Kenck Cabin
04 reviewsRocky Mountain Ranger District PO Box 340, Choteau, MT, 59422, USA
Kenck Cabin
$50.00 - $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
The cabin can be reserved for $50 per night during both peak and non-peak seasons. Additional costs may include reservation service fees and cancellation fees.
About this campground
Step back in time at Kenck Cabin, where nearly a century of mountain memories await. This charming 1924 retreat, once home to a pioneering mountain doctor, now welcomes adventurous families and small groups seeking an authentic backcountry experience. While the cabin's rustic simplicity means you'll need to bring your own water, bedding, and lighting, the reward is an intimate connection with Montana's wilderness heritage in a property so special it's earned a place on the National Register of Historic Places.
Kenck Cabin is a historic lodging facility within Lewis and Clark National Forest, offering rustic accommodations suited for self-sufficient campers. It is not a typical campground but a cabin rental.
Historical SignificanceIn 1924, Dr. Kenck built more than just a cabin—he created a sanctuary where a traveling physician could rest between long journeys to remote mountain communities. For nearly 80 years, these hand-hewn walls witnessed the evolution of the American West, until 2003 when this treasured piece of history was generously donated to the Forest Service. Today, Kenck Cabin stands as a testament to frontier medicine and mountain hospitality, its inclusion on the National Register of Historic Places ensuring future generations can experience this remarkable legacy.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms Kenck Cabin into a cool mountain sanctuary, where daytime temperatures hover around a perfect 73°F before dropping to a crisp 49°F under star-filled skies. While occasional light rain may dust the forest, most days bring brilliant sunshine filtering through the conifers. Winter wraps the cabin in a blanket of snow, transforming access into its own adventure—whether you arrive by snowmobile, cross-country skis, or snowshoes, the journey becomes part of the magic.
ElevationPerched at 5,200 feet where the air grows thin and the views expand endlessly, Kenck Cabin offers a true high-country experience. Here, summer temperatures stay refreshingly cool, autumn arrives early with golden aspens, and the mountain atmosphere creates the perfect setting for disconnecting from the world below.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by towering mixed conifers at 5,200 feet, Kenck Cabin sits at the confluence of mountain streams—Benchmark Creek, South Fork Sun River, and Burned Creek—that have carved this landscape for millennia. The Lewis and Clark National Forest stretches in every direction, its 1,600 miles of pristine waterways creating a tapestry of rushing water and quiet pools. Keep your camera ready: this protected wilderness serves as home to some of North America's most magnificent wildlife, from the powerful grizzly and black bears to soaring bald eagles and the elusive lynx padding silently through the shadows.
Geological RegionDeep within the Lewis and Clark National Forest, Kenck Cabin occupies a dramatic landscape where ancient geological forces have sculpted a paradise of mixed conifer forests and crystal-clear mountain streams. At 5,200 feet, the cabin sits perfectly positioned where Benchmark Creek, South Fork Sun River, and Burned Creek converge, creating a natural amphitheater of rushing water and towering evergreens that showcase the raw beauty of Montana's Rocky Mountain ecosystem.
Campsite details
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is nestled in the woods, offering seclusion and an isolated experience.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring mantles for lanterns, newspapers for starting wood stoves, and bear-proof food storage. User reviews highlight the need for careful packing due to uphill walk from parking lot.
Best CampsitesKenck Cabin is the single available site.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Six guests allowed in the cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutOne-room cabin with a double bed, futon, two cots, wood stoves, monarch replica stove, and classic wood dining chairs.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen from January 1 to September 30 (peak season), and December 1 to December 31 (non-peak season). Closed from October 1 to November 30.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability is mentioned; reservation is required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled before the scheduled arrival date. $10 cancellation fee applies, along with forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee for late cancellations (as defined: within 14 days of check-in for this cabin).
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
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Kenck Cabin provides opportunities for relaxation, bird watching, hiking, and photography. Guests can enjoy scenic views near Patrol Lookout, located by the cabin gate. Fishing is popular in nearby streams, with reports of large trout being caught. In winter, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing are activities available to reach the cabin.
Hiking
Guests can hike surrounding trails, including scenic views of Patrol Lookout near the cabin gate. Trails are accessible from the cabin and parking area.Fishing
Fishing is available in nearby streams, including Benchmark Creek, South Fork Sun River, and Burned Creek. User reviews highlight the quality of fishing, with large trout reported.Wildlife viewing
Guests may encounter native wildlife such as grizzly and black bears, white-tailed deer, bald eagles, lynx, bighorn sheep, and grey wolves. Bird watching is also recommended.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing to reach the cabin. Snowmobiling is restricted to the road leading to the South Fork Trailhead and is prohibited on trails.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Wood burning stoves provided; firewood supplied. Visitors should obtain firewood nearby to prevent pest spread.
Hazards
General hazardsMice are mentioned in user reviews, requiring secure food storage. Bears frequent the area, posing a threat if food is not properly stored.
Active alertsClosure possible during emergency fire activity.
Weather forecast
63
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 32%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 2.8 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
The nearest emergency services are in Augusta, which is 30 miles away. Due to road conditions, travel time can be up to 2 hours.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to September 30.
Trash and recyclingThe facility operates on a 'pack in-pack out' policy, requiring visitors to bring garbage bags and take their trash with them when leaving.
Proximity to water featuresNear Benchmark Creek, South Fork Sun River, and Burned Creek. A "small stream flowing near the cabin" is noted by reviewers.
Common complaintsUser reviews mention non-functional propane lanterns, mice issues, and steep access requiring careful packing.
HostNo specific host information mentioned, but ranger district contact available for key pickup and drop-off.
Campground Map
Rocky Mountain Ranger District PO Box 340, Choteau, MT, 59422, USA
Driving directionsFrom Augusta, head west on Laura Street, which becomes Benchmark Road. Travel 13 miles to a "Y" intersection and turn left continuing on Benchmark Road. Drive 15 miles to the end of the road at South Fork Trailhead. Take the main trail that runs in front of the outhouse. From the main trail, take the first trail to the right, just after the "Pack-In-Pack-Out" sign. A small sign marks this trail leading to Kenck Cabin. The cabin is about a half-mile down the trail. Benchmark Road is not plowed in winter and can be snowed in as early as October. Snowmobiling is allowed on the road to the South Fork Trailhead if the road is no longer accessible to vehicles. However, snowmobiling is not allowed on trails beyond that point. Plan to hike, snowshoe or ski on the main trail to the cabin.
Benchmark Road is gravel and not plowed in winter, requiring snowmobiles or skiing to access during snowy months. Travel is described as rough and winding.Nearby places
Augusta (30 miles, 1.5 to 2 hours travel time)
Nearby supplies
Augusta is the nearest town with conveniences like groceries, camping supplies, and fuel, located about 30 miles away.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Kenck Cabin has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Kenck Cabin are largely positive, praising its rustic charm, historic significance, and well-maintained facilities. Guests enjoy the isolation, access to hiking and fishing, and the self-sufficient camping experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests frequently mention the cabin's upkeep and functional amenities, such as wood stoves and firewood provided. The scenic surroundings, proximity to streams, and opportunities for fishing and...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users reported issues with lanterns not functioning properly upon arrival and the presence of mice within the cabin. The uphill walk from the parking lot can be challenging for some.
Based on 4 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Users recommend bringing extra mantles for lanterns, newspapers to start the wood stove, and securing all food and trash to prevent mice. Flashlights and bedding are essential items to pack. Note...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are favored for fishing, streams, and clear mountain air. Winter requires snowshoeing or skiing to access the cabin, offering a unique, albeit challenging, experience. Guests should...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Lovely cabin, kept in very good shape. Lovely porch for sitting, and a fun history of Dr. Kenck, the original owner." - Larry A
"My husband caught some spectacularly large trout! The cabin is...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
No specific site reviews other than general feedback about Kenck Cabin's comfort and facilities.
Based on 4 reviewsAccessibility Features
No specific reviews addressing accessibility features.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed at Kenck Cabin.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025