East Fork Cabin offers a one-of-a-kind, rustic experience in the heart of Montana’s Bitterroot National Forest. Originally built before 1914 as a guard station for fire watchers, this historic cabin has been carefully restored and provides visitors with a unique opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of southwestern Montana. Whether you’re horseback riding, hiking, or simply looking to disconnect, the cabin serves as a basecamp for various outdoor adventures.
Horseback Riding and Recreational Opportunities
Located at an elevation of 4,500 feet, the East Fork Cabin sits near the East Fork of the Bitterroot River and provides access to a vast array of recreational activities. The cabin is open year-round, allowing horseback riders to explore the forest’s diverse trails, from open meadows to rugged mountain paths. In the warmer months, visitors can ride or hike through the beautiful Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness, a haven for wildlife such as elk, deer, mountain lions, moose, and bears. Keep in mind that during spring, the river can turn into fast-moving, dangerous waters—so caution is necessary.
A Year-Round Horse Camping Experience
East Fork Cabin is accessible by vehicle during the warmer months, but in the winter, alternative travel arrangements are necessary. From October through April, the road is plowed up to three-quarters of a mile from the cabin, making it a true adventure for winter horseback riders or snow enthusiasts. Those wishing to stay at the cabin during this time should be prepared for snowy conditions and plan accordingly.
Adjacent to the cabin, an expansive picnic area and pavilion offer the perfect setting for gatherings, whether it’s a large group of horseback riders or a family reunion. Additional camping spaces around the cabin also provide accommodations for large groups, making it an ideal destination for equestrian campers.
Rustic Charm with Modern Convenience
East Fork Cabin’s rustic charm is enhanced by its history, but guests must bring many of their own supplies. While the cabin provides basic shelter, visitors are responsible for their own travel arrangements, food, and other amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. The site’s simplicity and natural surroundings are part of its appeal, allowing campers to fully immerse themselves in the beauty and tranquility of Montana’s wilderness.
Explore the Bitterroot National Forest
The Bitterroot National Forest and the surrounding Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness offer countless opportunities for horseback riders and nature enthusiasts alike. From scenic rides along the river to wildlife watching and exploring the diverse terrain, East Fork Cabin serves as a gateway to one of the most picturesque regions in Montana.
For those looking for a truly authentic Montana horse camping experience, East Fork Cabin delivers both history and adventure. With year-round access and its close proximity to the East Fork of the Bitterroot River, it’s a destination that invites visitors to step back in time and enjoy the natural wonders of the Bitterroot National Forest.
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 cabin's main parking areas.
Facilities and Amenities at East Fork Cabin
- Equestrian trails
- Drinking water (peak season)
- Electricity
- Firewood
- Picnic Shelters
- Table & Chairs
- Lighting
- Campfire Rings
- Drinking Water
- Parking Area
- Vault Toilets
- Corral/pasture area
One-room Cabin:
The small, one-room cabin can accommodate up to eight people. It is equipped with bunk beds and mattress pads, a table and chairs, counter and cupboard space, and a propane cooking stove and oven. Propane is provided. There are electric lights and one outlet for power. There is a wood stove for heat, and firewood is provided. Pots, pans, plates, and utensils are also available. Drinking water is available at the pump house and a vault toilet is located in an outhouse that is adjacent to the cabin. Toilet paper is provided. A large, log picnic shelter is also available at the site. It has a fireplace and two large charcoal grills. Even though there is a limit of eight people at the cabin, RV and tent camping is allowed in designated areas at the cabin. The site has a 35-person limit. Guests will need to bring their own bedding, towels, soap, and garbage bags. Guests are asked to replenish the supply of cut wood, as well as clean the cabin prior to their departure. Basic cleaning supplies are provided.
Cost Details:
- $50/Night.
Notes:
- All garbage and food must be packed out. Please bring garbage bags.
- Hay for stock must be certified weed-free.
- Do not park vehicles or travel off of the main road area.
- Firewood is for use in woodstoves only.
- Some cleaning supplies are provided, but you should plan to bring your own in case they are not available during your stay. Please help keep the cabin clean.
- This facility is located in a remote area; before making a reservation, become aware of bear, water and weather safety.
- Don't Move Firewood.
- In the winter months (Oct - April), guests may have to park at the gates and walk approximately 600 ft. to the cabin as the road may not be plowed. Guests may want to bring sleds to transfer gear from the vehicle to the cabin.
- Check-in time is 2:00 PM; check-out time is 12:00 PM.
- The cabin remains locked; contact the Darby-Sula Ranger District 1 week in advance of your reservation at 406-821-3913 during office hours (Mon-Fri 8:00 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.) to obtain a key code, road and trail conditions, and weather report.
- For campground inquiries, please call: 406-821-3913
If you want to discover and explore other campsites and horse trails, here are some of them that you may visit:
Anaconda Pintler Wilderness - Upper Seymour Lake via CDT
Salmon National Forest - Wagonhammer - Elk Trail Loop
Calf Creek Wildlife Management Area - Calf Creek North Loop
East Fork Cabin requires reservations for overnight accommodations. For more information, please visit their page on Top Horse Trails - East Fork Cabin