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Best Dispersed Camping near Lewistown, MT

3 Reviews

Dispersed camping options near Lewistown, Montana include several primitive sites on public lands. Timber Creek Dispersed Campground and Haymaker Dispersed Camping Area provide basic accommodations with no amenities. Dispersed site 9210, located at a former campground site, features two camping spots with picnic tables and metal fire rings along a creek. According to reviews, "Both sites are quite nice and sit among very large trees alongside the creek." Slaughter River Boat Camp, accessible only by water at mile 76.8 of the Upper Missouri River Break National Monument, offers a more developed option.

Most dispersed sites in this region require visitors to pack in all necessities including water. Fire regulations vary by location and season; Timber Creek and Haymaker currently prohibit fires while other sites permit them. Visitors should check current fire restrictions before departure. Drive-in access is available at most locations except Slaughter River, which requires boat access. Road conditions can deteriorate rapidly after rain or snow, particularly on forest service roads leading to remote sites.

The Slaughter River area holds historical significance as a campsite used by the Corps of Discovery during their western and eastern journeys on the Missouri. Campers report that "the site can be found a short distance upriver from the camping area, with a trail leading to the site marked by a brass marker plate." Fishing opportunities exist at several locations, with catfish reported at Slaughter River during evening hours. All dispersed campers should practice Leave No Trace principles, pack out all waste, and bring toilet paper when using vault toilets, as facilities may not be regularly maintained.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Lewistown, Montana (4)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Lewistown, MT

3 Reviews of 4 Lewistown Campgrounds

  • Dexter I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Aug. 25, 2018

    Slaughter River Boat Camp

    Nice but very busy campground

    A very popular developed boat camp at mile 76.8 of the Upper Missouri River Break National Monument. Site is an fenced area with two vault toilets, one shelter and five metal fire rings. Site is very busy, but is large and can handle a lot of campers.

    Corps of Discovery camped here on both their western and easter journeys on the Missouri. Site can be found a short distance upriver from the camping area, a trail leads to the site and is marked with a brass marker plate.

  • Dexter I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2021

    Dispersed site 9210

    Disperse campsites at part of former Indian Hill Campground

    Disperse camping area 9210 is a two site camping area, with each site having a picnic table and metal fire ring.  This is at the site of the former Indian Hills Campground which was decommissioned a few years ago.  All of the campground was removed on the opposite side of the creek.  The forest service left the first two sites for disperse camping.  You can find the site by turning at the sign for forest road 9210, which goes for only a couple hundred feet to the two camp sites.  Both sites are quite nice and sit among very large trees and along side the creek.  An information sign is at the site.

  • Sterling C.
    Jun. 20, 2019

    Slaughter River Boat Camp

    Full toilets!!!

    A pretty basic campsite. There is some shade and “buildings” to provide shade. No really good or visible hiking areas since it’s mostly flat ground. Fishing is good though, and at night you can catch catfish! The worst part of this campsite is the two outhouses. Though they are nicer stone ones, one has about an inch of dried mud covering the floor with excrement in a pile almost above the toilet seat. The other outhouse has less dirt, and excremental goes to the bottom of the toilet bowl (the chamber is full; about floor level). Also the toilets have no toilet paper so BRING YOUR OWN!!! Thank you

Guide to Lewistown

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Lewistown, Montana, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. This area offers a variety of spots that cater to different camping styles, making it a perfect getaway for outdoor enthusiasts.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Lewistown, Montana

Enjoy fishing while free camping near Lewistown

  • If you're into fishing, the Slaughter River Boat Camp is a great spot where you can catch catfish at night, adding a fun twist to your camping experience.

Dispersed campers should check out Dispersed site 9210

  • For a unique experience, consider Dispersed site 9210, which features picnic tables and fire rings, making it a comfortable choice for those looking to enjoy a peaceful retreat among large trees by the creek.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the regulations for dispersed camping around Lewistown?

Dispersed camping regulations around Lewistown typically include designated fire ring use and proper waste disposal. At Dispersed site 9210, campers will find a two-site area with provided picnic tables and metal fire rings at the former Indian Hills Campground location. Many dispersed sites in the region have specific infrastructure to minimize environmental impact. At Haymaker Dispersed Camping Area, drive-in access is available, but campers should follow leave-no-trace principles, pack out all trash, and observe any posted stay limits (typically 14 days maximum). Always check current regulations with local land management agencies before your trip.

Where can I find dispersed camping near Lewistown?

Near Lewistown, you can find dispersed camping opportunities at Slaughter River Boat Camp, a popular spot at mile 76.8 of the Upper Missouri River Break National Monument. This site offers vault toilets, a shelter, and five metal fire rings. It's spacious and can accommodate many campers. Another option is Timber Creek Dispersed Campground, which provides drive-in access for those exploring the Lewistown area. These areas offer more primitive camping experiences with varying levels of amenities while still providing access to the natural beauty surrounding Lewistown.

Is dispersed camping in Lewistown available year-round?

Dispersed camping availability around Lewistown varies seasonally due to Montana's weather conditions. While some areas may be technically open year-round, winter access can be significantly limited by snow and freezing temperatures. Spring access often depends on road conditions, with many dirt roads becoming impassable during mud season. Summer and fall generally offer the most reliable access periods. Weather and seasonal closures may affect specific sites differently, so it's advisable to check with the local Bureau of Land Management office or Forest Service before planning a trip, especially during shoulder seasons or winter months.

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