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Dispersed Camping

Refrigerator Canyon Back Country Camp Site

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

Refrigerator Canyon Back Country Camp Site is located in Helena National Forest, MT. The area features rugged terrain with forested surroundings. Temperatures can range from lows in the 30s Fahrenheit in spring and fall to highs in the 80s during summer. Nearby attractions include hiking trails and scenic views within the national forest.

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Location

Refrigerator Canyon Back Country Camp Site is located in Montana

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

46.86778241 N
111.74721928 W

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Access

  • Hike-In
    Backcountry sites.

Features

For Campers

  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

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Reviews

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3.0

out of 5

1 Review

Reviewed Sep. 30, 2021

Back Country camp in the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness Area

In the past this campsite that was clearing constructed in the past would have received 5 stars, but in the last two years the site has changed a little.  Two flat areas have been constructed at this site, a cooking area with a rock fire ring and another for a tent pad.  But since my last visit a very large tree has fallen and landed right next to the cooking area with several of its large limbs stretching in to the spot.  The spot has also become a little overgrown, don't know it that is its usual look in the fall as I have always visited in the spring.  The site is between two small creeks.  Due to the very dry summer only the smaller stream was still flowing, water could be collected at its crossing of the trail above the camp site, this was at a slow trickle.  The site is still decent but I would not make a fire here due to the high grass around the camp.  The site is about 3.5 miles from the trail head and located in the Gates of the Mountains Wilderness Area.

Month of VisitSeptember
  • Review photo of Refrigerator Canyon Back Country Camp Site by Dexter I., September 30, 2021
  • Review photo of Refrigerator Canyon Back Country Camp Site by Dexter I., September 30, 2021
  • Review photo of Refrigerator Canyon Back Country Camp Site by Dexter I., September 30, 2021
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Frequently Asked Questions

Where is the Refrigerator Canyon trailhead located in Montana?

Refrigerator Canyon is located in the Helena area of Montana. The trailhead can be accessed through the Helena National Forest trail system. This backcountry site is situated in a canyon that provides natural cooling effects, hence its unique name. Visitors should check with the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest office for specific directions, as forest service roads may have seasonal closures or require high-clearance vehicles for access.

What do visitors say in reviews about Refrigerator Canyon?

Refrigerator Canyon has undergone some changes over time. The backcountry campsite features two constructed flat areas - one designed as a cooking area with a rock fire ring and another serving as a tent pad. The site was previously highly regarded but has experienced some changes in recent years that have affected the overall experience. The natural cooling effect of the canyon makes it a unique camping destination, particularly during warmer months when its cooler temperatures provide welcome relief.

What hiking trails connect to Refrigerator Canyon?

Refrigerator Canyon is accessible via hiking trails in the Helena National Forest trail system. The site serves as a backcountry destination for hikers exploring the canyon area. While specific connecting trail names aren't detailed, the canyon is part of a broader trail network in the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. Hikers should obtain trail maps from the Forest Service office before setting out, as this backcountry location requires proper navigation and preparation.