How much does camping cost at Magruder Rangers House?

Camping fees at Magruder Rangers House are $100/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Magruder Rangers House first-come first-served or reservation?

Magruder Rangers House 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 Magruder Rangers House before I book?

Yes! Magruder Rangers House has 23 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 Magruder Rangers House?

Magruder Rangers House is open June 03 to October 21. 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 Magruder Rangers House?

Yes, Magruder Rangers House has shower facilities available for campers. Check the amenities section for details on hours and any fees.

Can I have a campfire at Magruder Rangers House?

Fire policies at Magruder Rangers House: 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.

How many campsites does Magruder Rangers House have?

Magruder Rangers House 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 Magruder Rangers House?

Yes, pets are allowed at Magruder Rangers House. Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Magruder Rangers House?

Magruder Rangers House offers: Restrooms, Showers, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Magruder Rangers House?

Popular activities at Magruder Rangers House include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Magruder Rangers House

4.58

13 reviews

WEST FORK RANGER DISTRICT, 6735 WEST FORK ROAD, DARBY, MT 59829, USA

Featured in:Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Montana

Quick Facts

4,000 ft

Price

$100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open annually from J...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Showers

Book on West Fork Ranger District, U.S. Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

4,000 ft

Price

$100/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open annually from J...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Showers

Book on West Fork Ranger District, U.S. Forest Service Official Website

Get Directions

Magruder Rangers House

$100.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $100.00. 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

406-821-3269

I manage this campground

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WEST FORK RANGER DISTRICT, 6735 WEST FORK ROAD, DARBY, MT 59829, USA

Magruder Rangers House

WEST FORK RANGER DISTRICT, 6735 WEST FORK ROAD, DARBY, MT 59829, USA

Nearby places

Darby, MT (Approx. 52 miles, 2 hours travel time)

Elk City, ID (Approx. 34 miles, seasonal access)

Driving directionsFrom Darby, Montana, travel south on Highway 93 for 4 miles to West Fork Road/Highway 473. Continue on this road for approximately 14 miles to the Nez Perce Road/Magruder Corridor Road #468 and go another 34 miles on the one-lane gravel, and partially paved road. Just before Deep Creek meets up with the Selway River, turn south at a stone bridge that crosses the creek and continue .5 mile to the rental cabin. High-clearance vehicles are advised on the road from Montana from June through September. From Elk City, Idaho to Magruder along road #468, the area is generally not passable by vehicles until mid to late July. Call the West Fork Ranger District at (406) 821-3269 for current road conditions.

Weather at Magruder Rangers House

Current alerts(8)

All garbage and food must be packed out.
Learn more about the Bitterroot National Forest
The Administration building on the Ranger Station site will be occupied daily throughout the summer of 2026 while staff are assisting with projects at the Ranger Station and within the corridor, expect more traffic at the Ranger Station and near the rental cabin this summer.
The Magruder Ranger Station compound will have more noise and activity during the summer of 2026. There will be an increase in traffic, equipment and personnel going in and out of the Magruder Ranger Station, as well as more traffic along the Magruder Corridor and Selway River…

Best Time to Camp at Magruder Rangers House

Best season: summer. Summer offers warm, stable weather (typical daytime highs around 60–80°F, nights 35–50°F) and full access to trails, boat ramps, and the Selway River for fishing. Wildflower meadows, long daylight hours, and easy trailheads make hiking, wildlife viewing, and casting for trout at their most productive. Although July–August are the busiest months, the remote setting keeps crowds low compared with front‑country parks, while full cabin services and road access are guaranteed. Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.0 / 5

Best season: June–Oct with full services, trails and river/boat ramp access; reviews peak in summer.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 03 to October 21. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open annually from June 3 to October 19 for reservations. Facility winterized on October 1, with water shut off and outdoor vault toilet available for use.

About Magruder Rangers House

Magruder Rangers House sits in the Bitterroot National Forest near Darby, Montana, operated by the West Fork Ranger District. This historic cabin rental offers propane appliances, a refrigerator, and flush toilets in summer, with a front porch overlooking mid-elevation forest terrain. Guests hike, fish, bike, and watch wildlife from a remote base with seasonal access and a five-day stay limit.

The Magruder Rangers House offers a unique rustic cabin experience, combining historical charm with modern conveniences during peak season. Camping options are limited to cabin stays, as tent, RV, or primitive camping sites are not provided.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers warm, stable weather (typical daytime highs around 60–80°F, nights 35–50°F) and full access to trails, boat ramps, and the Selway River for fishing. Wildflower meadows, long daylight hours, and easy trailheads make hiking, wildlife viewing, and casting for trout at their most productive. Although July–August are the busiest months, the remote setting keeps crowds low compared with front‑country parks, while full cabin services and road access are guaranteed. Peak months: July, August, September, June Avoid: November, December, January, February

Elevation4000 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin sits at 4,000 feet along the Selway River, surrounded by dense conifer forest that opens into alpine meadows. Peaks and ridges stretch in every direction, carved by glaciers and shaped by millions of years of uplift. Wildlife includes elk, moose, black bears, mountain lions, and wolves. Eagles hunt overhead. The Selway runs clear and cold, prime for cutthroat and rainbow trout. Views from the porch take in forested canyons and distant summits, the kind of country where you can hike for days without crossing a road.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe cabin serves as a historical lodging option with modern conveniences such as propane lighting, a wood stove, and hot water during the summer season. Reviews often highlight the comfort of the setup: 'What a wonderful cabin with an amazing history. The location was magical.' Visitors must bring their own bedding and food supplies.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay limit of 5 nights per visit.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Up to 10 people allowed per reservation.

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 on Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe cabin is accessible by high-clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicles. There is no mention of specific provisions for individuals with disabilities.

Site SizeThe cabin accommodates up to 10 people with two bedrooms and additional futons in the living area.

PrivacyThe location is semi-private; while the cabin itself is secluded, user reviews mentioned occasional visitors nearby checking out the ranger station area.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesRecommended for visitors seeking solitude, history, and wilderness. Porch is ideal for relaxation and wildlife observation. Bring bedding, food, and cleaning supplies.

Need help booking Magruder Rangers House?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The Magruder Ranger House provides a range of amenities that prioritize comfort while maintaining a rustic wilderness experience. As described officially, 'The two-story, five-room log cabin has two bedrooms, a living area, a kitchen, and an indoor bathroom.' Amenities include beds with mattresses and futons to sleep up to 10 people, a wood stove with firewood provided, flush toilets, and showers but only operational during peak season (June through September 30). Guests must bring their own bedding, towels, food, matches, garbage bags, and toilet paper. Cooking essentials like utensils and cleaning equipment are provided. 'The kitchen is equipped with a table and chairs, propane refrigerator, stove, and propane lights.' While the cabin is accessible via four-wheel drive and high-clearance vehicles, roads are unplowed during winter months. Guest reviews underscore the practicality and historical charm, such as 'The location was magical' and 'The kitchen, fridge, and stove were well-equipped.' However, some visitors noted cleanliness issues: 'The house needs a deep cleaning. The dust was absolutely awful.'

Showers

Potable water

Flush toilets

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

I manage this campground

Things to do at Magruder Rangers House

The Magruder Ranger House is situated amidst abundant recreational opportunities. Popular activities include hunting, fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing. Officially, 'Hunting, fishing, and hiking are popular activities enjoyed by visitors to the area.' The area is ideal for trout fishing in the Selway River and nearby streams, with species like rainbow, steelhead, and cutthroat trout often seen. Hiking options include the 11-mile Swet Creek Trail. User reviews frequently praise the area's natural beauty and activities: 'Enjoyed rustic cabin and cutthroat trout fishing!' and 'The drive to Paradise was great, and walking in to fish the Selway was a unique experience.'

Hiking4.0/5

Nearby trails include the 11-mile Swet Creek Trail and many connecting routes; summer access noted.

Fishing4.0/5

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Biking3.0/5

Bikes allowed on roads leading to site; prohibited inside wilderness areas.

Winter Activities1.0/5

Site winterized Oct 1; limited services and no plowing make winter sports impractical for most.

Not sure what to pack?Our complete camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

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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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.6

13 reviews

Top-Rated

Magruder Rangers House is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews reflect a mix of sentiments, with many praising the cabin's historical charm, location, and amenities. Positive highlights include the cabin's well-equipped kitchen, proximity to recreational activities, and scenic surroundings. Some visitors noted issues with cleanliness and trail maintenance.

Review Summaries

Based on 13 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers frequently praised the cabin's amenities, such as the propane stove, refrigerator, and flush toilets during summer months. The location's beauty and historical significance were also noted:...

Based on 13 reviews

Common Concerns

Cleanliness received mixed feedback, with some reviews stating, 'The house needs a deep cleaning. The dust was absolutely awful.' Another frequent concern was the lack of trail maintenance: 'The two...

Based on 13 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 001 (AREA MAGRUDER RANGERS HOUSE) received consistent praise for its setup and proximity to activities: 'The cabin was well-equipped and was even quite cool on very hot summer days.'

Based on 13 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own bedding, towels, food, and supplies as outlined in the official description. Potential campers should also plan for no cell phone coverage. A user suggested, 'Pack for a remote...

Based on 13 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Peak season reviews frequently highlighted amenities like flush toilets and running water, which are unavailable during fall and winter. Winter visits require extra preparation due to the lack of...

Based on 13 reviews

Camper Quotes

'What a wonderful cabin with an amazing history!' 'Listening to birds and hoping for a moose.' 'Enjoyed rustic cabin and cutthroat trout fishing!'

Based on 13 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility reviews are limited, but the cabin's remote location and lack of cell service may present challenges for individuals with disabilities. The need for high-clearance vehicles was...

Based on 13 reviews