Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Whitefish, MT has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Montana camping has to offer. Find the best campgrounds near Whitefish, MT. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.
"The road is nice gravel for most of the way in, but the last 500 ft to the shore is a very bumpy dirt road so trailers might have an issue."
"We were glad to have 4WD and high clearance. The beach spots are packed, but plenty of space and lots of rafters having themselves a good time, so if thats your scene go for it!"
"In this video we review 2 more of the free boondocking(dispersed camping) sites near Glacier National Park and Columbia Falls, Montana."
"This free camping area has unbelievable breathtaking views especially at sunrise/sunset! The stars are also extremely visible since you’re staying on the rocks right along the river."
"I’m in a camper van and had no issues accessing the site. Dirt road, but very passable leading here. Large 30+’ motorhomes here, too. Bathroom onsite, too."
"Easy access to the river. Ability to have some privacy from other sites. Pit toilet that was fine for a pit toilet. Stayed there sept 9-12, 2020."
"This site is tucked away between the road and the river. It's super peaceful and there weren't many people around (some stayed in their car, and there was one other tent pitched by the river)."
"I was at the first campsite on the right, less than a quarter mile walk down to the pit toilets and river."
"Rolled in around 8pm and easily found a spot for a car and multiple tents toward the beginning of the road, before we reached the dropped pin."
"This was a great campsite really close to the West Glacier entrance. The road is easily accessible by most cars. There’s around 10 designated camp site of different sizes."
"In this video we provide a comprehensive review of 3 of the free boondocking(dispersed camping) sites near Glacier National Park and Columbia Falls, Montana."
"This is dispersed camping with no amenities, but it makes up for that with the views. Pack in, pack out, LNT, and be bear aware!"
"The GPS coordinates for this place are slightly off. Look for Hungry Horse Rd and follow it 4 miles until you reach the Hungry Horse Reservoir Dam."
"37 miles from Hungry Horse to this location, almost 25 of the unpaved and some of the road is really rough and extremely narrow, much of it along steep Cliffs but when you take 895 around the reservoir"
"You can park in the tea kettle river access and walk south along the rivers bank to access large areas of public land for free camping. There are toilets and trash bins available at the river access."
"Maybe 20 minutes from whitefish, this area offers only a handful of rustic sites as well boat launch parking. First come first serve. Lovely trails nearby with lake access."
"This lake is never a disappointment! Easy access roads, nice boat launch, and solid camping sites."
GuideIn this video we provide a comprehensive review of 3 of the free boondocking(dispersed camping) sites near Glacier National Park and Columbia Falls, Montana. All locations are located in the Flathead National Forest and there is a 16 day stay limit.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0llxG33OdoQ
Free Camping Near Glacier National Park- North Fork Road, Canyon Creek and McGinnis Creek Dispersed
GPS Point for North Fork Road Dispersed Camping
48.499334,-114.131517
Natural Spring for drinking water etc. 48.447581,-114.165680
Conoco Station($5 Dump and Water) 48.371583,-114.203917
Bonus Content GPS Info Canyon Creek Dispersed 48.463612,-114.167320
McGinnis Creek Dispersed(start of road with North Fork Road Instersection) 48.52.3474,-114.128642
McGinnis Creek Large Boondocking Area from Video 48.531014,-114.157493
GuideIn this video we review 2 more of the free boondocking(dispersed camping) sites near Glacier National Park and Columbia Falls, Montana. This time we focus on the Middle Fork Flathead River(Blankenship Bridge) and Glacier Rim River Access Locations. All locations are located in the Flathead National Forest and there is a 3 day stay limit at Middle Fork and 16 day stay limit at Glacier Rim.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zO8kY0x0BoY&t=27
GuideIn this video we review 2 more of the free boondocking(dispersed camping) sites near Glacier National Park and Columbia Falls, Montana. This time we focus on the Middle Fork Flathead River(Blankenship Bridge) and Glacier Rim River Access Locations. All locations are located in the Flathead National Forest and there is a 3 day stay limit at Middle Fork and 16 day stay limit at Glacier Rim.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zO8kY0x0BoY&t=27
GuideThe road is nice gravel for most of the way in, but the last 500 ft to the shore is a very bumpy dirt road so trailers might have an issue. But that road leads you to a open expanse of rocks next to the rivers edge you can camp on or drive back a bit into a sparsely wooded area. Primitive camping because it’s free, no amenities. But there is a lot of drift wood to use as fire wood and many perfect fire pits made from the rocky ground.
TravelerI’m in a camper van and had no issues accessing the site. Dirt road, but very passable leading here. Large 30+’ motorhomes here, too. Bathroom onsite, too. Have a site that backed right up to the river.
TravelerAbsolutly beautiful view of st. Mary lake and glacier park east. Another lake in the background im not sure of right now. Just a dirt road off the highway that nobody comes to and is good to park an rv for the night and let the dogs run around. Anti people camping!!
GuideThis was our favorite spot that we camped at on our 2 week trip out west. The road to the beach is quite rough. We were glad to have 4WD and high clearance. The beach spots are packed, but plenty of space and lots of rafters having themselves a good time, so if thats your scene go for it! We kept on going past the main beach to the tree covered area and found our slice of heaven. Less crowded but still with river access. We were able to sit in the river and relax. We also saw a bald eagle! Porta potties are dispersed throughout.
TravelerThe other reviews here are accurate. Access road is ok when dry, otherwise 4wd is probably required. Spacious area for all types of camping, tents, schoolies, Sprinters, cars. Great river side location. Friendly people.
GuideFire pits. Easy access to the river. Ability to have some privacy from other sites. Pit toilet that was fine for a pit toilet. Stayed there sept 9-12, 2020. Right next to the to river and it’s babbling mini rapids. Standard bumpy gravel road access to Glacier national park. Also easy access to the Flathead national forest. Not too crowded while we were there. Couple RVs in the main lot area, ran generators for brief moments at reasonable times. One night only one other tent there. Another there were 5 or 6. A short walk from parking to sites but no big deal. Left our stuff each day while we went to explore glacier and came back to no problems. Limited wood in the area to burn but you can find it - especially if you have a saw/axe.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Whitefish, Montana, where nature's tranquility meets adventure. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those looking to escape the hustle and bustle.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find free dispersed camping near Whitefish, Montana?
Flathead National Forest offers several free dispersed camping options near Whitefish. McGinnis Creek provides boondocking opportunities with a 16-day stay limit. The Middle Fork Flathead River Dispersed area offers riverside camping with spacious sites suitable for various camping setups, though the access road can be rough (4WD recommended when wet). Other free options include Blankenship Bridge, North Fork Flathead River, and Glacier Rim River Access. Most sites are within 30-45 minutes of Whitefish and provide convenient access to Glacier National Park. These areas typically operate on a first-come, first-served basis, so arriving early during peak season is recommended.
What are the regulations for dispersed camping around Whitefish, Montana?
Dispersed camping in the Whitefish area follows standard Forest Service regulations. Most sites, including Blankenship Bridge - Dispersed Camping and North fork Flathead River dispersed camping, enforce a 16-day stay limit. Practice Leave No Trace principles by packing out all trash. Campfires are permitted in established fire rings only, but fire restrictions may apply during dry conditions (check current restrictions before your trip). Camp at least 100 feet from water sources. Sites are typically first-come, first-served with no reservations. Most areas require vehicles to stay on established roads and camping in designated areas only. These regulations help preserve the natural environment while allowing public access.
When is the best season for dispersed camping in the Whitefish area?
The prime season for dispersed camping around Whitefish runs from late spring through early fall (mid-May to mid-October). Summer (June-August) offers warm days and cool nights, with temperatures typically ranging from 45-85°F, but this is also the busiest period. Highway 89 East Glacier Dispersed provides beautiful views during summer months. Fall brings spectacular colors and fewer crowds, though nights get colder. At Hungry Horse Reservoir Dispersed, spring camping (May-June) offers wildflowers and more solitude, but be prepared for variable weather conditions. Winter camping is possible for experienced campers with proper gear, but many forest roads become impassable due to snow, and facilities are minimal to nonexistent.
What amenities and facilities are available at dispersed camping sites near Whitefish?
Dispersed camping sites near Whitefish offer limited amenities consistent with their primitive nature. Teakettle River Access provides toilets and trash bins, making it one of the more developed options. Stillwater River features three separate fire rings, a vault toilet, and a picnic table. Most dispersed sites have established fire rings but lack amenities like showers, hookups, or potable water. Campers should bring all necessary supplies including water, food, and waste disposal bags. Cell service varies by location but is generally limited. Many sites offer river or lake access for recreation, fishing, and a natural water source (must be filtered). Be prepared for self-sufficient camping with minimal facilities.
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