Dispersed camping sites near Lima, Montana provide rustic, self-sufficient camping opportunities in high-elevation terrain ranging from 6,600 to 7,000 feet. The region experiences significant temperature variations between day and night even during summer months due to the elevation. Gravelly roads access most sites with conditions deteriorating after rain or snow, requiring careful planning for vehicle clearance.
What to do
Rockhounding at reservoir shores: Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area offers abundant opportunities for amateur geologists. "This campsite has loads to offer ~ there is access to the reservoir, of course, and along with this comes the garnets lining the shores. It is a perfect adventure for beginners, as all you need is a shovel and some screens to begin your search," notes Hannah S.
Sunrise photography: The eastern exposures from some sites provide memorable morning views. "See the Tetons to the east at sunrise, it's beautiful," reports Rex W. about his experience at West Dubois Pulloff on Route 22.
Fishing in nearby creeks: Multiple dispersed sites offer access to smaller creeks and tributaries. Many campers report bringing lightweight fishing equipment and catching small trout in the early mornings or evenings when temperatures cool.
What campers like
Vault toilet access: Some sites provide basic sanitation facilities. Laura C. appreciated that 6100N Dispersed Camping Area offers "toilets and clearly marked campsites with a fire ring and a picnic table. Definitely can't complain considering the camping was free!"
Affordability: Free camping options remain available throughout the region. "It's free! You can bring campers, motorhomes, or tent camp like we did! There is a bathroom available as well!" reports Kayla B. about her stay at Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area.
Proximity to ghost towns: Historical mining communities provide day trip options from camping areas. "The way in leads you right through Virginia City which is a fun little ghost town," mentions Hannah S.
What you should know
Limited signage: Finding some sites requires advance preparation. Fred S. notes about BLM Skull Canyon Road Dispersed: "Rough narrow rocky track to the site from the highway; recommend high clearance. High humps on this track... There are several boondocking sites, some with vault toilets nearby, along Hwy 28."
Wildlife concerns: Campers should practice appropriate food storage and awareness. "Rattlesnakes by the bathrooms," warns Kelsie M. about her stay at Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area.
Leveling challenges: Many sites require equipment for level placement. "Almost impossible to level a camper," reports one visitor, while another notes "While it was quiet people wise, I'm pretty sure you can hear the dam because we had rumbling noise that woke both of us up."
Tips for camping with families
Rockhounding activities: Mining-related activities provide entertainment for various age groups. "The garnets are beautiful, and keep the kids (college age or elementary!) entertained for hours. And if you need to cool off, you can hop right in!" reports a camper about Barretts Station Park Campground.
Insect preparation: Multiple sites report significant insect activity during warmer months. "Bugs are INTENSE though!" warns Alyessa L., while another camper notes "prepare for the skeeters our thermacell was no match for these guys."
Weather variability: Temperature fluctuations require appropriate clothing layers. The high elevations mean nighttime temperatures can drop significantly even during summer months.
Tips from RVers
Graded road conditions: Road quality varies significantly between sites. "Well maintained gravel road giving easy access to great camping," notes Neil H. about Stoddard Creek Dispersed Camping.
Designated parking limitations: Some areas have specific RV arrangements. "There are 9 tables dispersed in a grassy area and a couple RV parking spaces," notes Richard N.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some camping areas. "It was close to the freeway, so there was lots of road noise all night," reports Marne F., while another camper mentions "also some rail road tracks between the campground and the highway."
