Tent camping around Livingston, Montana offers a variety of opportunities at elevations ranging from 4,500 to 9,000 feet. The region experiences warm summer days with temperatures often dropping below 50°F at night, even in July and August. Most dispersed camping areas in the surrounding mountains become accessible by late May, though higher elevation sites may remain snow-covered until mid-June.
What to do
Fishing access: East Boulder Campground provides excellent fishing opportunities along the Boulder River. According to Michael M., "I traveled MILES on stone/dirt roads through gorgeous Montana back country. I had the site to myself, sometimes one of the many road construction crews would stop to use the facilities."
Day hiking: Fairy Lake Campground serves as a trailhead for the popular Sacajawea Peak hike. "The lake itself is stunning, with crystal clear water that looks almost unreal," notes Sayler O. "It's the perfect place to relax, hike, fish, or just sit back and take in the beauty of Montana."
Wildlife viewing: Dispersed camping areas outside Yellowstone's northern entrance offer excellent opportunities to spot elk, deer, and occasionally bears. A camper at Custer-Gallatin National Forest Dispersed Camping shared, "We saw an elk on the way up so that was neat," while others mention the abundance of wildlife viewing opportunities from these higher elevation sites.
Rock hounding: Several areas near Livingston offer rockhounding opportunities. At East Boulder, a reviewer mentioned, "It's a great place to fish, rock hound and there are some trails very close. The road in as well as the pit toilet are well maintained."
What campers like
Mountain views: The elevated perspectives at dispersed sites are frequently highlighted in reviews. At South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site, Jenna B. wrote, "Gorgeous campsite only 20ish min from the outskirts of Bozeman. Stopped in for 1 night passing through on a bigger road trip and couldn't be luckier with this location."
Creek-side spots: Many tent campers prefer sites with running water nearby. At Travertine Road Dispersed, campers appreciate the combination of creek access and views. Ryan L. noted, "Very nice sites. We picked one of the first we saw. A little bit windy but absolutely stunning mountain views."
Limited crowds: Several dispersed camping areas offer seclusion even during peak season. Kimberly L. described South Fork Brackett Creek: "I went a little further up the mountain than the coordinates (about 5 miles) and found a spot off the road (4wd highly recommended, no big rigs). The mountains were pink and purple at sunrise, awesome views!"
Star gazing: The dark skies around Livingston make for exceptional night viewing. Tristan S. mentioned at South Fork Brackett Creek: "Could hear some of the louder vehicles traveling through the valley at night time, but otherwise super quiet. Awesome view of the Northern Lights too!"
What you should know
Road conditions: Many dispersed camping areas require careful driving. At Little Trail Creek Road, Tate W. advised, "Road is bumpy but manageable. Wouldn't bring an RV though." Another camper warned, "This location was almost impossible to get to, my father took his RV up the hill before we took ours up & his almost bottomed out."
Bear safety: All camping areas near Livingston require proper food storage. Kimberly L. cautioned about South Fork Brackett Creek: "I went for a little walk in the woods and saw a black bear (keep your food and trash stored safe!)"
Limited facilities: Most dispersed sites lack amenities. TexasRed noted about South Fork Brackett Creek: "This site was easily accessible, right off the main road, close to town and close to some hikes." The lack of facilities means campers need to be self-sufficient.
Weather changes: Mountain weather can shift rapidly, even in summer. Chinh N. reported about Little Trail Creek Road: "Unfortunately staying for a few hours for some rest since there is a winter storm coming in. Trees aren't tall enough for shade."
Tips for camping with families
Farm experience: Serenity Sheep Farm Stay offers a unique camping option with animals. "The kids enjoyed the animals. There is a nice fire pit that made for a gathering spot for the other few campers," writes Chula R.
Accessible options: Some areas are better suited for families with young children. Tanya A. shared about Serenity Sheep Farm: "We loved this place nestled in the valley about 30 minutes outside of Bozeman. Not only did we have spectacular views of the mountains but we loved seeing the farm animals (cows, sheep, llama, chickens)."
Swimming spots: Several campgrounds offer safer water play areas for children. At Blackmore Campground, Evan H. noted, "This is a nice little camping area with plenty of fun nearby. During the day there is a fair amount of traffic that will drive by in order to get to the wonderful hikes just up the road."
Timing considerations: Arriving early is essential during peak season. Sasha P. observed at East Boulder: "Seven miles down a gravel road. Nice camp site along the Boulder river. Just two camp sites, first come first serve. Both were full when I arrived."
Tips from RVers
Size limitations: Most tent camping areas around Livingston have restricted access for larger vehicles. Don&Becca W. noted about Little Trail Creek Road: "Several roadside sites along this road that branches off Travertine Rd. A few sites are large enough for multiple tents/vans."
Cell service: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the region. Allison S. reported from Little Trail Creek Road: "ATT and Verizon service, mid to full bars. 30 minutes to the YNP north entrance."
Overnight options: Some sites work better for quick stays. TexasRed shared about South Fork Brackett Creek: "We were looking for an easy dispersed site to stay at while visiting a friend in Bozeman. This was an easy option for us with a 20ft camper. We stayed at the first pull off a few minutes off the main road."
