Best Dispersed Camping near Pony, MT

Dispersed camping opportunities abound near Pony, Montana, with several free primitive sites on public lands. Meadow Creek Dispersed Campground, Homestake Pass Dispersed, and Maiden Rock Dispersed offer no-fee camping options within the region. Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area provides basic amenities including vault toilets while maintaining a primitive camping experience. According to reviews, most sites feature established rock fire rings and flat areas suitable for tents. The standard 16-day stay limit applies at all locations, consistent with Forest Service and BLM regulations.

These primitive sites require self-sufficiency as most lack basic amenities. No drinking water is available at any of the dispersed sites; campers must bring all water needed for their stay. Several campers noted that Copper City BLM is "extremely dry with no bugs" due to its exposed location. Most areas permit fires in established rings when no fire restrictions are in place. Roads to many sites can be challenging; Homestake Pass is accessible via "a relatively good dirt road," while other locations may require high-clearance vehicles or 4WD, particularly after rain.

The Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest and nearby BLM lands manage most dispersed camping in the area. Maiden Rock Dispersed stands out with unusually good facilities for free camping, featuring picnic tables, fire pits, and even bear boxes at some sites. Ruby Reservoir offers fishing opportunities and interesting geology; campers report finding garnets along the shoreline. Wildlife encounters are possible; black bears have been spotted in the region, making proper food storage essential. Weather conditions can change rapidly at these higher elevations, with sites ranging from 6,000-6,500 feet. Winter access is limited or impossible at most locations.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Pony, Montana (19)

    1. Meadow Creek Dispersed Campground

    1 Review
    Norris, MT
    9 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 682-4253

    2. Homestake Pass Dispersed

    9 Reviews
    Butte, MT
    31 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 683-3900

    "There’s a big area that had a dozen RVs & tents, but it was late & we wanted space so we followed a rough dirt road 1/2 a mile to find a spot in the trees."

    "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."

    3. Copper City BLM

    4 Reviews
    Three Forks, MT
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 533-7600

    "Lots of open space and locations to pull out--beautiful views as well! To access this place we went towards Copper City Trail Head, and drove by the entrance onto BLM lands."

    "No shade, no bathrooms, but most have man made fire pits."

    6. Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area

    5 Reviews
    Virginia City, MT
    32 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 683-8000

    "Be prepared for steep inclines in some situations. While it was quiet people wise, I’m pretty sure you can hear the dam because we had rumbling noise that woke both of us up."

    "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! I highly recommend this area! This was our view each morning"

    7. Maiden Rock Dispersed

    8 Reviews
    Divide, MT
    41 miles

    "The spot is close to the freeway, but far enough that you won’t hear any of the noise so it’s perfect if you are on a road trip. :)

    There are some train tracks that run by it, but I didn’t notice if"

    "Picnic benches, tent camping spots, rv spots! We might have been lucky but no mosquitos! It’s across the bridge in case you can’t find it from google maps :)"

    8. Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046

    9 Reviews
    Gallatin Gateway, MT
    43 miles
    Website
    +1 (406) 522-2520

    "Definitely busier than I expected, especially with the condition of the road; we had multiple cars coming down the road we were on and then they would turn around and come back but it wasn’t obnoxious."

    "We stayed here for a few days off one of the main trail head. There are not many sites off the main trail head and we’re all full when we arrived."

    9. Homestake Lake Camp

    1 Review
    Butte, MT
    31 miles

    "This campsite is right off the exit, but not very noisy. There were several other campers and RVs and trucks there. Even just parts of cars."

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Showing results 1-10 of 19 campgrounds

Dispersed Camping Reviews near Pony, MT

49 Reviews of 19 Pony Campgrounds



Guide to Pony

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Pony, Montana, where nature's tranquility meets the freedom of the great outdoors. With a variety of options available, campers can enjoy stunning landscapes and a sense of adventure.

Tips for free and dispersed camping near Pony, Montana

  • Many dispersed camping areas, like Copper City BLM, offer vast open spaces perfect for setting up camp and enjoying the scenery. Just remember to bring your own water, as these sites typically lack water hookups.
  • If you're looking for a spot with a bit of privacy, Homestake Lake Camp features hidden sites accessible via various tracks, providing a peaceful retreat from the crowds.
  • For those who enjoy outdoor activities, Meadow Creek Dispersed Campground is a great choice, offering opportunities for OHV and horseback riding in a beautiful setting.

Scenic views and outdoor activities for dispersed campers

  • Campers at Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area can enjoy fishing and garnet hunting along the shores, making it a fun destination for families and rockhounding enthusiasts.
  • The Pipestone Trailhead Camp serves as a great starting point for hiking adventures, allowing you to explore the surrounding wilderness while enjoying the fresh mountain air.
  • For those seeking a more secluded experience, Homestake Pass Dispersed offers stunning vistas and ample space for tent camping, making it an ideal spot for nature lovers.

Dispersed campers should check out Mill Creek Road Camp

  • Mill Creek Road Camp is a drive-in location that provides easy access to the surrounding natural beauty, perfect for those looking to set up camp quickly.
  • This area is known for its peaceful atmosphere, allowing campers to unwind and connect with nature without the distractions of modern life.
  • While amenities are limited, the charm of dispersed camping at Mill Creek Road Camp lies in its simplicity and the opportunity to immerse yourself in the great outdoors.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Pony, MT?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Pony, MT is Meadow Creek Dispersed Campground with a 3-star rating from 1 review.

What is the best site to find dispersed camping near Pony, MT?

TheDyrt.com has all 19 dispersed camping locations near Pony, MT, with real photos and reviews from campers.