Quigley Group Use
Helena Ranger District, 2880 Skyway Drive, Helena, MT 59602
Quigley Group Use
$50.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$50 per night fee for the group site. Additional reservation service fees apply.
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$50.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Total Campsite Fees$50.00
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Recreation.gov
Provider406-449-5201
About this campground
Perched at 6,300 feet on the scenic MacDonald Pass, Quigley Group Use Site offers an authentic backcountry experience within the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. This rustic mountain retreat, embraced by towering lodgepole pines and Douglas firs, serves as a perfect basecamp for groups seeking adventure along the legendary Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. The undeveloped site preserves the raw beauty of Montana's wilderness while providing essential amenities including a vault toilet and ample parking for trailers under 20 feet. With space to accommodate 10-12 tents, it's an ideal gathering place for families, scout troops, or outdoor clubs looking to immerse themselves in the pristine mountain environment.
This is a group camping site designed for larger groups with minimal facilities.
Historical SignificanceYour campsite sits at the doorstep of one of America's most iconic trails—the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail. This legendary pathway represents decades of conservation efforts and outdoor heritage, tracing the backbone of the continent through some of the West's most spectacular landscapes. Camping here connects you to a rich tradition of wilderness exploration and the enduring legacy of those who worked to preserve these wild places for future generations.
Weather and SeasonsSummer at Quigley brings the perfect blend of warm days and crisp mountain nights. Expect comfortable daytime temperatures in the 60s°F that invite exploration, while evenings cool to the 40s°F—ideal for gathering around the campfire. The mountain air carries gentle to moderate breezes through the pines, and while summer storms can occasionally roll through with refreshing rain showers, most days offer clear skies perfect for stargazing and outdoor adventures.
ElevationAt 6,300 feet above sea level, Quigley Group Use Site places you in the heart of Montana's mountain country. This elevation creates a unique ecosystem where alpine meadows meet dense forests, and where summer arrives late but lingers with spectacular wildflower displays. The thin mountain air adds an invigorating quality to every breath, while the elevation ensures cooler temperatures that provide welcome relief from summer heat and create perfect conditions for comfortable camping.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a landscape where ancient lodgepole pines and stately Douglas firs create a natural cathedral overhead. The campground nestles within a diverse tapestry of rugged ridges, wildflower-dotted meadows, and rolling grasslands that stretch toward distant peaks. This remarkable ecosystem supports an impressive array of wildlife—from majestic grizzly bears and wolves to graceful elk and moose. Black bears, mountain lions, and deer also call these forests home, reminding visitors that they're camping in true wilderness where nature still reigns supreme.
Geological RegionThe campground rests along the Continental Divide, where ancient geological forces sculpted a dramatic landscape of forested slopes and alpine meadows. At 6,300 feet, you're camping on the very spine of North America, where waters flow either east toward the Atlantic or west to the Pacific. This mountain terrain showcases the raw beauty of Montana's high country, with rugged ridges framing expansive views and diverse ecosystems that change with every turn of the trail.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe site is undeveloped and lacks specific amenities for accessibility.
Sites SizeThe site accommodates approximately 40 people, with space for 10-12 four-person tents and limited trailer parking. Trailers should not exceed 20 feet in length.
Sites PrivacyAs a group-use site, privacy between camping parties is not emphasized. The area is near public trails and other campgrounds, so visitors can expect to encounter other people recreating.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesFor large groups, plan to bring additional portable toilets and water, as these are not provided.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay limit of 16 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Approximately 40 people.
Groups
The site accommodates up to 40 people and is suitable for 10-12 four-person tents. Trailer parking is limited, and trailers exceeding 20 feet are not recommended.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle large group use site accommodating up to 40 people.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from June 1 to October 15 each year; closed during other periods.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo information available about walk-up availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations before the check-in date incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations. No-show reservations also incur a $20 no-show fee.
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.
Amenities available
Cell phone service
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides access to a variety of recreational opportunities including hiking, biking, hunting, photography, and exploring the surrounding area. It is adjacent to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, a major draw for outdoor enthusiasts.
Hiking
The Continental Divide National Scenic Trail (mile 616) is located a few hundred feet from the site, offering hiking opportunities both north and south. The surrounding area features rugged ridges, meadows, and forests.Biking
Biking is available on and around the Continental Divide Trail system, with additional off-highway vehicle roads located 10 miles to the west and 5 miles to the east.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to diverse wildlife including grizzly bears, deer, elk, gray wolves, moose, black bears, and mountain lions, offering ample wildlife viewing opportunities.Winter Activities
Winter activities are not detailed, and the site is only open from June 1 to October 15 annually.Water Sports
Non-motorized or water sports are not applicable to this site.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires allowed using locally obtained firewood. Visitors are advised to burn firewood on-site to prevent tree-killing pests.
- Quiet hours are No quiet hours specified.
Hazards
General hazardsWildlife such as grizzly bears, black bears, and mountain lions pose potential safety concerns. Visitors are advised to store food properly.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Oct 10
Friday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 16.1 mph
Very strong wind, outdoor activities may be affected
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
Closest emergency services are located in the City of Helena, 15 miles away, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 12 to October 14
Trash and recyclingAll garbage and food must be packed out by campers. No on-site trash or recycling facilities are available.
Proximity to water featuresNo direct water features within the campground.
Common complaintsLimited availability of amenities such as water and food storage lockers. Trailer parking is restricted to trailers under 20 feet.
HostNo on-site host information available.
Campground Map
Helena Ranger District, 2880 Skyway Drive, Helena, MT 59602
Driving directionsFrom Helena, Montana, take US-12 W west for 13 miles to the top of MacDonald Pass. Turn left (south) at the Cromwell-Dixon Campground sign and cross the large cattleguard. Turn left (east) again, travel about 500 feet and cross a second cattleguard. Then, turn left (north) again and you'll be at the gated entrance into the Quigley Day Use area.
Accessible via US-12 W, a paved major highway. The campground is located on the top of MacDonald Pass, which includes two cattleguards and a gated entrance. Road conditions are suitable for most vehicles, but trailers longer than 20 feet are not recommended.Nearby places
Helena (15 miles, approximately 20 minutes driving)
Nearby supplies
Helena (15 miles) for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
0.0
2 reviews

Quigley Group Use has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Quigley Group Use Site is less visited but receives a high satisfaction score for its natural setting and recreational opportunities. Some reviews commend the area's beauty and the nearby Continental Divide Trail.
Review Summaries
Based on 2 reviews
What Campers Love
"Spectacular views of surrounding meadows, timbered slopes, and mountains." Campers appreciate the access to the Continental Divide Trail and the opportunity for diverse outdoor activities.
Based on 2 reviewsCommon Concerns
Limited facilities such as no water availability and the need to pack out all trash can be inconvenient for some visitors.
Based on 2 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers should bring their own water and consider portable toilets for larger groups or extended stays. The site is gated, so make sure to have the lock combination provided with your reservation.
Based on 2 reviewsSeasonal Insights
The site is popular during its open season (June through mid-October) due to favorable weather conditions for hiking and outdoor activities.
Based on 2 reviewsCamper Quotes
"The Continental Divide Trail is just steps away, making this a fantastic base for exploration." "The views are absolutely stunning, but be prepared for the lack of basic amenities."
Based on 2 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
This is a single group-use site, so no specific campsite reviews are available.
Based on 2 reviewsAccessibility Features
There are no specific reviews or features addressing accessibility.
Based on 2 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet policies and experiences are not mentioned.
Based on 2 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025