Bar Gulch Cabin
4.4616 reviews415 S. FRONT STREET, TOWNSEND, MT, 59644, USA
Bar Gulch Cabin
$25.00 - $50.00 / 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
Cabin rates range from $25 to $50 per night depending on season, excluding discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled in a sun-dappled clearing where wildflowers dance in the mountain breeze, Bar Gulch Cabin offers a genuine slice of Montana's mining heritage. This charming 1930s-era cabin, once home to hopeful prospectors seeking their fortunes in the Big Belt Mountains, has been lovingly preserved as a backcountry retreat. Now under the stewardship of Helena National Forest, this cozy single-room sanctuary invites modern adventurers to step back in time while exploring the rugged beauty of Montana's wilderness.
Bar Gulch Cabin is a single-room structure suitable for up to six guests. It caters primarily to cabin-based camping experiences.
Historical SignificanceBar Gulch Cabin stands as a testament to Montana's rich mining legacy, its weathered logs whispering stories of the determined souls who built it in the 1930s. These early prospectors carved out a life in the wilderness, using this humble shelter as their base while searching for precious metals in the surrounding mountains. After the mining era faded, the cabin found new purpose as a recreational haven for outdoor enthusiasts. In 1988, recognizing its historical value and potential to connect visitors with the past, the cabin was generously donated to the Forest Service, ensuring future generations could experience this authentic piece of American frontier history.
Weather and SeasonsSummer days bring brilliant blue skies and comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking and wildlife watching, though visitors should come prepared for the local fly population that thrives in the warm months. As autumn paints the mountains in gold and crimson, crisp air signals the approach of winter's transformation. Snow blankets the landscape from late fall through spring, creating a winter wonderland where ice crystals form delicate patterns around the cabin's weathered walls. Each season offers its own magic, from wildflower blooms to pristine snowscapes.
ElevationPerched at a mountain elevation that offers the perfect balance of accessibility and alpine adventure, Bar Gulch Cabin provides visitors with that coveted 'on top of the world' feeling while remaining within reach of valley comforts.
Natural Features and SceneryThe landscape surrounding Bar Gulch Cabin reads like a naturalist's dream journal. From your doorstep, meadows carpeted in native grasses give way to towering stands of pine, fir, and spruce that fill the air with their distinctive mountain perfume. Crystal-clear streams tumble through valleys, feeding into pristine lakes that mirror the big Montana sky. As you explore further, the terrain rises dramatically to reveal subalpine meadows bursting with wildflowers and stark, beautiful ridgelines that seem to touch the clouds. This diverse ecosystem supports an impressive cast of wildlife characters – majestic elk bugle in autumn, bighorn sheep navigate impossible cliffs, and black bears forage for berries. Lucky visitors might spot a moose wading through marshy areas or catch a glimpse of more secretive residents like badgers, mountain lions, and the elusive lynx.
Geological RegionThe Big Belt Mountain Range cradles Bar Gulch Cabin in its ancient embrace, offering visitors a front-row seat to millions of years of geological drama. Part of the greater Helena National Forest, this remarkable landscape showcases nature's artistic versatility – from intimate forest glens and babbling brooks to sweeping alpine vistas and weathered peaks. The varied terrain creates countless microenvironments, each supporting its own community of plants and animals. Whether you're drawn to quiet contemplation beside a mountain stream, challenging hikes to panoramic ridgelines, or simply soaking in the profound silence of the wilderness, the Big Belts deliver an authentic Montana mountain experience that rejuvenates the soul.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin includes an accessible pit toilet and flat terrain around the cabin, but lacks specialized facilities for guests with disabilities.
Sites SizeThere is a single cabin available, which is suitable for up to six individuals.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is situated in an open grassy clearing surrounded by forest, providing moderate privacy but not complete seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesGuests are advised to bring additional water, bug spray, and propane canisters. Winter visitors should use sand for icy conditions near the back door.
Best CampsitesSite 01 (the only site) is frequently praised for its rustic charm and amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in at 11:00 AM.
Check-out
Check-out by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
Maximum 14 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy of 6 persons per cabin.
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 with screened-in porch.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen January 1, 2025, to December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information on walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made in advance. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations (less than 14 days prior) also incur the forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. Modification of reservations outside original dates incurs 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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Bar Gulch Cabin offers a variety of outdoor activities including hiking, fishing, boating, and wildlife viewing. Nearby trails provide opportunities for exploration, and Canyon Ferry Lake is popular for fishing and birdwatching.
Hiking
Guests can access trails directly from the cabin, including Bar Gulch Trail and Belt Divide Trail. The Ridge Trail offers expansive views and overnight opportunities.Fishing
Fishing is available at Canyon Ferry Lake, located five miles away, and includes species like rainbow trout, perch, ling, and walleye.Biking
Biking is available near the cabin, although specific trail details are not provided.Boating
Boating is possible at Canyon Ferry Lake, which is five miles away, with no specific docking facilities mentioned.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant, with possibilities to see elk, deer, black bears, moose, and various bird species, including bald eagles near Canyon Ferry Lake.Winter Activities
Winter activities include skiing and winter sports at nearby Canyon Ferry Lake.Water Sports
Guests can enjoy non-motorized water sports at Canyon Ferry Lake, including kayaking and canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Keep open fires within the campfire ring.
- Quiet hours are No information provided.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include fly infestations during summer, mouse droppings, and icy conditions in colder months around the back door.
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.7 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
Helena or Townsend emergency services, with Helena situated 24 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash and food. No recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresFive miles from Canyon Ferry Lake, offering fishing and boating opportunities.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention cleanliness issues such as mouse droppings and garbage left on the screened porch. Flies are noted as a consistent summer issue. The water pump is reportedly missing a handle.
HostNo information on campground hosts.
Campground Map
415 S. FRONT STREET, TOWNSEND, MT, 59644, USA
Driving directionsFrom Helena, take Canyon Ferry Road over the dam, past Kim's Marina. Continuing east, watch for a left-hand turn onto Magpie Road. From this intersection, proceed up Magpie Road 3.9 miles. Turn left on Bar Gulch Road. Continue on Bar Gulch Road approximately 0.25 miles to the cabin. The cabin is located on the left.
Access to the cabin is good and does not usually require a 4-wheel drive vehicle. Snow removal is not provided, which may affect accessibility during winter.Nearby places
Helena - 24 miles, Townsend - 30 miles
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies likely available in Helena (24 miles) or Townsend (30 miles). Exact locations for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel are not specified.
Camper Reviews
4.5
16 reviews
Bar Gulch Cabin is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Bar Gulch Cabin vary widely, with some guests praising the rustic charm and location, while others criticize issues such as cleanliness and missing features.
Review Summaries
Based on 16 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviews highlight the cabin's efficient heating, the convenience of trails nearby, and the peaceful surrounding environment. Guests enjoy the antique cook stove and rustic charm.
Based on 16 reviewsCommon Concerns
Recurring complaints include missing water pump handles, poor cleanliness, mouse droppings, and flies during summer. Some visitors also report garbage left behind on the screened porch.
Based on 16 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing sufficient water, extra propane, bug spray, and sand to manage icy conditions near the back door in colder weather.
Based on 16 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Summer reviews often mention flies and the lack of firewood. Winter reviews praise the warm cabin and opportunities for skiing nearby. Autumn reviews highlight tranquility and outdoor exploration...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Wood stoves worked great and plenty of cookware." - LOGUN N
"It’s one of my favorite places to go to get out of town!" - AARON O
"Taking the hike heading west behind the cabin is recommended." -...
Based on 16 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Most reviews focus on the single Bar Gulch Cabin, with mixed sentiments about its amenities and condition.
Based on 16 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features.
Based on 16 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
One review mentions bringing a dog to the cabin, but no further details about pet policies or features are provided.
Based on 16 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025