Shields River Dispersed Site
03 reviewsnull
Shields River Dispersed Site
$0.00 - $0.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
"No Fees are required for this site."
About this campground
Nestled in the rugged West Crazy Mountains, this dispersed camping site offers an authentic wilderness experience within the Yellowstone District of the Custer Gallatin National Forest. Here, adventurous souls can escape the crowds and immerse themselves in Montana's untamed backcountry, where the only amenities are those provided by nature herself.
Shields River Dispersed Site is designed for dispersed camping with minimal facilities available. It is situated in the Custer Gallatin National Forest.
Historical Significancenull
Weather and SeasonsThis high-country haven transforms dramatically with the seasons. Winter arrives with a vengeance, bringing bone-chilling temperatures that can plummet to -20°F, turning the landscape into a crystalline wonderland that challenges even the heartiest cold-weather campers. As spring melts into summer, the mountains shed their snowy coat to reveal warm, sun-drenched days perfect for exploration. Clear mountain skies and comfortable temperatures make summer the ideal season for those seeking to experience the Crazies in all their glory.
Elevationnull
Natural Features and SceneryWake to the gentle lowing of free-ranging cattle as they meander through your campsite, a reminder of Montana's enduring ranching heritage. The crystalline waters of a mountain river flow nearby, providing both a soothing soundtrack and endless opportunities for streamside relaxation. This harmonious blend of working ranchland and wild spaces creates a uniquely Western camping experience where the frontier spirit still runs free.
Geological RegionThe West Crazy Mountains rise like ancient sentinels within the Yellowstone District, their dramatic peaks and hidden valleys carved by millennia of geological forces. This lesser-known corner of the Custer Gallatin National Forest offers solitude seekers a chance to explore one of Montana's most captivating mountain ranges without the crowds found in more popular destinations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not mentioned in the available sources.
Sites SizeThe size of the individual sites is not specified for this campground.
Sites PrivacyDetails about privacy at the campsites are not provided in the source materials.
Total Campsites6 campsites
Recommended Campsitesnull
Best Campsitesnull
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Null
Check-out
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Stay Limit
Null
Guests Allowed Per Site
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Groups
No group sites or their specifications are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutnull
Open and Closed Season6/16 – 12/1
Reservation Platformsnull
Walk-in Availabilitynull
Cancellation Policynull
Amenities available
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
This campground offers opportunities for those who enjoy dispersed camping in a natural environment, with some user reviews suggesting an enjoyable experience being close to nature.
Winter Activities
Winter activities are not discussed in the sources, although one user review mentions camping in a tent at -20°F, indicating the potential for extreme winter conditions.Water Sports
Water sports are not described for this campground.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
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- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazards"There was a lot of flies and a lot of bugs I had to make sure to keep my RV closed up."
Active alertsnull
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 24%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.3 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
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Good to know
Peak season datesnull
Trash and recyclingThere is no trash pickup service available at the site. Campers are advised to pack out all trash and dispose of it responsibly.
Proximity to water features"A river right there."
Common complaints"There was a lot of flies and a lot of bugs."
Hostnull
Campground Map
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Driving directions24 miles northeast of Wilsall on Shields River Rd.
"Last few miles of gravel road is smooth and easy."Nearby places
Wilsall, 24 miles
Nearby supplies
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Camper Reviews
0.0
3 reviews
Shields River Dispersed Site has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The user reviews for Shields River Dispersed Site are generally positive, highlighting the site's clean restrooms, scenic location, and free access.
Review Summaries
Based on 3 reviews
What Campers Love
Users appreciated the clean pit toilets and the scenic nature of the area. One reviewer commented, 'Great free campsite with clean pit toilets.' Another noted the enjoyable drive to the site and the...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common issues mentioned in user reviews include the presence of flies and bugs, as well as the lack of cell phone reception.
Based on 3 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring their own water and firewood since these are not provided. It is also recommended to keep RVs and tents closed to avoid bugs. One user remarked that driving slowly (10...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
One user review points to extreme winter conditions, specifically camping in -20°F, which indicates the site can be challenging in colder months. Summer conditions, based on reviews, seem more...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Great free campsite with clean pit toilets.' 2. 'I really enjoy this spot. You have cows walking around, a river right there, the bathrooms are clean and they have a fire pit.' 3. 'I did not have...
Based on 3 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site numbers or rankings are provided in the reviews.
Based on 3 reviewsAccessibility Features
Information regarding accessibility features or experiences for users with disabilities is not available.
Based on 3 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There is no specific mention of pet policies or pet-related experiences in the reviews.
Based on 3 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025