About VIGILANTE CABIN
Overview The Vigilante Cabin, also known as the Vigilante Middle House, offers a comfortable place to stay deep in the mountains of southwestern Montana along the Ruby River between the Snowcrest and Gravelly Ranges. The house boasts two bedrooms, a kitchen, living room and has electricity and seasonal water. A bathroom, with a toilet and shower,is usually available from May - September. It is close to many outdoor recreation opportunities, including fishing, hiking and hunting, as well as off-road vehicle trails and gold panning. The house was constructed in 1925 and served as the Ruby District headquarters. In the 1930s a Civilian Conservation Corp camp was established at the site and the adjacent houses and garage were constructed. The site also then served as a range experiment station. The white clapboard middle house is available for rent, while the two other houses on the property are still used by Forest Service personnel and volunteers throughout the year. Though usually quiet, this can be a busy site when work crews are using those adjacent facilities.The cabin is accessible throughout most of the year by vehicle; however, a portion of the road may be difficult to navigate when wet or snow-covered and the last mile may not be plowed in winter. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring some of their own amenities. Recreation Guests can enjoy fishing the Ruby River for mountain whitefish and rainbow trout. Gold panning is also possible in a section of the river near the cabin. Big game hunting is possible in designated areas. Appropriate licenses are required.A variety of hiking trails and points of exploration exist around the cabin. Off-road vehicle trails are also available in the area. During winter months, guests enjoy snowmobiling and snowshoeing on the many nearby trails. Snowmobile use is not allowed on the Forest prior to December 2 of each year. Facilities The large, two-bedroom cabin has a bunkbed and sing
How to Get There
From Sheridan, travel south on Highway 287 for about 10 miles to Alder. Turn south on Ruby River Road and continue about 22 miles to Vigilante Station. The last 20 miles are on a gravel road, which can be slippery when wet or snow-covered. The gate lock code is the same as the cabin. Maps of the area 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 VIGILANTE CABIN
Heading to VIGILANTE CABIN? 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 VIGILANTE CABIN?
No central reservation system listed for VIGILANTE CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234361) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to VIGILANTE CABIN?
From Sheridan, travel south on Highway 287 for about 10 miles to Alder. Turn south on Ruby River Road and continue about 22 miles to Vigilante Station. The last 20 miles are on a gravel road, which can be slippery when wet or snow-covered. The gate lock code is the same as the cabin. Maps of the area may be purchased by calling the Madison Ranger District.
How do I contact VIGILANTE CABIN?
You can reach the park at phone: 406 682-4253.
References & Official Resources
