit at #2. Great view of the river. Lots of trees but still get the sun peeking through and good sun bathing on the river bank.

    Cons: tree roots everywhere. Hard to find flat ground for a tent because of the roots. Gotta watch your step everywhere. Neighbors are VERY close, too close for my liking. If you don't whisper your neighbors will hear every word. Mosquitos were pretty bad. Might be a little lighter during another time of year. We were there mid-June. No wood left near the sites. If you're going to procure your own wood better be prepared to do a few hours of labor.

  • Theresa N.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 21, 2024

    Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping

    looked beautiful but unable to get to

    i have a subaru crosstrek and the potholes were too flooded to drive down. super unfortunate bc looked absolutely beautiful! only trucks and jeeps were able to make it down the treacherous road.

  • JJ D.
    Camper-submitted photo from Ryan Road Dispersed Camping
    Jun. 14, 2024

    Ryan Road Dispersed Camping

    free

    Located close to the west entrance, this dispersed camping location is quiet and easily accessible to most vehicles. It did fill up, so get there early. Mosquitos were pretty bad.

  • jess W.
    Camper-submitted photo from North fork Flathead River dispersed camping
    Jun. 13, 2024

    North fork Flathead River dispersed camping

    Close to West Glacier, quiet enough, pretty views

    I used this spot for the four days I was visiting Glacier NP. It's pretty easy to find and close to West Glacier. The dirt road is DUSTY, but it is what it is (turn your lights on so you're more visible). The dirt road and driveway is a little rough and pothole-y, but my Town and Country handled it just fine. 

    Lots of sites to choose from; I was joined by a couple others each night and there was a bit of road traffic and people coming to put their rafts in the river, but it wasn't bothersome at all for me. 

    Right on the Flathead River, surrounded by mountains, and it has a pit-toilet! As a solo female traveler, I would absolutely stay here again.



Guide to Lakeside

Camping near Lakeside, Montana, offers a mix of stunning views and outdoor adventures. Whether you're pitching a tent or parking an RV, there are plenty of campgrounds to choose from that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Explore Flathead Lake: This massive lake is perfect for swimming, kayaking, and fishing. One camper mentioned, “The water was clear and the dogs thoroughly enjoyed splashing around,” highlighting the lake's family-friendly vibe.
  • Hiking Trails: There are numerous trails around the area. A visitor at West Shore Unit — Flathead Lake State Park noted, “There are little trails all over the grounds, many leading down to the lake.”
  • Wildlife Watching: Keep an eye out for local wildlife. One camper shared, “I spotted a black bear on a hill,” which adds an exciting element to your outdoor experience.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful surroundings. A review from Big Arm State Unit — Flathead Lake State Park said, “This place is amazing! We’re right on the water.”
  • Friendly Staff: Many campgrounds have welcoming hosts. A visitor at Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast mentioned, “The staff was so friendly. The cafe with giant cinnamon rolls hit the spot.”
  • Clean Facilities: Clean restrooms and showers are a big plus. A camper at Glacier Campground noted, “The showers and bathrooms were very clean.”

What you should know:

  • Reservations Recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A camper at Apgar Campground — Glacier National Park mentioned, “Staying here still requires reservations for main park attractions.”
  • Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds may not have all the amenities you expect. A visitor at Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed pointed out, “There are also signs that say no camping.”
  • Noise Levels: Depending on the location, some sites can be noisy. A camper at Glacier Campground said, “It is quite noisy at night, at least in loop A.”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Kid-Friendly Activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for kids. A family at West Glacier KOA Resort enjoyed, “The grandkids loved the pool and the Gaga ball pit.”
  • Spacious Sites: Choose campgrounds with larger sites for more room to play. A camper at Rocky Mountain Hi Campground mentioned, “Spacing is great with trees in-between you.”
  • Pet-Friendly Options: Many campgrounds allow pets, making it easier to bring the whole family. A visitor at Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping noted, “Pets allowed, which is a big plus for us.”

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A camper at Glacier Campground said, “Sites are extremely tight and unlevel.”
  • Look for Full Hookups: If you need them, find campgrounds that offer full hookups. A visitor at Rocky Mountain Hi Campground appreciated, “Full hookup sites, big rig friendly, and great location.”
  • Plan for Noise: Be prepared for potential noise from nearby roads or campgrounds. A camper at West Glacier KOA Resort mentioned, “Live music every night during peak season.”

Camping lakeside, MT, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With the right preparation and knowledge, you can have a memorable experience in this beautiful area.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Lakeside, MT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Lakeside, MT is Blair Flats with a 4.4-star rating from 10 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Lakeside, MT?

    TheDyrt.com has all 26 dispersed camping locations near Lakeside, MT, with real photos and reviews from campers.