Bar Gulch Cabin

BAR GULCH
BAR GULCH

Featured amenities

Parking Parking

Sites & Rates

Average nightly rates

1 total site

Cabins

1 site

About Bar Gulch Cabin

Bar Gulch Cabin is located in the Big Belt Mountain Range in Helena National Forest. The cabin was originally constructed in the 1930s on Forest Service lands to be used for mining purposes. Instead, it was used for recreational purposes and issued a special use permit, which was transferred to several owners until it was donated to the Forest Service in 1988. Today the cabin is a rustic getaway for guests seeking relaxation and recreation in west-central Montana. It is accessible by car, but snow removal is not provided in winter. The cabin offers several amenities, but guests should be prepared to bring some of their own supplies and gear.

Number of accommodations: 1

Seasonal information

2026 (Current year)

2026 Season availability

Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec

Open year round

This campground is open year round, providing flexibility for your stay.

365 Days

Campground Amenities

Most popular amenities

Parking Parking
Cooking and Fire

Cooking and Fire

  • Campfire Ring
  • Firewood Available
Parking and Transport

Parking and Transport

  • Parking

Cabin Interior

  • Heating
Missing information?

01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH

Price not available
🏠 Cabin Unavailable

Site Details

Up to 6 guests
Surface: Gravel
View Site Details

Reviews (59)

What Guests Are Saying

Bar Gulch Cabin offers a charming and spacious retreat in a peaceful area, appreciated for its unique local decor and quick heating. Many guests enjoy the nostalgic experience of disconnecting from modern amenities, although some note the cabin's proximity to trails limits seclusion. However, concerns about maintenance and cleanliness, particularly regarding rodent issues, have been raised, suggesting improvements are needed before it can be safely booked.

Review Summary

4.4
59 reviews
5
72.9%
43
4
11.9%
7
3
6.8%
4
2
3.4%
2
1
5.1%
3

Aaron O

Verified

September 26, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH

5

This is our 6th year in a row staying at Bar Gulch and it never disappoints.

kayla w

Verified

September 26, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH

4

We were disappointed that the pump handle for potable water still hadn't been replaced, as it was noted to be problematic mid summer, but otherwise the cabin was as described. We had no visitors overnight, that we could tell. Good location to Canyon Ferry and the road was very well maintained

Aaron O

Verified

September 26, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH

5

This is our 6th year in a row staying at Bar Gulch and it never disappoints.

Kim C

Verified

July 24, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH

3

We have stayed at this cabin a few times and always enjoy it. The only downfall was that the water pump's handle is missing. We knew this so we were well equipped with our own water. With the summer heat, the flies are bad, so come prepared with bug spray etc.

Kim C

Verified

July 24, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH

3

We have stayed at this cabin a few times and always enjoy it. The only downfall was that the water pump's handle is missing. We knew this so we were well equipped with our own water. With the summer heat, the flies are bad, so come prepared with bug spray etc.

Robert P

Verified

May 15, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH

2

The cabin is in poor shape, especially the double bed, which is ratty and ready for the dump. Also, the water pump didn't have a handle. The cabin was dirty, and the lack of water didn't help.

Robert P

Verified

May 15, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH

2

The cabin is in poor shape, especially the double bed, which is ratty and ready for the dump. Also, the water pump didn't have a handle. The cabin was dirty, and the lack of water didn't help.

Albert R

Verified

February 12, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH

5

Great cabin, we skied at the lake and had a nice time at the cabin. The stove kept the cabin plenty warm through the night when we stayed, at the beginning of February.

Albert R

Verified

February 12, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH

5

Great cabin, we skied at the lake and had a nice time at the cabin. The stove kept the cabin plenty warm through the night when we stayed, at the beginning of February.

CeCe B

Verified

January 3, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH

5

In colder weather be wary of ice near the back door-sand works great but it does get tracked into the cabin. the wood cook stove is an awesome feature if you like cooking and it helps to warm up the cabin :) I would recommend bringing plenty of water as we read that the pump was not working and extra propane cannisters for the lamp! (we bring our own portable cook stove but there is one available at the cabin)

Location Bar Gulch Cabin

Address:
415 S. Front Street
Townsend, MT, 59644
United States

Highway access

Bar Gulch Cabin is accessible via US Highway 12, located approximately 17 miles to the south in Townsend.

Elevation: 1430 feet

Distance to downtown

35 mi drive to downtown Townsend (about 43 min)

Policies & Rules

Arrival & departure

  • Use the combination lock code from your reservation email to enter the cabin.
  • Print and present your confirmation letter to officials if requested.
  • Ensure the cabin is locked when you leave.

Safety & rules

  • Clean the cabin before you leave.

Fires & fuel

  • Ensure that open fires are contained within the designated campfire ring.

Amenities

  • Cookware, utensils, firewood, and lanterns are not guaranteed amenities.

Nearby Campgrounds

Nearby destinations


Last updated: September 6, 2026

USDA Forest Service Logo
Managed by USDA Forest Service