Savenac Cookhouse
209 W Riverside Ave., Superior, MT, 59872
Savenac Cookhouse
$80.00 - $115.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Starting March 1, 2021, fees increased from $80 to $115 per night.
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$115.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$115.00
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider406-822-4233
About this campground
Step into a slice of Montana history at the Savenac Cookhouse, where a century-old Forest Service legacy meets modern group adventure. Nestled within the storied Savenac Tree Nursery, this unique gathering space invites groups to create memories around shared meals after days spent exploring the surrounding wilderness. Whether you're casting lines in crystal-clear streams, pedaling along mountain trails, or carving fresh tracks through powder snow, the Cookhouse serves as your basecamp for unforgettable Bitterroot Mountain experiences.
The Savenac Cookhouse is a unique group accommodation facility within the Lolo National Forest. It caters to large groups with modern amenities and additional sleeping quarters available for rent in the bunkhouse.
Historical SignificanceThe walls of the Savenac Cookhouse echo with over a century of Forest Service history. Originally part of the pioneering Savenac Tree Nursery established in 1907—one of the earliest efforts to restore America's forests—this building found new purpose in the 1970s when it was thoughtfully converted into a cookhouse. Today, as one of three distinctive rental cabins at the historic nursery site, it offers visitors a chance to connect with the conservation legacy that helped shape the American West.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the best of Montana's distinct seasons at Savenac. Summer days unfold with brilliant sunshine and comfortable temperatures topping out at a pleasant 82°F—perfect for morning hikes and afternoon fishing. When winter transforms the landscape into a snow-covered wonderland, the surrounding mountains become a playground for cross-country skiing and snowmobiling adventures, with the warm Cookhouse waiting to welcome you back from the cold.
ElevationPerched among the dramatic peaks and valleys of Montana's mountainous terrain, the Cookhouse offers that quintessential big-sky experience where the air feels crisper and the stars shine brighter in the high-altitude wilderness.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to the untamed beauty of the Bitterroot Mountains, where ancient forests frame your morning coffee view and wildlife roams just beyond your doorstep. This pristine ecosystem serves as home to an impressive cast of mountain residents—from graceful deer and majestic elk to elusive moose and sure-footed bighorn sheep. Lucky visitors might even spot signs of the area's more secretive inhabitants, including mountain lions that silently patrol these wild lands.
Geological RegionDiscover your mountain refuge in the heart of the Bitterroot Mountains, where Montana meets Idaho in a spectacular collision of peaks, forests, and valleys within the vast Lolo National Forest. This remarkable landscape supports one of the most diverse wildlife populations in the lower 48, where black bears forage through huckleberry patches, elk bugle across meadows, and mountain lions maintain the delicate balance of this thriving ecosystem. Here, the ancient geology tells the story of continental collisions and glacial artistry that carved out one of the West's most breathtaking wilderness areas.
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Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly mentioned in the source materials.
Sites SizeLarge group accommodations with seating for up to 30 people and sleeping for up to 9 people.
Sites PrivacyThe cookhouse is part of a historic compound, and privacy details are not explicitly mentioned.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesRecommended for groups seeking cooking and sleeping facilities. Bring bedding, toiletries, and supplies.
Best CampsitesCampsite 001, located in Area Savenac Cookhouse, is praised for cleanliness and convenience.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in details tied to reservation specifics. Key code provided through confirmation.
Check-out
Check-out required before leaving facility.
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay is 5 nights during a visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to nine people can sleep downstairs, 30 guests can use dining facilities.
Groups
The cookhouse can accommodate large groups, with seating for up to 30 people and sleeping arrangements for 9. The bunkhouse is available for additional group accommodations but must be rented separately.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Open and Closed SeasonAvailable year-round except for administrative or maintenance closures.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityCookhouse is a reservable property; walk-up availability not specified.
Cancellation PolicyCancellation fee is $10. Late cancellation fee forfeits the first night's fees and applies less than 14 days prior to arrival. No fee refunds for changes on check-in day.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
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
Showers
Potable water
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Visitors to the Savenac Cookhouse have access to a variety of recreational activities. These include self-guided tours of the historic Savenac Tree Nursery, biking on the nearby Route of the Hiawatha Trail, fishing and wading in the St. Regis River, and winter activities like snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Hiking
There are interpretive trails near the Savenac Cookhouse, and the Route of the Hiawatha Trail is 7 miles away, offering excellent mountain biking opportunities.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available in the nearby St. Regis River and various mountain streams.Biking
The Route of the Hiawatha Trail, located 7 miles to the west, offers world-class mountain biking.Boating
Non-motorized boating is available in the St. Regis River and nearby mountain streams.Wildlife viewing
The Lolo National Forest is home to deer, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, mountain lions, moose, and black bears, making it an excellent area for wildlife observation.Cultural and Educational Programs
The site offers self-guided tours of the historic Savenac Tree Nursery and other educational insights into the area's history.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on groomed trails in the nearby area.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are available in the St. Regis River and nearby streams.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Prevent spread of pests by sourcing firewood locally and burning onsite.
Hazards
General hazardsAvalanche danger in nearby areas, presence of wildlife including black bears.
Weather forecast
32
°F
Nov 25
Tuesday
Partly cloudy
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 76%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 1.4 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Partly cloudy
7 day forecast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are likely located in Superior, MT.
Good to know
Peak season datesOctober 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025 (specified for peak pricing).
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all garbage and personal belongings. Trash collection is not available on-site.
Proximity to water featuresSavenac Creek runs through the compound; St. Regis River nearby.
Common complaintsNone noted in user reviews or official sources.
HostHosts onsite to inspect cleanliness and perform checkout.
Campground Map
209 W Riverside Ave., Superior, MT, 59872
Driving directionsFrom Missoula, travel west on Interstate 90 for 90 miles to Haugan (Exit 16). Turn right at the stop sign. At the frontage road, turn right, then take the first left, crossing the cattleguard. Signs are onsite if needed. Maps are available online or for purchase by calling the Superior Ranger District.
Accessible by vehicle year-round, except during administrative or maintenance closures.Nearby places
Missoula (90 miles west)
Haugan (walking distance from the campground)
Lookout Pass (10 miles west)
St. Regis River (few minutes away).
Nearby supplies
Supplies available within walking distance include a family restaurant, gas station, general store, and gift shop.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Savenac Cookhouse has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
The Savenac Cookhouse is highly praised for its cleanliness, historical significance, and suitability for group gatherings. Reviewers appreciate the well-equipped kitchen and the variety of activities available in the area.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Users highlight the cleanliness of the facilities, the historical charm of the cookhouse, and the extensive kitchen and dining amenities. The location's proximity to outdoor activities also received...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
No significant complaints are noted in the reviewed user feedback.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing all necessary supplies, including bedding, towels, and toiletries. They also emphasize cleaning the facility thoroughly before leaving.
Based on 4 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Reviewers note that the cookhouse is an excellent base for winter skiing trips, as well as family reunions and group outings during warmer months.
Based on 4 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We love the cookhouse! Boy Scout Troop 1909 of Missoula has visited annually the cookhouse for many years as a great weekend ski trip basecamp." - Andrew M. "A great place to gather! We have rented...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Users particularly recommend the cookhouse for group functions and family gatherings due to its spaciousness and amenities.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are prohibited within the cookhouse, which users should consider when planning visits.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated November 24, 2025
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