Vigilante Cabin
01 review5 FOREST SERVICE ROAD, ENNIS, MT 59729, USA
Vigilante Cabin
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fee to rent cabin is $75 per night. Non-refundable within 14 days of arrival date. Any changes in reserved dates may be assessed an additional fee.
About this campground
Nestled in the heart of southwestern Montana's rugged wilderness, the historic Vigilante Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic mountain retreat. This charming two-bedroom sanctuary sits peacefully along the Ruby River, where the majestic Snowcrest and Gravelly ranges frame your doorstep. Inside, you'll find a fully equipped kitchen, cozy living room warmed by a wood stove, and the modern comfort of electricity. While seasonal water flows from May through October, winter visitors should come prepared with their own water supply and cleaning essentials. Both indoor and outdoor facilities ensure comfort in any season, and picnic areas invite you to dine beneath Montana's endless sky.
This facility offers cabin lodging with a rustic feel, designed for individual or small group stays.
Historical SignificanceStep through the doorway of living history at this 1925 treasure, originally built as the Ruby District's administrative headquarters. These weathered walls have witnessed nearly a century of Montana's evolving story—from hosting young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Depression era of the 1930s to serving as a vital range experiment station. Each timber and stone whispers tales of forest rangers, conservation pioneers, and the dedicated souls who shaped this wild landscape.
Weather and SeasonsMontana's mountain weather paints each season with its own dramatic palette. Winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, where temperatures plunge and light snowfall dusts the peaks. Roads may glisten with moisture or hide beneath fresh powder, demanding respectful caution from travelers. As seasons turn, the cabin reveals different faces of the wilderness—from spring's awakening rivers to summer's golden meadows and autumn's fiery aspens.
ElevationPerched at 6,100 feet where the air grows crisp and clear, the cabin offers a front-row seat to Montana's theatrical mountain vistas. This elevated sanctuary places you among the clouds, where panoramic views stretch across valleys and peaks, and the thin mountain air sharpens every sensation of your wilderness experience.
Natural Features and SceneryThe Ruby River meanders past your door at 6,100 feet, its gentle murmur providing nature's soundtrack to your stay. Golden grasslands roll toward the horizon, punctuated by stately cottonwoods that offer shade and shelter. The surrounding wilderness serves as a living canvas where elk bugle in autumn meadows, mule deer browse at dawn, and both black and grizzly bears roam their ancestral paths. Mountain grouse flutter through the understory while eagles soar overhead, creating an ever-changing tableau of wild Montana life against the dramatic backdrop of the Snowcrest and Gravelly ranges.
Geological RegionThis remarkable setting unfolds where the Ruby River has carved its patient path between two of Montana's most striking mountain ranges. The Snowcrest and Gravelly ranges stand as ancient sentinels on either side, their slopes descending into expansive grasslands dotted with venerable cottonwoods. This unique geological confluence creates a diverse ecosystem where mountain meets meadow, offering visitors a rare glimpse into the varied landscapes that define Montana's untamed character.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is accessible for vehicles most of the year, though winter weather may make navigation difficult. Roads may be slippery or snow-covered, and the last mile is not plowed in winter.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to six guests and includes indoor and outdoor facilities for small groups.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is situated in a mostly open and grassy area with limited cottonwood trees for shade. It is noted for its quiet atmosphere, though adjacent facilities may host work crews occasionally.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring cleaning supplies, bedding, towels, soap, flashlight, garbage bags, and sufficient water during non-peak seasons.
Best CampsitesSingle cabin site available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Seven nights maximum during a visit from 07/24/2007 - 12/31/2050.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to six people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin site.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from January 1 to December 31 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNull
Cancellation PolicyReservations are refundable minus a $10 cancellation fee if canceled before 14 days prior to scheduled arrival. Late cancellations (within 14 days of check-in) will forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
A wide range of recreational opportunities are available in the area. Visitors can enjoy fishing, gold panning, big game hunting (with proper licenses), hiking, off-road vehicle trails, and winter sports such as snowmobiling and snowshoeing. Wildlife viewing is also popular, with elk, mule deer, black and grizzly bears, and mountain grouse commonly seen near the cabin.
Hiking
The area offers a variety of hiking trails and points of exploration around the cabin. Trails cater to different skill levels and provide scenic views of the Snowcrest and Gravelly mountain ranges.Fishing
Fishing opportunities in the Ruby River include mountain whitefish and rainbow trout. Fishing conditions may vary based on water levels and weather.Biking
Off-road vehicle trails are available for recreational use, ideal for biking enthusiasts seeking rugged terrain.Wildlife viewing
Notable wildlife includes elk, mule deer, black bears, grizzly bears, and mountain grouse. Recommended safety measures for bear encounters are advised for visitors.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowmobiling and snowshoeing on nearby trails. Snowmobile use is prohibited on the Forest prior to December 2 each year.Water Sports
Gold panning is possible in a section of the Ruby River near the cabin.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Wood stove usage is allowed indoors, but guests must supply their own firewood for outdoor campfires.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential exposure to hantavirus. Wildlife hazards include black and grizzly bears.
Active alertsNull
Weather forecast
81
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 13%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.7 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Madison Ranger District Office reachable at phone number 406-682-4253.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all garbage and food, maintaining a 'leave no trace' approach. There is no formal trash or recycling pickup at the site.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Ruby River, suitable for fishing and gold panning.
Common complaintsRoad conditions can be challenging in winter. Cabin is not cleaned between user visits; renters must bring cleaning supplies.
HostNull
Campground Map
5 FOREST SERVICE ROAD, ENNIS, MT 59729, USA
Driving directionsFrom 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.
Accessible throughout most of the year by vehicle, but a portion of the road may be difficult to navigate when wet or snow-covered. The last mile may not be plowed in winter.Nearby places
Sheridan (approx. 10 miles to Alder, then 22 miles on Ruby River Road to Vigilante Station).
Nearby supplies
Maps of the area may be purchased by calling the Madison Ranger District office.
Camper Reviews
0.0
1 reviews
Vigilante Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the cabin's quiet atmosphere, convenient amenities, and proximity to diverse recreational opportunities. Some guests appreciated the well-performing wood stove and wildlife sightings.
Review Summaries
Based on 1 reviews
What Campers Love
Quiet location, well-equipped cabin, reliable wood stove, scenic views, and abundant wildlife.
Based on 1 reviewsCommon Concerns
Fishing may be poor during certain conditions, and the cabin is not cleaned between visits, requiring guests to clean up before departure.
Based on 1 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bedding, cleaning supplies, and firewood for campfires. Plan for difficult road conditions during winter, and adhere to food storage regulations to protect wildlife.
Based on 1 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter visits may be challenging due to snow-covered roads and limited water availability. Summer months are optimal for utilizing the full range of amenities and enjoying outdoor activities.
Based on 1 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'Beautiful and quiet. River was high and dirty so fishing was bad but we had a great time.' - Dwayne Mogren
2. 'Wood stove is much better than the ones in some of the other FS cabins. Burns all...
Based on 1 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Users praised the cabin’s wood stove and proximity to wildlife but noted that fishing conditions depend on water levels.
Based on 1 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific accessibility features for individuals with disabilities were mentioned in user reviews or official sources.
Based on 1 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at the facility according to official guidelines.
Based on 1 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025