Whitetail Cabin
Custer Gallatin National Forest
Whitetail Cabin sits at an altitude of 4,048 feet in the north end of the Custer National Forest approximately 20 miles from Ashland, Montana. The cabin was built in
the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Formerly a ranger station, it is now a registered historic site.
The cabin is available year-round and is accessible by car, but guests should be prepared to hike about 100 yards to the cabin in winter, depending on road conditions. Some creature
comforts are provided, but guests will need to bring several of their own amenities.
The 2-room cabin sleeps 4 and comes furnished with 2 sets of bunkbeds with mattresses, a table with 4 chairs, electric range, electric refrigerator, cleaning equipment and some basic cooking and eating utensils. A wood burning stove is provided, along with a limited supply of firewood. A picnic table and campfire ring are located in front of the cabin. An outhouse with pit toilet is located nearby. Horse facilities include a corral, 1 hitching rails and approximately 5 acres of fenced area to contain livestock. Seasonal spring water can be used for livestock consumption only, but guests should call the Ranger District to check water availability in advance. No water is available at the cabin. Guests must bring their own supply of water for drinking, cooking and washing. Items such as bedding, lanterns or flashlights, matches, extra toilet paper, first aid supplies, trash bags, dish soap, and towels are not available. Guests are expected to pack out their trash and clean the cabin before leaving.
Need to Know
- Guests must provide their own water for drinking, cooking and washing
- This is bear country; guests should keep all food, trash and scented products inside the cabin
- Supplemental livestock feed must be certified weed-free
- Guests must pack out all trash and clean cabin before departure
- Guests should fill out a condition report when the wood supply is running low
- Guests should contact the District Office at (406) 784-2344 to check on weather and road conditions that might affect their visit
- Learn more about Custer National Forest
- Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org.
Natural Features
The cabin sits in an open area backed by a stand of ponderosa pine. It is located in the Ashland Ranger District, which features a landscape of ponderosa pines and steep rocky outcroppings. Custer National Forest supports populations of bear, mule and whitetail deer, antelope, elk, cougar and bobcat ( bear precautions ). A variety of birds also inhabit the area.
Recreation
Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding are popular options in the area. Horse facilities are provided at the cabin. In winter, the landscape is ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The cabin is popular with hunters during elk, deer and turkey hunting seasons.
Contact Information
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PO BOX 168 2378 HWY 212 ASHLAND MT 59003
Phone Number
For campground inquiries, please call: CALL FOR COMBINATION PRIOR TO YOUR STAY - M-F 8:00 TO 4:30 CALL 406-784-2344. AFTER HOURS OR WEEKENDS CALL 406-740-1594.
Rental Options
Learn more about gear rental options for your trip
Driving Directions
From Ashland, Montana, take Highway 212 east for approximately 5 miles to East Fork Otter Creek Road. Turn northeast onto East Fork Otter Creek Road and travel 12 miles to Whitetail Cabin.
