Hayes Creek (FR 496) in MT -- Camping Rules & Access
Hayes Creek (FR 496) in MT
Road corridorBitterroot NF, Darby Ranger District
11 mi from Hamilton
Maps 6,102 ft
Dispersed camping generally allowed
Local restrictions may apply; check the land manager’s camping rules.
Stay limit: 16 consecutive days · 32 days total per calendar year · then move 0.5 mi
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Road Access
Difficult
- 4.9 of this road’s 13 miles are maintained for high-clearance vehicles, 10.2 miles of it dirt.
- Near Camas Lake Trailhead.
- Estimated climb: 2,300 ft over 13 miles through 31 switchbacks, with sustained grades near 12% and pitches to 18%.
- Terrain estimates show roadside drops of up to ~150 ft on the downhill side.
- Terrain estimates suggest little level ground beside this road.
- Dead-end road; turnaround space is not mapped.
Known camping along this road between mile 0.5 and mile 8.9: .
Setting
Some privacy
- Moderately separated here.
- Ward Mountain stands 3,011 ft above the map pin, 3.9 miles north.
- South Lost Horse Creek runs 0.8 mi off.
Rules
Climate averages
October normals 31–49°F, 3.9″ precipitation. Monthly averages, PRISM 1991–2020.