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Established Camping

Diamond Butte Lookout

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Diamond Butte Lookout is located in the Custer Gallatin National Forest near Ashland, MT. The area features rolling hills and forested terrain. Weather in this region typically sees highs around 85°F in summer and lows near 15°F in winter. Nearby attractions include the Tongue River Reservoir State Park and the Little Bighorn Battlefield National Monument.

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Location

Diamond Butte Lookout is located in Montana

Detail location of campground

Directions

From Ashland, Montana: travel east on State Highway 212 for approximately 3 miles. Turn south onto Otter Creek Road hwy 484 and travel 20 miles. Just past the Fort Howes Work Center, turn east onto Taylor Creek Road and travel 12 miles to Sonnette Divide Road. Turn north onto the Sonnette Divide Road for 2 miles then turn east on the Diamond Butte Lookout Road. Travel 1 mile to the lookout.

Address

PO BOX 168 2378 HWY 212
Ashland, MT 59003

Coordinates

45.2491667 N
105.9325 W

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Connectivity

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Drive Time

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Connectivity

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    AT&TLTE
    Some Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Cabins

Features

For Campers

  • Reservable
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

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5.0

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1 Review

Reviewed Feb. 15, 2021

Gorgeous Sunsets

Beautiful, easy drive in if the weather's fair. You can drive right up to the lookout and pack your equipment up the stairs. Pretty roomy as far as lookouts go and since it's the plains you can see forever. Tons of hiking nearby and I heard critters all night. Facilities clean and well maintained. Bring everything you need to stay fed, warm, and hydrated, it's remote but worth it!

Month of VisitJune

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I reserve the Diamond Butte Fire Lookout?

Diamond Butte Lookout can be reserved through recreation.gov or by contacting the managing U.S. Forest Service district office. Reservations typically open six months in advance and should be made early, especially for summer weekends when fire lookouts are in high demand. The lookout operates seasonally, with availability dependent on weather conditions and forest service schedules. When booking, you'll receive a confirmation with access instructions and lock combination details. Always check official sources for current reservation policies and fees.

What amenities are available at Diamond Butte Lookout?

Diamond Butte Lookout offers basic amenities typical of fire lookouts. The structure is spacious compared to other lookouts and includes sleeping accommodations. Clean, well-maintained facilities are available. The lookout features panoramic windows providing exceptional views of the surrounding plains. There's no electricity or running water, so bring your own water, lighting, and cooking equipment. Pack-in/pack-out rules apply for all waste. A propane stove may be provided for heating, but check current amenity information before your trip.

What activities can I do near Diamond Butte Fire Lookout?

The area surrounding Diamond Butte Lookout offers numerous recreational opportunities. Hiking trails are abundant nearby, providing excellent opportunities to explore the landscape. Wildlife viewing is exceptional, with visitors reporting hearing various critters throughout the night. The expansive plains setting creates unobstructed views that are perfect for stargazing and photography. Birdwatching is rewarding due to the elevated perspective. The lookout's location also makes it an ideal base for exploring the greater region, with opportunities for day trips to nearby natural attractions.

How do I access Diamond Butte Lookout and what are the road conditions?

Access to Diamond Butte Lookout is relatively straightforward in fair weather conditions. The road allows you to drive directly to the lookout, making it easier to transport your equipment. From there, you'll need to carry your gear up the stairs to the lookout tower. The driving route is considered an easy journey when weather is good, but conditions can change seasonally. Four-wheel drive might be necessary during wet periods or shoulder seasons. Contact the managing agency for current road status before your trip.