Best Dispersed Camping near West Yellowstone, MT
Dispersed camping options abound near West Yellowstone, Montana, providing free alternatives to developed campgrounds. Several notable areas include Targhee Creek, Henry's Lake BLM, Beaver Creek Road, and Bootjack Dispersed Camping. These primitive sites typically feature established fire rings but minimal to no other amenities. According to reviews, Targhee Creek offers "established camp spots on both sides of a rugged 2-track" with some sites located "on the edge of a beautiful rushing stream" approximately 9-12 miles from the West Yellowstone entrance.
Most dispersed sites in this region require self-sufficiency. No drinking water, toilets, or trash service is available at most locations. Henry's Lake BLM is an exception, featuring two vault toilets that campers report are "clean and stocked." Bear activity is common throughout the area; proper food storage is essential. Several campers noted the presence of free-roaming cattle at Henry's Lake BLM, with one reviewer mentioning "you will hear them all times of the day."
Road conditions vary significantly between sites. Many access roads become rough and rutted, particularly after rain. Bootjack Dispersed Camping accommodates larger RVs despite "a little rough" road conditions, with reviewers successfully navigating 36-foot rigs to campsites. Beaver Creek Road offers 8-10 designated spots within the first few miles, plus a group area with an outhouse at the 4-mile mark. The 16-day stay limit applies to most Forest Service and BLM dispersed camping in the region. Cell service is surprisingly good at many sites, with Targhee Creek and Henry's Lake both reported to have reliable coverage — a rarity for remote camping areas.