Montana / Park County / Custer Gallatin National Forest

Big Creek Campground

Open — Open year-round for dispersed camping, though winter access requires skis or snowshoes from December 2 to May 15 when the road gate closes beyond Mountain Sky Guest Ranch.

About

Big Creek Campground is a dispersed camping area located in Paradise Valley, where the Gallatin Range rises to the west and the Absaroka Mountains tower to the east. The campground consists of several primitive camping sites along Big Creek at approximately 5,800 feet elevation, surrounded by spruce and fir forests. This is a true backcountry camping experience with no developed facilities or services. Campers must pack in all supplies and pack out all trash. The area provides access to trailheads leading into the Gallatin Range and offers excellent trout fishing in Big Creek. Wildlife including bears, elk, deer, and moose are frequently seen in the vicinity. Access is via Big Creek Road, approximately 5 miles from Highway 89, with high-clearance, four-wheel drive vehicles strongly recommended. In winter, the road gate closes from December 2 to May 15 for road protection, though the area remains accessible via skis or snowshoes from the plowed parking area near Mountain Sky Guest Ranch.

Directions

From Livingston, drive south on Highway 89 for approximately 34 miles to Big Creek Road and a sign for Mountain Sky Guest Ranch. Turn right and follow Big Creek Road for about 5 miles to the dispersed camping area. High-clearance, four-wheel drive vehicles strongly recommended.

Nearby Campgrounds