Bear Creek Campground

About

Bear Creek Campground sits at 6,350 feet on the western slope of Montana's Madison Range within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. This small, first-come, first-served campground offers 12 designated sites split by Bear Creek. Sites 1-6 on the south side are reserved for family camping only, while sites 7-12 on the north accommodate horses and stock with hitchrails and corrals. Each campsite includes a picnic table and fire ring. Facilities are basic but functional: two vault toilets (one on each side of the creek), centrally located hand-pump water hydrants, and bear-resistant food storage boxes. Water runs mid-May through September only. There is no garbage service, so plan to pack out everything you bring in. Firewood is extremely scarce near the campground. The campground serves as a staging area for the Lee Metcalf Wilderness via the Trail Fork Bear Creek trailhead. Stock users should note that only certified weed-free hay is permitted, and group size within the wilderness is limited to 15 people and 20 head. Cell coverage is nonexistent in the area. The adjacent Bear Creek Wildlife Management Area closes December 2 through noon on May 15.

Directions

From Ennis, MT travel south on Highway 287 for approximately 10 miles. Turn east on Bear Creek Loop at Cameron, MT. Follow the signs to the campground.