Indian Meadows Guard Station Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Indian Meadows Guard Station is located near the Copper Bowls snowmobile area and the Scapegoat Wilderness, offering exceptional opportunities for both motorized and non-motorized winter enthusiasts. The cabin is available for rent from December 1st to March 31st each year. Miles of Groomed snowmobile trails and renowned off trail riding in the nearby Copper Bowls are right out the door from this cabin. Cross-country skiers and snowshoers can explore the quiet of the Scapegoat Wilderness to the north with several trails and endless acres of cross-country terrain. Visitors will enjoy a very remote experience as this cabin’s location is not well travelled in the winter months. Consequently, visitors should come well equipped and well prepared to travel the approximately 8 miles over snow to this remote outpost. 

The cabin is approximately 5,500 ft. in elevation and sits within sight of the tallest peak in the greater Bob Marshall Wilderness complex, the 9,411 ft. Red Mtn. Wildlife abounds in this area in the summer months, but it is noticeably quieter in the winter months when this cabin is available for rent. Visitors will still have good opportunities to track wildlife in this area, such as Canadian Lynx, Wolverines, Fox, Wolves, snowshoe hare, among others.

Recreation

Recreation activities are primarily winter based at this location. Snowmobiling, Cross-country Skiing, Back Country Skiing, and Snowshoeing are the primary activities for visitors. Snowmobiling is prohibited in most of the area to the North and East of the Cabin. The Copper Creek Road is regularly groomed by the local snowmobile club and it provides access to the popular Copper Bowls at the base of Red Mountain. The groomed network of trails also extends to the South and access the town of Lincoln via the Sucker Cr. Road #1800.

In early season visitors may find that they can hike on the nearby Mainline Trail #480 and the Landers Fork Trail #438 with relatively little snow cover. Heart Lake is located approximately 5 miles from the cabin on the Mainline Trail. The lake has strong populations of West slope Cutthroat trout and Arctic Grayling. The Landers fork and Copper Creek are also nearby streams with strong trout populations.

Facilities

The Guard Station is a 2 story log cabin that was built in the 1990s. It is still used by Forest Service Crews in the summer months and is well equipped with many of the basic necessities. There are 2 sets of bunkbeds and 2 single beds located in the upstairs loft, but guests should plan to bring in bedding or a sleeping bag. Some blankets and pillows are provided. A propane stove and lights are available for use. Propane is provided for guests at this facility, but please use the available gas responsibly as resupply is logistically challenging in the winter months. Dishes, Pots, Pans, Cutlery, and basic kitchen tools are supplied at the cabin. There are cleaning supplies at the cabin and guests are encouraged to use them in order to keep the facility clean for the next visitors. Water is usually available from the hand pump outside the cabin, but in rare circumstances it may freeze. In these cases there is always plenty of snow to melt however!

Natural Features

This cabin is located with sight of both the impressive bulk of Red Mountain to the west and the jagged spine of the Continental Divide to the east. Over a million acres of undeveloped Designated Wilderness lies to the North where the lake filled Scapegoat Wilderness ties in to the larger Bob Marshall Wilderness complex. There are many miles of ridges, creeks, lakes, and trails to explore. The steep slopes and abundant snowfall make for a scenic backdrop, but visitors should be aware that they also present a considerable danger of avalanche conditions.

Nearby Attractions

The town of Lincoln is about 20 miles of groomed snowmobile trail away and offers several options for eateries and local shops. Visitors can also ski or walk through the Blackfoot Pathways Sculpture Park on groomed trails, or visit the High Country Jerky store for delicious snacks and interesting items. Lincoln hosts the Race to the Sky dogsledding race in February and a Ski-joring event that usually takes place in January of each year.

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Nevada Creek Cabin Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

This historic one room log cabin is located on National Forest lands along the upper reaches of Nevada Creek, between Avon and Helmville, MT. Thick forests, steep slopes, and wide open ridges define the landscape and visitors can access the adjacent road-less area with trails leading directly from the cabin to multiple destinations, including the Continental Divide. Nevada Creek is a small fish bearing stream with open grassy stream banks and clear running water. Once on public land, the stream is accessible by road or trail for its entire length.  

In a thick lodgepole pine forest at 5,400 ft. elevation, visitors will be able to find wildlife, huckleberries, scenic views and evidence of a rich mining history right outside the cabin’s door.  

The cabin is located a short distance behind a gate and offers excellent opportunities for solitude and exploration. The area is fairly remote and lightly traveled so visitors should prepare accordingly.

The cabin has 1 bunk bed, 1 full size bed, a wood stove, propane stove, and propane lights in addition to other standard amenities.  

Recreation

Hiking, horse riding, fishing, hunting, berry picking, photography, and exploration are all great recreational activities in this area.  

Hikers and horse riders can head out from the cabin and connect to the Continental Divide Trail on the Nevada Creek Trail #466 in about 5 miles of gentle terrain. At over 3,000 miles in length, the CDT stretches from Canada to Mexico and is one of the gems of the National Trail System. From the top of the Divide visitors are treated to sweeping views of the Northern Rocky Mountains and the valleys, prairies, and ranges beyond.

Other trails in the area include the Prickly-Nevada Trail, Helmville-Gould Trail and Washington Gulch. All trails in the immediate area are non-motorized, please respect travel regulations in the area in order to provide for a non-motorized recreational experience.

Facilities

The Nevada Creek cabin is a single room log cabin with log framed beds, wood stove, propane stove, propane lights, vault toilet and a picnic area. There is a hand pump and well near the cabin for potable water. There is one bunkbed and 1 single bed located in the cabin with mattresses, but guests should plan to bring in bedding or a sleeping bag. A propane stove and lights are available for use. Propane is provided for guests at this facility, but please use the available gas responsibly. Remember to always turn the propane supply off to the cabin when not in use. A shut off valve is located on the interior eastern wall.  

Dishes, Pots, Pans, Cutlery, and basic kitchen utensils are supplied at the cabin. There are cleaning supplies at the cabin and guests are encouraged to use them in order to keep the facility clean for the next visitors.  

Natural Features

The entire area to the North, East, and South is protected as an Inventoried Roadless Area and has thus far escaped large scale development by civilization. Visitors have the opportunity to experience a slice of a largely intact ecosystem in the northern Rocky Mountains. Nevada Creek is corralled on both sides of the drainage by steep slopes thickly covered in an aging lodgepole pine forest interspersed with grassy meadows along the spine of the Continental Divide.

The creek offers grassy meadows and willow covered banks with small pools for bathing and cooling off in the hot summer months. 

The huckleberry and blueberry picking in the area can be excellent. Elk and Deer are common in the area as well and the cabin is ideally situated for a hunting trip.

Nearby Attractions

This is a remote cabin and most attractions in this area are based around outdoor activities. The Nevada Reservoir is nearby and offers a floating opportuinity for small boats.

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Lost Horse Cabin Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Lost Horse Cabin is located 35 miles west of Helena, Montana, on public land managed by the Helena Ranger District of the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. The cabin was acquired by the Forest Service in 2017 and is a rustic retreat for guests seeking relaxation and recreation in west-central Montana. The cabin is typically accessible by car; however, heavy amounts of snow in winter can close the last 2 miles of the road to vehicles. Access to the cabin once the snow sets in is via a 2-mile stretch of road passable by snowmobile, snowshoe, skis or dog sled. Guests must be prepared to pack in their own supplies.

Recreation

Hiking, hunting, photography, and exploration are all great recreational activities in this area. There is an extensive road system not far from the cabin area (to the south and east) where many people use trucks or ride off-highway vehicles in the summer and fall to see the general area and old mining relics. As the crow flies, the cabin is just four miles east of the Continental Divide. The area to the west and north is sparsely roaded and offers an off-trail, remote experience. 

Facilities

The cabin is furnished with 2 sets of bunk beds, with mattresses, and four cots that can accommodate up to 8 people. A wood stove is provided for heat and there is also a Monarch cookstove in the cabin. Other amenities include lanterns, a table and chairs, cleaning supplies, a propane cooking stove, dishes, utensils, and some cookware. An outhouse with vault toilet is nearby. An axe and snow shovel are provided. Firewood may be available, but it is not guaranteed. The cabin is not wired for electricity, and water is not available so guests should bring a sufficient amount of water for drinking, cooking, and washing. Fuel and mantels are not provided for the propane stove or lantern, so guests should bring a couple of small propane cylinders, as well as backup lighting. Items to bring include water, sleeping bags, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags. Guests are expected to pack out all trash and food and clean the cabin before leaving. This is a remote location and no commerical stores or services are near the cabin.

Natural Features

The cabin sits along a small intermittent creek at an elevation of 5,200 feet in the Divide Mountains. The region boasts a coniferous forest with mixed fir and pine trees. The Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest offers many streams and fishing opportunities. Native wildlife includes black and grizzly bears, mule-deer and white-tailed deer, elk, and mountain lions. The area also hosts many upland bird species.

Nearby Attractions

This is a remote cabin and most attractions in this area are based around outdoor activities.

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Quigley Group Use Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Quigley Group Use Site sits in forested mountain terrain on the top of MacDonald Pass about 15 miles west of Helena, Montana. Quigley is on public land managed by the Helena Ranger District of the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest and is adjacent to the Continental Divide National Scenic (CDNST) trail. Located right on the Continental Divide at 6,300 feet elevation, there are spectacular views of surrounding country encompassing meadows, timbered slopes, and mountains. The site is available for rental from June 1 to October 15 each year and closed at all other times.

Recreation

Quigley Group Use offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to hike, bike and enjoy a long list of outdoor recreational activities on and around the Continental Divide Trail system. Hunting, photography, and exploration are all great recreational activities in this area. There is an extensive road system 10 miles to the west (Little Blackfoot) and five miles to the east (Rimini and Priest Pass) where many people use trucks or ride off-highway vehicles in the summer and fall to see the general area and old mining relics. The area to the south and north is sparsely roaded and offers a non-motorized, more remote experience.

Facilities

Quigley Group Use Site is an undeveloped camping area able to accommodate approximately 40 people. There is limited trailer parking and trailers should not exceed 20 feet in length. Space is available for 10-12 four-person tents. There are no camper hook ups and water is not available. There is one vault toilet on-site. Large groups staying for a longer period often choose to have portable toilet(s) delivered at the start of thier stay and pickup up before the end of their stay, at their own expense.

Natural Features

At an elevation of 6,300 feet, beneath a canopy of lodgepole pine and Douglas fir trees, this Group Site is an ideal setting for larger families or groups seeking relaxation and recreation. Nearby rugged ridges, meadows, forests and grasslands provide wildlife diverse ecosystems. Grizzly bear, deer, elk, gray wolf, moose, black bear, mountain lion, all call the area home.

Nearby Attractions

The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (CDNST) mile 616 is just a few hundred feet from the group use site, and the CDNST runs due north and south from there. The City of Helena is about 15 miles away via US Highway 12. Note, the area is near a fee campground and a trailhead, and both are well used by the general public all summer long. The area is not remote, and users can expect to encounter other people recreating.

contact_info

For facility specific information, please call (406) 449-5201.

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Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest Christmas Tree Permit Tree Permit

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MOOSE CREEK CABIN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Moose Creek Cabin is situated in an grassy clearing surrounded by conifer forest in the Tenmile Creek drainage west of Helena, Montana. The cabin was constructed in 1907 and used by the Forest Service during the early history of the agency. It has served as a Forest Service Ranger Station, guard station, and work center for the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Today, the cabin is a rustic retreat for guests seeking relaxation and recreation. The cabin is accessible by car, but guests should park on the adjacent road and cross a footbridge to get to the cabin. Many amenities are offered at the cabin, so guests only need to bring a few of their own supplies.

Recreation

Hikers and backpackers can access the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail from trails found near the cabin. This is a non-motorized trail with spectacular views and a variety of terrain, open to mountain bikers, stock users, backpackers and day hikers. The trail transitions through thick forest to above tree line and offers spectacular views both east and west of the Continental Divide.

Moose Creek is a stream located just 11.4 miles from Helena. The creek supports a variety of fish, including redear sunfish, rainbow trout and brook trout. Whether spinning, fly fishing or baitcasting, chances of getting a bite here are good.

Winter play includes cross-country skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing.

Facilities

Moose Creek Cabin has electricity and is designed for up to 4 guests. One bedroom is furnished with a queen size bed and the other with 2 twin beds, all with mattresses. The kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs, dishes, utensils, cookware and propane cook stove, that include a stove and lights. The living room has a fireplace. An outhouse with vault toilet is located on-site. A picnic table and campfire ring offer comfortable outdoor dining. Firewood may available, but it is not guaranteed. There is no water on site, so guests must bring a sufficient supply for drinking, cooking and washing. Guests should bring their own sleeping bags, lanterns or flashlights, towels, dish soap, matches, toilet paper and garbage bags. All garbage must be packed out, and guests are expected to clean the cabin before leaving. No firewood provided from June 1st - August 31.

Natural Features

The area around the cabin offers a variety of landscapes, from river banks to subalpine terrain. Valley bottoms, dense forests, meadows and barren ridges are mixed with streams, rivers, and lakes.

Wildlife in the area abounds. Elk, deer, squirrels and a variety of birds are commonly seen. The more elusive badger, mountain lion and lynx find habitat in nearby areas as well.

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KENCK CABIN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Guests can stay at Kenck Cabin for a rustic getaway in the fresh mountain air. The cabin was built in 1924 by a traveling doctor who arrived in the area in 1904 and spent his entire career along the Rocky Mountain Front. In 2003 the property was donated to the Forest Service by the Kenck Family Trust, and it has since been listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

Recreation

Guests can relax by the stream, watch for birds and hike the surrounding area. Photographers will particularly enjoy the views of Patrol Lookout found by the gate to the cabin.

Facilities

Kenck is comprised of one room that sleeps six on a double bed, a futon that turns into a double bed and two cots. Heating and cooking is from two wood stoves, and firewood is provided. Cooking utensils and dishes are also provided. The cabin has a replica of an old monarch stove and classic wood dining chairs.

No water is available. Renters should bring their own drinking water or be prepared to filter or boil stream water. A bucket and shovel is provided. An outhouse is available directly behind the cabin. Items to bring include bedding, flashlights, food, small propane cylinders for the lanterns and a cooler. (Click here for more cabin details.)

Natural Features

Perched at an elevation of about 5,200 feet, the cabin sits near a series of flowing water, including Benchmark Creek, South Fork Sun River and Burned Creek. The surrounding area is a mixed conifer forest.

Lewis and Clark National Forest boasts 1,600 miles of streams and a mix of small natural and man-made lakes. Native wildlife includes grizzly and black bears, white-tailed deer, bald eagles, lynx, bighorn sheep and grey wolves.

Nearby Attractions

The nearest town with conveniences is Augusta. The distance is about 30 miles, but due to rough, winding gravel roads, travel time can take an hour and a half to two hours.

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CALF CREEK CABIN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Calf Creek Cabin sits in the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. The cabin offers a prime location for fishing, hiking and horseback riding and OHVing. Running water is not included, but the nearby creek provides fresh water. A hitching rack is also available for horses.

Access from December 1 to May 15 is via snowmobile, snowshoes or skis on a groomed 7 mile trail. (Wheeled vehicles aare prohibited during the December 1 to May 15 time frame).

Recreation

Nearby hunting, fishing and off-road vehicle riding trails are abundant. Horseback riders and hikers horses enjoy the climb north along East Fork Calf Creek to Bubbling Springs in the Tenderfoot Experimental Forest. Calf Creek tempts anglers with mountain whitefish, cutthroat, brook and rainbow trout.

Winter recreation includes cross country skiing, snow shoeing and snowmobiling.

Facilities

The newer rustic cabin fits six guests and provides propane lights and a propane cooking stove. Both the cabin and the outdoor year-round vault toilet are wheelchair accessible. A wood stove for heating and firewood is included. DO NOT USE THE SUPPLIED FIREWOOD FOR OUTSIDE FIRES. Pots, pans, dishes, and utensils are on hand. Though no electricity is available, the cabin comes with electrical outlets, and guests are allowed to bring a generator to hook up to the cabin. Plug-in for generator is a normal 110 plug-in.



Visitors should plan to bring plenty of water for drinking, cooking and cleaning purposes. Other items to bring; food, matches, garbage bags, toilet paper, flashlights, bedding, towels, cleaning supplies and warm clothing. Guest must clean the cabin/toilet completely, pack out all food and trash upon departure. Wood box should be fill upon departure. NO PETS ALLOWED IN CABIN. (Click here for more cabin details.)

Natural Features

The cabin sits along Calf Creek at an elevation of 5,400 feet in the Little Belt Mountains. The region boasts a dense coniferous forest with mixed fir, spruce and pine trees. The Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest offers many streams and fishing opportunities. Native wildlife includes black bears, mule-deer white-tailed deer, bald eagles, elk, bears and mountian lions.

Nearby Attractions

White Sulphur Springs, 1 hour south, provides the nearest food, fuel, and other conveniences. Smith River and Tenderfoot Falls  

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HUNTERS SPRING CABIN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Hunters Spring provides a serene escape in the mountains of central Montana. The cabin is open year-round and is secured with a combination lock. It is a prime destination for hunting, hiking, off-highway vehicle riding, snowmobiling and cross country skiing enthusiasts. The cabin is a great launching point for whatever type of recreation you wish to do. Hunters Spring Cabin is a must on your next destination plans! Summer access is via a gravel Forest Service 274 up to the cabin. The combination for the cabin will also open the gate to the driveway of the cabin. Access in the winter months is by snowmobile, skis or snowshoes only. The road is not plowed and not open to wheeled vehicles between December 1 - (generally) April 15. Please contact Belt Office at 406-236-55111 or the Harlowton Office at 406-632-4391 for more information on road conditions.

Recreation

Open year-round, the surrounding area offers outdoor recreation opportunities including hunting, hiking, off-highway vehicle riding, cross country skiing, snowmobiling and snowshoeing.

Facilities

The rustic two-story cabin sleeps up to eight guests in three roomy bedrooms. The kitchen is outfitted with a propane cook stove, refrigerator and a wood stove for heat. The dining room is furnished with a table and chairs. The firewood suppied is limited for the wood stove, DO NOT USE FIREWOOD FOR OUTSIDE FIRES. Cooking pots, pans, dishes and utensils are on hand in the kitchen. Dogs are not permitted inside the cabin.

No water, No electricity or sewer is provided. Guests should bring plenty of water, for drinking, cooking, and cleaning purposes, cleaning supplies, bedding, food, warm clothing, toilet paper, flashlights, matches, garbage bags and other basic camping items. Guest must clean the cabin/toilet completely and pack out all food, trash upon departure. Wood box should be filled before departure. (Click here for more cabin details.)

Natural Features

Hunters Spring is located in the Little Belt Mountains near Whitetail Creek at an altitude of about 6,400 feet. Lodgepole pine and Douglas fir can be found in the area, and deer and elk are common.

Nearby Attractions

The nearest towns are Harlowton and White Sulphur Springs. Both are about an hour's drive from the cabin.

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WEST FORK CABIN (W OF CHOTEAU) Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

West Fork Cabin is a rustic Forest Service Guard Station located 39 miles northwest of Choteau, Montana, on the Rocky Mountain Front Range. The cabin is a stone’s throw from the North Fork Teton River and about 3.5 miles beyond Teton Pass Ski Resort. Open year-round, the cabin provides access to a wide range of summer and winter recreation activities such as hiking, fishing, horseback riding, cross country skiing and snowshoeing.

This rustic cabin is accessible via paved county road, then gravel Forest Service road. During the winter months when the ski area is operating, the Forest Service gravel road is plowed to the ski area. Beyond that point, guests will need to ski, showshoe or snowmobile to travel the last 3.5 miles to the cabin. The cabin is available year-round for rental, seven days a week. Contact the Ranger District for current road conditions.

Recreation

Recreation opportunities include hiking, horseback riding, fishing, snowmobiling, cross country skiing and snowshoeing. Downhill skiing is offered at the ski resort located about 3.5 miles from the cabin.

Facilities

The single-room cabin is divided into a kitchen and dining area plus a sleeping area. It sleeps six adults with two sets of bunk beds and two folding cots. A vault toilet is located outside.

The cabin is heated by propane, and a limited amount of firewood is provided for the wood stove. A propane cook stove is also included. Although a ramp leads into the cabin and outhouse, the interior is not designed to meet accessibility standards.

No electricity or refrigerator is available so guests will need to bring coolers. The area is covered by a special food storage regulation from March 1 through December 15 designed to minimize bear/human conflicts. All food must be stored in bear resistant containers or inside the cabin or a hard-sided vehicle when unattended. Water is available at a hand pump outside the cabin. Recommended items to bring include sleeping bags, food, toilet paper, a lantern, towels, matches and first aid kit.

Natural Features

Set in the Rocky Mountain Front Range, the cabin sits in the valley of the North Fork Teton River near Mount Werner and Mount Wright.

Lewis and Clark National Forest boasts 1,600 miles of streams and several small natural and man-made lakes. Native wildlife includes grizzly and black bears, white-tailed deer, bald eagles, lynx, bighorn sheep and grey wolves.

Nearby Attractions

Food, fuel and other supplies are available in Choteau, 39 miles from the cabin.

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CRYSTAL LAKE CABIN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Crystal Lake Cabin provides sweeping views of Crystal Lake in the heart of the Big Snowy Mountains of Central Montana. Located about 20 miles south of Lewistown, the cabin adjoins Crystal Lake Campground, providing conveniences like a picnic area and boat ramp for non-motorized boats. Recreation opportunities abound, including floating, fishing, canoeing and hiking.

Access from December 1 through June 15 is by snowshoe, snowmobile, cross country skiing or hiking for 6 miles.

Recreation

The Ice Caves Trail leads hikers to the ridgetop of the Big Snowy Mountains, where it intersects with the Crystal Cascades Trail Bypass. The Lake Loop Trail trailhead, located at the north end of the Crystal Lake Campground, takes hikers to Grand View Trail Junction and additional ridgetop views. Both the Ice Caves Trail and Grand View Trail may be impacted by winter snow as late as the first part of July.

The lake freezes over and ice fishing is possible if the ice is thin enough for fish to survive. In summer months, the lake is stocked with rainbow trout. Kayaking and canoeing is popular.

Facilities

The one-room rustic cabin, accommodates up to six guests. Beds with mattresses, a cooking stove and a wood stove for heat is included. The firewood supplied is limited and only for use in the wood stove and guests are asked to restock the wood box in the cabin prior to departure. DO NOT USE THE SUPPLIED FIREWOOD FOR OUTSIDE FIRES. A vault toilet is located outside for year-round use. The cabin is furnished with pots, pans, dishes and utensils. Propane lights are provided but no electricity is available.



Guests should plan to bring plenty of water for drinking, cooking and cleaning purposes. Other items to bring: cleaning supplies, bedding, food, cooler, toilet paper, matches, flashlight, garbage bags and other personal necessities. Guest must clean the cabin/toilet completely, pack out all food and trash upon departure. NO PETS ALLOWED INSIDE CABIN. (Click here for more cabin details.)

Natural Features

The cabin sits near the shores of Crystal Lake. The beautiful lake spans 45 acres at an elevation of 5,700 feet. With a maximum depth of 15 feet, the lake seeps fresh water through a porous limestone bottom. The lake generally freezes in the winter.



The Big Snowy Mountains, lush with mixed conifers, rise up from the lake, providing spectacular views. The highest peaks in the mountain range reach 8,600 feet.

Nearby Attractions

Crystal Lake, Ice Caves

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DRY WOLF CABIN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Dry Wolf Cabin is located about 20 miles southwest of Stanford, Montana, in the Little Belt Mountains. The rustic cabin is conveniently located along Dry Wolf Creek, providing a pleasant setting for anglers, wildlife watchers and hikers.

When snow arrives, access on the graveled county road is by four-wheel-drive only.

Recreation

Anglers seek brook and rainbow trout in Dry Wolf Creek. A variety of horseback riding and hiking trails originate within a few miles of the cabin. Trails for mountain bikers and off-road vehicle riders are also in the area. Cross country skiing is popular in winter months.

Facilities

The cabin is a one-room structure that sleeps five. Amenities include a propane cook stove, propane lights and a wood stove for heat. Firewood is provided and is located in the storage shed near the cabin. DO NOT USE THE SUPPLIED FIREWOOD FOR OUTSIDE FIRES. Dishes, pots, pans and utensils are available, and a vault toilet is located year-round outside.



No water or electricity is included. Guests are expected to bring plenty of water for drinking, cooking, and cleaning purposes. other items to bring: cleaning supplies, bedding, towels, matches food, water, garbage bags, a cooler, flashlights, toilet paper and personal necessities. Guest must claen the cabin/toilet completely, pack out all food and trash upon dearture. Wood box should be filled before departure.(Click here for more cabin details.)



Pets are not allowed in the cabin, but can be kept outside.

Natural Features

The cabin is nestled along Dry Wolf Creek at an elevation of 5,600 feet. Dry Wolf Creek is a tributary of the Judith River and flows north for about 40 miles in the Little Belt Mountains. Surrounding peaks include Gibson Peak and Butcherknife Mountain.

Nearby Attractions

Groceries and fuel may be found in Stanford, approximately 20 miles from the cabin. Bandbox Mountain, about an hour's drive, is a good place to hunt for marine fossils that are more than 100 million years old.

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JUDITH GUARD STATION Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Judith Guard Station is a historic Ranger Station dating back to the early 1900s. Designated as a National Historic Site, the cabin is decorated with historically accurate furnishings and wallpaper. It is just a stone's throw from the Middle Fork of the Judith River and a small campground with a picnic area. Mandatory bear food storage requirements apply, with specfic compliance information posted at the cabin. The cabin, located about 30 miles south of Stanford, may be accessed by regular passenger vehicle until snow season. The road is usually plowed within 2 miles of the station, and a four-wheel-drive vehicle can often make the trip. In times of heavy snowfall, the last half-mile to the cabin may require a snowmobile, skis or snowshoes.

Recreation

Hiking, OHVing, hunting and mountain biking opportunities abound. Nearby hunting includes deer and elk in designated areas. Snow shoeing and cross country skiing are popular activities during the winter months.

Facilities

The two-story frame building has a modern vault toilet outside and a porch with chairs. Furnishings include propane cook stove and heat, beds to fit eight guests, table and chairs plus cooking utensils are provided in the kitchen. Portable propane lanterns are available, but users must bring their own propane cylinders.

A hand well with drinking water is available outside from May to September. No water is available during the winter so guests should bring plenty of water during this time period. Guests are asked to bring garbage bags, toilet paper, flashlights, bedding, an ice chest and all personal toiletries. Click here for more cabin details.

Natural Features

Judith Guard Station sits at an elevation of 5,000 feet on the northern banks of the Middle Fork of the Judith River. The region boasts wooded hills topped with Ponderosa Pine, lodgepole pine and Douglas fir.

Wildlife in the area includes deer, elk, bear, bobcats and montain lions.

Nearby Attractions

Judith River State Wildlfe Management Area lies north of the cabin and Middle fork of the Judith River in close proximity .Grocery stores and gas is available in Stanford, about 30 miles from the cabin. Sapphire Village 5 miles to the northeast

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MONUMENT PEAK LOOKOUT Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Monument Peak Lookout offers guests an impressive yet rustic room with a view. The lookout, built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, is perched atop Monument Peak, boasting spectacular 360 degree views of the Little Belt Mountains. The lookout was once used to spot forest fires but was left unused since the 1970s. In 1999, the lookout was removed from its 50 foot pole, restored and placed on a short, solid foundation for public rental use. A high clearance vehicle is recommended, as the 2 miles of road leading up to the cabin are rough and rocky. During wet conditions the entie road may be muddy and often times slippery. The Lookout/Cabin is avaialble for rental between June 1 and Novemebr 30 and is closed for the remainder of the year .

Recreation

Small and big game hunting is popular in the area. Hiking, OHVing and wildlife viewing are also enjoyed.

Facilities

The rustic lookout has two beds with mattresses, two propane lanterns, a table and chairs and a propane cooking stove. Pots, pans, dishes and utensils are included but are limited. A vault toilet is about 100 feet from the structure. No water, electricity or plumbing is available. Recommended items to bring include drinking water, bedding, flashlights, food, small propane canisters, firewood, matches and a cooler. ( Click here ) for more cabin details.

Natural Features

The lookout sits at 7,395 feet in elevation, offering views of Monument Ridge and Strawberry Ridge. The surrounding region is a dense coniferous forest with fir, spruce and pine trees. Lewis and Clark National Forest has many miles of streams and fishing opportunities. Native wildlife includes black bears, mule-deer, white-tailed deer, elk, bald eagles, mountain lions and other species.

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KINGS HILL CABIN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Kings Hill Cabin, perched on Kings Hill Pass, presents the opportunity to stay in a historic log cabin built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. The hideaway is very quiet, with minimal highway noise. Open year-round, the cabin provides access to a mix of summer and winter recreation activities: Summer recreation opportunities include hiking, OHV'ing, birding, sight seeing. Winter activities include snowmobiling, snowshoeing, downhill sking at Showdown Ski Area which is just across US HWY 89 and Silver Crest Cross Country Groomed groomed trail system, located approximatley 2 mile north of the cabin off US HWY 89

Access to cabin is on an easy-to-drive paved road. However, visitors should expect to hike 100 yards from a parking area to the cabin in winter months.

Recreation

Small and big game hunting are popular in the area. Hiking and OHV trails are nearby and wildlife watching is a pleasing activity. In winter, snowshoes are available for loan at the Belt Creek Ranger Station, and cross country skiing is a popular activity. The cabin is across the highway from the Showdown Ski Area and approximately 2 miles from the SIlver Crest Groomed Cross Country ski trail system with 8 miles of groomed cross country ski trails.. The cabin is also a main take off point to access approximately 260 miles of groomed snowmbile trails.

Facilities

The two-room, rustic historic cabin accommodates up to six guests and provides electricity. Amenities include lights, a refrigerator, microwave and a stove. A wood stove and firewood are provided. The firewood supplied is limited and only for use in the wood stove for cabin heating. DO NOT USE THE SUPPLIED FIREWOOD FOR OUTSIDE FIRES. The bedroom is furnished with three bunk beds. The kitchen has a dining table and chairs, pots, pans, dishes and utensils. A vault toilet is located outside for year-round use.

No running water is available. Guests will need to bring plenty of water for drinking, cooking and cleaning purposes, cleaning supplies, food, bedding, towels, toilet paper, warm clothing, matches, garbage bags, flashlight and all other basic camping items you desire. Guests must clean the cabin/toilet completely, pack out all food and trash upon departure. Wood box should be filled before departure. Click here for more cabin details.

Natural Features

The cabin sits just 100 yards off the highway in a deep woods setting of lodgepole pine,at an elevation of 7,600 feet. Showdown Ski Area is to the west. Sheep Creek flows to the south and Belt Creek flows to the north of the Cabin location.

Nearby Attractions

Groceries and fuel can be found in White Sulphur Springs, a 28.5-mile drive from the cabin. A small grocery store is located in Neihart, MT, approximately 12 miles north of the cabin.

Showdown Ski Area, Kings Hill Winter Recreation Parking lot, Highway 89 Scenic Byway

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KADING CABIN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Kading Cabin is located 16 miles south of Elliston, Montana in Helena National Forest. This site has served the Forest Service since the early 1900s when the agency was forming. It was selected for its central location, trail and wagon road accessibility, and telephone line service at the time, ensuring that it would be valuable for both administrative and protective work.

The present cabin was built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Renovations and repairs were made to the facility in the 1960s and again in the early 1990s. Today, the cabin is a rustic retreat for guests seeking relaxation and recreation in central Montana.

The cabin is typically accessible by car; however, heavy amounts of snow in winter can close the road to vehicles. Access to the cabin is via a 7-mile stretch of road passable by snowmobile, snowshoe, skis or dog sled. Guests must be prepared to pack in several of their own supplies.

Recreation

Plenty of hiking, fishing and wildlife viewing opportunities exist along the numerous trails and roads that can be accessed within a short distance from the cabin.

Fly fishing on the Little Blackfoot River is excellent. Brown trout are found in good numbers and large sizes below Elliston. Brook and cutthroat trout are found above Elliston. Whitefish can be found throughout the length of the river.

In winter, guests will enjoy snowshoeing, skiing and snowmobiling on trails throughout the area.

Facilities

The cabin is furnished with 2 sets of bunk beds with mattresses that can accommodate up to 4 people. A wood stove is provided for heat. Other amenities include propane lanterns, a table and chairs, cleaning supplies, a propane cooking stove, dishes, utensils and some cookware.

An outhouse with vault toilet is nearby. An axe and snow shovel are provided. Firewood may be available, but it is not guaranteed. A water spigot is located outside the cabin and operates most of the winter.

The cabin is not wired for electricity, and water is not always available in winter. Fuel is not provided for the propane stove or lanterns, so guests should bring a couple of small propane cylinders, as well as backup lighting.

Items to bring include sleeping bags, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags. Guests are expected to pack out all trash and food and clean the cabin before leaving.

No firewood provided from June 1st - August 31

Natural Features

Hemmed in by old-growth, conifer forest, Kading Cabin sits at the edge of a grassy clearing. The Little Blackfoot River flows near the cabin, a tributary to the Upper Clark Fork watershed. It drains an area of 265,300 acres from the Boulder Mountains north of Butte and west of Helena.

The area around the cabin offers a variety of landscapes, from river banks to subalpine terrain. Valley bottoms, dense forests, meadows and barren ridges are mixed with streams, rivers, and lakes.

Wildlife in the area abounds. Elk, deer, squirrels and a variety of birds are commonly seen. The more elusive badger, wolverine, mountain lion and lynx find habitat in nearby areas as well.

Nearby Attractions

Plenty of historic mines are scattered throughout the area, including Charter Oak Mine and the Mill and the Monarch Mine.

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INDIAN FLATS CABIN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Indian Flats Cabin is nestled in a hollow of old-growth trees in the shadow of Hogback Mountain, offering a remote lodging experience in the Big Belt Mountains in west-central Montana.

The present Indian Flats Guard Station started its days as the Conway Station on Rock Creek in the Jim Ball Basin. The cabin was constructed in 1944 and replaced the original Conway Station. Rangers used this cabin when fulfilling duties in the area. In 1969, the cabin was relocated to its present location below Indian Flats.

During the summer and fall months, the cabin is typically accessible by car. During the winter months, poor road conditions and heavy amounts of snow can be present. Access to the cabin during snow conditions is via an 8-mile stretch of road passable by snowmobiling, snowshoeing or skiing. Guests should be prepared to pack in many of their own supplies.

Recreation

Plenty of opportunities are available for hiking, mountain biking and wildlife viewing near Indian Flats Cabin.

A hike through nearby Refrigerator Canyon passes through a 10-foot wide, 200-foot high canyon that was carved through limestone rock by a small mountain stream. The canyon is appropriately named, as breezes blowing over the stream and through the canyon's rock walls cause evaporative cooling, creating temperatures 20 degrees cooler than surrounding areas.

An active fire lookout sits at the top of Hogback Mountain near the cabin. The Lookout is accessible by passenger vehicle and is manned by Forest Service personnel from mid-June through September. A short walk from the lookout offers spectacular panoramic views into Beaver Creek Canyon and surrounding landscapes.

Facilities

The single-room cabin is furnished with 2 sets of bunk beds with mattresses and accommodates up to 4 people. A wood stove provides heat for the cabin and a propane stove is available for cooking. The kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs, propane lantern, cleaning supplies, dishes, utensils and cookware.

An axe and snow shovel are provided. Firewood may be available, but it is not guaranteed. An outhouse with vault toilet is located nearby.

There is no electricity or water at this facility. Guests must bring a sufficient amount of water for drinking, cooking and washing, as well as 1 or 2 small propane cylinders to use for the lantern or stove.

Guests need to bring their own sleeping bags, flashlights, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags. All trash and food must be packed out, and guests are expected to clean the cabin before leaving.

No firewood provided from June 1st - August 31

Natural Features

Indian Flats Cabin is backed by mixed conifer forest, and a small stream flows in front of it. Hogback Mountain is located within a mile of the cabin at an elevation of 7,813 feet.

The area around the cabin offers a variety of landscapes, from river banks to subalpine terrain. Valley bottoms, dense forests, meadows and barren ridges are mixed with streams, rivers and lakes.

Wildlife in the area abounds. Elk, deer, squirrels and a variety of birds are commonly seen. The more elusive badger, wolverine, mountain lion and lynx find habitat in nearby areas as well.

Nearby Attractions

The Gates of the Mountains Wilderness and the Missouri River are a short drive from the cabin, offering chances to explore.

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Aspen Grove Group Use Area (Helena-Lewis and Clark NF, MT) Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Aspen Grove Group Use Campground sits in forested mountain terrain on the banks of the Blackfoot River in the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. At an elevation of 4,800 feet beneath a canopy of cottonwood, aspen, juniper, Lodgepole pine and Douglas fir, this campground is an ideal setting for larger families or groups seeking relaxation and recreation.  It is seperated fom the rest of the campground and offers guests there ownprivate  area, bathroom, water spigot, and parking.

Recreation

Aspen Grove Group Campground offers outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to hike, fish, bike, hunt and enjoy a long list of outdoor recreational activities throughout the year. Indian Meadows Trailhead, located approximately 9 miles from Aspen Grove, offers access to a number of hiking trails in the Scapegoat Wilderness. Alice Creek Trailhead, located approximately 15 miles from Aspen Grove, also offers hiking opportunities into the Scapegoat Wilderness and along the Lewis and Clark historic trail to Lewis and Clark Pass. Visitors can also access the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail in several different locations around the Lincoln Valley.  The CDT offers sweeping views of the area and highlights the marked change in landscape on either side of the Divide. The Blackfoot River, adjacent to the campground, is renowned for its recreational opportunities, most notably fly fishing. The Blackfoot is a fast, cold river with many deep spots, making it prime habitat for populations of cutthroat, rainbow, and brown trout.

Facilities

Aspen Grove Group Campground has six sites, able to accommodate 40 people and a maximum of 15 vehicles, including trailers up to a maximum of 20 feet. Space is available for 10-15 four-person tents.

The site is equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings, drinking water and vault toilets.

Access to Blackfoot River is within walking distance from the campground.

Natural Features

Visitors to the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest are treated spectacular scenery as well as an abundance of natural and cultural resources in the area. Rugged ridges, alpine meadows, forests, grasslands and rivers provide wildlife diverse ecosystems. Grizzly bear, lynx, wolverine, deer, elk, gray wolf, moose, black bear, mountain lion, mountain goat and mountain sheep all call the area home.

Nearby Attractions

Located in Northwestern Montana on both sides of the Continental Divide, the Scapegoat Wilderness-Bob Marshall Wilderness Complex is more than 1.5 million acres, the third largest in the lower 48 states. The Lewis and Clark Expedition of 1804-1806 spent many months traveling through the varied scenery of Montana. Many areas of the landscape along the expedition's route on the Helena National Forest look much the same as in 1805-1806. Visit the routes of the famous explorers on public lands in Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. Click here for more information about the Lewis and Clark National Historic Trail.

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CUMMINGS CABIN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Located 8.5 miles east of Lincoln, Montana, Cummings Cabin is a historic structure, representative of the old mining cabins that dotted the countryside in the greater Lincoln area around 1910. The cabin has been determined eligible for inclusion to the National Register of Historic Places. Today, the cabin is a rustic getaway for guests seeking relaxation and recreation in the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. The cabin has a hand pump for water, propane range, propane lights, a wood stove, silverware, dishes, cleaning supplies, outdoor fire ring, 2 full size beds and one twin bed.  In the snow free months guests can drive directly to the cabin, but in the winter be prepared to snow shoe or ski up to a mile to get to the cabin. 

Recreation

Guests can access numerous trails within a half hour drive of the cabin. The Lincoln valley is bounded by the Continental Divide Trail to the east and visitors can access this trail in numerous places from Cummings Cabin.  Guests can also explore the Scapegoat Wilderness and the Lewis and Clark Historic trail while visiting the area.  OHV enthusiasts can ride directly from the cabin to access the Hogum Creek ATV trail which connects up to Crater Mtn. road and the Stemple Pass area.  Wildlife, flowers, and spectacular views can be seen from many locations in the valley.  The nearby Blackfoot River ranks as one of the most scenic rivers in this part of Montana and Cummings Cabin is located near its headwaters.   Excellent fly fishing can be found within a short distance of the cabin. The cabin also offers winter recreation opportunities with cross-country skiing opportunities out the back door and nearby access to over 200 miles of groomed snowmobile trails.

Facilities

The cabin is furnished with two double beds and one twin bed, all with mattresses, and is able to accommodate up to five people. The kitchen is equipped with a propane range and oven, a variety of pots and pans, plates, bowls, cups, cutlery, a sink that drains into five-gallon buckets, and a table with chairs.



A wood stove and a fireplace are available for use. An axe is available for splitting wood and firewood is usually available on the front porch as well as in the old garage; however, it is not guaranteed. Call the District to confirm the availability of wood at the cabin. A vault toilet is on-site near the cabin.



The cabin does not have electricity or indoor plumbing. There are eight propane lights for renters use with spare mantles usually stocked in the cabinet. Water is available year-round from a hand pump, but may be difficult to draw during extreme cold temperatures. If water is collected from the nearby stream, it should be treated prior to use.



Guests are advised to bring personal items, sleeping bags or blankets, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, first aid kit and garbage bags. All garbage must be packed out, and guests are expected to clean the cabin before leaving. Brooms, mops and basic cleaning supplies are available for renters use.

Propane is provided for visitors. There is a shut off valve on the outer wall of the cabin on the North side. Always turn propane off to the cabin when not in use to avoid gas leaks. Always keep individual propane control knobs to the lights and the stove in the off position when not in use.

Natural Features

The cabin is tucked into a grassy clearing with old-growth conifer forest to one side.

The area around the cabin offers a variety of landscapes, from river banks to subalpine terrain. Valley bottoms, dense forests, meadows and barren ridges are mixed with streams, rivers, and lakes.

Wildlife in the area abounds, including the more common elk, mule and white-tailed deer, squirrel, black bear, and a variety of birds. The more elusive grizzly bear, badger, wolverine, mountain lion, and lynx find habitat here as well.

Nearby Attractions

The town of LIncoln is about 8.5 miles to the West. Guests can visit one of the many local restautrants or bars, tour the Blackfoot Sculpture Park, attend local festivals, and participate in many of organized events that take place in town throughout the year.

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RILLWAY CABIN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Rillway Cabin is located 14 miles east of Townsend, Montana along scenic Deep Creek in Helena National Forest. Its history can be traced to Dr. A.C. Kelly, a physician who arrived in Townsend in 1915 and served as mayor from 1920-1924. In 1918, Dr. Kelly obtained a term permit from the Forest Service for the cabin site. The cabin was built between 1918 and 1922, then sold to Nellie Hale Averill and her son-in-law, Floyd L. Hollaway. By 1924, the cabin was known as "Rillway," a combination of the Averill and Hollaway family names. Today the cabin is a comfortable, rustic getaway for guests seeking relaxation and recreation in west-central Montana. It offers the easiest access of any cabins on the Helena National Forest, being accessible by vehicle year-round. Several amenities are offered, but guests will need to bring some of their own supplies.

Recreation

The cabin offers nearby access to a number of trails and roads. A cross-country ski trail is just up the highway and snowmobiling areas are close by as well. Deep Creek flows adjacent to the cabin, providing anglers with a scenic backdrop for fishing. The creek provides habitat for a variety of trout.

Facilities

The cabin can accommodate up to 6 people and comes furnished with 3 sets of bunkbeds with mattresses. Amenities include a fireplace insert, propane lanterns, a table and chairs, propane cook stove, cleaning supplies, utensils and cookware. An outhouse with vault toilet is near the cabin. An axe and snow shovel are provided. Firewood may be available, but it is not guaranteed. The cabin does not have electricity, running water or indoor plumbing. Guests must bring a sufficient amount of water for drinking, cooking and washing during their stay. Fuel is not provided for the lanterns or propane stove, so guests should bring 1 or 2 small propane cylinders, along with backup lighting. Guests need to provide their own sleeping bags, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags. All trash and food should be packed out, and guests are expected to clean the cabin before leaving. No firewood provided from June 1st - August 31.

Natural Features

The cabin is tucked back near a moss-covered canyon wall with Deep Creek splashing through the backyard. The area around the cabin offers a variety of landscapes, from river banks to subalpine terrain. Valley bottoms, dense forests, meadows and barren ridges are mixed with streams, rivers and lakes. Wildlife in the area abounds, including the more common elk, mule and white- tailed deer, squirrel, black bear, moose and a variety of birds. The more elusive badger, wolverine, mountain lion and lynx find habitat here as well.

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THOMPSON GUARD STATION Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Thompson Guard Station is located in the Big Belt Mountain Range in Helena National Forest. Historical records indicate that the guard station was built in 1954 for rangers in the district, but it may have been used as a cookhouse for a Civilian Conservation Corps camp prior to that date. In later years, engineering and road maintenance crews used the cabin as lodging.

Today, the cabin is a rustic getaway for guests seeking relaxation and recreation in west-central Montana. It is accessible by car, but snow closes the road in winter and access is maintained to within about 4 miles of the cabin on the east side. During these periods, guests should be prepared to reach the cabin by snowshoes, cross-country skis or snowmobile. The cabin offers many amenities, but guests must bring some of their own gear and supplies.

Recreation

Gipsy Lake is 1 mile south of the cabin and is accessible by vehicle. It offers rainbow trout fishing and a launch for non-motorized boats. Another 3 miles south of Gipsy Lake are Hidden Lake, Upper Baldy Lake and Edith Lake.

A number of multi-use trails and roads are in the area, offering chances to hike, mountain bike or ride horses. The winter landscape is ideal for snowshoeing, snowmobiling and cross-country skiing.

Facilities

The guard station is furnished with 4 sets of bunkbeds with mattresses to accommodate up to 8 people. The cabin has a Monarch cook stove, propane lanterns, propane stove and a wood heat stove. Other amenities include a table and chairs, cleaning supplies, dishes, utensils and cookware.

An outhouse with vault toilet, picnic table and a campfire ring are near the cabin. An axe and snow shovel are provided. Firewood may be available, but it is not guaranteed. There is a fenced corral just below the cabin.

The cabin does not have electricity, running water or indoor plumbing. Guests must bring a sufficient amount of water for drinking, cooking and washing. Fuel is not provided for the propane lanterns or stove, so guests should bring 1 or 2 small propane cylinders, along with backup lighting.

Guests need to provide their own sleeping bags, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags. All trash and food should be packed out, and guests are expected to clean the cabin before leaving.

No firewood provided from June 1st - August 31.

Natural Features

Thompson Guard Station sits in a grassy, open clearing backed by mixed conifer forest.

The area around the cabin offers a variety of landscapes, from river banks to subalpine terrain. Valley bottoms, dense forests, meadows and barren ridges are mixed with streams, rivers and lakes.

Wildlife in the area abounds. Elk, mule deer, white-tailed deer, squirrels and a variety of birds are commonly seen. The more elusive badger, wolverine, mountain lion and lynx find habitat here as well.

Nearby Attractions

Canyon Ferry Lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for rainbow trout, perch, ling and walleye. The wildlife viewing near the lake is quite impressive as well. It is one of the best in the country for viewing large concentrations of bald eagles. A wildlife management area at the end of the reservoir is home to a colony of terns and pelicans.

White Sulphur Springs is about 17 miles away and, as the name implies, there is a hot spring open to the public, which is owned by a local motel.

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Bar Gulch Cabin Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Bar Gulch Cabin is located in the Big Belt Mountain Range in Helena National Forest. The cabin was originally constructed in the 1930s on Forest Service lands to be used for mining purposes. Instead, it was used for recreational purposes and issued a special use permit, which was transferred to several owners until it was donated to the Forest Service in 1988.

Today the cabin is a rustic getaway for guests seeking relaxation and recreation in west-central Montana. It is accessible by car, but snow removal is not provided in winter. The cabin offers several amenities, but guests should be prepared to bring some of their own supplies and gear.

Recreation

Guests at the cabin can step out to several hiking opportunities right out the backdoor. Belt Divide Trail and Bar Gulch Trail are favorites in the area. Bar Gulch Trail is actually an old road through a timbered gulch, and is mainly used for hunting.

The Ridge Trail, located along the crest of the Big Belt Mountains, is a favorite for those on foot, offering expansive views of the surrounding mountain ranges as well as overnight camping opportunities.

Guests can take advantage of boating and fishing at Canyon Ferry Lake, which is only five miles away. The lake offers excellent fishing opportunities for rainbow trout, perch, ling and walleye. The wildlife viewing near the lake is quite impressive as well. It is one of the best in the country for viewing large concentrations of bald eagles. A wildlife management area at the end of the reservoir is home to a colony of terns and pelicans.

Facilities

The small, single-room cabin can accommodate up to six people with two bunkbeds and a full-sized bed with mattresses. The cabin has a skylight, an antique cook stove, propane lanterns and a wood stove for heat. The kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs, a propane stove, some cooking utensils and cookware. A picnic table, campfire ring and accessible pit toilet are outside. An axe and snow shovel are available. Firewood may be stocked at the cabin, but it is not guaranteed. The cabin does not have electricity, running water or indoor plumbing. Guests must bring a sufficient amount of water for drinking, cooking and washing during their stay. Propane is not provided for the lanterns or propane stove, so guests must bring one or two small cylinders. Bringing an additional light source is also recommended. Other supplies to bring include sleeping bags, linens, towels, cooking gear, dish soap, matches, first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags. Guests are expected to pack out all trash and food and clean the cabin before leaving. No firewood provided from June 1st - August 31.

Natural Features

Bar Gulch Cabin sits in a grassy, open clearing surrounded by a canopy of mixed-conifer forest.

The area around the cabin offers a variety of landscapes, from river banks to subalpine terrain. Valley bottoms, dense forests, meadows and barren ridges are mixed with streams, rivers and lakes.

The area offers unique opportunities for viewing wildlife. Elk, bighorn sheep, mule and white-tailed deer, black bear, moose and a variety of birds are commonly seen. The more elusive badger, wolverine, mountain lion and lynx find habitat here as well.

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EAGLE GUARD STATION Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Eagle Guard Station is located in high grasslands and surrounded by a scattered forest in the Elkhorn Mountains in west-central Montana.

The former Eagle Creek Ranger Station was built by miner Richard Owen in 1895. While his family lived there, the area was in a booming gold rush. In 1908, the cabin was taken over by the Forest Service for administrative use. It is the oldest administrative log structure on the Helena National Forest, predating the establishment of the Forest.

Today the cabin is a rustic retreat for guests seeking relaxation and recreation. The cabin is accessible by car, but the last 4 miles are only open to foot, horseback and cross-country ski traffic from December 2nd through May 15th. Several amenities are provided, but guests should be prepared to pack in some of their own supplies and gear.

Recreation

Eagle Guard Station provides guests with outstanding opportunities for photography, fishing, hunting, and hiking.

The area offers centralized access to the Elkhorn Mountains with numerous hiking trails and roads leading to the Elkhorn's historical resources. Popular hikes include those to Crow Creek Falls and Poe Park. An interpretive trail is accessible just beyond the cabin.

When snow allows, skiing gives visitors an up-close look at concentrations of wintering elk.

Facilities

The entire site consists of the cabin, a woodshed, vault toilet, barn, horse corrals and a fire ring. The cabin can accommodate up to six people on three sets of bunk beds with mattresses. A wood stove provides heat and a propane camp stove can be used for cooking. The kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs, dishes, propane lantern, utensils and cookware.

An axe and snow shovel are provided. Firewood may be available, but it is not guaranteed.

There is no available potable water or electricity at this facility. Guests must bring a sufficient amount of water for drinking, cooking and washing, as well as one or two small propane canisters to use with the propane stove and lantern.

Guests need to provide their own sleeping bags, flashlights, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, first aid kit, toilet paper and garbage bags. All trash and food should be packed out, and guests should clean the cabin before leaving.

No firewood provided from June 1st - August 31.

Natural Features

Eagle Guard Station is situated on the southeast flanks of the Elkhorn Mountains in a beautiful open grassland setting, an outstanding location for viewing elk.

Crow Creek Falls, the largest waterfall in Helena National Forest, is located within hiking distance of the cabin and is a sanctuary for many wildlife species, including the threatened Canada lynx, the sensitive goshawk and westslope cutthroat trout.

The area offers unique opportunities for viewing wildlife in their natural habitat. Bighorn sheep, mule and white-tailed deer, black bear, moose and a variety of birds are commonly seen. The more elusive badger, wolverine and mountain lion find habitat here as well.

Nearby Attractions

Historic town sites and mining areas such as Elkhorn, Hassel, Ruddville and Diamond Hill mines are nearby for guests interested in the mining history of the Elkhorns.

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Moose Creek Campground Campground

List of Campsites

Moose Creek Campground is located southwest of Helena, Montana.  Travel west of Helena on Highway 12 (about 8 miles) and turn south on Rimini Road #695.  This 9 unit campground is located near other Forest Service features including: rental cabin, picnic area and environmental education trail.  Also located within a short distance is access to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.

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Missouri River Fishing Access Site Facility

The Missouri River Fishing Access is located at the west end of Road #138 and adjacent to the Missouri River and Beaver Creek.  This section of the Missouri River is free-flowing and located between Hauser Dam and Upper Holter Reservoir. There is a scenic trail that parallels the Missouri River between Beaver Creek and Hauser Dam. Along this route, birds such as osprey, bald eagles, great blue herons, American white pelicans and the double-crested cormorant are frequently spotted.

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Gipsy Lake Day Picnic Area Facility

The Gipsy Lake Picnic Site is located adjacent to a small mountain lake on the east side of the Big Belt Mountains. This recreation site can be accessd off the Duck Creek Road #139.

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Flesher Pass Trailhead Facility

This trailhead is located a short distance west of Flesher Pass, off Highway #279.  The facility provides access, both north and south, to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail.  A kiosk providing information is located at the trailhead.

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Dry Creek Trailhead Facility

The Dry Creek Trailhead is located approximately 20 miles northwest of Lincoln, Montana.  The trailhead is access off Road #4106.

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Never Sweat Trailhead Facility

Located off Magpie Road #425 (about 6 miles north of Highway #284) this facility was designed to accomodate large trailers.  The trailhead provides access to motorized trails in the Big Belt Mountains. 

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CRYSTAL LAKE GROUP CAMPSITE Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

The Crystal Lake Group Campground is located in the beautiful Big Snowies south of Lewistown, Montana, at 5,700 feet. Home to the Crystal Lake recreation area, visitors enjoy hiking and fishing in the Snowies.

Recreation

The lake provides opportunities for swimming, fishing and canoeing. The various trails that stem from the Crystal Lake complex provide excellent views and interesting photo opportunities. One trail displays old hieroglyphs in a cave allowing visitors a glimpse of the past.

Facilities

Water is available via a spring faucet and is just down from the camping site. An outhouse is provided next to the parking area for the group site. There is room for parking behind the gate in a parking area or to have two (up to 35’) campers parked there as well. Asphalt walkways and tent pads are present but room in the adjacent meadow can be used for bigger tents. Two large picnic tables are on site and a metal fire ring.

Natural Features

Settled in the basin of Crystal Lake, the group site offers great access to trails and ta short drive or walk to the lake. Some trees are around the campsite but may not offer much shade.

Nearby Attractions

Ice Caves Trail, Cascade Trails and the lake are all located in the complex.

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GRANITE BUTTE LOOKOUT Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

The Granite Butte Lookout is located at 7,587 feet above sea level atop the Continental Divide of North America. The 15' by 15' lookout cabin sits atop a 20' tall wooden tower that was first built in 1932. The structure was rebuilt in 1962 and has been recently renovated. This tower was listed on the national register of historic lookouts in 2008 and offers guests a glimpse into the life of a Forest Service Lookout. Located near Lincoln, MT the lookout offers direct access to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail which stretches along the back bone of the continent from Canada to Mexico. It is accessible by vehicle, but be forewarned, the road is rough towards the end and high-clearance vehicles are recommended. The lookout has the basic amenities including a bed, auxiliary cots, tables, chairs, dishes, cutlery, and a woodstove are provided, but guests should prepare to bring their own bedding, water, and propane.

Recreation

The Continental Divide Trail passes right by the lookout tower and offers guests access to as many miles as they care to hike, bike, or ride on horseback. There are several other trails for guests to explore within a 1/2 hour drive. The cabin also offers winter recreation opportunities with cross-country skiing opportunities out the back door and nearby access to over 200 miles of groomed snowmobile trails.

Facilities

The lookout is furnished with one twin bed with a mattress and three twin cots. The lookout can accommodate a maximum of four people. The lookout is equipped with a table, chairs, woodstove, propane cook stove, propane powered lanterns, silverware and dishes. An axe and splitting maul are available for splitting wood and firewood will usually be stacked at the base of the tower, but it is not guaranteed. The lookout does not have electricity or indoor plumbing. A vault toilet is on-site near the lookout. Guests will need to bring their own water for drinking and washing. Guests are advised to bring sleeping bags, linens, towels, dish soap, matches, propane, garbage bags and other personal effects. All garbage must be packed out and guests are expected to clean the cabin before leaving. A broom and cleaning supplies are provided.

Natural Features

The lookout is located atop a grassy ridge directly on the Continental Divide. The area around the cabin offers spectacular views, abundant wildflowers, high elevation white bark pine stands, open meadows, and large rock outcroppings. There are lower elevation conifer stands and streams located nearby as well.

Wildlife in the area abounds; including the more common elk, mule and white-tailed deer, squirrel, black bear, and a variety of birds. The more elusive grizzly bear, badger, wolverine, mountain lion, and lynx can be found here as well.

Nearby Attractions

The nearby town of Lincoln offers restaurants, bars, art galleries, a sculpture park, and many events that are put on in the community throughout the summer. Visitors can also access the scenic Blackfoot River and Copper Creek from town and the nearby area.

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MILLER CABIN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

The Miller Creek Cabin is located in the Townsend Ranger District and rests at the intersection of the Confederate Gulch Road (FS Road 287) and the Blacktail Road (FS Road 4171), surrounded by scattered forest in the Big Belt Mountains in west-central Montana. The cabin is accessible by high-clearance vehicle, but requires over-the-snow vehicle travel during winter months.  

Please use caution when accessing Miller cabin in the winter months, winter access will vary based on snow conditions. Do not count on wheeled vehicle access from November through April. You can get to Miller cabin in the winter months with snowmobile or cross country skiing. It is not recommended driving full size vehicle to the site during this time period.

Recreation

During the summer months, enjoy a hike on local trails that will take you to high mountain lakes. During the fall, the cabin offers a wide array of recreation opportunities including hiking, hunting and off-highway vehicle access. The winter months provide for cross-country skiing and snowmobile opportunities.

Facilities

This is a two room log cabin that has been completely remodeled. In addition to the cabin there is a wood shed and new outhouse facility.

Miller is a rustic log cabin furnished with two sets of bunk beds, kitchen hutch and table with four chairs. Pots and pans as well as dishes and some cleaning supplies are available for use. A two-burner propane camp cook stove and two lanterns are provided. Guests will need to provide their own fuel for the cook stove and lanterns. The stove and lantern require pre-filled propane cylinders which screw on (one pound cylinders work well). There is no water available.

Guests must bring their own bedding and pillows, flashlights, towels, food, garbage bags, dish soap, dish towels, extra cooking utensils and dishes, toilet paper and paper towels. Bedding and linens are not provided. Guests must clean the cabin completely and pack out all food and trash before leaving.

No firewood provided from June 1st - August 31.

Natural Features

The cabin sits at the confluence of two drainages, Confederate and Blacktail Creeks. The site is shaded for most of the day with mature trees and shrubs.

Nearby Attractions

Confederate Gulch is a steeply incised valley on the west facing slopes of the Big Belt Mountains. Its small stream drains westward into Canyon Ferry Lake on the upper Missouri River Valley near present day Townsend, Montana. In 1864 Confederate soldiers on parole from the American Civil War made a minor gold discovery in the gulch, but in 1865 the discovery of the sensationally rich Montana Bar - one of the richest placer strikes per acre ever made - led to other rich gold strikes up and down the gulch, and touched off a frantic boom period of placer gold mining that extended through 1869. From 1866 to 1869 the gulch equaled or outstripped all other Montana Territory mining camps in gold production, producing an estimated $19 to $30 million in gold - late 1860s money. For a time, the gulch became the largest community in Montana. In 1866 Montana had a total population of 28,000, and of these, about 10,000 (35%) were working in Confederate Gulch. The main community was Diamond City while gold production was at its height; Diamond City roared along both night and day.

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Continental Divide Facility

This geographic area is the scenic backdrop and primary recreational resource for Montana’s capital city, Helena. It also includes the smaller communities of Austin, Rimini, and Unionville. Portions of the geographic area are in the political geographies of Lewis and Clark, Powell, and Jefferson counties. The spine of the divide is higher, cooler, wetter, and more exposed, imbuing it with a unique microclimate. The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail follows the crest of the divide.

More information on the Continental Divide landscape

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Elkhorn Mountains Facility

The Elkhorns Geographic Area encompasses the Elkhorn Mountains in Broadwater and Jefferson counties and includes the small mining town of Elkhorn. The nearest population center is Helena, Montana. Many smaller communities also have intimate relationships with the geographic area: Montana City, Clancy, Alhambra, Jefferson City, Boulder, Radersburg, Townsend, Winston, and East Helena. The Elkhorns are surrounded by the Divide Mountains and Boulder Batholith on the west, and the Missouri and Boulder River valleys on the north, east, and, south. The form of the Elkhorn Mountains is rounded and furrowed from extensive weathering. High points are prominent from background northwest, west, and southwest perspectives but cryptic from other vantages. Drainages have carved steep gulches and canyons. The majority of the Elkhorns (north, west, southwest) is a part of a batholith. This geologic history has left the area rich in minerals. Evidence of glaciation is localized as boulder strewn areas of granitic rocks. The remaining approximate quarter (southwest) of the geographic area is underlain by sedimentary rock that lacks the same mineralization as the batholith but is rich in calcareous rock. The landforms are rugged, low mountains with hogback ridges and dry valleys.

More information on the Elkhorn Mountains

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Upper Blackfoot Facility

The Upper Blackfoot spans Lewis & Clark and Powell counties. The majority of the area is west of the continental divide. The Rocky Mountain Range and Flathead National Forest are directly north and the Divide  is to the south. To the east, mountains become grassy foothills with isolated buttes. Montana Highway 200 cuts east-west through the center, crossing over Rogers Pass to follow the Blackfoot River. The northwest corner is a part of the Scapegoat Wilderness and the greater Bob Marshall Wilderness complex. 

The landform west of the divide is characterized by mostly rolling hills and mountains that are underlain by various types of rock. High peaks are topped with volcanic rocks with areas of exposed rock. The effects of glaciation are present. The landforms east of the divide are characterized by rounded mountains that are underlain by volcanic rocks and sedimentary rocks that have changed through geologic processes. Summits lack much exposed rock and the effects of glaciation are absent. Another characterizing landform that helps define the geographic area is the mountain pass. There are a few notable passes, some allowing for easy automotive travel over the continental divide: Roger, Stemple, Windy, and Flesher.

More information on the Upper Blackfoot

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Big Belt Mountains Facility

The Big Belt Mountains are an island range primarily in Broadwater, Lewis and Clark, and Meagher counties with small portions in Gallatin and Cascade counties. The geographic area includes the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness, the outlying Dry Range, and the small communities of York and Nelson. The nearest population center is Helena.

More information on the Big Belt Mountains

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Meriwether Picnic Area Facility

Meriwether offers 10 picnic tables, picnic shelter, boat dock, water, toilets, and garbage containers. Meriwether is a wonderful place to spend the day picnicking, fishing, boating and swimming. Meriwether also offers commercial boat tours and access to the gates of the mountains.

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Mac Donald Pass Ski Trailhead Facility

This cross-country ski  trailhead is located just off Highway 12 on Mac Donald Pass.  It provides limited parking for skiers from December through March.

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Silver Crest Winter Recreation Area Facility

The Silver Crest Winter Recreation area is an area that provides groomed trails for cross country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months. Silver Crest is located off of the northwest corner of the Kings Hill Winter Recreation Parking Area. Ski trails and snowshoe trails are marked accordingly. Please follow signing and trail etiquette when using Silver Crest.  No dogs or snowmobiles are allowed on the trail system, and snowshoes are not allowed on the groomed ski trails.

Trail System Maps (the GeoPDF is just the map, and is for use on GPS-enabled mobile device apps that accept that format):

• Silver Crest Winter Trails Information and Map Brochure
• Silver Crest Winter Trails GeoPDF (Map Only)

The brochures are also available in printed format at Forest Service offices and many Great Falls sports and outdoors stores.

Silver Crest Ski and Snowshoe trails are maintained and managed in partnership between the Silver Crest Trail Association, the Kings Hill Grooming Association and the Lewis and Clark National Forest.  Go to http://silvercresttrails.com/ for grooming and other trail system information.

Please contact the Belt Creek Ranger District Office at (406) 236-5100 for more information regarding winter use and current conditions.

Winter Trails Day, a cooperative effort between Get Fit Great Falls and several partners is hosted at Silver Crest trails. The day includes a variety of snowshoe hikes, and cross-country ski opportunities. It usually takes place in early February, and reservations are required, although all events are free!

Call the Forest Service at 406-791-7700 for more information, or visit the Get Fit Great Falls website.

Bears may frequent the area; keep all food out of sight in approved containers and remove all food from area after eating. Mandatory food storage is required.

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Van Deriet Campground Campground

List of Campsites

Located 30 miles west of Augusta, Van Deriet offers 6 sites with a variety of amenities close to the airport.  There is no vehicle access and is not handicapped accessible.  This site is mainted with the help of the MT Aeronautic Division.

Bears may frequent the area; keep all food out of sight in approved containers and remove all food from area after eating. Mandatory food storage is required.

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Marias Pass Historic Site Interpretive Site Facility

Interpretive Site

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STRAWBERRY CABIN Campground

List of Campsites

Overview

Explore a magnificent recreation and wildlife resource at the doorstep of Montana's Capital City. From prairie to alpine, mayflies to mountain goats, and scenic driving to expert climbing routes -- the Elkhorns you will discover a diverse landscape!

Built in 1941, Strawberry Cabin lies at the top of Strawberry Butte (6,100 feet) in the heart of the Elkhorn Mountains. The combination of lookout and log cabin are typical of this period. The cabin is an excellent example of a C-46 one room cabin plan, which was designed by William Fox. This cabin style is one of the standard building plans used for housing personnel working at intermediate stations and at lookouts. The C-46 design offers distinctive characteristics of ventral saddle notches and log ends finished in "chopper cut" style, which symbolizes rustic Forest Service log architecture of the second half of the 1930 and early 1940s.

Recreation

The area offers great access to the north end of the Elkhorn Mountains with numerous hiking trails and roads leading to the Elkhorn's historical resources. Popular hikes include Strawberry Creek, Casey Peak, and Willard Creek.

When snow allows, cross country skiing or snowshoeing gives visitors an up-close look at concentrations of wintering elk.

Facilities

Strawberry Cabin is designed for up to four guests. One portion of the cabin has two twin beds, all with mattresses. The kitchen is equipped with a small table and two chairs, dishes, utensils, cookware, with a Coleman stove and lights. The cabin has a wood stove. The cabin is not wired for electricity. Fuel is not provided for the propane stove or lanterns, so guests should bring a couple of small propane cylinders, as well as backup lighting.



An outhouse with vault toilet is located on-site. A picnic table and campfire ring offer comfortable outdoor dining. Firewood may available, but it is not guaranteed. No firewood is provided from June 1st - August 31. An axe and snow shovel are provided.



There is no water on site, so guests must bring a sufficient supply for drinking, cooking and washing. Guests should bring their own sleeping bags, lanterns or flashlights, towels, dish soap, matches, and garbage bags. All garbage must be packed out, and guests are expected to clean the cabin before leaving.



A fire lookout tower sits next to the cabin. This is one of the few metal lookout structures in the area and was built in the 1940s. The lookout is not open to the public and is no longer an active lookout.

Natural Features

The Elkhorn Mountains span both Broadwater and Jefferson counties, with the nearest city being Helena, Montana. The Elkhorns are surrounded by the Divide Mountains and Boulder Batholith to the west, and the Missouri and Boulder River valleys on the north, east, and south. The form of the Elkhorn Mountains is rounded and furrowed from extensive weathering. Drainages have carved steep gulches and canyons. The majority of the Elkhorns (north, west, southwest) is a part of a batholith. This geologic history has left the area rich in minerals. Evidence of glaciation is localized with boulder strewn areas of granitic rocks. The remaining approximate quarter (southwest) of the geographic area is underlain by sedimentary rock that lacks the same mineralization as the batholith but is rich in calcareous rock. The landforms are rugged, low mountains with hogback ridges and dry valleys.

The sedimentary geologic area in the east is a gradient of foothill prairie and partially forested low mountains. Grassland is a major component. Limber pine and juniper woodland ebb and flow through this prairie landscape.

The plant communities on the batholith portion are mostly forested with conifers. Aspen stands and water-loving plants take advantage of riparian areas and wet seeps. Parks, rich with grasses and forbs, are frequent at lower elevations and break up the forest in montane elevations. A large expanse of this area burned in 1988.

The Elkhorns have been occupied by human inhabitants for thousands of years. However, prehistoric occupation is less evident than the more recent Euro-American settlement. After the discovery of valuable mineral deposits, mines and associated settlements sprang up in portions of the geographic area and remnant tools and infrastructure of the mining era are still evident. Strawberry Lookout, Eagle and Tizer Guard Stations are living reminders of Forest Service history in the area.

Fire has historically has been a major influence to plant communities. A large forest fire in 1988 burned almost 50,000 acres of the mountain range, leaving carpets of seedlings growing into new lodgepole pine forests.

Due to the rich wildlife habitats throughout the mountain range, the Elkhorns were designated a Wildlife Management Unit in 1986, the first of its kind in the nation. Collaborative groups composed of federal, state, and private land holders work toward habitat restoration and interpretation of the area's history.

Nearby Attractions

The Elkhorn Mountains are an island mountain range that provide open space, clean water and diverse animal and plant communities. The Elkhorns also provide livelihoods and places to hunt and recreate for the citizens in the surrounding communities and beyond. About 160,000 acres within the Elkhorn Mountains is managed by both the Helena and Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forests as a Wildlife Management Unit, the only one of its kind in the entire National Forest System. In addition, there is another 75,000 acres of foothills that is managed by the Bureau of Land Management as an Area of Critical Environment Concern.

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Little Belt Mountains Facility

Portions of this sprawling mountain range are located in Meagher, Judith Basin, Cascade, and Wheatland counties. It is surrounded by predominantly treeless foothills of prairie and sagebrush steppe. The Little Belts Geographic Area is bisected north-south by the Kings Hill scenic byway (US Highway 89) along which the small communities of Niehart and Monarch reside. Most of the Little Belts can be described as remote but accessible by a well distributed transportation network.

More information on the Little Belt Mountains

Bears may frequent the area; keep all food out of sight in approved containers and remove all food from area after eating. Mandatory food storage is required.

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