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.
Cabin layout is expansive and contains all of what you would need on an outing for cooking if you choose to not bring much gear. The central location of the woodstove in the cabin efficiently heats the room, and the wood burns hot! Location of the cabin is in an old burn -- trails lead directly from the cabin door into the gulch that beckon for exploring...try to make time to do this.
Easy location to get to for a quick outing with friends, family, or solo.
Cabin layout is expansive and contains all of what you would need on an outing for cooking if you choose to not bring much gear. The central location of the woodstove in the cabin efficiently heats the room, and the wood burns hot! Location of the cabin is in an old burn -- trails lead directly from the cabin door into the gulch that beckon for exploring...try to make time to do this.
Easy location to get to for a quick outing with friends, family, or solo.
First time staying in one of the forest service cabins. We really liked the fact that these are out there for the public to take advantage of and the way others have made the effort to keep it cleaned up and ready for the next guest.
First time staying in one of the forest service cabins. We really liked the fact that these are out there for the public to take advantage of and the way others have made the effort to keep it cleaned up and ready for the next guest.
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Location & Directions for Bar Gulch Cabin
415 S. Front Street, Townsend, MT 59644 United States
