How much does camping cost at Bull River Guard Station?

Camping fees at Bull River 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 Bull River Guard Station first-come first-served or reservation?

Bull River 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 Bull River Guard Station before I book?

Yes! Bull River Guard Station has 8 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 Bull River Guard Station?

Bull River 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 Bull River Guard Station?

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

Can I have a campfire at Bull River Guard Station?

Fire policies at Bull River Guard Station: 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 Bull River Guard Station have?

Bull River 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 Bull River Guard Station?

Yes, pets are allowed at Bull River 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 Bull River Guard Station?

Bull River Guard Station offers: Restrooms, Electrical Hookups, Pets Allowed. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Bull River Guard Station?

Popular activities at Bull River Guard Station include Hiking, Fishing, Boating. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Bull River Guard Station

4.77

43 reviews

Cabinet Ranger District 2693 MT Hwy. 200

Top 3% in MTFall

C-Report Card

Featured in:Fishing Camping Montana Hiking Camping Montana Pet-Friendly Campgrounds Montana

Quick Facts

2,306 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open season January ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Electric

Book on Cabinet Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

2,306 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open season January ...

Cell

No Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

Electric

Book on Cabinet Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Bull River 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

406-827-3533

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Cabinet Ranger District 2693 MT Hwy. 200

Bull River Guard Station

Cabinet Ranger District 2693 MT Hwy. 200

Nearby places

Trout Creek, MT (approx. 8 miles)

Weather at Bull River Guard Station

Current alerts(7)

Be aware, this facility is not cleaned between user visits. It is up to individual renters to bring their own cleaning supplies and clean before and after site use.
For more information including the cabin lock combination, contact the Cabinet Ranger District at 406-827-3533 prior to arrival
Horses are not allowed in the cabin area. Please use the corrals provided. Certified weed-free hay is required.
Pets are allowed, but must stay off the furniture at all times

Best Time to Camp at Bull River Guard Station

Best season: fall. Fall offers the most striking scenery and the quietest experience — mountain maples and mountain ash peak in color from mid-September into early October, turning the riparian corridor into vivid scarlet and gold. Expect cool, crisp days in the 40s–60s°F and chilly nights often near freezing, ideal for cozy evenings by the cabin stove; hiking, wildlife viewing (elk and deer movement increases), and photography are at their peak while visitor numbers drop compared with summer. Be aware that big‑/s Peak months: September, October, August, July

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 3% in MT

Fall is highlighted as best season; mountain maples/ash peak mid-Sept to early Oct with vivid color.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open season January 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025. Reservations start June 25, 2025.

About Bull River Guard Station

Bull River Guard Station sits in the Kootenai National Forest foothills near Trout Creek, Montana, operated by the Cabinet Ranger District. This historic rental cabin accommodates small groups seeking a backcountry experience with electric hookups, vault toilets, and riverside access for fishing and boating. Fall brings vivid scarlet and gold foliage along the riparian corridor, with crisp days and freezing nights ideal for wood stove evenings.

The Bull River Guard Station caters to unique camping experiences with its historical cabin lodging. It does not include primitive, tent, or RV camping.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the most striking scenery and the quietest experience — mountain maples and mountain ash peak in color from mid-September into early October, turning the riparian corridor into vivid scarlet and gold. Expect cool, crisp days in the 40s–60s°F and chilly nights often near freezing, ideal for cozy evenings by the cabin stove; hiking, wildlife viewing (elk and deer movement increases), and photography are at their peak while visitor numbers drop compared with summer. Be aware that big‑/s Peak months: September, October, August, July

Elevation2306 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin sits along the East Fork Bull River in Kootenai National Forest at 2,306 feet elevation. The riparian corridor runs through forested valleys beneath Cabinet Mountain peaks. Mountain maples and mountain ash turn scarlet and gold in fall, typically peaking mid-September into early October. Wildlife includes mountain goats, golden eagles, beavers, elk, deer, and Western Tanagers. The river provides fishing and a scenic backdrop for the property.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe cabin is equipped with beds, period furniture, and basic kitchen and dining facilities, including an electric range, hutch, table, and chairs. "Beautiful cabin with every amenity and more," one reviewer mentioned.

Programs & ActivitiesHistorical elements of the cabin are highlighted, including its 1908 construction and survival through the 1910 fires. "Loved reading the history of the cabin and the old photos," one reviewer shared.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-in

2:00 PM

Check-out

11:00 AM

Stay Limit

5consecutive day limit with a break of 7 days required before making another reservation.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 8 people.

Tents

Tents are not 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.

AccessibilityAccessible vault toilets are available, but there is no mention of other specific accessibility features.

Site SizeThe cabin spans 700 square feet with accommodations for up to 8 people.

PrivacyWhile the cabin offers privacy, user reviews note occasional visitors parking nearby or stopping by to look at the historic site.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring mosquito repellent and plan for alternative water sources like boiling water from the East Fork Bull River. Carry traps for mice.

Need help booking Bull River 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

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

The Bull River Guard Station offers amenities suitable for a rustic yet comfortable camping experience. "The two-story cabin spans 700 square feet and is equipped with period furniture, including three full beds and two single beds with mattresses." While there is no indoor plumbing, an outhouse with a vault toilet is available nearby. "The space is heated with a forced air electric furnace and comes with some cleaning supplies." Guests must bring their own drinking water, cooking supplies, and blankets. A horse corral is available behind the cabin for horseback riders, but stock animals are not allowed in the immediate cabin area.

Electricity hookups

Fire rings

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

RV details

Things to do at Bull River Guard Station

The Bull River Guard Station offers a range of recreational activities with historical charm and natural beauty. It is surrounded by opportunities for hiking, fishing, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing. "Great fire pit outside to enjoy the night sky," one reviewer noted.

Hiking4.0/5

Two excellent day hikes nearby: Pilick Ridge #1036 and Berray Mountain #967 to scenic lookouts.

Fishing4.0/5

Boating3.0/5

Boating potentially supported by proximity to Cabinet Gorge Reservoir but no specifics given.

Winter Activities3.0/5

Water Sports2.0/5

Riverside location implies possible small-craft use but no kayak-specific info provided.

Cultural and Educational Programs

Signature experiences

Photography4.0/5Vivid fall foliage, riparian corridor, scenic lookouts and dark skies for night shots.

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 Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

No Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available; a vault toilet is the only option.

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

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.8

43 reviews

Top-Rated

Bull River Guard Station is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

The Bull River Guard Station receives strong praise for its historical charm, natural beauty, and cozy accommodations. However, some minor complaints include the presence of mice, occasional visitors, and the smell of the outhouse.

Review Summaries

Based on 43 reviews

What Campers Love

"Beautiful cabin completely stocked with all amenities," one user noted. Others praised the setting and mentioned activities such as hiking and stargazing. "What a magical place," a user shared...

Based on 43 reviews

Common Concerns

Frequent complaints include the smell of the vault toilet, mice in the walls, and lack of screens for windows during warmer months. "Lots of mosquitoes. Fun to access the river," one user reported.

Based on 43 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Many users reviewed site 001 positively with remarks such as "Beautiful cabin with every amenity and more" and "Rustic to the max."

Based on 43 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring cleaning supplies, drinking water, blankets, and screens for the windows during buggy seasons. "Plan your food storage system accordingly" due to mouse presence, one user advised.

Based on 43 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter visits are described as cozy with access to hiking trails, while summer stays highlight wildlife viewing and stargazing. "We fit 5 people comfortably in the cabin and it was warm and cozy...

Based on 43 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Wonderful hiking and fishing nearby," "Lots of mice in the walls," "Beautiful setting with historic magic," "Great for stargazing," "Bear scat everywhere," "Lovingly done historic preservation."

Based on 43 reviews