Established Camping
East Fork Cabin
East Fork Cabin is located near Sula in the Bitterroot National Forest, surrounded by forested terrain and mountain views. Temperatures in the area can range from lows of 20°F in winter to highs of 80°F in summer. Nearby attractions include the Lost Trail Powder Mountain for skiing and the Big Hole National Battlefield, offering historical insights and hiking opportunities.
Description
National Forest
Bitterroot National Forest
Overview
East Fork Cabin offers visitors a unique chance to camp in the Bitterroot National Forest of southwestern Montana. The cabin takes visitors back to a rustic, old-time setting and provides access to a variety of recreational opportunities on public lands. The site is available year-round and offers additional camping areas to accommodate large groups. An adjacent picnic area and pavillion provides a convenient location for everyone to gather. The cabin can be accessed by vehicle, however during winter months (October through April), alternative resources may be required to reach the cabin. The road is plowed up to three-quarters of a mile from the cabin. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
Recreation
Fishing is popular in the nearby river. A variety of trout, including brown, rainbow, cutthroat and brook, can be found in the area between Sula and Conner. Winter fishing for whitefish is popular and productive, as the river is closed to trout fishing during the colder months. The catch along the East Fork is fairly evenly divided between bait, spin and fly fishermen. The surrounding hills and valleys are popular for hiking, backpacking and horseback riding in the summer and fall. Cross country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling can be enjoyed in the area during the winter (learn more about avalanche safety). Winter sports enthusiasts can enjoy more than 50 miles of groomed trails, along with a number of unmarked trails that are open for recreation.
Natural Features
The rustic cabin was built before 1914 and was restored in 1987. It was originally a guard station, used by fire watchers in the forest. It is situated on the East Fork of Bitterroot River, at an elevation of about 5,200 feet. The river flows west from within the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness, to just south of Conner, Montana, where it joins the West Fork of the Bitterroot River to form the Bitterroot River. During the spring the river becomes a dangerous combination of fast water and snags. The Anacondas are home to abundant wildlife, including mountain lions, elk, deer, moose and bears ( learn about outdoor safety ).
Nearby Attractions
East Fork Trailhead McCart Lookout Lost Trail Ski Area Cheif Joeseph cross-country ski area Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness
Fee Info
The cabin can be reserved up to 180 days in advance. Changes in scheduled reservation dates may be assessed an additional fee by the National Recreation Reservation Service.
Location
East Fork Cabin is located in Montana
Directions
From Sula, travel northwest on Highway 93 for less than a mile. Turn northeast (right) onto East Fork Road/County Road 472 and continue about 16 miles to the cabin. Maps may be purchased by calling the Darby-Sula Ranger District at 406-821-3913. In the winter months (October through April), you may have to park at the gates and walk approximately 600ft. to the cabin. The road is usually plowed to the cabin but there are times it is not. You may want to bring a small plastic sled to transfer gear from the vehicle to the cabin just in case. In the summer months you may drive right to the cabins main parking areas.
Address
7338 HWY. 93 S.
Sula, MT 59871
Coordinates
45.9227778 N
113.7261111 W
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
Stay Connected
- WiFiUnknown
- VerizonUnknown
- AT&TUnknown
- T-MobileAvailable
Site Types
- Cabins
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
- Drinking Water
- Electric Hookups
