A planning guide, not a campsite directory. We have not verified individual campsites. This page summarizes what land managers publish; your exact location and dates decide what is allowed. Last checked October 15, 2026.
📋 Rules at a glance
| Topic | What the agency says | Source |
|---|---|---|
| BLM stay limit | Maximum stay is 16 days. Camping is allowed only on BLM land that has not been developed as a campsite. There are no designated long-term camping areas in Montana, North Dakota or South Dakota. | BLM Montana-Dakotas |
| Access | You need legal access, and should travel on existing roads and trails. Areas can be restricted or closed to vehicles. | BLM Montana-Dakotas |
| National forest | Camping or occupying a single site for more than 16 consecutive days is prohibited, and so is using any number of sites for 32 cumulative days in a calendar year. This applies to Northern Region forests in Montana. | Custer Gallatin National Forest |
| State trust land | Dispersed camping needs a Conservation License. On unleased land you may stay up to 16 days in a 30-day period (2 days on leased or licensed land). Park a trailer or RV within 50 feet of a customary access point; you may not drive further to set up. | Montana DNRC |
🗺️ Land you will run into
BLM land
Camping is permitted on BLM lands that have not been developed as a campsite. Follow Treading Lightly practices, leave gates as you found them and ask permission before entering private land.
National forests
Northern Region national forests in Montana set a 16-day single-site limit and a 32-day cumulative limit per year. Use existing fire rings and contact the district office for fire restrictions, distance from roads and water, and how far to move.
State trust land
Montana DNRC says dispersed camping on state trust land requires a Conservation License. Tents must be within 200 feet of a customary access point or navigable water; trailers and RVs within 50 feet. Campfires are not allowed on leased land. Cutting firewood needs a separate permit. Check the DNRC recreation rules and your specific parcel.
✅ Also plan around
- Fire: Use existing fire rings and check restrictions with the district office before lighting a fire.
- Access: Travel only on existing roads and trails and obey closures.
Hazards: Sudden mountain weather, wildfire smoke and closures, wet dirt roads, and bears. Store food securely. Check the National Weather Service for current forecasts.
➡️ Next steps
- First boondocking trip: beginner guide
- Resource calculator: what runs out first?
- BLM RV camping guide and national forest RV camping guide
- Overnight RV parking guide for travel nights
- Montana RV parks and campgrounds in our directory for a paid, serviced stay
- Glacier RV travel guide
- Yellowstone RV travel guide
❓ Common questions
How long can I camp on BLM land in Montana?
The BLM Montana-Dakotas page lists a 16-day maximum stay, and says camping is permitted only on land that has not been developed as a campsite.
Do I need a license to camp on Montana state trust land?
Yes. Dispersed camping on state trust land requires a Conservation License, and the stay limit is 16 days in 30 on unleased land and 2 days on leased or licensed land.
📚 Official sources
Checked October 15, 2026. Rules, closures and local orders change; confirm with the land manager before you travel.