Albert R
VerifiedFebruary 12, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH
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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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.
Seasonal information
2026
(Current year)
2026 Season availability
Current season
Upcoming seasons
Past seasons
Closed periods
Jan
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Apr
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Jul
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Open year round
This campground is open year round, providing flexibility for your stay.
365 Days
Campground Amenities
Most popular amenities
Parking
Cooking and Fire
- Campfire Ring
- Firewood Available
Parking and Transport
- Parking
Cabin Interior
- Heating
Missing information?
01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH
🏠
Cabin
- 6 guests
Site Details
Up to 6 guests
Surface: Gravel
Reviews
60 reviews
Summary
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.
Based on guest feedback
4.5
Overall rating
Based on 60 reviews
5 stars
73.3% (44)
4 stars
11.7% (7)
3 stars
6.7% (4)
2 stars
3.3% (2)
1 star
5.0% (3)
Showing 60 reviews
Verified Only
Sort by: Oldest First
Albert R
VerifiedFebruary 12, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH
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.
Helpful
Robert P
VerifiedMay 15, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH
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.
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Robert P
VerifiedMay 15, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH
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.
Helpful
Kim C
VerifiedJuly 24, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH
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.
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Kim C
VerifiedJuly 24, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH
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.
Helpful
Aaron O
VerifiedSeptember 26, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH
This is our 6th year in a row staying at Bar Gulch and it never disappoints.
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kayla w
VerifiedSeptember 26, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH
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
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Aaron O
VerifiedSeptember 26, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH
This is our 6th year in a row staying at Bar Gulch and it never disappoints.
Helpful
kayla w
VerifiedSeptember 26, 2023 Stayed at: 01, Loop: AREA BAR GULCH
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
Helpful
Location & Directions for Bar Gulch Cabin
415 S. Front Street, Townsend, MT 59644 United States
Elevation: 1,430 ft
Highway access
Bar Gulch Cabin is accessible via US Highway 12, located approximately 17 miles to the south in Townsend.
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: October 24, 2026
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Explore Townsend, MT
Population: 1,967
Nearby city: Great Falls, MT
Approx. 58 mi away (straight-line distance)
Elevation: 3,842 ft
Townsend, MT
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Managed by the USDA Forest Service