Timber Camp Campground
4.5010 reviewsTimber Camp Campground, Custer Gallatin National Forest, Gardiner District
Timber Camp Campground
$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
This is a free campground. No fee is charged for any of the campsite types.
About this campground
Tucked away in the rugged West Absaroka Mountains just beyond Gardiner, Montana, Timber Camp Campground offers an authentic back-to-basics camping experience for those seeking solitude and simplicity. This intimate hideaway features just three thoughtfully spaced campsites, each furnished with its own picnic table and fire pit where you can gather under starlit skies. Operating on a first-come, first-serve basis, this primitive gem strips away the distractions of modern camping, inviting you to reconnect with nature in its purest form.
Timber Camp Campground offers primitive camping options with minimal facilities. It is designed for tent camping but can also accommodate small RVs due to open parking and turning space.
Historical SignificanceTimber Camp Campground stands as a tranquil guardian near the historic town of Gardiner, Montana, serving adventurous souls seeking a peaceful staging ground for exploring the wonders beyond Yellowstone's famed North Entrance. This quiet retreat offers a compelling alternative to the bustle of gateway communities, allowing campers to experience the same spectacular region that has drawn explorers, naturalists, and wanderers for generations.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here plays by its own rules, creating an ever-changing canvas of conditions that keeps even seasoned adventurers on their toes. Wise campers pack layers and rain gear regardless of the forecast, as sunshine can quickly give way to dramatic storm systems rolling through the peaks. During shoulder seasons, temperatures can plunge to bone-chilling lows, and snow may dust the landscape even when the valleys below bask in autumn colors or spring blooms. This unpredictable climate adds an element of wild authenticity to every camping experience.
ElevationWhile specific elevation data remains unrecorded, the campground's mountain setting speaks volumes about its lofty perch among the peaks and valleys of this dramatic landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself waking to the soft whisper of wind through towering pines that stand sentinel around a pristine mountain meadow. Near the camp's entrance, a crystal-clear stream dances beneath the road, its gentle murmur providing nature's soundtrack to your stay. This enchanting blend of open meadowland and protective forest creates an intimate natural amphitheater where wildflowers paint the grasslands in season and ancient pines frame views of the surrounding peaks.
Geological RegionThe campground claims its place within the dramatic West Absaroka Mountains, part of the greater Gardiner District in the vast Custer Gallatin National Forest. This geological wonderland showcases the raw power of tectonic forces that thrust these peaks skyward, creating a landscape where volcanic origins meet glacial artistry in a testament to Earth's dynamic history.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific accessibility features are mentioned in the available sources.
Sites SizeThe three campsites are described as large, providing sufficient space to turn around even for vehicles towing small campers.
Sites PrivacyThe campground is noted as being private and peaceful, with only three campsites that are spaced apart to provide seclusion.
Total Campsites3 campsites
Recommended CampsitesArrive early to secure a spot as there are only three sites available. Consider bringing bear spray, as well as warm and waterproof gear.
Best CampsitesUser reviews highlight the campsite near the vault toilet as desirable due to its proximity to amenities without noise or smell disturbances.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in times are not specified.
Check-out
Check-out times are not specified.
Stay Limit
Stay limit information not provided.
Guests Allowed Per Site
No specific guest limits listed for the sites.
Groups
Group camping is not supported as there are only three individual campsites available.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are not allowed
Site layoutThe campground consists of three designated sites, each with picnic tables and fire pits. Open parking available.
Open and Closed SeasonCampground is open from 6/1 to 10/31, weather-dependent.
Reservation PlatformsReservations are not applicable as the campground is first-come, first-serve.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground is entirely first-come, first-serve with only three sites available, which can fill quickly according to user reviews.
Cancellation PolicyNo cancellation policy as reservations are not required.
Amenities available
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The primary recreational opportunities at Timber Camp Campground include day hiking and plant observation, making it ideal for those looking for a quiet, natural experience. Wildlife viewing is another potential activity, but caution is advised due to the presence of bears.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are available for day hikes. There are no specific details about the trails provided.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is mentioned indirectly through user reviews, with users noting the presence of bears each night.Winter Activities
There is no mention of winter activities at this campground, and it is only open seasonally from June 1 to October 31.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not discussed, and there are no facilities to support these activities.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted at designated fire pits.
- Quiet hours are not specified.
Hazards
General hazardsBears are reportedly frequent visitors. The campground is primitive with no potable water, requiring campers to be self-sufficient.
Active alertsNone reported.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 10%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Closest emergency services are located in Gardiner, MT, approximately 5 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesNo peak season pricing as the campground is free.
Trash and recyclingTrash collection services are not provided, and campers must pack out their waste.
Proximity to water featuresA small creek crosses under the road near the campground entrance.
Common complaintsRoad conditions are commonly noted as rough, uneven, and narrow in sections. Limited campsites often lead to competition for space.
HostNo host information provided.
Campground Map
Timber Camp Campground, Custer Gallatin National Forest, Gardiner District
Driving directionsPrimitive campground located 5 miles northeast of Gardiner on Jardine Rd, then 4 miles northeast on Bear Creek Rd (Forest Rd 493). Two horse corrals available past campground.
The campground is accessible via dirt roads that are described as bumpy, uneven, and narrow in stretches, particularly within 3 miles of the site. User reviews emphasize driving slower speeds (average 15 mph) due to road conditions.Nearby places
- Gardiner, MT: 5 miles northeast - Yellowstone North Entrance: ~35 minutes drive
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Gardiner, MT, including groceries, fuel, and other essentials about 5 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.5
10 reviews
Timber Camp Campground is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
The campground receives positive feedback for its peaceful and secluded atmosphere, beautiful natural surroundings, and the opportunity to engage in basic camping. However, some users note that the road leading to the campground is rough, and the presence of bears is a consistent concern.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the campground's free access, scenic beauty, spacious campsites with picnic tables and fire pits, and the presence of a vault toilet. Users appreciate the privacy and...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include the rough, bumpy road leading to the campground, occasional crowding despite its small size, and the lack of potable water, trash services, or firewood. Users have also...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers are advised to bring bear spray due to frequent sightings of bears at night. They should also carry sufficient potable water, firewood, and trash bags as these are not provided on-site. Warm...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The campground is open seasonally from June 1 to October 31. Summer months are popular for camping, but users have noted that weather can be unpredictable and recommend being prepared for rain and...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
- 'If you are lucky to score a site, consider yourself lucky. It's beautiful.' - Ray Acuña-Luna
- 'Be sure to bring bear spray!' - Jaydon Grafsgaard
- 'Free camping with proper fire grates and picnic...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Specific campsite details are minimal, but one review notes that a spot near the vault toilet had no odors and offered convenience.
Based on 10 reviewsAccessibility Features
No accessibility-specific reviews are provided for this campground.
Based on 10 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
There are no mentions of pet policies or pet-specific reviews.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025