Best Tent Camping near Miles City, MT
Tent camping options near Miles City, Montana are primarily scattered along the Yellowstone River, offering a mix of established and dispersed sites. Bonfield and Far West on the Yellowstone River provide tent camping opportunities with varying levels of amenities and accessibility. These primitive camping areas are positioned along the river corridor, providing opportunities for both overnight stays and multi-day excursions.
Access roads to tent sites near Miles City frequently require careful navigation, particularly after rain. The dirt road to Far West on the Yellowstone River extends about a quarter mile from the main highway and remains well-maintained, though temporary closures due to construction have been reported. Bonfield features a narrow bridge that restricts oversized vehicles, and portions of the access road have significant washouts requiring higher clearance. Most tent campgrounds in the area offer basic amenities such as vault toilets, though their placement may be some distance from actual campsites. Facilities are minimal, with only select locations providing picnic tables and fire rings.
The Yellowstone River serves as a central feature for tent campers in the Miles City region, with sites positioned to maximize river views or access. Far West on the Yellowstone River contains approximately ten tent sites with well-maintained grounds, including regularly cut grass and clean vault toilets. Bonfield offers two designated sites with fire rings and tables, with one site providing substantial shade and windbreak from trees while the second sits completely exposed. Areas designated as fishing access points like Fallon Bridge technically allow overnight stays but lack designated camping spots and offer minimal privacy due to road proximity and absence of trees. A visitor remarked that Bonfield is "a beautiful spot right on the river, with an upgraded boat ramp," though they cautioned about the rough access road.
