Best Dispersed Camping near Proctor, MT
Dispersed camping areas cluster around several lake and river access points near Proctor, Montana. The Swan River area features Blair Flats, a free primitive camping area with three designated sites. Additional dispersed camping options exist along the North Fork and Middle Fork of the Flathead River, particularly near Columbia Falls. The Hungry Horse Reservoir provides multiple dispersed sites along its shoreline, while Lolo National Forest lands offer more remote options. Most sites are managed by the U.S. Forest Service with standard 14-day stay limits.
Access roads to many sites require careful navigation, especially those reaching the Hungry Horse Reservoir dispersed areas, where approximately 20 miles of winding gravel and dirt roads must be traversed. Blair Flats can accommodate vehicles including small RVs despite some rough sections. Most dispersed sites feature basic fire rings but lack amenities such as drinking water, electrical hookups, or designated tent pads. A visitor commented, "If you're going to procure your own wood better be prepared to do a few hours of labor." Vault toilets are available at some locations, including Blair Flats and Lakeview, but many areas have no facilities whatsoever.
These primitive camping areas provide direct water access as their primary attraction. Blair Flats sites sit adjacent to the Swan River with a small boat ramp, while Hungry Horse Reservoir sites offer lake access for paddleboarding and fishing. One camper noted that "the water is cold and fast in May" at the riverside sites. Wildlife encounters are common, with food storage considerations important throughout the region. Bear boxes are available at Blair Flats. Several areas feature substantial tree cover providing natural shade and privacy, though many sites report significant mosquito activity during summer months. Cell service is extremely limited or nonexistent at most locations, with one reviewer confirming "0 cell service on Verizon or AT&T" at Blair Flats.
