How much does camping cost at Star Meadows Guard Station?

Camping fees at Star Meadows Guard Station are $75/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Star Meadows Guard Station first-come first-served or reservation?

Star Meadows Guard Station 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 Star Meadows Guard Station before I book?

Yes! Star Meadows Guard Station has 11 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 Star Meadows Guard Station?

Star Meadows Guard Station 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 Star Meadows Guard Station?

Star Meadows Guard Station does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Star Meadows Guard Station have?

Star Meadows Guard Station 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 Star Meadows Guard Station?

Yes, pets are allowed at Star Meadows Guard Station. 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 Star Meadows Guard Station?

Star Meadows Guard Station offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Star Meadows Guard Station?

Popular activities at Star Meadows Guard Station include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Star Meadows Guard Station

4.11

45 reviews

5250 Star Meadows Road, Whitefish, Montana, 59937

Top 9% in MTWinter

BReport Card

Peace & Quiet

Featured in:Tent Camping Montana

Quick Facts

4,026 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Hand-pump will be le...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Tally Lake Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

4,026 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Hand-pump will be le...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on Tally Lake Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Star Meadows Guard Station

$75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN ELECTRIC: $75.00. 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

406-758-5204

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

5250 Star Meadows Road, Whitefish, Montana, 59937

Star Meadows Guard Station

5250 Star Meadows Road, Whitefish, Montana, 59937

Nearby places

Whitefish - 23 miles (approximately 45 minutes)

Kalispell - null miles (distance not specified)

Tally Lake - 7 miles (approximately 15 minutes).

Weather at Star Meadows Guard Station

Current alerts(7)

Check out time is 11 AM Check in time is 1 PM
Dear Forest Visitor â We are currently planning major repairs and upgrades to the utility and heating systems at Star Meadows cabin. This work will require a temporary closure of the facility.
For more information, contact the Tally Lake Ranger District (406) 758-5204, Monday -- Friday, 8 a.m. through 4:30 p.m.
Hand-pump will be left on well over the winter of 2025-2026 as an experiment to see if freezing is an issue. Be prepared to bring your own water if the pump becomes frozen. If pump continues to work, please pump an ample amount of water during each use to warm up pipe.

Best Time to Camp at Star Meadows Guard Station

Best season: winter. Winter delivers the deepest solitude and the best snow-based recreation at Star Meadows — think crisp days in the 20s–30s°F and cold nights that can drop near 10°F. The heated guard station and separate bunkhouse make extended winter stays comfortable for groups, while cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and quiet wildlife tracking are at their peak and crowds are minimal compared with summer. Note that on-site water is shut off in winter (bring your own), and winter driving/snow conditions demand Peak months: January, February, December, March

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

4.5 / 5

Top 9% in MT

Winter cited as best season with deep solitude and excellent skiing/snowshoeing; cabin heating praised.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Hand-pump will be left on well over the winter of 2025-2026 as an experiment to see if freezing is an issue. Be prepared to bring your own water if the pump becomes frozen. If pump continues to work, please pump an ample amount of water during each use to warm up pipe.

About Star Meadows Guard Station

Star Meadows Guard Station sits in mid-elevation forest near Whitefish, operated by the Tally Lake Ranger District within Flathead National Forest. The property includes a heated guard station and separate bunkhouse, accommodating groups seeking backcountry solitude with modern conveniences like a full kitchen and potable water. Winter brings the deepest quiet and best conditions for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and wildlife tracking, though the cabin also serves hikers, anglers, and mountain bikers during warmer months.

The Star Meadows Guard Station primarily offers cabin accommodations but is also suitable for tent and RV camping in the lower meadow.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: winter. Winter delivers the deepest solitude and the best snow-based recreation at Star Meadows — think crisp days in the 20s–30s°F and cold nights that can drop near 10°F. The heated guard station and separate bunkhouse make extended winter stays comfortable for groups, while cross-country skiing, snowshoeing and quiet wildlife tracking are at their peak and crowds are minimal compared with summer. Note that on-site water is shut off in winter (bring your own), and winter driving/snow conditions demand Peak months: January, February, December, March

Elevation4026 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe guard station occupies a valley carved by glaciers, with forested peaks rising on all sides and Mt. Swaney dominating the view. Elevation sits at 4,026 feet. Mountain streams run through the area, and the surrounding slopes hold dense conifer forests. The lower meadow provides open space, while trails branch into the wilderness for hiking and biking access. It's remote enough that darkness at night is complete.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe site includes a two-room cabin and a separate bunkhouse. The main cabin has two bunk beds, each with queen mattresses on the bottom and full mattresses on top, sleeping up to six people. The bunkhouse, located 20 yards away, has two bunk beds and a futon, also accommodating up to six. "The bunkhouse was recently remodeled and the kids loved it!" one user review stated. Electric heaters are provided throughout both buildings.

Programs & ActivitiesCultural or educational programs are not mentioned.

Best Campsites

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Guests may stay up to 7 nights each month.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Cabin accommodates up to 6 in the main unit and 6 more in the bunkhouse.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityThe cabin and bunkhouse are relatively close in distance, with the vault toilet located nearby. Accessibility features for individuals with disabilities are not explicitly mentioned.

Site SizeThe site accommodates multiple RVs or tents in the lower meadow, in addition to cabin and bunkhouse lodging.

PrivacyThe location is described as serene, private, and quiet. Reviewers appreciated the setting: "Very quiet and beautiful location" and "Amazing location - far enough to be quiet and dark at night.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesFor winter stays, guests should bring warm sleeping bags due to occasional difficulties with heating in extreme cold. The bunkhouse is highly recommended for families with children.

Need help booking Star Meadows Guard Station?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

The Star Meadows Guard Station offers a range of amenities and facilities designed to create a comfortable yet rustic camping experience. The cabin is equipped with electric heat, a refrigerator/freezer, range and oven, microwave, coffeemaker, and cooking utensils such as pots and pans and dishes. Cleaning supplies are provided, and guests are required to clean the cabin before they leave. "Nice cabin well stocked," one user commented. Dogs are allowed, but pets may not be left inside the cabin while renters are away; an outdoor kennel is provided.

Potable water

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Star Meadows Guard Station

Star Meadows Guard Station provides various activities, catering to both adventure seekers and those looking for relaxation. Guests enjoy hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing on designated trails. The backyard accommodates group activities and games.

Winter Activities4.5/5Top 9% in Montana

Hiking4.0/5

Trail #171A starts in the cabin backyard and runs 10 miles to Sylvia Lake; hiking is a primary activity.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Surrounded by dense conifer forest and mountain streams, providing ample wildlife-viewing opportunities.

Fishing3.5/5

Fishing in Sheppard Creek behind the cabin, nearby mountain streams and Tally Lake (~11 miles).

Biking3.5/5

Designated biking trails suitable for mountain biking are noted.

Water Sports3.0/5

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

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Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.1

45 reviews

Satisfactory

Star Meadows Guard Station is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, the Star Meadows Guard Station receives positive feedback for its secluded and quiet location, well-equipped facilities, and suitability for family groups. However, some reviews highlight cleanliness issues and maintenance concerns left by prior guests.

Review Summaries

Based on 45 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests praised the cabin's privacy, beautiful surroundings, and comprehensive kitchen amenities. "Great, well-equipped cabin with plenty of space in a beautiful location," noted one reviewer. Another...

Based on 45 reviews

Common Concerns

Several reviews raised cleanliness concerns related to prior renters, noting dog waste and unclean conditions. "Previous renters did not leave the cabin as required. It is disappointing to have to...

Based on 45 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site-specific reviews include feedback for campsite 001 in the Star Meadows Guard Station area. Some guests praised the clean outhouse and scenic views, while others noted issues with cleanliness...

Based on 45 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring warm bedding during colder months, as temperatures can drop significantly. "Main house sleeps a little cold in the 10F weather we had that night. Bring a warm sleeping bag." Guests also...

Based on 45 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter guests appreciate the cabin's electric heating and snow-covered trails for skiing and snowshoeing. Summer visitors enjoy hiking and fishing opportunities. However, winter renters caution about...

Based on 45 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Our stay here was absolutely incredible. The cabins were roomy, comfy, and completely gorgeous," said one reviewer. Another noted, "Very cozy cabin. It was great to have consistent electric heat...

Based on 45 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Guests with pets were generally satisfied, though some noted dog waste issues left by prior renters. "We had dogs with us and they were wonderful in accommodating our furry children." Others...

Based on 45 reviews

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Star Meadows Guard Station

$75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN ELECTRIC: $75.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No campsite fee categories listed.