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.
Seasonal information
2026
(Current year)
2026 Season availability
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Open year round
This campground is open year round, providing flexibility for your stay.
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.
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
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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Location & Directions for Bar Gulch Cabin
415 S. Front Street, Townsend, MT 59644 United States