Dispersed camping sites around Three Forks, Montana range from 4,000 to 8,000 feet in elevation, providing diverse camping experiences across different mountain ecosystems. Most tent camping sites in this area see summer temperatures between 75-85°F during the day and 40-50°F at night, with cooler temperatures at higher elevations. Many sites have seasonal restrictions due to winter conditions or wildlife management concerns.
What to do
Mountain biking access: At Copper City BLM, campers can enjoy direct access to biking trails. "Great spot right on parts of the trial! It's open and you can see miles in each direction," reports Ashley M. The area serves as a hub for cycling enthusiasts with primitive camping options.
Hiking alpine trails: The area near Fairy Lake Campground offers excellent high-elevation hiking opportunities. "The lake itself has a small trail to walk around," notes Anthony B. For more adventurous hikers, nearby trails lead to mountain summits with panoramic views of surrounding ranges.
Rock climbing adventures: Revenue Flats provides multiple rock climbing areas within walking distance of camping spots. "Tons of super fun climbing!" mentions Lucille W., who visited the area. The natural rock formations attract climbers of various skill levels, with routes suitable for beginners and experienced climbers alike.
Fishing opportunities: Several camping locations provide fishing access with varying catch potential. Spanish Lakes is particularly notable for fishing enthusiasts, with one visitor noting, "Tons of fishing in all of the lakes... Tons of bugs. But all great fun!" The alpine lakes contain west slope cutthroat trout.
What campers like
Working farm experiences: Serenity Sheep Farm Stay offers a unique camping experience alongside farm animals. "The kids enjoyed the animals. There is a nice fire pit that made for a gathering spot for the other few campers," shares Chula R. This site provides a different camping environment than typical forest or mountain locations.
Privacy between sites: Several dispersed camping areas offer good separation between campers. At Revenue Flats, "The sites were roomy and private on a high plateau with beautiful views," according to Lisa A. Most dispersed sites have natural buffers of trees or terrain features that create private camping spaces.
Alpine lake settings: The region features multiple high-mountain lakes for swimming and scenery. One camper described Spanish Lakes as "indescribably breathtaking. Surrounded by massive mountains, a rolling stream, and a little dead forest accompanied by a campsite and fire ring." These alpine settings provide refreshing swimming opportunities during summer months.
Star viewing conditions: The clear mountain air and minimal light pollution create excellent star gazing conditions. At Revenue Flats, one camper "pulled up to this spot and camped under the most beautiful night sky I've ever seen." The higher elevation sites offer particularly good astronomical viewing opportunities.
What you should know
Road conditions and vehicle requirements: Many of the best tent camping near Three Forks, Montana requires careful planning for access. The road to Fairy Lake Dispersed Camping is "by far the roughest road I've encountered so far. Not for the faint of heart!" according to Ariana N. Similarly, for Revenue Flats, "You need a reliable car/truck to get the campground," advises Boyce B.
Weather preparedness: Mountain weather can change quickly, with temperature drops of 30+ degrees possible in a single day. At higher elevations like Fairy Lake, snow is possible even in summer months. Pack layers and rain gear regardless of season.
Wildlife awareness: Bears are active in many camping areas. One camper at Fairy Lake Campground reported, "For sure there is 1 grizzly that's pretty big. He checked out our truck tent." Proper food storage is essential, with limited bear boxes available at established campgrounds.
Water sources: Most dispersed sites lack reliable water sources. One camper at Copper City BLM emphasized, "This place is DRY—so be sure to bring your own water." Plan to carry all needed drinking water or bring filtration equipment for natural sources when available.
Tips for camping with families
Farm-based alternatives: South Fork Brackett Creek Dispersed Site provides easier access for families with children. "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," notes TexasRed. The site is approximately 20-30 minutes from Bozeman, making supply runs manageable.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Several camping areas offer opportunities to observe wildlife at safe distances. At Serenity Sheep Farm Stay, families can interact with farm animals in a controlled environment. "We loved staying here. The kids enjoyed the animals," reports one family.
Swimming options: For families seeking water activities, Fairy Lake provides a small but accessible alpine lake. "The lake itself is stunning, with crystal clear water that looks almost unreal," reports one visitor. The shallow edges are appropriate for supervised children, though water remains cold year-round.
Elevation considerations: Families camping with young children should consider the effects of higher elevations. Sites above 7,000 feet can cause mild altitude symptoms in some children and may feel significantly colder than valley locations. Plan extra time for acclimatization when camping at higher elevations.
Tips from RVers
Length restrictions: Most dispersed camping areas have limited space for larger rigs. At Revenue Flats, one RVer reported, "We drove a F450 with triple slide truck camper and made it ok. Also saw a 2 wheel drive 30 foot class C motorhome that made it but would not recommend anything larger." Most high-elevation sites cannot accommodate RVs over 25 feet.
Site positioning: When camping in open areas like Copper City BLM, position RVs to maximize shade and wind protection. "Plenty of pull out sites with some scattered man made fire rings. Secluded quiet and great views," notes Alex C. about the available spaces.
Seasonal accessibility: RV access to many sites is highly seasonal. Fairy Lake and similar high-elevation campgrounds have limited seasons, generally July through mid-September. Lower elevation sites like Toston Dam Campground remain accessible longer but may still have seasonal closures.
Level terrain challenges: Finding level parking for RVs can be challenging in many dispersed areas. RVers should bring leveling blocks or hydraulic systems. "We made it past the campsite and down a dirt road (it was extremely bumpy!)," reports one camper about accessing Fairy Lake area.
