Montana / Jefferson County / Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest

Sheepshead Picnic Area

Closed — Closed for the winter season. Typically opens mid-June through Labor Day. Shoulder season access is possible but gates are locked and water and garbage services are not available until mid-June.

About

Sheepshead Picnic Area is a day-use recreation site in the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, located approximately 20 miles north of Butte in a scenic forested setting. The main feature is a reservable pavilion that can accommodate up to 200 people for private gatherings, with pricing based on group size. The facility includes multiple picnic tables, barbecue grills, and seasonal water service, though there is no electricity (generators permitted). Recreational amenities include horseshoe pits, volleyball courts, a ball field, and both paved and natural walking trails. The area also provides fishing access to nearby Maney Lake. All picnic tables must be returned to their original locations, and visitors are required to pack out all trash when facilities are not staffed. Overnight use may be granted for multi-day reservations with prior approval from the Butte Ranger District. The site is accessed via gravel Forest Service roads suitable for passenger vehicles, approximately 20 miles from I-15. The area sits at a moderate elevation with a mix of open meadows and forested terrain, providing a pleasant setting for group picnics and outdoor recreation.

Directions

From Butte, take I-15/I-90 east for approximately 1 mile. Merge onto I-15 north and continue for approximately 12 miles. Take the Elk Park exit (no. 138) and drive west on Forest Service Road 442 (Lowland Creek Road) for approximately 6 miles. Turn right onto Forest Service Road 9485 and continue for approximately 2 miles. Turn left at the junction (Freedom Point) and drive approximately 1/8 mile; the area is on the right. Gravel roads suitable for passenger vehicles.

Nearby Campgrounds