Dispersed camping near West Yellowstone, Montana offers free and low-cost alternatives for visitors exploring Yellowstone National Park. Located at elevations ranging from 6,500 to 7,300 feet, these areas experience cool nights even during summer months when daytime temperatures reach the mid-80s. Most sites have established fire rings and some provide creek or lake access, with varying road conditions determining accessibility.
What to do
Fishing opportunities: At Henry Flats Dispersed Spot, campers can access Henry's Lake for fishing. "The lake is gorgeous. It's quiet and dark and very peaceful," reports LaChelle B. This site provides direct lake access within 45 minutes of Yellowstone attractions.
Wildlife viewing: Watch for moose, bears and elk around campsites. One camper at West Fork Denny Creek noted, "We did see some bears and elk from our site which was fun!" The creek areas attract various wildlife throughout the day.
Stargazing: Clear mountain skies provide excellent night viewing. A camper at Bootjack Dispersed Camping described, "Large open meadow at 7270 ft. elevation. Very open with several good level areas for RVs or tents. Wide open skies and a fire ring."
What campers like
Stream access: Many sites offer running water nearby. At Targhee Creek, one visitor mentioned, "The water this time of year is too high and too cold for us to swim/wade in but our dogs love it! Plenty of space to spread out and enjoy a private camping experience!"
Cell coverage: Contrary to expectations for remote areas, connectivity is good at most locations. "We got luck and got the best spot along the creek as a family was about to leave when we pulled in midday on a Monday. It was absolutely beautiful and very secluded at the end of the road. Excellent Verizon service was a bonus," reported a camper at Targhee Creek.
Privacy between sites: Most dispersed areas provide good separation between campers. At West Yellowstone Dispersed Camping, a visitor noted, "Plenty of single and multiple vehicles pullouts along the road for a big van. Some sites have man made fire pits. Very nice and peaceful with the forest all around."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Mountain weather changes rapidly. At Upper Cherry Creek, one camper advised, "Nice campsite up a rocky and eroded road. I've seen a few cars and off roaders, but mostly quiet. A bit windy. Pretty wildflowers."
Seasonal conditions: Some areas become inaccessible during spring snowmelt or after heavy rain. A reviewer warned, "These spots all look great, but it's May and the snow piles on the sides of the road keep you from accessing any of the trails for camping."
Bug activity: Insects are common, particularly near water. One camper at Henry's Lake BLM Dispersed reported, "Got here on a Tuesday afternoon and there were quite a few people here already but found a nice spot right in front of the lake. We loved it here, it was quiet for the most part and the lake was beautiful. Read in a previous review that the bugs were bad, and they definitely were but I would still recommend this place!"
Tips for camping with families
Restroom access: Few dispersed sites have toilet facilities. An exception is Henry Flats where a visitor noted, "The bathrooms were so clean and there was even a mural painted on the walls. There are several places to camp along the red rocks pass road if you don't want to drive all the way down to the lake."
Safety considerations: Ensure proper food storage due to wildlife activity. A camper at West Yellowstone mentioned, "We were not bothered the entire night by people nor wildlife. The road is extremely, extremely bumpy so take it slow, and can be soft at times so I would recommend a higher clearance vehicle."
Arrival timing: Early arrival improves site selection chances. "Pulled in at 5pm Saturday night. Not a problem finding a site. No bugs, typing from our spot. 3 bars LTE Verizon," reported a camper at Bootjack Dispersed Camping.
Tips from RVers
Road conditions: Many access roads require careful navigation. A camper with a larger rig noted, "A lot of boondocking opportunities in that area. Must of the spots in the open meadow area were full. Therefore, we went with this spot up a dead end road. With the size of r rig 36 foot Solltude I had to back up the road about 200 feet. Road in was a little rough but we managed."
Supply planning: Limited services mean bringing necessities. "Groceries & Supplies are at tourist prices, come stocked if you don't want to pay them," advised one RVer at Bootjack Dispersed Camping.
Leveling considerations: Look for naturally level areas. At Plateau Road Dispersed, one camper advised, "Rough and sandy roads. Great secluded spot close to Yellowstone." Most dispersed sites lack developed pads, requiring self-leveling equipment.
