Dispersed camping opportunities surround Martinsdale, Montana, at elevations between 4,500-8,000 feet across public lands managed primarily by the Forest Service and Montana Department of Natural Resources and Conservation. Weather conditions vary dramatically by season, with summer temperatures averaging 75-85°F during days and dropping to 45-55°F at night. Winter access becomes limited as snow accumulation makes many forest roads impassable from November through April.
What to do
Fishing at multiple access points: Otter Creek Fishing Access provides direct access to the Yellowstone River with several camping spots alongside the water. As camper Steve M. notes, "There are plenty of spots both in the open and a few under some trees and you can fall asleep to the sounds of the river rushing by."
Hiking from dispersed sites: Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping offers proximity to multiple trailheads with routes ranging from 2-8 miles. According to visitor James C., "I went all the way to the dispersed campsite above Fairy Lake. I felt it was adequate but the 2 remaining sites were full sun and the trailhead right below the CG was packed (approx. 30 vehicles)."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Free camping near Martinsdale, Montana provides seasonal wildlife observation, particularly at waterfront sites. At Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping, camper owen T. reports seeing "all kinds of waterfowl passing seasonal" in addition to fishing for "Yellowstone cutthroat trout and white suckers."
What campers like
Mountain views from lakeside sites: Campers consistently mention scenic vistas as a highlight of dispersed camping near Martinsdale. At Cottonwood Reservoir, Jenny&Tobias P. describe it as "a beautiful space with stunning views and a reservoir right at the spots."
Proximity to water features: Several camping areas provide direct water access. At Otter Creek Fishing Access, one reviewer mentions being "25 ft from the Yellowstone River" and notes there are "many open places to camp alongside the river."
Established features at former campgrounds: Some dispersed sites retain infrastructure from previous developed campgrounds. At Dispersed Site 9210, camper Dexter I. explains, "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."
What you should know
Road conditions require preparation: Many dispersed camping areas near Martinsdale demand high-clearance vehicles. For Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping, camper Ariana N. warns, "I towed my small camper up the mountain fairly easily, although this is by far the roughest road I've encountered so far. Not for the faint of heart!"
Limited space at popular areas: Some sites fill quickly during peak season. At Battle Ridge Dispersed, camper evan experienced this firsthand: "Battle Ridge Campground was full. We followed the road all the way up to the end where it reaches private property. There is one spot just before. However it is a tight road, we had to unhook our trailer to turn around so it is not a place for big rigs."
Weather impacts experience: Strong winds affect certain locations, particularly at higher elevations or near water. When camping at Cottonwood Reservoir, Doreen G. reported: "Rough road to get to the water, then beautiful views. 11 mph winds tonight but supposed to die down."
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with established facilities: For families seeking no-cost camping near Martinsdale, locations with basic amenities reduce logistics challenges. Dispersed Site 9210 offers "a picnic table and metal fire ring" according to camper Dexter I., who adds it "sits among very large trees and along side the creek."
Consider proximity to emergency services: Cell service varies significantly throughout the region. Sites closer to highways generally maintain better connectivity. At Otter Creek Fishing Access, Steve M. mentions "great cell phone service and a vault toilet but no garbage so pack it out."
Plan for weather changes: Temperature fluctuations can be significant, even in summer months. Prepare for cold nights year-round. Ariana N. recommends Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping where she found "no bugs, no bear scat nearby, some traffic but still private."
Tips from RVers
Scout road conditions first: RVers should verify access roads before attempting to reach remote sites. For Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping, Jenny&Tobias P. cautions: "A little bit a rough road 4x4 and higher clearance recommended. Better not enter with big rigs or trailer."
Seek established parking areas: Finding level surfaces for larger vehicles requires planning. At Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping, John H. notes an "amazing camp spot that is almost almost to the top of the trail to fairy Lake campground. There's an established firing, and there's room for multiple vehicles."
Know stay limits at fishing access sites: Some waterfront locations have shorter permitted stays than standard dispersed camping. Steve M. explains that Otter Creek Fishing Access is a "popular area for fishing so rather than normal BLM 14 days it's a 7-Day Max."
