Rumbaugh Ridge
Dispersed camping is open when roads are passable, typically late May through October depending on snowpack. Road conditions on Denny Creek Road may be poor in early season. Contact the Hebgen Lake Ranger District at 406-823-6961 for current road and access conditions.
Air Quality Alert issued August 10 at 7:30AM MDT by NWS Great Falls MT
AQAMT The Montana Department of Environmental Quality has issued an air quality alert for Beaverhead, Broadwater, Deer Lodge, Flathead, Gallatin, Granite, Jefferson, Lake, Lewis and Clark, Lincoln, Madison, Mineral, Missoula, Park, Powell, Ravalli, Silver Bow, Sweet Grass, Sanders, Yellowstone counties in effect until 9AM on 08/11/2026 An Air Quality Alert means that particulates have been trending upwards and that an exceedance of the 24 hour National Ambient Air Quality Standard (NAAQS) has occurred or may occur in the near future. Elevated particulate levels from wildfire smoke As of 7AM on 08/10/2026, particulate levels in Columbia Falls, Frenchtown, Libby and Missoula are Unhealthy. As of 7AM on 08/10/2026, particulate levels in Billings, Dillon, Great Falls, Helena and Thompson Falls are Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups. As of 7AM on 08/10/2026, particulate levels in Butte, Cut Bank, Hamilton, Lewistown and Sleeping Giant are Moderate. When air quality is Unhealthy... State and local health officials recommend that people with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly, and children should avoid prolonged exertion; everyone else should limit prolonged exertion. When air quality is Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups... State and local health officials recommend that people with respiratory or heart disease, the elderly and children should limit prolonged exertion. When air quality is Moderate... State and local health officials recommend that unusually sensitive people should consider reducing prolonged or heavy exertion. For more information visit the Montana Department of Environmental Quality at http://todaysair.mtdeq.us
About
Rumbaugh Ridge is a designated dispersed camping area located in the Custer Gallatin National Forest along the south side of Hebgen Lake, approximately 10 miles northwest of West Yellowstone, Montana. The area features several primitive camping spots in a forested setting near the lakeshore, popular with those seeking a quieter alternative to developed campgrounds while still being close to Yellowstone National Park. Access is via Denny Creek Road, which begins as paved road for the first few miles before transitioning to gravel. The designated sites are marked with signs as required in this dispersed camping zone. Due to the narrow access road, tight corners, and limited maneuvering space, the area is best suited for tents, truck campers, vans, and smaller trailers. As designated dispersed camping on National Forest land, there are no developed facilities. Campers must be self-sufficient, bringing their own water, packing out all trash, and following Leave No Trace principles. Fire regulations vary seasonally and should be verified with the Hebgen Lake Ranger District before camping.
Directions
From West Yellowstone, head north on US-191. Turn left onto Denny Creek Road (just north of the KOA campground). Follow Denny Creek Road approximately 7.5 miles. Look for a sign indicating Rumbaugh Ridge Summer Homes, and the access road to the dispersed camping area is a short dirt road on the right.
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $0 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 30ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 30ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (406) 823-6961 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | Yes |
| Verizon | Yes |
| T-Mobile | Yes |
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