Top Free Dispersed Camping near Three Forks, MT

Looking for dispersed camping near Three Forks? Find the best information on dispersed campgrounds near Three Forks, including photos, reviews, and tips. From secluded to easily reachable, we offer dispersed campsites near Three Forks just for you.

Best Dispersed Sites Near Three Forks, MT (18)

    Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM

    1. Copper City BLM

    4 Reviews
    1 Photo
    32 Saves
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed

    3. Olson Creek Dispersed

    6 Reviews
    20 Photos
    98 Saves

    People enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no services (such as trash removal), and little or no facilities (such as tables and fire pits) are provided.

    Rules for dispersed camping Groups over 75 people are not allowed. Dispersed camping is NOT allowed at trailheads, picnic sites, and fishing areas and within close proximity of campgrounds. You need to be self-contained. No amenities are provided; such as water, restrooms or trash cans. Please pack out all your trash. For information on occupancy and use, camping stay limits, weed free forage, visit Region 1 - Alerts & Notices (usda.gov). Travel to campsites must not create resource damage. Travel to campsites must not create resource damage Contact local district office for information on fire restrictions. It is your responsibility to know if fire restrictions are in effect before camping. Be bear aware and know the food storage regulations before camping. These regulations are strictly enforced. Where can I disperse camp? Please refer to each district's Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM). These maps will show which roadways allow disperse camping and it tells you the distance you are allowed to drive off the road to camp. Please note that some roads have more limitations and restrictions than others. Please consult the Motor Vehicle Use Map or call the district office for more details.

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • RVs
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Confederate Disperse Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Confederate Disperse Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Confederate Disperse Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Confederate Disperse Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Confederate Disperse Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from Confederate Disperse Camping Area
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
    Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

    5. South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

    4 Reviews
    13 Photos
    117 Saves

    Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds and other campers. Dispersed camping is the term used for camping anywhere in the National Forest OUTSIDE of a designated campground. Dispersed camping means no services (such as trash removal), and little or no facilities (such as tables and fire pits) are provided.

    Rules for dispersed camping Groups over 75 people are not allowed. Dispersed camping is NOT allowed in the vicinity of developed recreation areas. You need to be self-contained. No amenities are provided; such as water, restrooms or trash cans. Please pack out all your trash. You may camp in a dispersed area for up to 16 days. After 16 days, you must move at least 5 road miles for camping in another dispersed area and you can not return to your original campsite for 7 days. Please use existing fire rings and avoid creating new fire rings. Contact your local district office for information on fire restrictions. It is your responsibility to know if fire restrictions are in effect before you go camping. Be bear aware and know the food storage regulations before camping. These regulations are strictly enforced. Where can I disperse camp? To find out where you are allowed to disperse camp, please refer to each district's Motor Vehicle Use Map (MVUM). These maps will show which roadways allow disperse camping and it tells you the distance you are allowed to drive off the road to camp. Please note that some roads have more limitations and restrictions than others. Please consult the Motor Vehicle Use Map or call the district office for more details. To see our Motor Vehicle Use Maps, click here.

    Can I have a campfire? Please use existing sites and fire rings. Firewood permits are not needed if wood is used on the forest. If wood is transported home for personal use, you will need to purchase a firewood permit at the closest district office. This permit should be obtained prior to you gathering or transporting any wood.

    Before you leave your campfire make sure is it completely out. You should be able to put your whole hand into the ashes without being burned; it should be cool to the touch. Stir the ashes to make sure all embers have cooled. This is very important! Many forest fires are caused by abandoned campfires that were not completely out.

    The National Forest has wildfires each year. Many of these are human caused from escaped campfires in dispersed sites. Campfires are allowed unless there are fire restrictions in effect due to high fire danger conditions. It is your responsibility to know if fire restrictions are in effect before you go camping. You can learn about any fire restrictions by contacting the nearest Forest Service office.

    Dispersed camping means no bathrooms and no outhouses. That means extra care has to be taken in disposing of human waste. To dispose of feces, dig a hole six to eight (6-8) inches deep at least 200 feet away from any water source. When you are done, fill the hole with the dirt you dug up and take your toilet paper with you to dispose of in a proper waste container. Never defecate or leave toilet paper on top of the ground. Do not simply cover it with a rock. It could easily get into the local water source and contaminate it.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Homestake Pass Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Homestake Pass Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Homestake Pass Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Homestake Pass Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Homestake Pass Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Homestake Pass Dispersed
    Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping
    Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping
    • No image available

      8. Meadow Creek Dispersed Campground

      1 Review
      18 Saves

      There are many opportunities for dispersed camping on the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest.

      Forest-wide stay limit: Camping in an area, campsite, or developed campground is limited to 16 accumulated days within any 30 day period.

      • Pets
      • Fires
      • RVs
      • Tents
      • Dispersed
      • Alcohol
      • No image available
        • No image available
        Showing results 1-10 of 18 campgrounds

        Recent Dispersed Reviews In Three Forks

        47 Reviews of 18 Three Forks Campgrounds


        • H
          Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM
          Sep. 22, 2024

          Copper City BLM

          Bridge closed, no access!

          The road to this location is closed, the bridge is out. There is no access.

        • TexasRe D.
          Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
          Sep. 1, 2024

          South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

          2 peaceful nights

          We were looking for an easy dispersed site to stay at while visiting a friend in Bozeman. This was an easy option for us with a 20ft camper. We stayed at the first pull off a few minutes off the main road. This site was easily accessible, right off the main road, close to town and close to some hikes.

        • SThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping
          Sep. 1, 2024

          Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping

          Very hard to find at night

          This place seemed promising at first. It was hard to find a decent spot at night due to only using headlights of my van. Most of the road is extremely rugged/uneven/full of large holes. The only place I was able to stay for the night was the road leading up to the locked gate. This is about the only nice spot. Other than that this place is • quiet w/occasional traffic along the high way (right next to reservoir) • very few people here, but far enough away from me • no fee required • provides OK view to the mountains • great when you bring along a pet • you will need to be fully prepared for primitive camping

        • Rachel S.
          Camper-submitted photo from Confederate Disperse Camping Area
          Aug. 15, 2024

          Confederate Disperse Camping Area

          Great spot for the night

          Stayed here twice in early August about a week apart. Any car should be able to get down the road to the campsites. A bit buggy but free. Pit toilet available.

        • Erik W.
          Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
          Aug. 8, 2024

          Olson Creek Dispersed

          No trespassing signs everywhere

          Not to mention the single-lane cobblestone road, I have a truck and was bouncing up and down the whole way! I didn't find one area big enough to set up camp. I definitely would NOT recommend this spot

        • John H.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping
          Jul. 29, 2024

          Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping

          Amazing camp site with tree cover and fire ring

          This is an amazing camp spot that is almost almost to the top of the trail to fairy Lake campground. There’s an established firing, and there’s room for multiple vehicles.

        • christian L.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
          Jul. 27, 2024

          Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046

          Bozeman visit

          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.

          We have a 25ft off road travel trailer and attempted to go down two side trail heads. The further one was so bad we had to back all the way out. The closest side trail head was slightly better. We made down the road. However there wasn’t many sites here as well. There was maybe 3-4 sites along this whole trail head. We needed up stay in a pull in a valley early on in this trail head

        • Bobby J.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
          Jul. 24, 2024

          South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

          Ok stay

          This was an ok stay outside of Bozeman. The coordinates took me to a spot which was occupied but looked like the only spot on that stretch of road. It began to get extremely rutted and I didn’t want to push any farther after that spot. I camped in what looked to be a dispersed campsite that they closed off

        • Renee G.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM
          Jul. 24, 2024

          Copper City BLM

          Classic blm camping

          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. Also, note that this place seems common for mountain bikers and trail bikers, so you'll likely run into a few of those. Also also, this place is DRY--so be sure to bring your own water (but on the plus side, no bugs!!)

        • Rachel S.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
          Jul. 17, 2024

          Olson Creek Dispersed

          Fine for a night but not many options

          A bit confusing with all the no trespassing and no parking on/off the road signs. Felt more comfortable once we saw another van parked, and drove past the coordinate location a few minutes to use a tiny widened part of the road. No services.

        • KThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
          Jul. 15, 2024

          Olson Creek Dispersed

          Peaceful and Easy Access

          Great spot and easy to get to. Exactly where the coordinates are pull off was big enough for my sprinter 170 extended was even able to get it perfectly level a few dirt bikes on the road that stopped at sunset. It’s very quiet and beautiful views and 15° cooler than Bozeman.

        • Jenna B.
          Camper-submitted photo from South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site
          Jul. 14, 2024

          South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site

          Beautiful secluded Mountain views

          Gorgeous campsite only 20ish min from the outskirts of Bozeman. Stopped in for 1 night passing through on a bigger road trip and couldn’t be luckier with this location. Fire rings at all campsites. Very quite road. Level ground for car camping. Would 100% come back just for this gem.

        • Alex C.
          Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM
          Jul. 14, 2024

          Copper City BLM

          Open range

          Plenty of pull out sites with some scattered man made fire rings. Secluded quiet and great views

        • Ashley M.
          Camper-submitted photo from Copper City BLM
          Jul. 8, 2024

          Copper City BLM

          Summer Biking

          Great spot right on parts of the trial! It’s open and you can see miles in each direction. No shade, no bathrooms, but most have man made fire pits.

        • MThe Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Olson Creek Dispersed
          Jul. 6, 2024

          Olson Creek Dispersed

          Really a 4.5 star spot

          Beautiful space with views and birdsongs aplenty. Spaces are small and right off the road, but for a free night not far from I-94 with solitude and nature, it’s fantastic. There are a few more pull-offs (again, no privacy and right off the Forest Road) if you drive on down toward Skunk Rd, but road gets rougher (high clearance and/or 4WD fine) from especially if it has recently rained. Those spots were also all taken. Went about a 1/2 mile beyond the GPS coordinates for spot with wee bit more space but the pull-off with these exact coordinates ended up getting claimed by an RV at some point in the night—this road gets solid use in the summer—saw at least a dozen vehicles in the 14 hours here.

        • N
          Camper-submitted photo from Homestake Pass Dispersed
          Jun. 12, 2024

          Homestake Pass Dispersed

          Pretty but creepy

          It is easy to get to and very nice views. We did have a creepy experience. Three trucks drove by our spot and parked just staring at us and would leave. They did this 3 times before we decided to pack up and go elsewhere. Also saw a bunch of bear poop. I wouldn’t feel comfortable going back.

        • Rebecca V.
          Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
          May. 24, 2024

          Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046

          Spot was closed

          The gate was closed when we went. We were also in an RV that doesn't do great with snow so we were going out to turn around anyway. Found a spot in the town of Bozeman. Would be great to know when these gates are open or closed though.

        • Andrew H.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Homestake Pass Dispersed
          May. 14, 2024

          Homestake Pass Dispersed

          Great to do an overnight - off the highway stop

          The spot was close to the highway - lots of potential spots - some “locals” who seem to live out there and run generators 24/7 - we had no problem and got a good night sleep to carry on our journey.

          There are MTB OHV and walking trails nearby.

        • owen T.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping
          Mar. 29, 2024

          Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping

          Cottonwood reservoir wilsall montana

          Cottonwood Reseravoir DNRC land section.  accessible for overnight camping under DNRC rules.  The reservoir has Yellowstone cutthroat trout and white suckers.  No wifi, no trash, no bathrooms. Completely wild. Stars at night amazing. All kinds of waterfowl passing seasonal. No amenities.

        • Nicki S.The Dyrt PRO User
          Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
          Feb. 22, 2024

          Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046

          Good Stuff

          My partner and I stayed here in September. It wasn’t the easiest spot to find, but we stayed two nights and nothing happened to our tent set up while we took the car to go hiking for a whole day. 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. The sight we stayed at actually had been moved across the road from its original site so the car was a little further away than it normally is but it was still a quality site to stay at.

        • Jenny&Tobias P.
          Camper-submitted photo from Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping
          Sep. 9, 2023

          Cottonwood Reservoir Dispersed Camping

          Overnight at a lake with mountain view

          A few sites, close toe Hyw 89 through a Texas gate. We camped for a night and it's a beautiful space with stunning views and a reservoir right at the spots. No fire rings a little bit a rough road 4x4 and higher clearance recommended. Better no enter with big rigs or trailer. But a beautiful place to spend time.

        • Katherine C.
          Camper-submitted photo from Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046
          Aug. 11, 2023

          Hyalite Canyon Dispersed - FS 1046

          Close to Bozeman

          About 25 minutes from downtown Bozeman. There’s more spots available up this FS road and the FS roads off-shooting from it, like FS 3164, so explore your options. Quite and very pretty views, road is easily navigable.



        Guide to Three Forks

        Camping near Three Forks, Montana, offers a mix of stunning landscapes and unique experiences. Whether you're looking for a quiet spot to unwind or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

        What to do:

        • Explore Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park: This park is famous for its impressive limestone caverns. One visitor shared, "Be sure to unhook and get to the caverns early in the morning to get a reservation to tour." The park also offers hiking trails and beautiful views.
        • Visit Missouri Headwaters State Park: This park is where the Jefferson, Madison, and Gallatin rivers meet. A camper noted, "The state park, campgrounds, and trails are so beautiful." It's a great spot for fishing and enjoying nature.
        • Relax at Norris Hot Springs: Soaking in the hot springs is a must. One happy camper said, "Imagine soaking in a beautiful wooden pool, enjoying a cold beverage and a pizza, while you listen to live music." It's a perfect way to unwind after a day of exploring.

        What campers like:

        • Friendly Hosts: Campers often rave about the welcoming atmosphere. At Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, one reviewer mentioned, "Hosts were super friendly and nice."
        • Clean Facilities: Many campgrounds pride themselves on cleanliness. A visitor at Bear Canyon Campground said, "Campground and shower house is very clean."
        • Scenic Views: Campers appreciate the beautiful surroundings. One reviewer at Spire Rock Campground noted, "My site was very secluded, peaceful, and beautiful!"

        What you should know:

        • Mosquitoes can be a nuisance: Especially at Missouri Headwaters State Park, where one camper warned, "The mosquitos were so bad we immediately left and found another place to stay for the night."
        • Reservations are recommended: Many campgrounds fill up quickly, especially during peak season. A visitor at Bozeman Hot Springs Campground advised, "They do have drop-in non-reservation sites, but recommend getting reservations."
        • Limited amenities at some sites: Campers at Langohr Campground noted, "There are no showers, dump station, or camp store, but you are close to Bozeman."

        Tips for camping with families:

        • Choose campgrounds with activities: Look for places like Norris Hot Springs, where kids can enjoy the hot springs and live music. One parent said, "This place is magical... dog and kid friendly!"
        • Plan for outdoor fun: Many campgrounds are near hiking trails and rivers. A family at Three Forks KOA Journey enjoyed the "beautiful facilities and friendly helpful staff."
        • Pack insect repellent: Given the mosquito situation, it's wise to be prepared. A camper at Missouri Headwaters State Park mentioned, "I tried 3 different bug repellants... they never cleared out."

        Tips from RVers:

        • Check site sizes: Some campgrounds have tight spaces. A reviewer at Bear Canyon Campground noted, "Sites are spaced nicely apart for being in an RV setting."
        • Look for full hookups: Campgrounds like Ennis RV Village offer full hookups, which can make your stay more comfortable. One visitor said, "Very clean restrooms & sites are spaced nicely apart."
        • Be mindful of road noise: Some campgrounds are near busy roads. A camper at Bozeman Hot Springs Campground mentioned, "It's on a busy highway and it backs up to houses/trailers."

        Camping near Three Forks, Montana, is a fantastic way to enjoy the great outdoors. With a little planning and the right campground, you're sure to have a memorable experience!

        Frequently Asked Questions

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

          According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular dispersed campground near Three Forks, MT is Copper City BLM with a 4-star rating from 4 reviews.

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

          TheDyrt.com has all 18 dispersed camping locations near Three Forks, MT, with real photos and reviews from campers.