Indian Meadows Guard Station
04 reviewsLincoln Ranger Station, 1569 HWY 200, Lincoln, MT 59639
Indian Meadows Guard Station
$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 fee for renting the cabin during its peak season (December 1st to December 31st) is $65. Reservation fees may apply depending on the booking method: $8 online, $9 via contact center, or $3 in person.
About this campground
Nestled deep in Montana's winter wonderland, Indian Meadows Guard Station beckons adventurous souls seeking an authentic backcountry experience. This secluded cabin rental sits at the gateway to the legendary Copper Bowls snowmobile area and the pristine Scapegoat Wilderness, where endless trails wind through powder-filled forests and alpine meadows. Your journey begins with an exhilarating 8-mile trek over snow-covered terrain—by snowmobile, skis, or snowshoes—transforming your arrival into part of the adventure itself. Here, miles from the nearest road, you'll discover a sanctuary where wolves howl under starlit skies and the only tracks in the morning snow might belong to a passing lynx.
Indian Meadows Guard Station is a winter-only cabin rental catering specifically to snowmobilers, skiers, and snowshoers. It provides a unique and challenging remote camping experience.
Historical SignificanceBuilt in the 1990s with the sturdy craftsmanship that defines Forest Service architecture, Indian Meadows Guard Station serves a dual life. While winter visitors cherish it as their backcountry basecamp, summer brings a different rhythm as Forest Service crews use the cabin as headquarters for managing the District's historic pack string operations. This working heritage infuses the cabin with authentic Western character—you're not just renting a cabin, you're stepping into a living piece of Montana's ongoing wilderness stewardship story.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms Indian Meadows into a crystalline world where temperatures plunge well below zero, creating a landscape of diamond-dust snow and frost-etched windows. Mother Nature doesn't hold back here—heavy snowfalls blanket the terrain in deep powder while avalanche conditions demand respect and preparation. This is winter at its most magnificent and unforgiving, where proper cold-weather gear isn't just recommended, it's essential. The reward for those who come prepared? An intimate encounter with one of the West's last truly wild winter frontiers.
ElevationPerched at 5,500 feet where the air grows thin and crisp, Indian Meadows Guard Station occupies that sweet spot where accessible meets alpine. This elevation gifts the area with reliable, champagne-powder snow from early winter through spring, while the thin mountain air makes every breath feel like you're drinking in pure wilderness. Here, storms arrive with dramatic flair, painting the peaks white and transforming the landscape into a winter photographer's dream.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom your cabin door, the dramatic silhouette of Red Mountain rises against Montana's big sky, while the Continental Divide forms a jagged horizon that separates watersheds and weather systems. Steep alpine slopes plunge into hidden valleys where deep snow muffles all sound except the whisper of wind through frost-laden pines. This is prime habitat for some of North America's most elusive wildlife—Canadian lynx pad silently through the powder, wolves traverse ancient hunting grounds, and snowshoe hares leave their distinctive tracks in endless loops through the underbrush. Each dawn brings new possibilities for wildlife encounters and photographic moments.
Geological RegionIndian Meadows Guard Station stands as your personal gateway to the legendary Bob Marshall and Scapegoat Wilderness complex—one of the lower 48's last intact ecosystems. This rugged alpine terrain tells a story written in granite peaks and glacial valleys, where the Continental Divide creates a natural fortress of stone and snow. Red Mountain dominates the local skyline, its slopes catching alpenglow at sunrise and sunset, while deep valleys funnel weather systems that dump abundant snowfall throughout the winter months. This is geology you can feel—in the steep climbs, the avalanche paths, and the raw beauty of mountains still being carved by ice and time.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site does not specify disability-accessible features beyond basic amenities.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to six guests, with two sets of bunk beds and two single beds in the loft.
Sites PrivacyAs a remote cabin rental, it offers a high degree of privacy and seclusion.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesIdeal for winter recreation enthusiasts; visitors are advised to bring appropriate clothing and avalanche gear.
Best CampsitesOnly one campsite - the cabin itself.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is unspecified.
Check-out
Check-out time is unspecified.
Stay Limit
No limits explicitly mentioned for consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin accommodates up to 6 guests with two bunk beds and two single beds.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin is accessible via a marked snowmobile trail, with parking available at the trailhead 8 miles away.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from December 1st to March 31st annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not applicable; cabin requires advance reservations.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations ahead of arrival incur a $10 fee. Cancellations are allowed anytime before check-in, but late cancellations within 14 days of arrival deduct the first night’s fee alongside a $10 cancellation 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
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
This winter rental cabin provides opportunities for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, backcountry skiing, and snowshoeing. During early winter, hiking trails may have limited snow cover, and fishing opportunities are available in nearby lakes and streams.
Hiking
"In early season visitors may find that they can hike on the nearby Mainline Trail #480 and the Landers Fork Trail #438 with relatively little snow cover. Heart Lake is located approximately 5 miles from the cabin."Fishing
"Heart Lake has strong populations of West slope Cutthroat trout and Arctic Grayling. The Landers Fork and Copper Creek are also nearby streams with strong trout populations."Wildlife viewing
Guests can track winter wildlife, including Canadian Lynx, Wolverines, Foxes, Wolves, and snowshoe hares, making this area ideal for wildlife enthusiasts.Winter Activities
Snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, backcountry skiing, and snowshoeing are the primary winter activities. Avalanche training and equipment are recommended for safety in the steep and snowy terrain.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are allowed, and firewood is provided for use at the cabin.
- Quiet hours are No specific quiet hours mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsAvalanche risks are high due to steep slopes and heavy snow. Visitors should have avalanche training and safety equipment. Freezing conditions can complicate access to water.
Active alertsNone specified, but visitors are advised to monitor weather forecasts and area closures due to snow conditions.
Weather forecast
80
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 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
The nearest emergency services are in Lincoln, approximately 20 miles away, but visitors are advised to bring satellite communication devices due to the lack of cell service.
Good to know
Peak season datesDecember 1st to December 31st.
Trash and recyclingGuests are encouraged to maintain cleanliness using the provided cleaning supplies. There is no mention of specific trash or recycling facilities on-site.
Proximity to water featuresHeart Lake is located approximately 5 miles away, with populations of cutthroat trout and Arctic grayling.
Common complaintsNo specific complaints listed, but the remote nature and challenging winter access may be difficult for some visitors.
HostNo direct host information provided; facility management is by the Lincoln Ranger Station.
Campground Map
Lincoln Ranger Station, 1569 HWY 200, Lincoln, MT 59639
Driving directionsFrom Lincoln Mt., visitors will travel approximately 5 miles East on Hwy 200 to the Copper Creek Road #330. The snowmobile Trailhead is located approximately 2 miles North on Copper Creek Road #330 and is located on the west (left) side of the road. There is ample parking here for trailers and vehicles. The trailhead is plowed and maintained by the local snowmobile club. Most visitors will park here and proceed over snow for the remaining 8 miles to the cabin. In early December it may be possible to drive further in on Copper Cr. Road towards the cabin. Visitors should obey posted closures and pay close attention to weather forecasts to avoid becoming snowed in at the cabin with their vehicle.
Access is challenging during winter months as visitors must travel approximately 8 miles over snow to reach the cabin. Early season conditions may permit driving part or all of the way, but heavy snow can restrict access.Nearby places
Lincoln is approximately 20 miles from the cabin via groomed snowmobile trails.
Nearby supplies
Essential supplies, eateries, and local shops are available in the town of Lincoln, accessible via groomed snowmobile trails.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Indian Meadows Guard Station has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews are overwhelmingly positive, praising the cleanliness, maintenance, and unique location of the cabin. Guests appreciate the well-stocked amenities and the opportunities for winter recreation.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
The cabin is described as clean, comfortable, and well-stocked with essentials like propane and kitchen tools. Guests highlight the excellent snowmobiling and skiing experiences. "This was the nicest...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
No significant complaints were noted among user reviews.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend preparing for harsh winter conditions, bringing avalanche safety gear, and using satellite communication devices for emergencies. "Visitors should come well equipped and well...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
The cabin is only available during the winter season (December 1 to March 31), and reviews emphasize the exclusivity and serenity of the location during this time.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
"Such a fun adventure, snowmobiling was great and skiing was even better. Great food and stories around the campfire." "We’ll stocked. Comfy beds. A welcome respite from a -20 day."
Based on 4 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
All reviews specifically praise the cabin itself, with users highlighting its cleanliness, comfort, and scenic location.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025