How much does camping cost at Gird Point?

Camping fees at Gird Point are $30/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Gird Point first-come first-served or reservation?

Gird Point 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 Gird Point before I book?

Yes! Gird Point has 21 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 Gird Point?

Gird Point is open June 20 to September 09. 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 Gird Point?

Gird Point does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Is there cell service at Gird Point?

Cell phone service at Gird Point is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Gird Point have?

Gird Point 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 Gird Point?

Pets are not allowed at Gird Point. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Gird Point?

Gird Point offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Gird Point

Q: Can I have a campfire at Gird Point?

Fire policies at Gird Point: 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.

4.66

35 reviews

P.O. BOX 388, DARBY, MT, 59829, USA

Top 8% in MTSummer

Scenic ViewsPeace & Quiet

Featured in:Mountain Camping#2 Mountain Camping Montana Family-Friendly Campgrounds Montana

Quick Facts

7,702 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open during peak sea...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Darby Ranger District, Bitterroot National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

7,702 ft

Price

$30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open during peak sea...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Darby Ranger District, Bitterroot National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Gird Point

$30.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $30.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

406-821-3913

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

P.O. BOX 388, DARBY, MT, 59829, USA

Gird Point

P.O. BOX 388, DARBY, MT, 59829, USA

Nearby places

Hamilton (20 miles east), Darby (approx. distance not provided)

Weather at Gird Point

Current alerts(8)

All garbage and food must be packed out
Call ahead to inquire about potential fire closures or restrictions
Learn more about the Bitterroot National Forest
Propane fuel for cooking and lighting is not supplied

Best Time to Camp at Gird Point

Best season: summer. Summer offers the clearest, most comfortable conditions at 7,702 ft — expect cool mornings around 55–60°F and warm afternoons near 80–83°F with long, dry days ideal for sweeping 360° views, stargazing, and full-day hikes. The lookout is open June 21–September 13, so trails, wildlife viewing and historic-lookout stays are at their peak and wildflower displays and regenerating forest scenery are most vivid. Crowd levels are moderate — the single restored lookout has limited capacity so weekends in Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

5.0 / 5

Top 8% in MT

Open June 21–Sept 13; best season with long dry days and comfortable temps (55–83°F).

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 20 to September 09. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open during peak season from June 21 to September 13.

About Gird Point

Gird Point is a historic fire lookout rental in the Bitterroot National Forest near Hamilton, operated by the Darby Ranger District. Perched at 7,702 feet, the lookout offers 360-degree views and solitude during its summer season. Guests hike or bike in to access the site, which includes vault toilets and serves as a base for wildlife viewing and exploring alpine terrain.

The Gird Point Lookout offers cabin-like accommodations in a remote and rustic setting. It is not suitable for traditional tent or RV camping.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the clearest, most comfortable conditions at 7,702 ft — expect cool mornings around 55–60°F and warm afternoons near 80–83°F with long, dry days ideal for sweeping 360° views, stargazing, and full-day hikes. The lookout is open June 21–September 13, so trails, wildlife viewing and historic-lookout stays are at their peak and wildflower displays and regenerating forest scenery are most vivid. Crowd levels are moderate — the single restored lookout has limited capacity so weekends in Peak months: July, August, June, September Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation7702 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThree mountain ranges converge at this elevation. The Sapphires roll east, the Bitterroots march west, and the Anaconda-Pintlers stand south. The landscape below shows patchwork regeneration from past wildfires, a mix of young forest and meadow. The wraparound catwalk gives unobstructed views in all directions. Reviewers mention elk on distant ridges, hawks riding thermals, and deer in the recovering forest. One visitor called it "great views, nobody around."

Lodging & Accommodations"The historic L-4 cabin sits on top of an 8-foot high tower," offering vintage 1940s furnishings and a unique mountain experience. The cabin can sleep up to four people and includes essential cooking facilities and furniture.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay is 5 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum 4 guests per site.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov or through their contact center.

AccessibilityThe facility may pose challenges for children and pets due to the 8-foot high tower and narrow steps. "Guests are responsible for their own safety.

Site SizeThe cabin is 14 by 14 feet, offering a compact but functional space for up to four occupants.

PrivacyHigh privacy is ensured due to the remote location of the lookout. "Great views, nobody around," noted one user.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesPack bedding and a mousetrap. ‘Bring duct tape for drafty windows,’ one user recommended. Consider arriving during daylight due to unmarked roads and challenging navigation.

Best CampsitesOnly one site exists: the lookout cabin itself. Reviews confirm high privacy and solitude due to the remote location and single-occupancy setup.

Need help booking Gird Point?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

The Gird Point Lookout offers a unique and rustic camping experience atop a mountain peak in the Bitterroot National Forest. The facilities are minimal but provide essential amenities for a comfortable stay. "The 14-by-14 lookout is equipped with two beds that can sleep up to four people. It has a table and chairs, a propane stove and lantern, basic eating and cooking utensils and pots and pans, as well as a wood stove for heat and cooking." Firewood may be available but is not guaranteed; visitors should plan to carry their own. "An outdoor toilet is also provided." Potable water and propane fuel are not supplied, and guests are required to bring their own bedding and cleaning supplies.

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Things to do at Gird Point

Visitors to Gird Point Lookout can engage in hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and off-road vehicle trails. The panoramic views and wildlife sightings provide unique recreational opportunities. "The lookout is known for its scenic views that can be enjoyed on just about any day of the year."

Hiking4.0/5

Hike-in access, variety of alpine trails; lookout serves as a base for hiking.

Biking4.0/5Top 6% in Montana

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Winter Activities

Signature experiences

Stargazing4.0/57,702 ft elevation, remote location and 360° views imply very good dark-sky stargazing.

Photography5.0/5High-elevation 360° views, converging ranges and wildlife create outstanding photo opportunities.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete 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 are required to pack out all trash and clean the cabin prior to leaving. Basic cleaning equipment is provided.

Cell CoverageUser reviews indicate that cell phone service is available and reliable for both AT&T and Verizon networks. "AT&T and Verizon both had full service!"

Trip Planning Tools

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

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.7

35 reviews

Top-Rated

Gird Point is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Reviews consistently highlight the breathtaking views, peaceful solitude, and unique accommodations offered at Gird Point Lookout.

Review Summaries

Based on 35 reviews

What Campers Love

Spectacular views, solitude, and well-equipped facilities were frequently praised. "What an awesome place to spend a couple days," one reviewer noted. "Great views, nobody around," another user...

Based on 35 reviews

Common Concerns

Limited firewood availability, drafty windows, and occasional presence of mice were mentioned. "It was pretty drafty due to gaps in the window frames," shared one user. "There was a mouse present,"...

Based on 35 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviews for site '001' frequently mention its exceptional views and privacy. "Great views, nobody around," noted one visitor.

Based on 35 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring a downloaded map for navigation, carry extra bedding and firewood, and prepare for windy conditions. "Be advised there are no signs giving USFS road numbers. We had brought a downloaded OnX map...

Based on 35 reviews

Seasonal Insights

High winds and cold conditions can persist even in summer, but sunny days and scenic views are also frequent. "The wind blew hard enough to keep us awake and it rattled the windows," noted one...

Based on 35 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Watching the sunrises and sunsets was awesome too." "Seeing the herd of big horn sheep made it even more special." "The wind came up Saturday afternoon and blew one of the windows in."

Based on 35 reviews