Battle Ridge Cabin
3.9723 reviews3710 W FALLON STREET SUITE C, BOZEMAN, MT 59718, USA
Battle Ridge Cabin
$65.00 - $65.00 / 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
The nightly recreation fee is $65. Additional fees such as reservation service fees ($8 online, $9 through contact center, $3 in person) may apply. Discounts from Interagency Senior Annual and Lifetime Passes may apply to the recreation use fee.
About this campground
Perched high in the Bridger Mountains of the Custer Gallatin National Forest, Battle Ridge Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Montana wilderness experience. This 1938-built sanctuary offers a genuine off-grid escape where wood stoves crackle against mountain silence and starlit skies stretch endlessly overhead. Inside, sturdy bunk beds await weary hikers, while outside, a fire ring invites evening gatherings and a vault toilet provides basic comfort. Here, disconnecting from the modern world isn't just possible—it's inevitable.
Battle Ridge Cabin caters primarily to rustic cabin accommodations. Traditional campsites for tents, RVs, or group camping are not mentioned.
Historical SignificanceStep through the weathered doorway of Battle Ridge Cabin and enter a living piece of Montana history. Constructed in 1938 during the golden age of Forest Service architecture, this sturdy shelter has witnessed eight decades of wilderness adventures, from early forest rangers patrolling vast territories to modern-day adventurers seeking respite from digital life. The cabin stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of Montana's backcountry heritage, its hand-hewn logs and simple design reflecting an era when durability and function defined mountain architecture.
Weather and SeasonsBattle Ridge Cabin welcomes visitors through every season, each bringing its own magic to this mountain retreat. Summer arrives with warm, dry days perfect for hiking and wildlife watching, while autumn paints the surrounding forests in brilliant golds and crimsons. When winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland, the cabin becomes a backcountry haven accessible only by snowshoe or ski—a true test of determination rewarded by unparalleled solitude. Spring's arrival brings wildflower meadows and the exciting possibility of spotting newly emerged wildlife.
ElevationAt 9,004 feet above sea level, Battle Ridge Cabin sits in rarified air where eagles soar and clouds often drift below your feet. This lofty perch in the Bridger Mountains offers breathtaking vistas but demands respect—visitors should prepare for the effects of high altitude, including potential shortness of breath and the need for extra hydration. The elevation creates a unique alpine environment where summer arrives late, winter lingers long, and the thin air makes every sunset more spectacular.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled in a pristine mountain meadow and embraced by towering evergreens, Battle Ridge Cabin offers front-row seats to nature's grandest theater. The majestic Ross Peak dominates the skyline at 9,004 feet, while the surrounding Bridger Mountains create a dramatic backdrop for unforgettable adventures. This wilderness sanctuary serves as home to an impressive cast of wildlife—from mighty grizzly bears and elusive mountain lions to majestic elk and moose. Lucky visitors might spot wolves padding through morning mist or discover rare bird species that thrive in this protected high-altitude ecosystem.
Geological RegionBattle Ridge Cabin rests in one of southwestern Montana's most spectacular geological treasures—a high mountain meadow carved by ancient glaciers in the heart of the Bridger Mountains. Part of the vast Custer Gallatin National Forest, this alpine sanctuary showcases the raw beauty of Montana's geological heritage, where millennia of wind, water, and ice have sculpted dramatic peaks and gentle meadows. The towering presence of 9,004-foot Ross Peak serves as a constant reminder of the powerful forces that shaped this remarkable landscape, creating a natural amphitheater of stone and forest that changes with every shift of light.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is wheelchair accessible.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates 4-5 people and includes two sets of bunk beds with mattresses and a cot.
Sites PrivacyDespite being close to the road, the cabin offers visual privacy, according to user reviews.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesWinter visitors should prepare for unplowed parking lots and bring shovels. Guests may need snowshoes or skis for easier access due to uneven trails. During summer, the meadow location and proximity to trails make the cabin scenic and accessible.
Best CampsitesSingle site: Battle Ridge Cabin
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in documentation includes cabin lock combination.
Check-out
Check-out is unspecified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of up to 5 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Capacity of 4-5 people per cabin.
Groups
The facility does not offer group camping sites.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin with surrounding meadow and evergreen forest. Includes outdoor fire ring, benches, and newer outhouse facilities.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-serve availability from June 21 through June 24, 2025. Outside of these dates, reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations must be canceled in advance. Late cancellations for cabins occur if canceled less than 14 days before the arrival date, incurring a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night’s 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
Fire rings
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The area offers a variety of recreational opportunities. Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowshoeing, while warmer months allow for hiking, wildlife viewing, and hunting. The cabin's location makes it ideal for birding as well.
Hiking
Nearby trails are available for hiking. Specific trail details such as length and difficulty are not provided, but the area is praised for its natural beauty.Biking
Mountain biking is listed as an activity. Further details about biking trails are not provided.Wildlife viewing
Guests can see a variety of wildlife, including grizzly and black bears, gray wolves, mountain lions, deer, elk, moose, and bighorn sheep. Birding opportunities are also highlighted.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and sledding. The location is also popular for snowmobile trails.Water Sports
No water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed only within the cabin’s fire ring.
- Quiet hours are unspecified.
Hazards
General hazardsWinter conditions can be harsh, with snow-covered roads and temperatures dropping below zero. Mice and other rodents are mentioned in user reviews as a common nuisance. Wildlife including bears and mountain lions are a potential hazard.
Weather forecast
77
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 16%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
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
Emergency services are available in Bozeman, MT, which is approximately 20 miles away. This includes hospitals, police stations, and other essential services.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to bring their own garbage bags and pack out all trash. There is no trash or recycling service on-site.
Proximity to water featuresA spring is located 500 yards away; water must be boiled or treated before drinking.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include: mice infestations, cleanliness concerns, lack of regular parking lot snow plowing during winter, and difficulty with trail marking (especially in winter).
Campground Map
3710 W FALLON STREET SUITE C, BOZEMAN, MT 59718, USA
Driving directionsLate spring, summer, and fall access by regular vehicle (May to November): From Bozeman, MT: Drive north on 19th Ave. to West Oak St. Turn right onto West Oak and drive east to N. Rouse Ave. Turn left onto US Highway 86 and drive for 20 miles. Remain on Highway 86 towards Battle Ridge Pass by staying left at the Brackett Creek Y. The cabin access road is about 0.9 miles more and is on the left (east) side of the highway 1/4 mile before the Battle Ridge Trailhead and Battle Ridge Pass. Open the gate using the cabin combination and drive another 1/2 mile to the cabin. Winter Route, December to April (depending on snow conditions): Winter parking is only available at the Battle Ridge Trailhead. Parking along Highway 86 is prohibited so that highway snow plows can work. Park at the Battle Ridge Trailhead and use the marked ski and snowmobile trail. Follow orange and blue diamond trail markers for about a half mile to the cabin.
Seasonal accessibility. In summer, access is via paved roads (US Highway 86) and includes a 0.5-mile drive on the cabin’s access road. In winter, parking at the Battle Ridge Trailhead is required and access involves skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling about half a mile.Nearby places
Bozeman (approximately 20 miles away
about a 30-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Bozeman (20 miles away) provides dining, shopping, and other supplies, including groceries and camping gear.
Camper Reviews
4.0
23 reviews
Battle Ridge Cabin has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews highlight the cabin's beautiful location, rustic charm, and suitability for outdoor adventure. Cleanliness and maintenance are recurring concerns. Winter access can be challenging due to unplowed parking areas.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Users praised the cabin's rustic setting, effective wood stoves, and its suitability for outdoor activities like skiing and hiking. Proximity to Bozeman was considered a convenience.
Based on 23 reviewsCommon Concerns
Frequent complaints included mouse activity in the cabin, lack of thorough cleaning, and the absence of plowed parking during winter. Some guests found the trek to the cabin challenging, especially...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring snowshoes or skis for winter visits. Plan for unplowed parking and carry shovels. Bring extra chairs if your group exceeds four people. Pack essential items like bedding, lanterns, and cleaning...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter guests often noted the challenges of accessing the cabin, such as unplowed parking and difficulty navigating snowy trails. Summer reviews focused on the cabin's rustic charm and outdoor...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'We stayed here in December (for Christmas) and had a fantastic time! Totally off-grid and unplugged!' - Matt Goodman
2. 'The cabin was clean and warm, with plenty of fresh air, silence, and...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews for the cabin (Site 001) frequently mention its rustic charm but also bring up concerns like mouse activity, cleaning issues, and parking challenges.
Based on 23 reviewsAccessibility Features
The cabin is wheelchair accessible and praised for its proximity to the parking area during non-winter months, making access easier for users with mobility challenges.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not explicitly mentioned in the authoritative content, but one user noted that herds of cows near the cabin did not seem to mind the presence of their dog.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025