About SHEEPSHEAD PICNIC AREA
Overview Sheepshead Pavilion is available for reservations for private gatherings from mid-June through Labor Day weekend. The pavilion will accommodate about 200 people. It includes picnic tables, barbecue grills and water. There is no electricity to the pavilion, if electricity is needed please bring a generator. Fees are based on group size: $75 per day for groups 1-50 $125 per day for groups 51-100 $200 per day for groups 101-200 With a 2+ day reservation, overnight use may be granted, but only with prior approval. For more information on fees or overnight use please call the Butte Ranger District at (406) 494-2147 during regular business hours or email Scott Forman: scott.forman@usda.gov. Recreation Recreational opportunities at Sheepshead include horseshoe pits, nature trails, volleyball courts, ball field and a paved walking trail. All pavilion picnic tables must be returned to their original location, if moved. All trash must be placed in a trash reciptical before vacanting the facility; no personal items can be left behind. Facilities Handicapped Accessible Natural Features Nearby Attractions Contact Info For facility specific information, please call (406) 494-2147.
How to Get There
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 campground is on the right. The road is a gravel road suitable for passenger vehicle access.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
- 👕
Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to SHEEPSHEAD PICNIC AREA
Heading to SHEEPSHEAD PICNIC AREA? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for SHEEPSHEAD PICNIC AREA?
No central reservation system listed for SHEEPSHEAD PICNIC AREA. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234394) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to SHEEPSHEAD PICNIC AREA?
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 mil…
References & Official Resources
