Old Condon Ranger Station
4.6839 reviews1052 Condon Loop Rd
Old Condon Ranger Station
$85.00 - $85.00 / 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
Old Condon is available for $85 a night for a maximum stay of seven consecutive nights. Additional fees may include a $10 change fee and a $10 cancellation fee.
About this campground
Step into a piece of living history at the Old Condon Ranger Station, where a lovingly restored two-story cabin beckons adventurers year-round. This isn't your typical rustic retreat—modern comforts like electricity, a fully equipped kitchen, and indoor plumbing blend seamlessly with the cabin's vintage charm. By day, cast your line into pristine waters, explore mountain trails, or simply watch for elk and deer from your porch. As evening falls, the majestic Mission Mountains paint the sky with alpenglow, creating memories that will call you back season after season.
Old Condon Ranger Station provides rustic cabin-lodging accommodations for guests seeking modern amenities within historic charm. It does not offer primitive tent camping or traditional RV camping.
Historical SignificanceThese weathered walls have witnessed nearly a century of Montana's wild heart. Built in the 1920s when forest rangers were the lone guardians of vast wilderness, this authentic ranger station once served as headquarters for the Condon Ranger District. Today, carefully preserved details—from original woodwork to vintage fixtures—whisper stories of rangers who once mapped trails, fought fires, and protected these lands. Your stay connects you to this legacy, offering a rare chance to experience how these wilderness stewards lived while shaping the conservation ethic we cherish today.
Weather and SeasonsEach season transforms this mountain sanctuary into a different wonderland. Winter arrives with a hushed blanket of snow, creating a cozy refuge where you'll want to stock up on firewood and provisions—Mother Nature occasionally reminds us of her power with brief outages that only add to the adventure. Summer unfolds in warm, golden days perfect for exploration, though wise visitors pack mosquito repellent to fully enjoy those magical twilight hours by Simpson Creek. Spring and fall offer their own rewards: wildflower meadows and golden larch displays that photographers dream about.
ElevationTucked into the embrace of Swan Valley, this mountain retreat sits at the perfect elevation where dense forests give way to meadow vistas and crystal-clear streams run cold with snowmelt. Here, the air carries that distinctive mountain freshness that makes every breath feel restorative.
Natural Features and ScenerySwan Valley reveals itself as nature's masterpiece, where towering pines and firs create a living cathedral around your historic hideaway. Simpson Creek babbles past with stories from the high country, while meadows burst with seasonal wildflowers that attract hummingbirds and butterflies. The true showstopper remains the Mission Mountains—their jagged peaks dominate the western horizon like ancient sentinels, changing mood with every shift of light. Wildlife thrives here: morning might bring a black bear ambling through the meadow, afternoon could reveal a great blue heron fishing the creek, and dusk often features deer stepping delicately from forest shadows.
Geological RegionPerched on the doorstep of the legendary Bob Marshall Wilderness, the cabin occupies one of Montana's most dramatic geological theaters. The Mission Mountains thrust skyward to the west, their glacier-carved peaks telling stories of ice ages past. Swan Valley itself forms a verdant corridor between mountain ranges, where Simpson Creek has carved its patient path through forests of Douglas fir, western larch, and ponderosa pine. This unique position offers guests the best of both worlds—easy access to wilderness adventure while enjoying the gentle beauty of a mountain valley that has captivated travelers for generations.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWheelchair accessibility is not explicitly stated, but reviews mention the cabin accommodating parties with elderly individuals and people with mobility challenges. Accessible features may vary and should be confirmed before booking.
Sites SizeThe cabin is spacious enough to accommodate up to eight people comfortably.
Sites PrivacyThe property offers a secluded setting surrounded by mixed pine trees and marshland, creating privacy and peace.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring mosquito repellent during summer months, additional kitchen utensils and supplies, and cleaning materials. Visitors also recommended night lights, flashlights, and extension cords.
Best CampsitesCampsite #001 is the sole site available at Old Condon Ranger Station.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
3:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of seven consecutive nights allowed.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Cabin accommodates up to 8 people.
Groups
- Group camping is not available
- the cabin accommodates up to 8 individuals.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin includes three bedrooms upstairs (two double beds, four single beds in bunkbeds). The living room couch folds flat for an additional bed.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Reservations are first-come, first-served from June 20th to June 21st each year.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityAvailable only from June 20th to June 21st on a first-come, first-served basis.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up to the day of check-in. Late cancellations for cabins incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Changes to stay dates are allowed with a $10 change 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
Potable water
Fire rings
Cell phone service
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Recreational opportunities abound in every season at Old Condon Ranger Station, including fishing, hiking, wildlife viewing, and winter sports. Guests can explore scenic trails, enjoy proximity to Swan River, and take advantage of cross-country skiing and snowmobiling during colder months. The cabin is highly praised for its tranquil surroundings and access to outdoor adventures.
Hiking
Numerous trails are accessible for hiking and backpacking, providing scenic views and opportunities to explore nearby wilderness areas.Fishing
Fishing is available in Swan River and Simpson Creek, offering a serene environment for anglers.Wildlife viewing
Guests frequently spot grizzly bears, elk, moose, ducks, mule deer, and squirrels. Binoculars are recommended for enhanced experience.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing and snowmobiling on nearby trails.Water Sports
Guests can enjoy non-motorized water sports like fishing and casual wading in nearby Swan River and Simpson Creek.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Candles and open flames are prohibited. Use appropriate containers for food and garbage storage to avoid attracting wildlife.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours noted.
Hazards
General hazardsGrizzly bears frequent the area; guests should store all food and garbage securely. Mosquitoes can be prevalent in summer. Winter conditions may lead to icy roads and power outages.
Active alertsDuring winter, prepare for potential power outages and plowed roads may not be immediately cleared.
Weather forecast
90
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 12%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4 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
The ranger district office in Condon is the closest emergency service. Contact information: (406) 837-7500, Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1st - December 31st.
Trash and recyclingTrash must be packed out by guests as part of the facility's 'pack-it-in, pack-it-out' policy.
Proximity to water featuresSimpson Creek flows nearby and the Swan River is approximately five miles east of the cabin.
Common complaintsSome users reported mice in the cabin, issues with the rusted fire grate, and disturbances from nearby highway noise.
HostForest Service representatives may be present to conduct maintenance and provide assistance. Contact the ranger district office at (406) 837-7500 for updates.
Campground Map
1052 Condon Loop Rd
Driving directionsOld Condon is located between milepost 48 and 49 on Highway 83, in northwestern Montana. Turn east onto Condon Loop Road 124 and follow this road for approximately 2.5 miles. The driveway is on the left just before the large meadow and wetland.
The cabin can be reached by vehicle and the road is plowed in winter, though visitors should prepare for potential winter driving conditions. Severe snowfall may delay immediate plowing, and remote cabin locations can experience power outages during weather events.Nearby places
Condon (20 minutes away)
Nearby supplies
Limited supplies available at Condon Mercantile, 20 minutes away.
Camper Reviews
4.7
39 reviews
Old Condon Ranger Station is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews describe the cabin as well-maintained, clean, and stocked with essential amenities while highlighting the scenic beauty and peaceful surroundings. Positive sentiments focus on the fully equipped kitchen, comfortable sleeping arrangements, indoor plumbing, and great recreational activities. However, some guests note minor issues such as mice presence and occasional maintenance disruptions (e.g., controlled burns).
Review Summaries
Based on 39 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests appreciate the cabin's cleanliness, comfortable beds, fully stocked kitchen, scenic views, and tranquility. Many highlight the convenience of electricity and flush toilets as significant...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints include the presence of mice, occasional maintenance activities (such as controlled burns), and highway noise heard from the cabin.
Based on 39 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests suggest bringing additional cleaning supplies, kitchen utensils, and hand towels. Night lights and flashlights are recommended due to minimal outdoor lighting. Many reviewers recommend booking...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter visitors praise the well-plowed access road, warmth of the propane furnace, and nearby snow-related activities. Summer visitors enjoy fishing and hiking but report thick mosquito presence,...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This was way fancier than I thought it would be. Lovely place." - Sean Orr
"Cutest cabin! Loved the convenience of electricity and running water!" - Angela Gohr
"No shower, but indoor toilet, so no...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 is the cabin at Old Condon Ranger Station and is consistently praised for its amenities, cleanliness, and location. Specific reviews highlight its suitability for both family trips and group...
Based on 39 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
One review mentions accommodating elderly guests and individuals with mobility challenges, indicating partial accessibility.
Based on 39 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but guests are asked to clean up after them and be mindful of cabin cleanliness. Reviews are generally positive regarding pet policies.
Based on 39 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025