Dispersed camping options near White Sulphur Springs stretch along the eastern foothills of the Big Belt Mountains at elevations between 5,000-6,500 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45-85°F with significant cooling at night due to the mountain climate. Fall camping extends through mid-October, when overnight temperatures regularly drop below freezing and early snowfall becomes possible.
What to do
Hike Memorial Falls Trail: Located near Aspen Campground, this trail offers a family-friendly hiking option. "There is a clean vault toilet, picnic table and barbecue stand. Simple basic campground near activities," notes Judy T., who visited Aspen Campground in September.
Fish at multiple access points: Hebgen Lake provides excellent fishing opportunities with several campgrounds situated along its shores. "The campground is right on the lake. There are about 15 sites that fill up really quick! Hebgen Lake is beautiful and so fun to kayak on," says Haley P., who stayed at Spring Creek Campground.
Mountain wildlife viewing: The mountains surrounding White Sulphur Springs host diverse wildlife including mountain goats. "Mountain Goats will come in your camp and they will do what goats do and want to check you out. They are not scared," warns Jonathan A. after camping at Fairy Lake in July.
Stargazing in Little Belt Mountains: The dark skies offer exceptional stargazing opportunities with minimal light pollution. "We set up camp and fell asleep under the light of a million stars. The star gazing is great here because it's right in the middle of the Little Belt mountains so there is no light pollution," shares Ruby Y. about her experience at Aspen Campground.
What campers like
Lake access campsites: Many sites provide direct water access with varying amenities. "The site we had was level and close to the water which was really nice," reports Leah N. about Hellgate Campground, though she notes the fire ring placement was less than ideal.
Clean facilities: Campground cleanliness is consistently mentioned in reviews. "Bathrooms and showers were very clean. Owners were very welcoming and accommodating. The view was amazing," shares Matt S. about his stay at Conestoga Campground.
Free camping options: Budget-conscious campers have several no-cost options. "This dispersed campground is perfect for any configuration. It's important to note that there are only 2 vault toilets and no water available. There are spaces that gather crowds, but depending on your setup you can stay secluded," advises Abigail U. about Confederate Campground.
Mountain views: The surrounding mountain ranges provide scenic backdrops at most campgrounds. "We have stayed here many times and enjoyed the area very much. If what you are looking for is exploring history and wildlife then this is the place. You are surrounded by several mountain ranges," explains Gregg C. about his visits to Conestoga Campground.
What you should know
Wind exposure: Many lakeside campgrounds have minimal tree cover and experience strong winds. "Silos Campground can be very windy, very few trees except for a few along the lake, otherwise sites are in the open," warns Dexter I. about one campground on Canyon Ferry Lake.
Road conditions vary significantly: Access roads to some campgrounds require careful navigation. "The 6-mile unmaintained road to get to the campground is definitely rough. The warnings are justified—it's bumpy, rocky, and slow going," explains Sayler O. about Fairy Lake Campground, though she adds the journey is "100% worth it."
Bear safety: Bears frequent several campgrounds in the region. "For sure there is 1 grizzly that's pretty big. He checked out our truck tent... 1 bear box for the whole camp ground so be prepared to store food in car or tree," cautions Jonathan A. about Fairy Lake Campground.
Seasonal bugs: Mosquitoes can be problematic, especially near lakes. "Beautiful area around the lake. Riddled with mosquitoes around this time of year. Be sure to bring plenty of your favorite mosquito repellent!" advises Timothy after visiting Spring Creek Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with amenities: Families often prefer sites with more facilities. "Great Playground, close to tent sites. Nice staff and great coffee and beautiful setting!" reports Desiree D. about Canyon Ferry Lake KOA, a good option for families seeking additional amenities.
Plan for weather swings: Temperatures can shift dramatically, requiring layered clothing and appropriate shelter. "It sits in a small canyon making this a potentially good campground to avoid the summer heat, which also means a colder camp in the spring and fall," notes Dexter I. about Aspen Campground.
Watch for flash flooding: Some campgrounds sit in areas prone to sudden water rises. "The campground is subject to flash flooding so keep tabs on the weather as heavy rains at the site or upstream can result in flash flooding. If the creek starts to suddenly rise be prepared to move," warns Dexter I. about Spring Creek.
Pack insect protection: Mosquitoes can impact family camping experiences. "The mosquitoes were heavy but didn't bite. It was quiet and the spot was well kept with a rock fire pit!" reports Avery O. about camping near Fairy Lake.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup availability: Electric hookups are scarce beyond established RV parks. "White Earth Campground is in great location. Right on water just 6 miles off of main highway. It is a gravel road but super easy (no potholes) & big rig friendly. Sites right on water. Open sky for starlink and decent cell service," reports Jules S. about White Earth Campground.
Generator noise considerations: Some campgrounds have high generator usage that impacts the camping experience. "Very crowded. Mostly RVs. Multiple generators seemed like all the time. Lots of boat noise. Not a good place for peace and quiet," warns Winder about Hellgate Campground.
Site leveling challenges: Many sites require leveling equipment. "The sites are pretty level and spacious. It is right next to the highway so it can have bad highway noise," reports Angela G. about Aspen Campground.
Limited dump stations: Plan ahead for waste disposal as options are limited. "You can dump at the KOA down the road for a small fee," advises Melody M. regarding White Earth Campground, which provides electric hookups but no sewer connections.
