Magruder Rangers House
Closed for the season. Opens early June 2026 and operates through mid-October. During summer 2026, expect increased noise and traffic at the Magruder Ranger Station due to construction activity, though the cabin remains available for rental. Reservations via Recreation.gov; contact West Fork Ranger District one week before arrival to obtain key code.
From Recreation.gov
**The Magruder Ranger Station compound will have more noise and activity during the summer of 2026. There will be an increase in traffic, equipment and personnel going in and out of the Magruder Ranger Station, as well as more traffic along the Magruder Corridor and Selway River Road to Paradise Campground. The Administration building on the Ranger Station site will be occupied frequently, and construction work will bring added noise to the Magruder Ranger Station area during the summer of 2026. The Magruder Rangers House will remain open and available to rent throughout the summer season.**
Northern Region Camping & Target Restrictions, Pallet Prohibition
This order defines the maximum length of occupation at a single location or cumulatively at any number of locations within a calendar year, within the states of Montana, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Idaho
Weed Free Forage & Mulch Products Order for the Northern Region
It is illegal to possess, store or transport straw, hay, grain, seed or other forage or mulch products on Forest Service lands without documentation that the product is certified as “weed free” by a state certification process that meets or exceeds the North American Weed Free Forage standards.
Northern and Intermountain Regions Salmon Wild and Scenic River: Occupancy and Use
This order enacts visitor use restrictions for activities within the 80-mile-long wild segment of the Salmon Wild & Scenic River corridor, including a one-quarter mile buffer from the river, as required by the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness Area Management Plan (November 2003).
Northern and Intermountain Regions Frank Church River of No Return Wilderness
This order implements visitor use requirements for activities within the Restricted Area and on the Restricted Trails, as required by the Frank Church-River of No Return Wilderness Area Management Plan (November 2003).
Bitterroot National Forest Food Storage Order
The purpose of this Order is to protect public safety and wildlife by minimizing human-bear interactions.
About
The Magruder Rangers House offers a unique backcountry lodging experience at the historic Magruder Ranger Station, situated between two of America's largest wilderness areas. Built in the 1920s-1930s, this two-story log cabin served as the district ranger's family residence and is now available for public rental. The cabin accommodates 6-10 guests across two bedrooms with single and double beds, plus two futons in the living room. From June through September, the cabin has hot and cold running water, an indoor flush toilet, and shower. A wood stove provides heat, while propane powers the refrigerator, stove, and lights. Firewood and propane are supplied. After October 1 winterization, water is turned off and guests must bring their own supply; an outdoor vault toilet remains available. The remote location offers exceptional access to hunting, fishing, and hiking. The Selway River and nearby streams hold rainbow, cutthroat, and steelhead trout. Trails like the 11-mile Swet Creek Trail connect to the surrounding wilderness. Wildlife including elk, moose, mountain lions, wolves, and black bears inhabit the area. High-clearance vehicles are required, and the road from Elk City is typically not passable until mid-July.
Directions
From Darby, Montana, travel south on Highway 93 for 4 miles to West Fork Road/Highway 473. Continue 14 miles to Nez Perce Road/Magruder Corridor Road #468, then go 34 miles on the one-lane gravel and partially paved road. Just before Deep Creek meets the Selway River, turn south at the stone bridge and continue 0.5 mile to the cabin. High-clearance vehicles required. From Elk City, Idaho, the road is typically not passable until mid to late July.
Location
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | Yes |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $100 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | — |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (406) 821-3269 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
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