Best Dispersed Camping near Malmstrom AFB, MT
Belt Creek on Hughesville Road offers dispersed camping sites along a mountain stream about 47 miles from Malmstrom AFB. The well-maintained road provides access to multiple pull-off areas with natural fire rings. Most sites sit directly alongside the creek with room for both tents and RVs. A visitor noted, "There are several campsites along the road. We were there mid-week in September and I was surprised at how many other campers were there, but there were still several sites available." The area becomes busy on weekends, with Friday arrivals recommended before 5pm to secure prime spots.
Freezout Lake Wildlife Management Area provides free off-grid camping options approximately 68 miles northwest of the base. This wetland area features flat gravel parking with picnic tables and vault toilets but no drinking water or trash service. Pack-in, pack-out principles apply. A camper commented, "It's quite, and there are paths around the water. I took a star off because by 9pm I had to retire to my camper because the mosquitoes were so bad." The area experiences heavy winds and abundant mosquitoes during summer evenings. Note that while camping is free, a $10 Conservation Permit is required, obtainable online through Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks.
