Dispersed camping areas near Martin City, Montana provide free access to the Flathead River system and surrounding wilderness. Located at approximately 3,100 feet elevation, these sites experience warm summer days with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cool nights dropping to 45-55°F. Seasonal closures affect some areas, particularly during spring runoff when water levels rise dramatically.
What to do
Paddle the river system: Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed offers excellent water access for various watercraft. "Be prepared for lots of traffic. This is a local entry and exit for guides, fishers, floaters, and swimmers. But there's a lot of area to camp and a beautiful river to enjoy," notes Boyd H.
Cold water swimming: The rivers provide natural swimming holes during hot summer months. "The river was great to swim in for a little cold plunge. This might have been our best campsite on our two week road trip," reports Joshua M. from Middle Fork Flathead.
Wildlife viewing: Keep your camera ready for wildlife sightings around camp. At North Fork Flathead River, one camper mentioned, "We were able to sit in the river and relax. We also saw a bald eagle!" Many areas provide opportunities to spot native wildlife from a safe distance.
What campers like
River proximity: Many sites provide direct access to the Flathead River system. At Glacier Rim River Access, visitors appreciate the peaceful setting. "The river is beautiful and has a little beach for swimming. My campsite had a good amount of shade and could fit a big rig easily," noted Tee C.
Dark skies for stargazing: Minimal light pollution creates exceptional stargazing conditions. One camper at McGinnis Creek shared, "It's so dark at night...Sit by the fire, relax and enjoy the beautiful night sky above you!!!"
Natural shade: Tree cover provides welcome relief during hot summer days. At GooseHead Camping Area, campers find spots "with vault toilets, well maintained, and walkable from all spots in the area." The surroundings offer "unbeatable views" according to Sara A., who visited in August 2024.
What you should know
Road conditions vary dramatically: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. At Blankenship Bridge, Price T. warns, "The entrance is the tricky part. If you have low ground clearance you may have an issue but I saw people that made it in regular sedans."
Seasonal closures: Several sites close during specific times. Ryan Road Dispersed Camping has experienced closures for logging operations, with Sophia P. reporting in June 2025: "Closed for Logging, the signs say closed for logging so I assume that's also for walking up to the site."
Portable toilets only at some locations: Facility availability differs between sites. GooseHead Camping Area provides vault toilets while others have only portable options. Jules S. notes, "Absolutely no cell service once you turn off Highway 2 about 6 miles out from sight. Starlink works but is a little spotty."
Crowding fluctuates: Weekday visits typically offer more solitude. "Got here on a Monday at about 1pm. There were about 3-4 sites available, 2 of which could fit a camper," reports Josh S. about Ryan Road Dispersed #2.
Tips for camping with families
Best family-friendly locations: Look for sites with easier access and some basic facilities. At North Fork Flathead River, one visitor described it as "a lovely campsite on the Flathead river. We stayed for 3 nights on the North fork of the Flathead river. We had been searching around for a First come First served site and hadn't found anything that looked just right."
Water safety precautions: Rivers have strong currents, especially during spring runoff. Bring life jackets for children. "The river was very deep and a beautiful swim! However it's a heavily travelled road and the boat ramp was being used quite often," notes Sumner C. about Glacier Rim.
Space for activities: Some areas provide open spaces for kids to play safely. GooseHead Camping Area offers "a huge gravel camping area" with "little walkway down to the beach as well," according to Jules S., making it suitable for families with children.
Prepare for bugs: Depending on the season, mosquitoes can be intense. Bring appropriate repellent and protective clothing, especially for evenings.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: McGinnis Creek provides options for various vehicle sizes. "We managed to find a spot on a side road before the gates, that fit our 32' travel trailer. Verizon and tmobile service but only 1 to 2 bars," reports dusty.
Arrival timing matters: Early arrival increases chances of securing suitable spots. Josh S. notes at Ryan Road Dispersed #2: "The place emptied out pretty well mid week (peak season)...Weekends it's packed. Still quiet, just not much availability."
Water access points: No potable water exists at most sites. "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," advises Josh S. Plan to bring enough water for your entire stay.
Turn-around space limitations: Large rigs should consider exit strategy before entering narrow forest roads. "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," warns a camper about Ryan Road.
