Montana / Carbon County / Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area

Medicine Creek Campground

Open — Open year-round weather permitting with no facilities. Accessible only by boat or 3-mile hike. Lake level fluctuations affect boat mooring access. Limited to 14 cumulative days per 28-day period.

About

Medicine Creek Campground offers a true backcountry camping experience in Bighorn Canyon National Recreation Area, accessible only by boat or on foot. Boaters navigate north from Barry's Landing to Dayboard 32 and turn into Medicine Creek, though water fluctuations can change access conditions. Hikers can reach the campground via the Barry's Island Trail, a 3-mile trek from the Barry's Landing trailhead. The campground features 5 primitive sites available first-come, first-served at no charge. Food storage lockers are provided, but no water or toilet facilities are available. Lake level fluctuations significantly affect the proximity of boat mooring to campsites, requiring flexibility for visitors. Campers must be self-sufficient and pack out all trash. Stays are limited to 14 cumulative days within a 28-day period. Quiet hours are enforced from 10:00 pm to 6:00 am, with generator use permitted only between 8:00 am and 8:00 pm. Collection of firewood is prohibited within the park. Pets must be leashed at all times and cannot be left unattended.

Directions

Boat access: Navigate north from Barry's Landing to Dayboard 32 and turn left into Medicine Creek. Water fluctuations can change access. Hiking access: From Highway 37, park at Barry's Landing and hike approximately 3 miles north on the Barry's Island Trail.

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