The Dyrt – find campgrounds for tents, RVs, cabins, glamping and more.
Open in App

Best Dispersed Camping near Missoula, MT

61 Reviews

Dispersed camping opportunities surround Missoula, Montana, primarily on U.S. Forest Service and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) lands. Free primitive sites can be found along Blue Mountain Forest Road 365, Petty Creek Road, Rock Creek, and Garnet Road. The Lolo National Forest contains several backcountry options including Bass Lake and Peterson Lake dispersed sites, which require hiking access. Boulder Lake Backcountry Site offers more remote camping in the forest. Additional sites exist near Lake Elsina and along Rock Creek, where dry campsites accommodate tent camping without amenities.

Many forest service roads leading to dispersed sites require careful navigation, with some areas accessible only to high-clearance vehicles. Most sites lack drinking water, toilets, and other facilities, requiring campers to pack in all supplies and pack out waste. Fire restrictions are common, particularly during summer months, though most areas permit campfires when conditions allow. The standard 14-day camping limit applies to most dispersed sites in the region. Bridges accessing Rock Creek dispersed areas may be in poor condition, with one review noting "decrepit bridges" and concrete damage that might challenge larger vehicles or trailers.

The dispersed camping experience near Missoula varies by location, with riverside sites and mountain lake access being particular highlights. "Great little spot to hold over for the night," one camper noted about Petty Creek Road camping, which features three sites with enough tree separation to provide privacy. Sites along Rock Creek provide excellent fishing access, while backcountry locations like Boulder Lake offer seclusion and wildlife viewing. A camper described Blue Mountain as having "good views and decently private" sites. Cell service is inconsistent throughout the region, with some areas receiving Verizon signal while others remain completely disconnected. Campers should be prepared for variable conditions and limited facilities at all dispersed sites.

Map showing campgrounds near Missoula, MontanaExplore the Map

Best Dispersed Sites Near Missoula, Montana (22)

    1. Blue Mountain Forest Rd 365 - Dispersed

    7 Reviews
    Lolo, MT
    8 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 329-3814

    "This area allows disperse camping Beyond a certain point (there is a small sign). There is a map provided at the road trailhead. However it is confusing since I believe the map is upside down."

    "I got a flat tire going up so be careful of sharp rocks. The pin is at just a pull off on the side of the road. Drive another mile or so until a corner then take a trail on the side."

    2. Petty Creek Road Dispersed Camping

    12 Reviews
    Alberton, MT
    22 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 626-5201

    "The GPS coordinates listed on the map are spot on, and the turn-off comes up quickly. There look to be 4 spots. I used the one right by the road turn off."

    "3 sites in a beautiful spot, about 5 minutes off the highway. We pulled in about 7pm and we were the only ones there."

    3. Rock Creek Dispersed Spot - Lolo

    6 Reviews
    Clinton, MT
    20 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 329-3814

    "first dispersed camping spot for Lolo from the entry road for this Forest Service land entry."

    4. Boulder Lake Backcountry Site

    1 Review
    Arlee, MT
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 329-3814

    "Awesome lakento hike into, best accessed during summer after snow has melted."

    5. Peterson Lake Dispersed

    1 Review
    Florence, MT
    19 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 777-5461

    "About 5 miles one way to Peterson lake, anither 1 and 2 miles to Duffy and Holloway lakes above Peterson. Nice secluded valley heading into Bitteroot-Selway wilderness."

    6. Bass Lake Dispersed Camping

    1 Review
    Florence, MT
    23 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 777-5461

    "Around 7 miles one way to the lake, only gain 3000ft over the course of the hike with around 1000ft of elevation gain in last mile."

    7. Garnet Road Dispersed Campsites

    2 Reviews
    Clinton, MT
    26 miles

    "Verizon has around 2 bars, there's no toilets or running water."

    8. Garnet Ghost Town Dispersed Camping

    7 Reviews
    Drummond, MT
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 329-3914

    "Many states out west allow dispersed camping on select public lands owned by the Bureau of Land management."

    "Camping is dispersed and a little eerie. This ghost town is complete with still stocked shops, empty hotels with beds left in and slowly aging buildings."

    9. Rock Creek Dry Campsites

    1 Review
    Stevensville, MT
    28 miles

    "Individual campsites with fire rings and access to great fishing."

    10. Lake Elsina - Dispersed

    1 Review
    Seeley Lake, MT
    30 miles
    Website

    "Absolutely gorgeous undeveloped area! If you can stand the hordes of mosquitos and constant trail of hikers coming through the area hiking to Lake Dinah."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 22 campgrounds

2025 Detourist Giveaway

Presented byToyota Trucks

Review Campgrounds. Win Prizes.

Enter to Win

Missoula Contest

Enter to Win

Recent Free Dispersed Camping Photos near Missoula, MT

28 Photos of 22 Missoula Campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Missoula, MT

61 Reviews of 22 Missoula Campgrounds

  • H
    Oct. 1, 2017

    Garnet Ghost Town Dispersed Camping

    Mining ghost town for day or overnight

    Many states out west allow dispersed camping on select public lands owned by the Bureau of Land management. You need to pick up a map of exactly where you’re allowed to camp (there are no facilities, obviously). You can also rent “cabins” which are buildings from before the building became ghosted (but have been updated). Even if you don’t want to camp you can tour the town and have a surreal afternoon imagining what it’d be like to be a miner back in the day.

  • AThe Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 9, 2023

    Rock Creek Dispersed Spot - Lolo

    dispersed camping

    first dispersed camping spot for Lolo from the entry road for this Forest Service land entry. Just cross the bridge, and be careful of high water (signs stating it's impassable 100 yards past the photo of the bridge when high water.) The grey area is public land the white square at the end of the road is private property by the map legend. 

    maps attached are screenshots from the National Forest Service online map as of Sept. 8th, 2023.

    The dots show where dispersed camping is allowed for this spot.

  • Truly W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 8, 2025

    Muchwater Recreation Area

    No bugs, good shade, right off highway

    A nice free spot right off the highway. Has a pit toilet, almost no bugs, nice pine tree shade, good dirt roads. Some trees are very sappy so be wary if setting up a hammock

  • Joshua C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 1, 2024

    Informal Dispersed Campsite at Fish Creek Properties Montana State Park

    Big Spot adjacent to the road, Good if in a pinch

    Sign says camping permitted to 14 days in a 30 day period. Adjacent to dirt road with a few trees in between. Not the most private but a good option if you need a place for the night if the nearby campsite is full. No amenities. T-mobile cell service is good here.

    River access just at the entry of the turn in. Could easily pull a big rig in but may have a hard time turning it around as there is not a pull through. There is a concrete slab that is level and about 12'x25' in size  which could be good for a trailer or van without having to do much for leveling. Many vehicles/tents could fit here in the dirt area but would likely be comfortable for a single group rather than multiple camp groups.

  • Sadie P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 24, 2025

    Muchwater Dispersed Campground and Recreation Area

    It’s okay, don’t believe the hype

    Easy to get to. Can park a decent size rv in some spots and group camp in s couple. There are only a few spots thought.

    You have to “walk down” a steep drop to access the river. When it’s high don’t try or say goodbye. Train runs often across the river and will disrupt your night unless you live in Montana then you’re already used to it. The toilets are stocked but not cleaned regularly. There was a you g lonely moose crossing the river and sleeping in the camp at night during my stay. If you’re not from Montana expect those that are to be unfriendly, that’s a thing here. Fire pits are a joke and burn band are common

    Details: Free up to 14 days No water or trash Easy 15 min drive to St Regis, supplies and tourists traps aplenty Expect people to just ignore you as they walk right through your site to access the river Sheep can be seen across the river sometimes Pics are better than reality Uncomfortable atmosphere

  • Sadie P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Feb. 24, 2025

    Muchwater Recreation Area

    This is an okay place, don’t believe the hype

    Easy to get to. Can park a decent size rv in some spots and group camp in s couple. There are only a few spots thought.

    You have to “walk down” a steep drop to access the river. When it’s high don’t try or say goodbye. Train runs often across the river and will disrupt your night unless you live in Montana then you’re already used to it. The toilets are stocked but not cleaned regularly. There was a you g lonely moose crossing the river and sleeping in the camp at night during my stay. If you’re not from Montana expect those that are to be unfriendly, that’s a thing here. Fire pits are a joke and burn band are common

    Details: Free up to 14 days No water or trash Easy 15 min drive to St Regis, supplies and tourists traps aplenty Expect people to just ignore you as they walk right through your site to access the river Sheep can be seen across the river sometimes Pics are better than reality Uncomfortable atmosphere

  • Reames C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 10, 2025

    Rock Creek Dispersed Spot - Lolo

    Very sunny and exposed spots, unsure if legal, but great river access

    Not for low clearance vehicles, it’s not far off the highway but we struggled with the two narrow bridges with tight turns in our travel trailer and then there’s a large flood way dip in the road that you can bottom out on. Unsure if this was legal camping as there are no defined spots and limited pull offs. Felt like I was looking over my shoulder for a ranger. Most everything is exposed to direct sunlight so it gets HOT in the summer. Our AC did not even budge the temps sometimes. Good fishing access and a cool area to visit. We overnighted here a couple nights before going to ekstrom which is before this place when getting off the highway and has power and water for a recharge day.

  • Amanda L.
    Jun. 17, 2016

    Garnet Ghost Town Dispersed Camping

    Wonderful Summer Camping and Winter Cabining

    Camping is dispersed and a little eerie. This ghost town is complete with still stocked shops, empty hotels with beds left in and slowly aging buildings. It is an interesting look at the mining industry in Montana. There are numerous interpretive signs and information about the building throughout the town and rangers on site during the summer months to answer questions. During the winter two of the cabins (the larger of which is the old saloon) are available to rent through the forest service. Most of my recent trips have been during the winter months, where the town is only accessible by ski, snow shoe or feet. Then it is silent and strange but heart breakingly beautiful.

  • SpentBrassOffroad B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 11, 2025

    Petty Creek Road Dispersed Camping

    Simple In & Out

    Great little spot to hold over for the night. The GPS coordinates listed on the map are spot on, and the turn-off comes up quickly. There look to be 4 spots. I used the one right by the road turn off. There was another person who had a travel trailer in another. It's close to the highway and just over the river in Lolo forest lands. Only stayed one night, but the guy in the camper says he's been there for weeks, and nobody has bothered him.

Guide to Missoula

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Missoula, Montana, where nature enthusiasts can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of activities, these spots offer a perfect escape for adventurers.

Scenic Spots for Dispersed Campers

  • The Petty Creek Road Dispersed Camping area features multiple sites nestled among trees, providing a sense of privacy and tranquility just minutes off the highway.
  • For those seeking a more rugged experience, the Boulder Lake Backcountry Site offers primitive campsites with breathtaking views, accessible via a challenging hike that rewards visitors with stunning scenery.
  • If you're looking for a peaceful retreat, the Bass Lake Dispersed Camping spot is known for its serene mountain meadows and nearby creek, making it an ideal location for relaxation and reflection.

Top Activities While Free Camping Near Missoula

  • Hiking enthusiasts will appreciate the trails leading to the Peterson Lake Dispersed, where adventurers can explore secluded valleys and enjoy the beauty of the Bitterroot-Selway wilderness.
  • The Blue Mountain Forest Rd 365 - Dispersed area is perfect for mountain biking and hiking, with numerous trails that cater to various skill levels, ensuring a fun day outdoors.
  • For those who enjoy fishing, the Rock Creek Dispersed Spot - Lolo provides access to nearby waters, making it a great spot to cast a line and unwind in nature.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out Boulder Lake

  • The Boulder Lake Backcountry Site is a must-visit for its stunning lake views and the opportunity to explore old-growth forests nearby.
  • Campers can enjoy the tranquility of the area, as the site is less frequented, allowing for a more intimate experience with nature.
  • With its challenging access trail, this spot is ideal for those looking to escape the crowds and immerse themselves in the wilderness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can you RV camp for free near Missoula?

Yes, free RV camping is available near Missoula, though site accessibility varies based on your rig size. Muchwater Recreation Area offers spots that can accommodate decent-sized RVs and provides pit toilets, though be aware that train noise across the river may disrupt sleep. Informal Dispersed Campsite at Fish Creek Properties Montana State Park allows camping up to 14 days in a 30-day period. Some dispersed sites require high-clearance vehicles or have limited turnaround space, so scout ahead when possible. Most free sites lack hookups, so come prepared with full water tanks, empty waste tanks, and adequate power solutions.

Is BLM land available for camping near Missoula?

Yes, Bureau of Land Management (BLM) land is available for camping near Missoula. Garnet Ghost Town Dispersed Camping is located on BLM land and offers a unique camping experience near a historic mining town with interpretive signs and preserved buildings. For successful BLM camping, pick up maps showing exactly where camping is permitted, as not all BLM areas allow overnight stays. Montana has substantial public lands, but regulations vary by location. Most BLM sites are primitive with no facilities, requiring self-sufficiency with water, waste disposal, and following Leave No Trace principles. The standard stay limit is 14 days within a 30-day period on most BLM lands around Missoula.

What are the best times of year for dispersed camping around Missoula?

Late spring through early fall (May-September) offers the best conditions for dispersed camping around Missoula. Summer provides warm days and cool nights, with July and August being peak season when popular spots like Muchwater Dispersed Campground and Recreation Area fill quickly. Early fall brings spectacular colors with fewer crowds. Spring camping is possible but can be muddy with unpredictable weather. Winter camping is challenging due to snow-covered access roads and freezing temperatures. Road conditions are a major consideration - areas like Blue Mountain Forest Rd 365 - Dispersed may become impassable after rain or snow. Always check current forest conditions and fire restrictions before heading out, as these change seasonally.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Missoula?

Several excellent free dispersed camping options exist near Missoula on public lands. Rock Creek Dispersed Spot - Lolo offers sites just past a bridge crossing, though be cautious of high water conditions. Petty Creek Road Dispersed Camping provides about 4 spots just 5 minutes off the highway, offering privacy among trees and beautiful stargazing opportunities. Other free options include areas along forest service roads, Fish Creek Properties, and various BLM lands. Remember that dispersed camping typically means no facilities, so pack out all trash and come prepared with your own water and sanitation solutions. Most dispersed sites have a 14-day stay limit within a 30-day period.

Keep Exploring