Swan Guard Station
4.4455 reviewsSwan Lake, MT 59911
Swan Guard Station
$70.00 - $70.00 / 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
Swan Guard Station charges $70 per night. The station must be booked through Recreation.gov, and fees exclude discounts, taxes, or incremental charges. A reservation service fee may apply ($8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in person).
About this campground
Step back in time at the Swan Guard Station, where rustic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of northwestern Montana's wilderness. This lovingly restored historic cabin welcomes up to eight guests into a unique blend of heritage and hospitality. While maintaining its authentic character, the station now features electricity, cozy propane heating, and a fully equipped kitchen that makes meal preparation a breeze. Just outside your door, you'll find thoughtfully placed outdoor amenities including a vault toilet and hand-pump water station, ensuring your stay balances adventure with essential conveniences.
Swan Guard Station offers a cabin rental, blending rustic charm with modern amenities. It is ideal for groups and families seeking a unique camping experience.
Historical SignificanceStanding as a testament to the early days of forest conservation, this 1909 cabin holds the distinction of being Flathead National Forest's oldest surviving structure. For over a century, these weathered walls have sheltered forest rangers who once called this remote outpost home, watching over the wilderness when the nearest town was days away by horseback. Today, guests can feel the echoes of history in every hand-hewn beam and original detail.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints the Swan Guard Station in dramatically different hues. Winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland, where fresh powder beckons cross-country skiers and snowshoers to explore silent, snow-laden trails. As spring melts into summer, the forest awakens with hiking opportunities and prime fishing conditions on nearby waters. Be prepared for nature's occasional reminders of your remote location—winter storms may bring temporary power outages and require careful navigation of snowy roads, adding to the authentic backcountry experience.
ElevationNestled at a comfortable elevation within the Swan Valley, the station offers the perfect balance of mountain atmosphere without extreme altitude challenges.
Natural Features and SceneryNature's grand theater surrounds the Swan Guard Station on all sides. Towering evergreens create a living cathedral, while the shimmering waters of Swan Lake reflect endless Montana skies just moments away. The adjacent Swan River Wildlife Refuge transforms your stay into a front-row seat for nature's daily performances—watch for soaring eagles, wandering elk, and the countless songbirds that call these wetlands home. Miles of trails wind through this diverse ecosystem, inviting exploration by foot or bike in summer, and by ski or snowshoe when winter's white blanket arrives.
Geological RegionPositioned at the southern gateway to Swan Lake, the station sits within the magnificent tapestry of Flathead National Forest. This remarkable location bridges multiple ecosystems—from dense coniferous forests to vibrant wetlands that form the Swan River Wildlife Refuge. The interplay of water, forest, and meadow creates one of Montana's most biodiverse corridors, where the ancient geological forces that carved these valleys continue to shape a landscape teeming with life.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is accessible and features an outdoor ramp and porch for ease of use. "The porch, ramps, steps and roadways can be slippery when damp, or covered by snow or frost."
Sites SizeThe cabin is spacious enough to accommodate eight people comfortably.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers a balance of seclusion and accessibility. While it is close to the highway, many users appreciate its proximity to the wildlife refuge and trails. "The cabin is so easy to get to, but still feels isolated and private."
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesConsider bringing additional cleaning supplies, insect repellent, and an axe for splitting firewood as needed. Select this site for proximity to Swan River Wildlife Refuge and ease of access to trails.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is at 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of seven consecutive nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to eight guests.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round but reservable dates start June 21, 2025. Facility is operational from January 1 to December 31 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov, through the contact center (+877-444-6777), or in person (subject to availability).
Walk-in AvailabilityCabin is reservable exclusively through the Recreation.gov system; no immediate walk-up availability noted.
Cancellation PolicyAny cancellations before the arrival date receive a refund minus a $10 cancellation fee and reservation fees (if applicable). Late cancellations (within 14 days for cabins) will also deduct the first night’s recreation fee. No refunds are issued for cancellations or changes made on the check-in date.
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
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Swan Guard Station provides diverse recreational opportunities, including hiking, wildlife viewing, fishing, and winter sports. The nearby Bond Creek Trailhead offers hiking and mountain biking, while Swan Lake supports boating, swimming, and fishing. "Bond Creek trail, across the highway, was a challenge due to many trees down, but beautiful." Seasonal activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are also popular. "Spring skiing out the door through the wetlands was superb with fresh snow."
Hiking
Hiking trails are accessible nearby, such as the Bond Creek Trailhead. "Bond Creek trail, across the highway, was a challenge due to many trees down, but beautiful." Trails vary in difficulty, offering scenic views of Montana's landscapes.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available at Swan Lake. User reviews frequently mention fishing as an activity. "The cabin is located just south of the town of Swan Lake, which offers opportunities for fishing, motor boating, non-motor boating, swimming, and picnicking."Swimming
Swan Lake provides swimming opportunities, although guests need to drive to the Swan Lake day-use area, about 5 minutes away.Biking
Mountain biking is available near Bond Creek Trailhead, offering varied terrain for all skill levels.Boating
Boating options include motor and non-motorized boating at Swan Lake. "The cabin is located just south of the town of Swan Lake."Wildlife viewing
The nearby Swan River Wildlife Refuge is ideal for bird and wildlife viewing. "Saw Western Tanagers, Kinglet, Osprey, Swans in river distance, and more."Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities. "Spring skiing out the door through the wetlands was superb with fresh snow."Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like paddle boarding and kayaking are popular at Swan Lake. "The swan lake day-use area nearby is a great place to spend the day swimming or paddleboarding."Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are permitted outdoors but must be limited to designated fire pits. Guests are advised not to move firewood to prevent the spread of tree-killing pests.
Hazards
General hazardsGrizzly bear activity is common in the area, necessitating secure storage of food and garbage. Slippery conditions on ramps and steps may occur during damp or icy weather.
Active alertsPower outages are possible during weather events, and renters are advised to plan accordingly. Winter conditions may delay snow plowing services.
Weather forecast
91
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 11%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.5 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
Nearest emergency services are likely in Bigfork, Montana, including medical facilities and police services. Contact numbers for urgent needs include (406) 837-7500.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out their trash, as the facility follows 'pack-it-in, pack-it-out' rules. "Please bring garbage bags; this is a 'pack-it-in, pack-it-out' facility."
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Swan Lake and wetlands, providing ample opportunities for water-related recreational activities such as fishing and boating.
Common complaintsHighway noise detracts from the feeling of isolation. Some guests note cleanliness issues, such as mice or unclean cooking utensils left by previous renters.
HostContact the Swan Lake Ranger District at (406) 837-7500 for assistance.
Campground Map
Swan Lake, MT 59911
Driving directionsFrom Bigfork take Hwy 83 south towards Swan Lake. Continue through the town of Swan Lake to mile-marker 69, just south of town. The cabin driveway is just south of the cabin rental sign. Continue down the driveway to the cabin with the porch.
The cabin is relatively accessible. The road to the cabin is plowed in winter, although renters should be prepared for winter driving conditions. Seasonal weather events may disrupt plowing or cause power outages due to its remote nature.Nearby places
Bigfork: Approximately 25 miles
Missoula: Approximately 52 miles.
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies can be found in the town of Swan Lake for essentials like groceries and fuel, with additional options available in Bigfork.
Camper Reviews
4.4
55 reviews
Swan Guard Station is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are generally positive, with an average sentiment of 4.327. Many users praise the cabin's cleanliness, location, and amenities, although proximity to the highway and occasional maintenance issues are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 55 reviews
What Campers Love
Reviews frequently commend the cabin's cleanliness, accessibility, and amenities like the propane heater and stocked kitchen. "The cabin is so easy to get to, but still feels isolated and private."
Based on 55 reviewsCommon Concerns
Complaints include highway noise, maintenance issues like broken window screens, and occasional cleanliness concerns such as dog hair or dusty surfaces. "Closer to hwy than I prefer, otherwise great...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring bedding, insect repellant, flashlights, and garbage bags due to the 'pack-it-in, pack-it-out' rules. Users also recommend calling ahead for the lock code and preparing for winter driving...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews highlight cross-country skiing and the cozy propane heater, while summer guests appreciate wildlife viewing and water sports at Swan Lake. "Spring skiing out the door through the...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The cabin is so easy to get to, but still feels isolated and private." "Bond Creek trail, across the highway, was a challenge due to many trees down, but beautiful." "No WiFi and cell service is...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Campsite 001 in the Swan Guard Station loop receives varied reviews. Guests frequently praise its location and amenities but note issues like mice and maintenance concerns. "Great stay as usual, but...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
The cabin is accessible, with ramps and a porch for ease of use. "The porch, ramps, steps and roadways can be slippery when damp, or covered by snow or frost."
Based on 55 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, but reviews mention issues with dog hair and guests not following rules about keeping dogs off furniture. "Loved the furnishing and to have electricity what a treat. It made a great...
Based on 55 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025