Dispersed camping near Polaris, Montana typically occurs on public lands at elevations between 5,500-8,000 feet where temperature fluctuations can exceed 40°F in a single day. The region's volcanic and glacial history created the distinctive rock formations that define many primitive campsites. Most access roads close during winter months (November-April) due to snow accumulation, with early summer bringing high water levels to river camping locations.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Several dispersed campsites provide direct river access for fly fishing. At Maiden Rock Dispersed, one camper notes it's "an incredible spot to fish!" while another mentioned they "walked down the road to the angler parking and took a dip in the evening."
Rockhounding: Ruby Reservoir offers unique geological activities beyond camping. "This campsite has loads to offer ~ there is access to the reservoir, of course, and along with this comes the garnets lining the shores. It is a perfect adventure for beginners, as all you need is a shovel and some screens to begin your search," explains one visitor to Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area.
Wildlife viewing: The mountains surrounding primitive camping areas near Polaris support diverse wildlife populations. "We stopped here after trying Bobcat Gulch, which was completely full! So, we drove a little further and found this spot... There's a pavilion with a viewfinder(?) to try and scope out some wildlife," notes a camper at Red Rock Access.
What campers like
Accessible amenities: Some dispersed sites offer unexpected conveniences. A camper at Barretts Station Park Campground shared, "I needed a place to camp overnight and this place fit the bill. There are 9 tables dispersed in a grassy area and a couple RV parking spaces. There are pit toilets and a water pump."
Scenic diversity: The landscape around Polaris offers varied terrain within short distances. At Flower Lake Dispersed Camping, a visitor described, "The area around the lake is pretty dramatic - it sits in a little valley basically surrounded by steep mountains. Around the lake there are a few areas with rough dispersed sites."
Solitude options: Primitive camping near Polaris allows visitors to find isolation if desired. "From the time we left Upper Seymour Lake to the time we got back, we didn't see or hear another soul. Five days of just us," shared one backpacker who ventured beyond the more accessible areas.
What you should know
Bear awareness: Bears frequent the region's backcountry. "Bring bear spray. Hang your food. This is grizzly country and we saw a LOT of signs of them. Fresh droppings. Fresh prints in the snow after the blizzard," warned a camper at Flower Lake Dispersed Camping.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather changes rapidly year-round. "Definitely check the weather before going in. We got slammed with a blizzard that lasted all of the second day and night. We were expecting snow that day, but this was more than we were imagining," cautioned one visitor.
Leveling challenges: Many dispersed sites have uneven terrain. A visitor to Upper Seymour Lake Dispersed Camping noted, "There isn't a level place in sight. Be prepared for steep inclines in some situations."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly locations: Some dispersed sites offer easier access for families. "It's free! You can bring campers, motorhomes, or tent camp like we did! There is a bathroom available as well! Lots of neat agates in the parking lot!" shared a Ruby Reservoir visitor.
Wildlife education: Use the region's diverse animal population as learning opportunities. "I was serenaded by Canadian Geese nesting on the nearby cliff. Very close to the river," noted a visitor at Barretts Station Park.
Bug preparation: Insects can be problematic in summer months. "Bugs are INTENSE though!" warned one camper, while another mentioned, "prepare for the skeeters our thermacell was no match for these guys." Families should pack insect repellent and protective clothing.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Finding level spots poses the biggest challenge for RVs. "Almost impossible to level a camper. There are absolutely no trees so come with a bucket of sunscreen or a canopy," advised an RVer at Ruby Reservoir.
Road condition awareness: Access roads vary significantly in quality. "Easy pull off, good amount of spots and not too busy! We stayed on the right where there are 2 spots away from the rest," noted a visitor to Bobcat Gulch.
Overnight accommodations: Several sites work well for single-night stops. "Stayed at Beaverhead River Campground on the north end of lake. One of several campgrounds around the lake. Compost toilets, fire rings and large rv parking level and clean spots," reported a visitor to Clark Canyon Reservoir.
