Gallatin National Forest — Gardiner River Corridor Dispersed Camp

Pull off US-89 north of Gardiner along the Yellowstone River and you’ve got legitimate dispersed camping on Gallatin National Forest land just outside the park boundary. Flat benches above the river, big sky, and that same thermal-country smell drifting down from Mammoth. No facilities, no fee — just open ground, a fire ring if previous campers were polite, and one of the better sunset views you’ll find this close to a major national park entrance. It gets busy in summer because the proximity to Yellowstone’s north gate is obvious, so arrive early or aim for shoulder season.

Access is straightforward from US-89. Look for pullouts and informal two-tracks between Gardiner and the park boundary on the west side of the highway. High-clearance not required for the pull-ins closest to the highway, but some benches demand it. Cell signal is surprisingly decent this close to town. Fires subject to seasonal restrictions — check Custer Gallatin NF orders before you light anything.

Riverside dispersed just outside Yellowstone's north gate.