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What's the most underrated Montana camping? Hiking in! Whether you stay in a tent or sleep outside in a sleeping bag, hiking-in camping is an adventure that everyone should try at some point. Check out some of the best hike-in campgrounds in Montana.

Montana

The Best Hike-In Camping in Montana

Looking for hike-in camping near Helena National Forest? Plan your hike-in camping trip, pack light, and use Leave No Trace principles to build fire rings at your next campsite. Check out some of the best hike-in campgrounds near Helena National Forest.

Helena National Forest

The Best Hike-In Camping Near Helena National Forest, Montana

Black Sandy State Park

Spokane Bay Campground

## Overview

Explore a magnificent recreation and wildlife resource at the doorstep of Montana's Capital City. From prairie to alpine, mayflies to mountain goats, and scenic driving to expert climbing routes -- the Elkhorns you will discover a diverse landscape!  
  
Built in 1941, Strawberry Cabin lies at the top of Strawberry Butte (6,100 feet) in the heart of the Elkhorn Mountains. The combination of lookout and log cabin are typical of this period. The cabin is an excellent example of a C-46 one room cabin plan, which was designed by William Fox. This cabin style is one of the standard building plans used for housing personnel working at intermediate stations and at lookouts. The C-46 design offers distinctive characteristics of ventral saddle notches and log ends finished in "chopper cut" style, which symbolizes rustic Forest Service log architecture of the second half of the 1930 and early 1940s.

## Recreation

The area offers great access to the north end of the Elkhorn Mountains with numerous hiking trails and roads leading to the Elkhorn's historical resources. Popular hikes include Strawberry Creek, Casey Peak, and Willard Creek.  
  
When snow allows, cross country skiing or snowshoeing gives visitors an up-close look at concentrations of wintering elk.

## Facilities

Strawberry Cabin is designed for up to four guests. One portion of the cabin has two twin beds, all with mattresses. The kitchen is equipped with a small table and two chairs, dishes, utensils, cookware, with a Coleman stove and lights. The cabin has a wood stove. The cabin is not wired for electricity. Fuel is not provided for the propane stove or lanterns, so guests should bring a couple of small propane cylinders, as well as backup lighting.  
  
An outhouse with vault toilet is located on-site. A picnic table and campfire ring offer comfortable outdoor dining. Firewood is typically stocked and stored outside in the woodshed from September 1 through May 31. No firewood is provided from June 1st - August 31. An axe and snow shovel are provided.  
  
There is no water on site, so guests must bring a sufficient supply for drinking, cooking and washing. Guests should bring their own sleeping bags, lanterns or flashlights, towels, dish soap, matches, and garbage bags. All garbage must be packed out, and guests are expected to clean the cabin before leaving.  
  
A fire lookout tower sits next to the cabin. This is one of the few metal lookout structures in the area and was built in the 1940s. The lookout is not open to the public and is no longer an active lookout.

## Natural Features

The Elkhorn Mountains span both Broadwater and Jefferson counties, with the nearest city being Helena, Montana. The Elkhorns are surrounded by the Divide Mountains and Boulder Batholith to the west, and the Missouri and Boulder River valleys on the north, east, and south. The form of the Elkhorn Mountains is rounded and furrowed from extensive weathering. Drainages have carved steep gulches and canyons. The majority of the Elkhorns (north, west, southwest) is a part of a batholith. This geologic history has left the area rich in minerals. Evidence of glaciation is localized with boulder strewn areas of granitic rocks. The remaining approximate quarter (southwest) of the geographic area is underlain by sedimentary rock that lacks the same mineralization as the batholith but is rich in calcareous rock. The landforms are rugged, low mountains with hogback ridges and dry valleys.  
  
The sedimentary geologic area in the east is a gradient of foothill prairie and partially forested low mountains. Grassland is a major component. Limber pine and juniper woodland ebb and flow through this prairie landscape.  
  
The plant communities on the batholith portion are mostly forested with conifers. Aspen stands and water-loving plants take advantage of riparian areas and wet seeps. Parks, rich with grasses and forbs, are frequent at lower elevations and break up the forest in montane elevations. A large expanse of this area burned in 1988.   
  
The Elkhorns have been occupied by human inhabitants for thousands of years. However, prehistoric occupation is less evident than the more recent Euro-American settlement. After the discovery of valuable mineral deposits, mines and associated settlements sprang up in portions of the geographic area and remnant tools and infrastructure of the mining era are still evident. Strawberry Lookout, Eagle and Tizer Guard Stations are living reminders of Forest Service history in the area.  
  
Fire has historically has been a major influence to plant communities. A large forest fire in 1988 burned almost 50,000 acres of the mountain range, leaving carpets of seedlings growing into new lodgepole pine forests.   
  
Due to the rich wildlife habitats throughout the mountain range, the Elkhorns were designated a Wildlife Management Unit in 1986, the first of its kind in the nation. Collaborative groups composed of federal, state, and private land holders work toward habitat restoration and interpretation of the area's history. 

## Nearby Attractions

The Elkhorn Mountains are an island mountain range that provide open space, clean water and diverse animal and plant communities. The Elkhorns also provide livelihoods and places to hunt and recreate for the citizens in the surrounding communities and beyond. About 160,000 acres within the Elkhorn Mountains is managed by both the Helena and Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forests as a Wildlife Management Unit, the only one of its kind in the entire National Forest System. In addition, there is another 75,000 acres of foothills that is managed by the Bureau of Land Management as an Area of Critical Environment Concern.

Strawberry Cabin

Refrigerator Canyon Back Country Camp Site

## Overview

The Miller Creek Cabin is located in the Townsend Ranger District and rests at the intersection of the Confederate Gulch Road (FS Road 287) and the Blacktail Road (FS Road 4171), surrounded by scattered forest in the Big Belt Mountains in west-central Montana. The cabin is accessible by high-clearance vehicle, but requires over-the-snow vehicle travel during winter months. 

Please use caution when accessing Miller cabin in the winter months, winter access will vary based on snow conditions. Do not count on wheeled vehicle access from November through April. You can get to Miller cabin in the winter months with snowmobile or cross country skiing. It is not recommended driving full size vehicle to the site during this time period.

## Recreation

During the summer months, enjoy a hike on local trails that will take you to high mountain lakes. During the fall, the cabin offers a wide array of recreation opportunities including hiking, hunting and off-highway vehicle access. The winter months provide for cross-country skiing and snowmobile opportunities.

## Facilities

This is a two room log cabin that has been completely remodeled. In addition to the cabin there is a wood shed and new outhouse facility.   
  
Miller is a rustic log cabin furnished with two sets of bunk beds, kitchen hutch and table with four chairs. Pots and pans as well as dishes and some cleaning supplies are available for use. A two-burner propane camp cook stove and two lanterns are provided. Guests will need to provide their own fuel for the cook stove and lanterns. The stove and lantern require pre-filled propane cylinders which screw on (one pound cylinders work well). There is no water available.   
  
Guests must bring their own bedding and pillows, flashlights, towels, food, garbage bags, dish soap, dish towels, extra cooking utensils and dishes, toilet paper and paper towels. Bedding and linens are not provided. Guests must clean the cabin completely and pack out all food and trash before leaving.  
  
No firewood provided from June 1st - August 31.

## Natural Features

The cabin sits at the confluence of two drainages, Confederate and Blacktail Creeks. The site is shaded for most of the day with mature trees and shrubs. 

## Nearby Attractions

Confederate Gulch is a steeply incised valley on the west facing slopes of the Big Belt Mountains. Its small stream drains westward into Canyon Ferry Lake on the upper Missouri River Valley near present day Townsend, Montana. In 1864 Confederate soldiers on parole from the American Civil War made a minor gold discovery in the gulch, but in 1865 the discovery of the sensationally rich Montana Bar - one of the richest placer strikes per acre ever made - led to other rich gold strikes up and down the gulch, and touched off a frantic boom period of placer gold mining that extended through 1869. From 1866 to 1869 the gulch equaled or outstripped all other Montana Territory mining camps in gold production, producing an estimated $19 to $30 million in gold - late 1860s money. For a time, the gulch became the largest community in Montana. In 1866 Montana had a total population of 28,000, and of these, about 10,000 (35%) were working in Confederate Gulch. The main community was Diamond City while gold production was at its height; Diamond City roared along both night and day.

Miller Cabin

Kim's Marina & RV Resort

Accessibility is not guaranteed, always scout ahead before driving down dirt roads. Learn more: https://www.campendium.com/camping/boondocking-101/

Goose Bay - Dispersed Camping

Coulter Campground offers 5 boat-in campsites on the east side of Upper Holter Lake and adjacent to the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness. Approximately 1 mile north is a large day-use area (Meriwether Picnic Site) with wilderness access and boat docks. A scenic river trail provides access between the campground and picnic site. The campground, located within a scenic river canyon, provides excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing. Fish Your National Forests: Fish available include: Trout, Walleye; Types of fishing available include: Shore, Motorized boat, Spin, Bait;

Coulter Campground

Yorks Islands Fishing Access Site

Our motel and RV Park with full hook-ups is located on a lush lawn that sweeps all the way down to the Little Wolf Creek, which runs throughout the ranch. Little Wolf Creek is fed from fresh springs of the magnificent Rocky Mountains that encompass the ranch. The whole area is abundant with all the beauty nature has to offer. 

7R Guest Ranch Motel & RV Park

Billings is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Billings is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Discover great camping spots near Billings, reviewed by campers like you.

Billings

The Best Campgrounds in Billings, MT | MT Camping

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Missoula. Missoula is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Missoula, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Missoula

The Best Camping in Missoula, MT | MT Camping

Great Falls, MT is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Great Falls is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Find the best campgrounds near Great Falls, MT. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Great Falls

The Best Camping Near Great Falls, Montana

In beautiful Montana, Bozeman is less than 100 miles from Yellowstone but stands alone as a destination for all to visit. With plenty of national forests surrounding it, Bozeman is one of the best outdoor cities to visit.

The best camping near Bozeman is located just 30 minutes away near Livingston, MT in the Absaroka Beartooth wilderness area. This USFS land has ample free campsites and is in the backyard of Yellowstone National Park. Of course, Yellowstone itself is one of the best places for hiking and camping. However, if you plan to visit the park, you’ll likely want to stay in one of the park’s campgrounds, not Bozeman. Bozeman, on its own, has much to offer with an abundance of places to park an RV or set up a tent. Bozeman is a can't-miss stop if you’re going to or from Yellowstone.

Bozeman

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Bozeman, MT is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Bozeman, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

The Best Camping in Bozeman, MT | Montana Campgrounds

Searching for the best camping near Butte-Silver Bow, MT? Butte-Silver Bow is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Butte-Silver Bow. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Butte-Silver Bow

The Best Camping Near Butte-Silver Bow, Montana

Are you in need of a campground near Helena, MT? Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Helena. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Montana camping adventure.

Helena

The Best Camping in Helena, MT | Montana Campgrounds

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Kalispell, MT is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Kalispell is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Find the best campgrounds near Kalispell, MT. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Kalispell

The Best Camping Near Kalispell, Montana

Anaconda is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Anaconda is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Get the dirt on all the best camping near Anaconda. Browse campgrounds by amenities, site types, and more.

Anaconda

The Best Camping Near Anaconda, Montana

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Havre. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Havre, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Montana camping adventure.

Havre

The Best Camping Near Havre, Montana

Join the fun near Miles City. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Miles City is surrounded by family-friendly activities. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Miles City, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Miles City

The Best Camping Near Miles City, Montana

Join the fun near Bitterroot National Forest. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. Bitterroot National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Bitterroot National Forest camping trip.

Bitterroot National Forest

The Best Camping Near Bitterroot National Forest, Montana

Surrounded by the majestic Rocky Mountains in Montana, Glacier National Park boasts over 700 miles of hiking trails and plenty of campsites for weary hikers to spend the night. Near the picturesque cities of Columbia Falls and Whitefish, MT, campers can enjoy a day of shopping or dine at one of the area’s restaurants in between taking in the park’s sights. Avalanche Creek and Granite Park are two popular campgrounds, and RV drivers will find plenty of places to pull up for a night or extended stay. While camping, visitors will have plenty of opportunities to see the area’s diverse wildlife that include grizzly bears, mountain goats, and more.

Glacier National Park

The Best Camping Near Glacier National Park, Montana

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Flathead National Forest, MT has a lot to offer. There's so much to see and do, from exhilarating hikes or bike rides to exploring the local dining and shopping. Find the best campgrounds near Flathead National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Flathead National Forest

The Best Camping Near Flathead National Forest, Montana

Join the fun near Lewis and Clark National Forest. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Montana camping adventure.

Lewis and Clark National Forest

The Best Camping Near Lewis and Clark National Forest, Montana

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Gallatin National Forest, MT is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Gallatin National Forest is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Montana camping adventure.

Gallatin National Forest

The Best Camping Near Gallatin National Forest, Montana

Helena National Forest, MT is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Helena National Forest is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. Ready to plan your adventure? Check out our campgrounds near Helena National Forest and user-submitted reviews.

The Best Camping Near Helena National Forest, Montana

Kootenai National Forest, MT is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Kootenai National Forest, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Find the best campgrounds near Kootenai National Forest, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Kootenai National Forest

The Best Camping Near Kootenai National Forest, Montana

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, MT has a lot to offer. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest camping trip.

Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest

The Best Camping Near Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, Montana

Searching for the best camping near Lolo National Forest, MT? Lolo National Forest is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Lolo National Forest, reviewed by campers like you.

Lolo National Forest

The Best Camping Near Lolo National Forest, Montana

Are you in need of a campground near Custer Gallatin National Forest, MT? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Montana camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Montana camping adventure.

THE BEST Hike-In CAMPING NEARHelena National Forest, Montana

Top Helena National Forest Hike-In Campgrounds

Black Sandy State Park

Spokane Bay Campground

Strawberry Cabin

Refrigerator Canyon Back Country Camp Site

Miller Cabin

Kim's Marina & RV Resort

Goose Bay - Dispersed Camping

Coulter Campground

Yorks Islands Fishing Access Site

7R Guest Ranch Motel & RV Park

About Helena National Forest Hike-In Camping

Hike-In Campgrounds in Helena National Forest, Montana

Recent Hike-In Camping Reviews Near Helena National Forest

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