Best Dispersed Camping near Virginia City, MT
Dispersed camping around Virginia City, Montana occurs primarily on Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest lands, with numerous primitive sites located along forest roads and near waterways. The Ruby Reservoir Recreation Area provides opportunities for free camping, while several other designated dispersed camping areas can be found along Forest Service Route 100, including the 6100J, 6100M, and 6100N sites. These areas typically sit at elevations between 6,400-7,000 feet, with many positioned along or near the Ruby River, offering campers direct water access in a remote mountain setting.
Access to most dispersed sites requires navigation on unpaved forest roads that may become rutted or difficult after rain. High-clearance vehicles are recommended for reaching many of the more remote locations. The dispersed camping areas along FS Route 100 are designated sites only, meaning off-road camping is prohibited in this section of the forest. Most areas have established rock fire rings but minimal other amenities. Sites are primitive with no drinking water, trash service, or hookups. The standard stay limit is 16 days across these public lands, and all forest service dispersed camping rules apply regarding waste disposal and site impact.
Campers report varying experiences depending on specific location. The Ruby Reservoir area attracts visitors for both camping and garnet hunting along the shoreline. Some dispersed sites provide exceptional privacy and natural settings. "Dispersed Camping Area 6100J is a large camping area a short distance off forest road 100 with four to six established sites. But the best thing of all is just across FS road 100 is a vault toilet," notes one visitor, highlighting a rare amenity for dispersed camping. Another camper described the 6100M area as having "five established sites. Three of the sites are in the open and two are tucked in the trees along the edge of the Ruby River. The tree sites are very nice, sitting among large fir trees."
