About Bear Creek Bunkhouse (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, MT)
Overview The Bear Creek Bunkhouse allows visitors to experience southwestern Montana's vast wilderness areas, including wide open hills and the Lee Metcalf Widerness in the Madison mountain range . Situated on the Trail Fork of Bear Creek, the cabin offers a scenic location to enjoy nature. The cabin was constructed in 1934 by the Civilian Conservation Corps as crew quarters and a garage. A larger cabin is located about 100 feet to the east and is also on the rental progarm. The bunkhouse is used as an administrative site in the summer, but is open to the public between December and April. During the winter months, visitors can enjoy cross country skiing and snowshoeing, though the state lands to the north of the cabin are closed to entry, being a Wildlife Management Area. The site can be accessed by vehicle, however, a portion of the road may be muddy or snow-covered, as it is not always plowed. Visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities, including water for drinking and cleaning. Recreation Bear Creek is a very popular trailhead during all seasons but especially during hunting season. There are a variety of hiking and horseback riding trails in the area. This trailhead provides access to climb Sphinx Mountain, a must-do for many visitors. The trails are popular among visitors for cross country skiing and snowshoeing during the winter months. The nearby wilderness area does not allow motorized vehicles or bicycles. Camping and fishing in the backcountry is allowed, with the proper permits. The Bear Creek Wildlife Management Area immediately to the north of the cabin is closed to all off-trail access, including foot traffic, between Dec. 2 and May 15. Facilities This one room cabin has electricity and lights as well as two single beds with foam pads, which can accommodate up to two people. In addition to the beds, there is a table with chairs, refrigerator, stove, oven, basic cooking equipment
How to Get There
From Ennis, take Highway 287 south for 11 miles, to Cameron, Montana. From Cameron, turn east on Bear Creek Loop and continue approximately 6 miles to the cabin. The last several miles is gravel or dirt, which may be muddy or snow-covered and may not always be plowed. Maps may be purchased by calling the Madison Ranger District.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Bear Creek Bunkhouse (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, MT)
Heading to Bear Creek Bunkhouse (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, MT)? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Bear Creek Bunkhouse (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, MT)?
No central reservation system listed for Bear Creek Bunkhouse (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, MT). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234319) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Bear Creek Bunkhouse (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, MT)?
From Ennis, take Highway 287 south for 11 miles, to Cameron, Montana. From Cameron, turn east on Bear Creek Loop and continue approximately 6 miles to the cabin. The last several miles is gravel or dirt, which may be muddy or snow-covered and may not always be plowed. Maps may be purchased by calling the Madison Ranger District.
How do I contact Bear Creek Bunkhouse (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, MT)?
You can reach the park at phone: 406-682-4253.
References & Official Resources
