How much does camping cost at Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge?

Camping fees at Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge are $55/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge first-come first-served or reservation?

Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge 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 Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge before I book?

Yes! Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge has 7 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 Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge?

Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge is open June 19 to September 30. 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 Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge?

Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge have?

Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge 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 Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge?

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

What amenities are available at Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge?

Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge?

Popular activities at Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge include Hiking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge

Q: Can I have a campfire at Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge?

Fire policies at Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge: 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.

4.18

26 reviews

Three Rivers RD 12858 US Hwy. 2

Scenic ViewsPeace & Quiet

Featured in:Primitive Camping Montana

Quick Facts

6,529 ft

Price

$55/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on USFS (United States Forest Service)Official Website

Get Directions

Quick Facts

6,529 ft

Price

$55/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open for reservation...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on USFS (United States Forest Service)Official Website

Get Directions

Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge

$55.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $55.00. 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

406-295-4693

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Three Rivers RD 12858 US Hwy. 2

Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge

Three Rivers RD 12858 US Hwy. 2

Nearby places

Troy, MT (approximately 32.5 miles via Yaak Highway 508 and Meadow Creek Road).

Weather at Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge

Current alerts(7)

Access depends on weather conditions
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.
Learn more about the Kootenai National Forest
Please pack out all trash and food and clean the cabin before departure

Best Time to Camp at Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge

Best season: summer. Summer offers the clearest vistas, longest daylight, and the most reliable access to the Buckhorn Ridge lookout — expect sunny days with highs typically 60–75°F and cool nights around 35–45°F. Trails, alpine wildflowers and abundant wildlife viewing are at their peak, and the lookout provides outstanding stargazing (very dark skies) when smoke-free. Reservation demand is moderate to high on summer weekends, so book early; occasional wildfire smoke or afternoon mountain storms can reduce clarity. Peak months: August, July, September, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Best

Summer(Jun-Aug)

4.5 / 5

Open late June–Sept; clearest vistas, longest daylight and most reliable access in summer.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: June 19 to September 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open for reservations from late June to late September.

About Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge

Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge sits in the Kootenai National Forest near Troy, Montana, offering a fire lookout cabin rental and primitive camping at mid-elevation. Operated by the USFS, this very small site attracts visitors seeking solitude, wildlife viewing, and hiking access to Buckhorn Ridge. The lookout provides panoramic views and dark-sky stargazing when conditions are clear.

Mount Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge Lookout primarily caters to rustic camping experiences within a historical fire lookout tower.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the clearest vistas, longest daylight, and the most reliable access to the Buckhorn Ridge lookout — expect sunny days with highs typically 60–75°F and cool nights around 35–45°F. Trails, alpine wildflowers and abundant wildlife viewing are at their peak, and the lookout provides outstanding stargazing (very dark skies) when smoke-free. Reservation demand is moderate to high on summer weekends, so book early; occasional wildfire smoke or afternoon mountain storms can reduce clarity. Peak months: August, July, September, June Avoid: October, November, December, January

Elevation6529 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe lookout crowns Buckhorn Ridge with unobstructed views across dense evergreen forests, granite peaks, and hidden alpine lakes. The Cabinet Mountains dominate the western horizon. Rock Candy Mountain's distinctive profile marks the landscape to the north. On clear days, sightlines extend into Idaho's Kaniksu National Forest. Grizzly bears, black bears, elk, wolves, moose, and mountain lions inhabit the forested valleys below. Summer brings alpine wildflowers at peak bloom.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe lodging consists of a rustic lookout cabin with propane appliances, twin beds, and limited furniture.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are explicitly mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Check-out

2:00 PM

Stay Limit

Guests may stay for up to 5 consecutive nights during a visit. A break of 7 days is required before making another reservation.

Guests Allowed Per Site

The lookout accommodates up to 4 people.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, mobile app, or contact center.

AccessibilityThe lookout requires climbing stairs and manually operating heavy deck doors, which may pose challenges for individuals with limited mobility or physical strength. One reviewer highlighted the difficulty in lifting the deck door and navigating stairs quickly.

Site SizeThe lookout is compact, measuring 144 square feet, and is suitable for up to four occupants.

PrivacyThe lookout is secluded, offering privacy and unobstructed views of the surrounding natural features.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesGuests with mobility issues or limited physical strength should be aware of the heavy deck door and rough road conditions.

Best CampsitesThere's only one site: the lookout cabin itself. Reviews note the deck door is heavy and can be challenging to maneuver. The 144-square-foot space includes a propane stove, heater, and lights. Vault toilets are available.

Need help booking Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge?

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 lookout does not have electricity or water. Guests must provide their own water for drinking, cooking and washing. An outhouse with vault toilet islocated nearby.

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Things to do at Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge

Campers at Mount Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge Lookout can enjoy hiking, hunting, berry picking, wildlife viewing, and other outdoor activities. Panoramic views of mountain ranges and starry night skies provide unique opportunities for relaxation and photography.

Hiking4.0/5

Network of trails in Yaak Area & Northwest Peaks; lookout provides trail access and scenic ridgeline hikes.

Wildlife viewing4.0/5

Winter Activities2.0/5

Water Sports2.0/5

Hidden alpine lakes noted but no kayaking/boat access or facilities described.

Signature experiences

Photography4.5/5Unobstructed ridgeline views, alpine peaks and excellent night skies are ideal for landscape & astro 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 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 their trash and clean the cabin before leaving. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.

Cell CoverageUser reviews mention cell service is spotty at best, with one guest reporting occasional 1-2 bars using Spectrum Mobile. Campers should not rely on consistent connectivity.

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

4.2

26 reviews

Satisfactory

Mt. Baldy-Buckhorn Ridge is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews indicate a high level of satisfaction with the lookout's scenic views, rustic charm, and peaceful atmosphere. Concerns frequently mentioned include difficulty accessing the site and the weight of the deck door.

Review Summaries

Based on 26 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers appreciated the spectacular panoramic views, quiet atmosphere, starry night skies, and clean facilities. The propane stove, heater, and lights were mentioned as valuable amenities.

Based on 26 reviews

Common Concerns

Recurring issues noted in reviews include challenges with the heavy deck door, rough access roads, and occasional smoke from distant fires affecting visibility. One user struggled to find the lookout...

Based on 26 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Most reviews pertain to the single lookout cabin. Users describe comfortable beds, functional propane appliances, and a clean vault toilet.

Based on 26 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Guests recommended bringing high-clearance vehicles for the rough roads, cleaning supplies for the cabin, and bug spray for warmer months. Some users suggested planning well in advance due to limited...

Based on 26 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is most popular for reservations, but wildfire smoke can affect visibility. Winter brings heavy snowfall, potentially limiting access.

Based on 26 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'The views are of course spectacular and the trip is WELL worth making and spending a few days decompressing.' - Bradley Davis 2. 'Reservations are damn hard to get so plan way in advance.' -...

Based on 26 reviews