Best Dispersed Camping near Roberts, MT

Dispersed camping opportunities near Roberts, Montana include several primitive sites along waterways and mountain terrain. Silver Run Dispersed Camping Area, Cliff Swallow, and Rock Creek Dispersed provide free camping on public lands with minimal amenities. These sites feature natural settings with mountain views and river access. Cliff Swallow, located about 7 miles west of Absarokee with 2.5 miles on gravel roads, offers riverside camping with vault toilets. According to a recent visitor, "The sign said tent camping only but I stayed one night in my Sprinter van with no problem."

These dispersed sites require self-sufficiency as most lack basic facilities. No drinking water, trash service, or hookups are available at Silver Run or Rock Creek areas. Campers must pack in all supplies and practice strict Leave No Trace principles, including proper human waste disposal. Buffalo Jump Camp provides more amenities than most dispersed sites in the area, featuring vault toilets and a sanitary dump station while maintaining a primitive camping experience.

Weather conditions can change rapidly in this region, particularly at higher elevations. Mountain sites may experience snow even during summer months, making preparation essential. Several campers noted the importance of weather awareness, with one stating they "had to pack up and head to Red Lodge" when unexpected snow and high winds arrived. Wildlife sightings are common throughout the area, including moose and bears. Proper food storage is mandatory, and some sites provide bear boxes. Cell service is limited or nonexistent at most locations, requiring advance planning for navigation and emergency communication.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Roberts, Montana (14)

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Dispersed Camping Reviews near Roberts, MT

21 Reviews of 14 Roberts Campgrounds


  • Jeremy H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jun. 8, 2019

    Beartooth Scenic Byway Camping

    Perfect spot outside Yellowstone

    We were driving into Yellowstone from Billings and wanted something that would give us early access to the park. This was perfect. A nice pull off with several options to park a van, tent, or small trailer or RV. We fell asleep to the sound of the river and were into the park within 20 minutes the next morning. We were able see moose and a bear because of the early access to Lamar Valley. Wish we could have seen the surrounding area in the daylight but we got in late and were out early. From what we saw we highly recommend it!! It is dispersed Forest Service camping so you will need to have all of your own supplies and be sure to leave no trace (including your poop)

  • Steve & Ashley  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 28, 2019

    Little Sunlight Camping Area

    Incredible Mountain Valley

    This site about 12 miles up sunset road along a very rough washboard dirt/gravel rod. The road was extremely dusty in the summer and almost forced us to turn back. The dispersed sites are very rough and not well maintained. However, the views are some of the best we have ever seen in Wyoming. The sunset in the valley seemed to go on forever and provided light up until 10 pm. You will need 4 wheel drive or high clearance to access the best sites next to the river. If you are willing to endure the drive and don’t mind rough dispersed camping, the beauty of the site more than makes up for it. No facilities here just a stone fire ring. The site is known for grizzly bears. So you need to be an experienced camper to enjoy this area or take precautions.

  • Chad K.
    Mar. 9, 2021

    Beartooth Scenic Byway Camping

    Best free camping anywhere!!

    This was hands-down one of the best campsite areas I ever found. National forest so it was open and free to whoever. Several spots just off Beartooth highway from Joseph Highway west to the Montana boarder. Most turnoffs have places for three or four different groups to camp. Some with bear boxes and some without. Most are only a rocks throw from water. Crazy creek is a waterfall area across from crazy Creek Campground. Very worth the short hike. Yellowstone is only 10 or 15 miles to the west and the town of Cook City is there if you need any basic supplies.

  • Rachel S.
    Sep. 6, 2020

    Little Sunlight Camping Area

    Perfect in every way

    Quiet, serene and absolutely beautiful. We were basically alone in the entire campground the week before Labor Day. Completely off the beaten path. The road in is actually quite easy and the area has many 4x4 trails to explore, although the campground should be easily accessible in 2wd. We camped back beyond the developed sites, so we just had a rock fire pit and no picnic table but it was easy to adapt. There is a vault toilet at the developed campground. Absolutely beautiful. -also, there is a ghost town you can reach via a short hike. -when we were here, many spots were “held” by hunters leaving their trailers in a spot, so the developed sites looked very full, but were basically uninhabited.

  • Corda B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 6, 2024

    Beartooth Scenic Byway Camping

    Check the weather

    We had our itinerary set to stay at this site and then the weather turned terrible and it started snowing. We only had a tent with us and the wind was whipping so we had to pack up and head to Red Lodge. I was SOO disappointed because I had been so excited to spend the night here. Unfortunately I couldn’t convince nature to cooperate. We already have plans to buy a camper van and return to this site next year because the view is worth the trip!

  • Makena W.
    Aug. 9, 2020

    Beartooth Scenic Byway Camping

    My favorite spot!

    Turn left not right. The road is easy to miss, just a little dirt road off the left side of the road coming out of the NE entrance of Yellowstone 10 minutes passed Cooke city. No service but the bistro in Cooke city will give you WiFi if you eat there and that helped us get our navigation. This is my favorite place by far. The photos will show you why.

  • Lauren C.
    Jul. 24, 2022

    Pilot Creek Dispersed Camping

    Worked in a pinch

    We intended to stay on the other side of the road, (river side) but missed the turn. We stumbled on this trailhead/OHV site and ended up staying here for the night. There are multiple dispersed sites that back up to the Pilot Creek Trail. Plenty of spots in the grass for big rigs and trailers. We ended up near the horse coral/bathroom (vaulted toilet), not ideal but worked in a pinch. Lots of mosquitos. Some sites have bear boxes.

  • Tee C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Sep. 18, 2023

    Little Sunlight Camping Area

    Nice camping by river

    Really nice little spot with maybe 8 sites to choose from. Decent clean pit toilets. Popular among horseback riders. There were probably 4 other groups there. Picnic tables, fire rings with grates, nice little river. Easy road in. Can bring big rigs. And the surrounding landscape was amazingly beautiful. No cell service for Verizon.

  • RThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 17, 2025

    Pilot Creek Dispersed Camping

    Open or Wooded — Your Choice

    Like most people, we had hoped to stay across the street along the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River. That area has 2 pretty shaded spots, and both were taken. We headed over to Pilot and we were pleasantly surprised. Yes, there is a big open area with little privacy if it is crowded. But it’s great for groups and perfect for solar and cattle watching (our dog loves to watch cows). But there are at least half a dozen wooded spots, setback. Three have bear boxes and are right by a hiking trail. Add to this the beautiful mountains, ease of access to Yellowstone or Red Lodge, and a clean vault toilet and we would stay again.


Guide to Roberts

Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Roberts, Montana, where nature's tranquility awaits. With a variety of options, campers can enjoy the great outdoors without the constraints of traditional campgrounds.

Scenic Spots for Dispersed Campers

  • The Buffalo Jump Camp offers a peaceful setting with essential amenities like toilets, making it a convenient choice for those looking to immerse themselves in nature.
  • For a riverside experience, the Cliff Swallow provides a picturesque location just west of Absarokee, perfect for fishing and relaxing by the water.
  • If you're seeking solitude, the Lady of the Lake Trail on Lulu Pass features scattered campsites along scenic trails, ideal for spotting wildlife like moose.

Tips for Free and Dispersed Camping Near Roberts, Montana

  • Always check for the availability of basic facilities; for instance, the Silver Run Dispersed Camping Area has no drinking water or trash services, so plan accordingly.
  • Be prepared for varying conditions; the Rock Creek Camp is accessible by drive-in, but ensure your vehicle can handle the terrain.
  • Bring your own firewood and supplies, as many spots like the Rock Creek Dispersed do not provide these amenities.

Dispersed Campers Should Check Out the Beartooth Scenic Byway

  • The Beartooth Scenic Byway Camping offers breathtaking views and is known for its accessibility, making it a favorite among outdoor enthusiasts.
  • This area allows for both drive-in and walk-in access, providing flexibility for different camping styles and preferences.
  • With features like being pet-friendly and allowing campfires, the Beartooth Scenic Byway is a great choice for families and groups looking to enjoy a memorable outdoor experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Roberts, MT is Lake Fork Roadside Camp with a 4-star rating from 1 review.

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

TheDyrt.com has all 14 dispersed camping locations near Roberts, MT, with real photos and reviews from campers.