About Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway
Discover one of southwest Montana’s hidden gems along the Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway. From Interstate 15, just north of the Montana–Idaho border, the rugged Tendoy Mountains may look impenetrable. But if you take the Dell exit and follow the signs toward Big Sheep Creek, you’ll come upon a nearly hidden opening that leads into this beautiful and remote landscape. The Byway is also accessible from Montana Highway 324.Stretching more than 50 miles, the route is usually passable for all types of vehicles during the summer. Be aware that rain can make the gravel and dirt surfaces challenging. Plan for a relaxing three-hour drive—or take two or three days if you’d like to enjoy fishing, hiking, wildlife watching, or simply exploring the area.About 14 miles southwest of Dell, you’ll find the Bureau of Land Management’s Deadwood Campground. This quiet spot offers several campsites equipped with picnic tables, campfire rings, and a vault toilet.As you travel the Byway, you’ll pass through three distinct geological landscapes. Big Sheep Canyon greets you first with its narrow, rocky walls. The canyon eventually opens into a broad valley framed by mountains along the Continental Divide. Farther north, the scenery shifts again into a lush, winding valley shaped by a meandering creek. The towering peak above this area gives it its name—Medicine Lodge.Keep in mind that services are not available along the Byway, and there is no potable water. Visitors should drive slowly and defensively, especially in wet weather, which can create slippery or hazardous conditions.
How to Get There
To explore the Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway from the south, start at the Dell Interchange on Interstate 15. Turn south onto Westside Frontage Road and travel about 2 miles until you reach Big Sheep Creek Road, which also marks the beginning of the Byway.Continue along the Byway for 10 miles to reach Deadwood Campground—a quiet, scenic spot with several campsites, picnic tables, campfire rings, and a vault toilet.From the campground, follow the Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway for nearly 12 miles until you come to Medicine Lodge Road, where the Byway continues. Turn north onto Medicine Lodge Road and travel roughly 30 miles until you reach Highway 324, just west of Clark Canyon Reservoir.If you begin your trip from the north entrance on Highway 324, start at the Medicine Lodge Road marker and follow these stops in reverse order.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →Plan Your Visit to Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway
Heading to Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway? 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 Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway?
Yes — reservations can be made on Recreation.gov. Popular sites fill quickly, especially weekends and holidays. Book up to 6 months in advance.
How do I get to Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway?
To explore the Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway from the south, start at the Dell Interchange on Interstate 15. Turn south onto Westside Frontage Road and travel about 2 miles until you reach Big Sheep Creek Road, which also marks the beginning of the Byway.Continue along the Byway for 10 miles to reach Deadwood Campground—a quiet, scenic spot with several campsites, picnic tables, campfire ring…
How do I contact Big Sheep Creek Back Country Byway?
You can reach the park at phone: 406-683-8000 or email: MT_Dillon_FO@blm.gov.
References & Official Resources
