Best Dispersed Camping near Martinsdale, MT

Dispersed camping dominates the landscape surrounding Martinsdale, Montana, with several primitive sites scattered throughout nearby public lands. The Haymaker Dispersed Camping Area offers drive-in access north of town, while Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping provides waterfront options approximately 30 miles southwest. Most sites in the region operate under minimal management with few amenities, primarily on Department of Natural Resources and Conservation (DNRC) or Forest Service land. Camping areas like Dispersed Site 9210, located at a former Forest Service campground, retain some infrastructure including picnic tables and fire rings, though most locations require complete self-sufficiency.

Road conditions present significant challenges for accessing many camping areas in the region. Several campsites, particularly those near Cottonwood Reservoir, require high-clearance vehicles and four-wheel drive capability. As one visitor noted, "Most of the road is extremely rugged, uneven, and full of large holes." Weather patterns influence accessibility, with strong winds common near water bodies and seasonal closures affecting higher-elevation sites during winter months. Campers should prepare for primitive conditions, as one reviewer emphasized: "No wifi, no trash, no bathrooms. Completely wild." Cell service remains limited throughout the area, necessitating advance planning and self-sufficiency.

Waterfront camping receives consistently positive reviews despite challenging access. Cottonwood Reservoir offers fishing for Yellowstone cutthroat trout and seasonal waterfowl viewing opportunities. Visitors frequently mention exceptional stargazing conditions due to minimal light pollution. The Otter Creek Fishing Access provides riverside camping with boat launch facilities and vault toilets, unusual amenities for the region. Campers report varying levels of privacy, with some sites offering seclusion while others experience moderate traffic from nearby highways or trailheads. As one camper observed about Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping, "There is a meadow about 4 miles from the highway that has at least 3 dispersed sites," highlighting how determined campers can find solitude even in popular areas by exploring side roads and less-developed locations.

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Best Dispersed Sites Near Martinsdale, Montana (7)

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Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Martinsdale, MT

7 Photos of 7 Martinsdale Campgrounds


Dispersed Camping Reviews near Martinsdale, MT

7 Reviews of 7 Martinsdale Campgrounds


  • owen T.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 29, 2024

    Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    Cottonwood reservoir wilsall montana

    Cottonwood Reseravoir DNRC land section.  accessible for overnight camping under DNRC rules.  The reservoir has Yellowstone cutthroat trout and white suckers.  No wifi, no trash, no bathrooms. Completely wild. Stars at night amazing. All kinds of waterfowl passing seasonal. No amenities.

  • James C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 14, 2025

    Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping

    On the road to Fairy Lake

    There is a Meadow about 4 miles in front of the highway that has at least 3 dispersed sites. I went to the one furthest from the dirt road and had nice shade and privacy here. 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)

  • Jenny&Tobias P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2023

    Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    Overnight at a lake with mountain view

    A few sites, close toe Hyw 89 through a Texas gate. We camped for a night and it's a beautiful space with stunning views and a reservoir right at the spots. No fire rings a little bit a rough road 4x4 and higher clearance recommended. Better no enter with big rigs or trailer. But a beautiful place to spend time.

  • Dexter I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 7, 2021

    Dispersed site 9210

    Disperse campsites at part of former Indian Hill Campground

    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.  All of the campground was removed on the opposite side of the creek.  The forest service left the first two sites for disperse camping.  You can find the site by turning at the sign for forest road 9210, which goes for only a couple hundred feet to the two camp sites.  Both sites are quite nice and sit among very large trees and along side the creek.  An information sign is at the site.

  • Sabrina V.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 1, 2024

    Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping

    Very hard to find at night

    This place seemed promising at first. It was hard to find a decent spot at night due to only using headlights of my van. Most of the road is extremely rugged/uneven/full of large holes. The only place I was able to stay for the night was the road leading up to the locked gate. This is about the only nice spot. Other than that this place is • quiet w/occasional traffic along the high way (right next to reservoir) • very few people here, but far enough away from me • no fee required • provides OK view to the mountains • great when you bring along a pet • you will need to be fully prepared for primitive camping

  • John H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 29, 2024

    Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping

    Amazing camp site with tree cover and fire ring

    This is 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.


Guide to Martinsdale

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Martinsdale, Montana, where nature lovers can enjoy serene landscapes and a true wilderness experience. With a variety of options available, campers can find the perfect spot to unwind and connect with the great outdoors.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Martinsdale

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Dispersed Site 9210

  • Located at the site of the former Indian Hills Campground, Dispersed site 9210 features two well-maintained sites with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for a cozy evening under the stars.
  • The area is surrounded by large trees and sits alongside a creek, providing a tranquil atmosphere for relaxation and exploration.
  • Access is straightforward, with a short drive down Forest Road 9210 leading directly to the camping spots.

Scenic Views for Dispersed Campers

  • The breathtaking vistas at Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping make it an ideal location for those looking to capture stunning photographs of the Montana landscape.
  • Campers at Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping can enjoy views of the mountains while relaxing by the water, creating a picturesque backdrop for your camping experience.
  • The rugged terrain and natural beauty surrounding Timber Creek Dispersed Campground offer a unique opportunity to experience the wild side of Montana, perfect for adventurous spirits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Martinsdale, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Martinsdale, MT is Haymaker Dispersed Camping Area with a 0-star rating from 0 reviews.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Martinsdale, MT?

TheDyrt.com has all 7 dispersed camping locations near Martinsdale, MT, with real photos and reviews from campers.