Bear Creek Bunkhouse (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Mt)

Star4.35
14 reviews
5 Forest Service Rd, Ennis, MT 59729, USA

Quick Facts

6,250 ft

Price

$55/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Check Policy

RV FriendlyElectric

Opens Madison Ranger District (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest) site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Bear Creek Bunkhouse (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Mt)
$55.00 - $55.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Cabin rental available for $55 per night during peak season (December 1 - December 31). Fees may vary based on tax, discounts, or incremental charges.
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

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Provider
406-682-4253
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What Campers Say

4.35

Recommended

Based on 14 reviews

4 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewsquietpeaceful

Some mention

crowded

"User reviews highlight the rustic and peaceful nature of the area, with some noting challenges such as overgrown roads or limited amenities. The bunkhouse itself is praised for its cozy setup, though issues like limited firewood and awkward proximity to other cabins are noted."

Read all reviews

Campground Map

5 Forest Service Rd, Ennis, MT 59729, USA

Bear Creek Bunkhouse (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Mt)

5 Forest Service Rd, Ennis, MT 59729, USA

Driving directionsFrom Ennis, take Highway 287 south for 11 miles, to Cameron, Montana. From Cameron, turn east on Bear Creek Loop and continue approximately 6 miles to the cabin. The last several miles are gravel or dirt, which may be muddy or snow-covered and may not always be plowed. Maps may be purchased by calling the Madison Ranger District.
Road access includes gravel and dirt roads, which may be muddy or snow-covered during winter. The roads are not always plowed, requiring visitors to prepare for challenging navigation and vehicle conditions.
Nearby places
Ennis (closest city), Cameron (11 miles south), Virginia City and Nevada City (30 miles west), Yellowstone Park (60 miles north), Lewis and Clark Caverns (60 miles south).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies are available in Ennis and Cameron. Visitors must bring their own essentials, including water, food, toilet paper, and garbage bags. Firewood for heating is provided but not guaranteed, especially in March and April.

Best Time to Camp at Bear Creek Bunkhouse (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Mt)

Winter transforms this mountain sanctuary into a crystalline wonderland where snow blankets the landscape from December through April. Expect true mountain weather—crisp, frigid mornings that make your breath visible, moderate winds that whisper through the firs, and the occasional snowfall that refreshes the pristine powder. Days can swing from bright, dry conditions perfect for exploration to bone-chilling cold that makes the bunkhouse's warmth all the more welcoming. This is peak season for those who find magic in winter's embrace.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
Not recommended

Closed during summer months and used as an administrative site.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
Not recommended

Open only Dec 1–Apr; fall access not available for reservations.

Spring(Mar-May)
3.5 / 5

Open through April; spring offers shoulder-season access though snow and weather remain factors.

Best
Winter(Dec-Feb)
4.5 / 5
Top 9% in MT

Peak season and primary use is winter (Dec–Apr) with cross-country skiing and snowshoeing highlighted.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: December 1 - December 31.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open for reservations between December 1 and April. Closed during summer months when used as an administrative site. Wildlife Management Area north of the cabin is closed December 2 - May 15.
  • Current Alerts: Wildlife Management Area north of the cabin is closed December 2 - May 15.

About Bear Creek Bunkhouse (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Mt)

Nestled deep in southwestern Montana's untamed wilderness, Bear Creek Bunkhouse invites adventurers to disconnect from the modern world and embrace the raw beauty of winter. This rustic mountain retreat serves as your basecamp for exploring miles of pristine hiking trails, carving fresh tracks through cross-country ski routes, and wandering snow-laden forests on snowshoes. While the bunkhouse provides shelter and basic comforts, true to its backcountry spirit, you'll need to pack in your own water, provisions, and cleaning supplies—a small price for the solitude and adventure that awaits.
The Bear Creek Bunkhouse offers cabin accommodations as its primary lodging. Adjacent campsites provide options for tent and trailer camping. Primitive camping is possible in the backcountry with proper permits.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in available from 10:00 PM (based on reservation start time).
Check-out
Check-out before midnight of the last reserved day.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 16 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

Electricity hookups
Fire rings
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Cabin Lodging

Activities you can enjoy

The Bear Creek Bunkhouse provides opportunities for winter sports, hunting, hiking, and horseback riding. Popular trails lead to destinations like Sphinx Mountain and the Helmet. During winter, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are key activities.
HikingHiking trails are available and popular year-round, particularly for accessing Sphinx Mountain and other nearby destinations. Trails also accommodate horseback riding.
ClimbingClimbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.
FishingFishing is permitted in the backcountry with proper permits, as noted in the authoritative recreation section.
Wildlife viewingThe area is home to diverse wildlife, including elk, mule deer, black bears, grizzly bears, mountain grouse, and more. Visitors are advised to review bear safety guidelines.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsGrizzly bears, black bears, and potential snow hazards during winter require caution. Cell phone coverage is extremely limited.
Active AlertsWildlife Management Area north of the cabin is closed December 2 - May 15.
No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.
No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Weather at Bear Creek Bunkhouse (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Mt)

Reviews

4.4
14 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Bear Creek Bunkhouse (Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Mt) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the rustic and peaceful nature of the area, with some noting challenges such as overgrown roads or limited amenities. The bunkhouse itself is praised for its cozy setup, though issues like limited firewood and awkward proximity to other cabins are noted.
Review Summaries
Based on 14 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviews frequently mention the beautiful setting, proximity to wilderness trails, and quiet atmosphere. Multiple reviewers appreciated the scenic views and peaceful environment.
Based on 14 reviews

Common Concerns

Complaints include limited amenities such as unstocked firewood, overgrown roads that are difficult to navigate with trailers, and vault toilets needing cleaning.
Based on 14 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers suggest bringing cleaning supplies, toilet paper, extra firewood (especially in March and April), and being prepared for limited cell phone coverage.
Based on 14 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews note that the cabin is cozy for a winter getaway, with popular activities like cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. Late summer reviews emphasize rustic camping and trail access.
Based on 14 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. "The setting is beautiful, and the bunkhouse is sweet." (User: RENEE G) 2. "Nice cozy cabin. Clean. One soft bed. One firm." (User: MATT D) 3. "Campground is very rustic and free." (User: Happy...
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Based on 14 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific comments about campsite 001 note it as cozy, with one soft bed and one firm. Users suggest renting both nearby cabins for privacy.
Based on 14 reviews

Accessibility Features

No specific accessibility-related reviews are available.
Based on 14 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

No reviews specifically address pet policies or experiences.
Based on 14 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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