Dispersed camping near Monarch, Montana offers primitive backcountry experiences in the Little Belt Mountains at elevations between 4,500-7,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 40-80°F with mountain weather patterns bringing afternoon thunderstorms. Most sites open from late May through October, though snowfall can limit access in shoulder seasons.
What to do
Fishing in mountain streams: Belt Creek provides trout fishing opportunities throughout the warmer months. "We arrived at about 5 on a Friday night and a lot of the spots where taken. Traffic kept rolling until about 9 of people looking for spots. So if you want to stay on a Friday get there early lol. Sights are nice and have a fire pit we were east of the dam so our creek wasn't dry," notes Ashley A. from Belt Creek on Hughesville Road.
Hiking forest trails: Multiple trail systems connect to dispersed camping areas, allowing day hikes or backpacking trips. "I took my bike and rode the Road a little bit and found an opening with an amazing spot to put up a hammock," reports Matt K. about Kelly Gulch Road Dispersed Camping, located about 40 minutes from Helena.
Wildlife observation: The Little Belt Mountains support elk, deer, black bears, and numerous bird species. "The road was in great shape and we found a nice spot a few miles back and right next to the creek. There are several campsites along the road. We were there mid-week in September and I was surprised at how many other campers were there," explains Tim T. about his wildlife viewing experiences near Belt Creek.
What campers like
Solitude and quiet: Despite growing popularity, many sites remain relatively undiscovered. "This place is off the beaten path but aren't all the best spots? You can park right on the stream there are fire rings and man is it quiet! Cute little homestead town as you pull up to the road and the road is well maintained," describes StaceeQ Q. about her experience at Belt Creek.
Natural surroundings: Campers appreciate the mix of forest, mountain, and water features. "Disperse camping area 9210 is a two site camping area, with each site having a picnic table and metal fire ring. Both sites are quite nice and sit among very large trees and along side the creek," explains Dexter I. about Dispersed site 9210, part of the former Indian Hills Campground.
Accessible locations: Many dispersed sites can be accessed with standard vehicles during summer months. "There are a lot of spots with roads though them with multiple spread out sites. So if everything by the road is taken just drive down a side road and you will probably find something," advises Ashley A. about Belt Creek dispersed camping areas.
What you should know
Seasonal access limitations: Gates and road closures affect early-season camping options. "The gate was closed and does not open until May 15. I was able to walk up about less than a quarter mile and find a flat ground where I was able to set up my shelter," reports Matt K. about Kelly Gulch Road.
Limited flat camping areas: Mountain terrain means usable tent and vehicle spots can be scarce. "Since it's on a mountain, the amount of flat areas are limited so it's first come first serve," notes Matt K., emphasizing the importance of early arrival, especially on summer weekends.
Pack-in water requirements: No potable water exists at any dispersed sites. "Two flat areas have been constructed at this site, a cooking area with a rock fire ring and another for a tent pad. Due to the very dry summer only the smaller stream was still flowing, water could be collected at its crossing of the trail above the camp site, this was at a slow trickle," explains Dexter I. about Refrigerator Canyon Back Country Camp Site.
Tips for camping with families
Select established sites: Look for sites with existing fire rings and open areas. "Amazing time here. Many spots. My only two complaints is people leave their trash. So pack out what you bring in. Second if you are shooting have enough insight to know where your bullets are going," advises Tim about Belt Creek, highlighting both the family-friendly spaces and safety considerations.
Bring entertainment: Limited cell service means offline activities are essential. "The site is between two small creeks. The site is still decent but I would not make a fire here due to the high grass around the camp," notes Dexter I. about Refrigerator Canyon, suggesting water play as a natural activity option.
Plan for weather fluctuations: Mountain elevations mean rapid temperature changes, even in summer. "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," explains Dexter I. about Haymaker Dispersed Camping Area, mentioning the short access road makes quick retreat possible during sudden storms.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most forest roads narrow considerably after main access points. "We found a nice spot a few miles back and right next to the creek. There are several campsites along the road," notes Tim T., suggesting smaller trailers and campers work best in these primitive areas.
Level parking considerations: Bring leveling blocks for uneven terrain. "It seems to be a popular camping spot," Tim T. adds about Belt Creek, indicating competition for the limited level RV-suitable spots during peak season.
Water conservation strategies: With no hookups or water sources, RVers must plan carefully. "You're required a shovel and bucket if you were camping pack everything out and leave no trace. You can identify a campsite by how flat the ground is and usually there is a fire pit already made," advises Matt K. about dispersed camping protocols for waste management.
