Top Free Dispersed Camping near Stanford, MT

Looking for dispersed camping near Stanford? Dispersed camping means that no facilities or amenities are provided, so that you can truly disconnect and get back to nature. You're sure to find the perfect dispersed campsite for your Montana excursion.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Stanford, MT (5)


Recent Dispersed Reviews In Stanford

3 Reviews of 5 Stanford Campgrounds


  • Dexter I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Dispersed site 9210
    Oct. 7, 2021

    Dispersed site 9210

    Disperse campsites at part of former Indian Hill Campground

    Disperse camping area 9210 is a two site camping area, with each site having a picnic table and metal fire ring.  This is at the site of the former Indian Hills Campground which was decommissioned a few years ago.  All of the campground was removed on the opposite side of the creek.  The forest service left the first two sites for disperse camping.  You can find the site by turning at the sign for forest road 9210, which goes for only a couple hundred feet to the two camp sites.  Both sites are quite nice and sit among very large trees and along side the creek.  An information sign is at the site.

  • Sterling C.
    Camper-submitted photo from Slaughter River Boat Camp
    Jun. 20, 2019

    Slaughter River Boat Camp

    Full toilets!!!

    A pretty basic campsite. There is some shade and “buildings” to provide shade. No really good or visible hiking areas since it’s mostly flat ground. Fishing is good though, and at night you can catch catfish! The worst part of this campsite is the two outhouses. Though they are nicer stone ones, one has about an inch of dried mud covering the floor with excrement in a pile almost above the toilet seat. The other outhouse has less dirt, and excremental goes to the bottom of the toilet bowl (the chamber is full; about floor level). Also the toilets have no toilet paper so BRING YOUR OWN!!! Thank you

  • Dexter I.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Slaughter River Boat Camp
    Aug. 25, 2018

    Slaughter River Boat Camp

    Nice but very busy campground

    A very popular developed boat camp at mile 76.8 of the Upper Missouri River Break National Monument. Site is an fenced area with two vault toilets, one shelter and five metal fire rings. Site is very busy, but is large and can handle a lot of campers.

    Corps of Discovery camped here on both their western and easter journeys on the Missouri. Site can be found a short distance upriver from the camping area, a trail leads to the site and is marked with a brass marker plate.



Guide to Stanford

Camping near Stanford, Montana, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, there are several campgrounds to choose from.

What to do

  • Fishing and swimming: Ackley Lake State Park Campground is a great spot for fishing and swimming. One visitor mentioned, "Good spot for camping, fishing, swimming, kayaking!" This campground has a lovely lake where you can enjoy a day on the water.
  • Hiking: Many Pines Campground is surrounded by trails. A camper noted, "Well laid out campsites with plenty of space... the creek is nearby as well as great hiking spots." This makes it perfect for those who love to explore nature on foot.
  • Wildlife watching: Thain Creek Campground is known for its wildlife. One reviewer shared, "Lots of birds in the area," making it a great place for birdwatchers and nature lovers.

What campers like

  • Clean facilities: Campers appreciate the cleanliness of the restrooms at places like Kiwanis Park. One visitor said, "Extremely clean restroom," which is always a plus when camping.
  • Secluded spots: Many campers enjoy the privacy offered at Thain Creek. A reviewer mentioned, "Semi secluded from other campsites," which is ideal for those wanting a quiet experience.
  • Beautiful surroundings: The natural beauty of campgrounds like Ackley Lake State Park is a big draw. One camper described it as "so beautiful," highlighting the stunning views and wildlife.

What you should know

  • Limited amenities: Campgrounds like Aspen Campground have basic facilities. A visitor noted, "The one out house is nice and clean," but be prepared for limited services.
  • Road noise: Some campgrounds, such as Many Pines Campground, experience road noise during the day. One camper mentioned, "Road noise during the day, but not overly bothersome," so keep that in mind if you're sensitive to sound.
  • First-come, first-served: Many campgrounds operate on a first-come, first-served basis, like Ackley Lake State Park. A camper shared, "They only have 26 spots, first come first serve," so arriving early is a good idea.

Tips for camping with families

  • Choose family-friendly campgrounds: Look for places like Kiwanis Park, which has a park-like atmosphere. One reviewer said, "A rest stop where you can actually spend the night," making it a convenient option for families.
  • Plan for activities: Campgrounds like Many Pines Campground offer plenty of space for kids to play. A camper noted, "Space between most sites," which is great for families needing room to spread out.
  • Pack snacks and drinks: Since some campgrounds have limited amenities, it's smart to bring your own food and drinks. One camper at Ackley Lake State Park mentioned, "No water," so be prepared.

Tips from RVers

  • Check site sizes: If you're bringing an RV, make sure to check the size of the sites. A reviewer at Many Pines Campground mentioned, "Some bigger ones may have trouble fitting into the spaces," so plan accordingly.
  • Be cautious on gravel roads: Campgrounds like Thain Creek are accessible via gravel roads. One visitor advised, "Lots of potholes drive with care," which is good advice for RV drivers.
  • Bring extra supplies: Many campgrounds, such as Logging Creek, have limited services. A camper noted, "This is a trash in, trash out campground," so be sure to pack out what you bring in.

Camping near Stanford, Montana, provides a chance to enjoy the great outdoors with family and friends. With a variety of campgrounds to choose from, you're sure to find the perfect spot for your next adventure.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular dispersed campsite near Stanford, MT?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Stanford, MT is Dispersed site 9210 with a 3-star rating from 1 review.

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

    TheDyrt.com has all 5 dispersed camping locations near Stanford, MT, with real photos and reviews from campers.