Dispersed camping near Silver Gate, Montana provides direct access to Yellowstone National Park through forested mountain terrain at elevations ranging from 7,400-8,500 feet. The surrounding Custer-Gallatin National Forest contains over 3 million acres of public land with seasonal access typically running June through September. Winter weather can arrive unexpectedly even in summer months, with nighttime temperatures often dropping below 40°F.
What to do
Wildlife viewing after dark: Drive out to one of the Beartooth Scenic Byway sites with night sky views. "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," according to one Beartooth Scenic Byway camper.
Fishing in mountain streams: Several dispersed sites sit alongside pristine mountain waterways. "We backed my van right up to the river with an amazing view of Pilot Peak in the background, and fell asleep to the sounds of the rushing water," reports a Beartooth camper.
Hiking to hidden lakes: Access backcountry trails directly from multiple camping areas. "Sleep on Ribbon lake. Fire ring and bear hangers there. Very secluded," notes a camper at 4R1 Yellowstone National Park Backcountry, adding it's "about a 2 mile hike to camp with a large elevation change."
What campers like
Mountain panoramas: The elevated terrain provides sweeping vistas. "Montana Beauty...absolutely beautiful and worth it for someone who wants to sleep in a mountain viewing location," says a reviewer of Travertine Road Dispersed camping.
Crowd-free spaces: Many dispersed areas remain relatively uncrowded even in peak season. "We truly loved this place. It was so isolated and peaceful. The camp sites are scattered throughout the trails and are not close to each other," writes a camper about Lady of the Lake Trail on Lulu Pass.
Stargazing opportunities: Clear mountain air with minimal light pollution creates prime stargazing conditions. "I backed my van right up to the river with an amazing view of Pilot Peak in the background, and fell asleep to the sounds of the rushing water," shares a Beartooth camper.
What you should know
Road conditions vary significantly: Many access roads require high-clearance vehicles. "Road is bumpy but manageable. Wouldn't bring an RV though," warns a Little Trail Creek Road camper. Another notes, "The road is easy to miss, just a little dirt road off the left side of the road coming out of the NE entrance."
Weather changes rapidly: Temperature swings of 40+ degrees in a single day are common. "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," reports a Beartooth visitor.
Food storage regulations: Bear activity requires proper food handling. "Clean up though, because it is still bear country," advises a Little Trail Creek camper. Another adds, "There was a few Grizzly spotted on the trail around where we camped."
Tips for camping with families
Pick sites with natural barriers: Look for spots with rocky outcroppings or trees to contain young explorers. "We stayed further in past the vault toilet where a tree labeled site A. Nice site for parking a car," notes a Pilot Creek Dispersed Camping visitor.
Bring extra layers year-round: Pack winter hats and gloves even in summer. "It was very cold at night even in August and we didn't know this when we set up camp," shares a Lady of the Lake Trail camper.
Plan early morning wildlife outings: Dawn provides optimal viewing with fewer crowds. "This was perfect. A nice pull off with several options to park a van, tent, or small trailer or RV. We...were into the park within 20 minutes the next morning," writes a Beartooth camper.
Tips from RVers
Size matters for road access: Large rigs struggle on most dispersed roads. "Open or Wooded — Your Choice... 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," notes a Pilot Creek camper.
Scout sites during daylight: Arrive well before dark to evaluate road and site conditions. "It is a windy dirt road, so a pickup or camper van can make it," explains a reviewer of Custer-Gallatin National Forest Dispersed Camping.
Water limitations: No water sources exist at most sites. "We were driving into Yellowstone from Billings and wanted something that would give us early access to the park. This was perfect... It is dispersed Forest Service camping so you will need to have all of your own supplies," advises a Beartooth camper.
