How much does camping cost at West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis)?

Camping fees at West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis) range from $45/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis) first-come first-served or reservation?

West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis) accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis) before I book?

Yes! West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis) has 9 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis)?

West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis) is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis)?

West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis) does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis) have?

West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis) has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis)?

Pets are not allowed at West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis). This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis)?

West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis) offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis)?

Popular activities at West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis) include Hiking, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis)

Q: Can I have a campfire at West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis)?

Fire policies at West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis): Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

3.98

13 reviews

5 FOREST SERVICE ROAD, ENNIS, MT 59729, USA

Featured in:Forest Camping Montana

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

8,460 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open July 1 through ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Madison Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

8,460 ft

Price

$45/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open July 1 through ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Madison Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis)

$45.00 - $45.00 / night

Campsite Fees

Cabin Nonelectric: $45.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

406-682-4253

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

5 FOREST SERVICE ROAD, ENNIS, MT 59729, USA

West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis)

5 FOREST SERVICE ROAD, ENNIS, MT 59729, USA

Nearby places

Ennis (30 miles), Yellowstone National Park (60 miles), Virginia City (distance not specified)

Driving directionsFrom Ennis, travel south on Highway 287 for about 30 miles, then head northwest on Standard Creek Road for about 20 miles and 10 miles south on Forest Road 290. The majority of the road to the cabin is gravel and has some long, steep grades, which may require four-wheel drive. The road can be treacherous and impassable if the conditions are wet or snowy, often in mid-October and November. Over snow vehicles are necessary in winter, permissible after December 1. All roads in the Gravelly Range are closed to wheeled motorized use from April 1 through June 30.

Weather at West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis)

Current alerts(10)

A mandatory food storage order is in effect annually between March 1 and December 1 to ensure all food is properly stored and unavailable to wildlife; please contact the Madison Ranger District for more details
All garbage and food must be packed out. Pack it in Pack it out
Guests should be aware that there is a risk of exposure to hantavirus when visiting remote cabins; click here to learn more
Hay and feed, including grain, must be certified weed-free

Best Time to Camp at West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis)

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the fullest range of activities: expect warm, sunny days (typically mid-50s to mid-70s°F) and cool nights (30s–40s°F), with wildflower-filled meadows and clear streams ideal for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing and high-country trout fishing. Trails and primitive roads are generally passable from July through September, making hauling gear and reaching the 1928 cabin straightforward. Crowd levels remain low compared with valley trailheads, but expect a小 Peak months: July, August, September, October Avoid: April, May, June

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Summer offers best access, warmest temps, wildflowers and prime hiking/wildlife viewing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open July 1 through March 31. Closed Wednesdays, July through November, for administrative purposes.

About West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis)

West Fork Cabin sits in the high-elevation alpine terrain of Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, managed by the Madison Ranger District near Ennis. This secluded rental cabin offers a base for hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing in wildflower meadows and clear mountain streams during the summer months. Guests regularly spot deer, antelope, elk, and moose around the property.

West Fork Cabin provides cabin accommodations in a remote, mountainous area. Primitive camping and RV camping are not available.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access and the fullest range of activities: expect warm, sunny days (typically mid-50s to mid-70s°F) and cool nights (30s–40s°F), with wildflower-filled meadows and clear streams ideal for hiking, biking, wildlife viewing and high-country trout fishing. Trails and primitive roads are generally passable from July through September, making hauling gear and reaching the 1928 cabin straightforward. Crowd levels remain low compared with valley trailheads, but expect a小 Peak months: July, August, September, October Avoid: April, May, June

Elevation8460 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin perches in a landscape shaped by ancient volcanic forces. Ten miles north, Black Butte's cone marks the region's volcanic past. Below the cabin, mountain springs feed the West Fork Madison River, the start of a major trout watershed. Elk, moose, deer, and pronghorn antelope appear regularly in meadows and valleys. The 2013 Eureka Fire left a patchwork of burned snags and new growth across the surrounding forest. Cell service is sporadic, appearing only a few miles north near the Hellroaring trailhead.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe campground features a primitive, one-room cabin with a set of bunk beds, a twin bed, and basic furnishings like a table and chairs. The cabin is suitable for a maximum of three guests.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Up to 6 nights during a visit, July 1 through November 30.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 3 people in the cabin.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations available via recreation.gov, with additional options on the contact center or in person.

AccessibilityAccessibility is limited due to the remote location and primitive facilities. The outhouse requires access via a path with an uphill grade.

Site SizeThe cabin sleeps up to three people with bunk beds and a single twin bed.

PrivacyThe cabin is secluded and located in a remote area, offering significant privacy.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring traps and bait for rodents, chainsaws for firewood, and propane for stove and lantern.

Need help booking West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis)?

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Recreation.gov Guide

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Amenities available

The West Fork Cabin offers a rustic and primitive camping experience, with limited amenities focused on self-sufficiency. The cabin includes a propane stove, lantern, and wood stove. Firewood is available on-site, either stacked against the outside fence or within a box on the porch. Basic cookware, dishes, utensils, and cleaning supplies are provided. However, guests must bring essential items like bedding, pillows, propane canisters, toilet paper, food, and garbage bags. Notably, the cabin lacks potable water and electricity; water from the nearby spring box must be filtered or boiled before use. A vault toilet is located about 30 yards south of the cabin. Cell phone service is sporadic and only available a few miles north near the Hellroaring trailhead. Guests are required to pack out all food and garbage and replenish the wood supply before leaving.

Fire rings

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Activities at the West Fork Cabin include hiking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, off-road vehicle riding, wildlife viewing, and hunting. The cabin serves as a base for exploring trails in the Gravelly Range and nearby backcountry areas.

Hiking

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyDon't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.

Trash & RecyclingGuests must pack out all garbage and food. No trash or recycling facilities are available.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is sporadic and only available a few miles north near the Hellroaring trailhead.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.0

13 reviews

Mixed Reviews

West Fork Cabin (S Of Ennis) has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the cabin's remoteness and rustic charm but note issues such as rodent presence, challenging access roads, and minimal amenities.

Review Summaries

Based on 13 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests appreciate the cabin's secluded location, scenic surroundings, and availability of firewood. Many enjoy spotting wildlife like deer, antelope, elk, and moose.

Based on 13 reviews

Common Concerns

Common complaints include the cabin's rodent issues, uncomfortable beds, long and challenging access roads, and limited amenities like no potable water or electricity.

Based on 13 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 001 at West Fork Cabin is frequently mentioned. Guests often describe the cabin's amenities, rodent issues, and remote location.

Based on 13 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring bedding, propane fuel, food, garbage bags, and cleaning supplies. Use chains on tires or snowmobiles for winter access. Bring traps and peanut butter for rodent control and consider bringing a...

Based on 13 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews note challenging access due to snow, requiring snowmobiles or chains. Summer reviews are more favorable, highlighting wildlife viewing and hiking opportunities.

Based on 13 reviews

Camper Quotes

- "Very long and rough road to get to the cabin. Beds are uncomfortable and cabin seems to have a rodent problem." (MATT F, Rating: 1) - "With this much snow you're at the end of the road (nobody was...

Based on 13 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility reviews note the uphill path to the outhouse and the challenging winter access roads. Some guests recommend snowmobiles or chains for safe winter travel.

Based on 13 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want a remote mountain cabin with good wildlife sightings and don't mind basic amenities.

Skip if

You need modern beds, rodent-free lodging, or reliable winter road access.

Nearby Campgrounds

5 FOREST SERVICE ROAD, ENNIS, MT 59729, USA

Black Butte Cabin sits in the high-elevation alpine terrain of Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest near Ennis, operated by the Madison Ranger District. This remote rental cabin serves primarily as a winter destination, where heavy snowpack and subzero temperatures create a true backcountry experience accessible by snowmobile or skis. The cabin includes bunk beds, a wood stove, and basic cooking equipment, with vault toilets and fire rings outside.