Pilot Creek Dispersed Camping is located in the [Shoshone National Forest](https://thedyrt.com/camping/wyoming/near/shoshone-national-forest), surrounded by forested terrain and mountain views. Temperatures can range from lows in the 30s Fahrenheit in spring and fall to highs in the 80s during summer. Nearby, visitors can explore Yellowstone National Park and the Beartooth Highway, offering scenic drives and hiking opportunities.

The Shoshone National Forest allows dispersed camping along a mile or so of the Beartooth Highway in the Pilot Creek area. There is one large area on the south side of US 212 about 9 miles east of Cooke City which has multiple undeveloped campsites as well as a vault toilet. There are a number of additional potential campsites on both sides of the road for a mile or so. While most of these sites have “user-built” fire rings, there are no other amenities.

Camping is free in the remote areas of the Shoshone and is a great way to get away from it all.

Many people enjoy the solitude and primitive experience of camping away from developed campgrounds. Dispersed camping means there are no toilets, tables, or drinking water. Follow these guidelines to ensure these areas can be enjoyed by future generations.

Campsites must be 200 feet from trails, lakes, or wet meadows and 100 feet from streams or creeks.
There is a 16 consecutive day stay limit. Any new location must be at least 5 miles from the previous location.
Group size may be limited. Check with the local ranger district office for specifics in the area you want to go.
Grizzly bear food storage regulations must be followed in designated grizzly bear use areas. See our Bear Safety page for more information.
Dispersed camping or campfires are not allowed in the area commonly known as the North Fork Canyon and includes the area 1/2 mile on either side of the centerline of U. S. Highway 14/16/20 between the national forest boundary and the East Entrance of Yellowstone National Park. Within this special recreation corridor, all camping and campfires must be within developed recreation sites.
Some areas on the Shoshone are closed and signed as such to dispersed camping due to grizzly bear activity or resource protection. Be alert to signage.
Check with the local ranger district office in the area you want to be for any seasonal restrictions that may apply.
Please use Leave No Trace ethics so those coming behind you will have the same pristine experience as you.

Pilot Creek Dispersed Camping

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Cooke City, 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. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Cooke City, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Cooke City

The Best Camping Near Cooke City, Montana

We intended to stay on the other side of the road, (river side) but missed the turn. We stumbled on this trailhead/OHV site and ended up staying here for the night. There are multiple dispersed sites that back up to the Pilot Creek Trail. Plenty of spots in the grass for big rigs and trailers. We ended up near the horse coral/bathroom (vaulted toilet), not ideal but worked in a pinch. Lots of mosquitos. Some sites have bear boxes.

Worked in a pinch

I stayed further in past the vault toilet where a tree labeled site A. Nice site for parking a car. I watched cows grazing down the power line clearing through the trees and at one point watched eight cows walking by single file right by my site. 

Good open area. Watched cows and mosquitoes.

Like most people, we had hoped to stay across the street along the Clarks Fork of the Yellowstone River. That area has 2 pretty shaded spots, and both were taken. We headed over to Pilot and we were pleasantly surprised. Yes, there is a big open area with little privacy if it is crowded. But it’s great for groups and perfect for solar and cattle watching (our dog loves to watch cows). But there are at least half a dozen wooded spots, setback. Three have bear boxes and are right by a hiking trail. Add to this the beautiful mountains, ease of access to Yellowstone or Red Lodge, and a clean vault toilet and we would stay again.

Photos of Pilot Creek Dispersed Camping

Real photos from real campers