Dispersed camping near Pony, Montana offers several primitive sites on public lands within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest and Bureau of Land Management properties. Sites typically sit at elevations between 5,000-7,000 feet, with significant temperature drops at night even in summer months. Most camping areas feature rolling terrain with sagebrush flats transitioning to pine-covered mountains.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area provides good fishing access with relatively calm water conditions. "This campsite has loads to offer ~ there is access to the reservoir, of course, and along with this comes the garnets lining the shores" writes Hannah S., who notes that Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area offers unique activities beyond just fishing.
Mountain biking trails: The Copper City trail system attracts riders looking for purpose-built trails. Ashley M. describes the experience at Copper City BLM: "Great spot right on parts of the trial! It's open and you can see miles in each direction. No shade, no bathrooms, but most have man made fire pits."
Gem collecting: Search for garnets along Ruby Reservoir shorelines with simple equipment. "It is a perfect adventure for beginners, as all you need is a shovel and some screens to begin your search. The garnets are beautiful, and keep the kids (college age or elementary!) entertained for hours," according to Ruby Reservoir camper Hannah S.
What campers like
Natural privacy: Hyalite Canyon Dispersed sites offer seclusion despite proximity to roads. One camper reports, "Dispersed camping all along a pass through the canyon. Very remote and private. I drove up the mountain a ways and found a perfect spot to set up. It's close to the road but obscured in view, and not many drivers passing by at all."
Well-maintained primitive sites: Maiden Rock Dispersed stands out with surprisingly developed facilities for free camping. Camper Brodie B. notes: "Very decent spot to spread out and enjoy a wide open vista. The designated camp spots are super clean and nicely laid out." Another camper adds it's "almost feels like it should be paid for. Smooth gravel roads and well set out campsites with picnic tables and a Bear box."
Accessibility from highways: Many sites offer quick access from main roads without sacrificing natural settings. Ian B. describes Homestake Pass Dispersed as "Only 5 min from highway on a smooth road, spacious with vistas and private. Best yet."
What you should know
Fire restrictions: Check current fire regulations before your trip as conditions change rapidly throughout summer. Renee G. notes about Copper City: "this place is DRY--so be sure to bring your own water (but on the plus side, no bugs!!)."
Wildlife precautions: Bears frequent several camping areas. One Maiden Rock camper warns: "As of September 1st 2025 a Bear might still be active in the area. It tried to get into our camper... Apparently his name is Boo-boo, and he was orphaned as a cub and fed by miners making him not so human afraid."
Water supply: No drinking water exists at dispersed sites. Plan to bring all water needed. TheFoxphire F. cautions about Homestake Pass: "I do not recommend getting water from Butte other than from 'Ultimate Big Spring Water' which cost $15 for 5gal with a jug. Apparently Butte has occasional toxic leakage into the mains from the Toxic Pits."
Tips for camping with families
Simple rockhounding activities: Ruby Reservoir offers accessible gem hunting for all ages. Hannah S. explains: "If you need to cool off, you can hop right in! The campsite itself is a bit primitive, but the activities more than make up for it."
Site security considerations: Most areas are safe for leaving equipment while exploring nearby attractions. Nicki S. shares about Hyalite Canyon Dispersed: "We stayed two nights and nothing happened to our tent set up while we took the car to go hiking for a whole day."
Level camping surfaces: Be prepared for uneven terrain at many sites. Abigail U. notes about Ruby Reservoir: "There's over 10 spots, with places easy for groups. However, there isn't a level place in sight. Be prepared for steep inclines in some situations."
Tips from RVers
Length limitations: Most dispersed sites accommodate smaller RVs better than large rigs. Kathleen S. warns about Meadow Creek: "Few sites, best suited for smaller campers. Beautiful area. OHV and horseback riding."
Overnight convenience: Several areas work well for quick overnight stays during longer trips. Avery S. found Homestake Pass ideal: "The dispersed camping is super easy to find, and it's right off the highway! It was perfect for a quick spot to camp on our way home to Colorado instead of getting a hotel room."
Road conditions: Access roads vary significantly in quality. Marc M. describes Homestake Pass access: "This place is just a few minutes from the freeway on a relatively good dirt road. There is a big open space that you come to first, which can accommodate a number of RV's."
