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FacilityCampgroundRecreation.gov

Axolotl Cabin

Mc Allister, Idaho · Madison County · Campground

Overview The Dillon Field Office is unable to make reservations for you. Please call Recreation.gov (877-444-6777) to book a reservation or book online. Axolotl Cabin is located approximately 14 miles southwest of Ennis, Montana, in the foothills of the Gravelly Range. The cabin provides access to a variety of outdoor …

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About Axolotl Cabin

Overview The Dillon Field Office is unable to make reservations for you. Please call Recreation.gov (877-444-6777) to book a reservation or book online. Axolotl Cabin is located approximately 14 miles southwest of Ennis, Montana, in the foothills of the Gravelly Range. The cabin provides access to a variety of outdoor recreational activities and breathtaking views as it peers over the Madison Valley. The cabin is at an elevation of about 7,000 feet and is adjacent to Axolotl Lakes Wilderness Study Area. Recreation Recreation opportunities abound in the surrounding area including numerous small lakes for angling, paddling, and relaxation, and excellent areas for hiking, wildlife viewing, and horseback riding. The world famous Madison River winds through the valley below, with abundant scenery all around. Facilities The cabin sleeps a maximum of seven people. There is a full bed, a full-size fold out futon and two single bunkbeds. No bedding is provided. The cabin amenities run off of both solar and propane. The lights and refrigerator operate off solar power and can be subject to outages. The stove/oven operates off propane; please read directions of how to operate!! There is also a BBQ, wood stove, fireplace, and outdoor fire pit. Non-potable water available; please treat. One small corral near the cabin can accommodate two horses. You are required to bring your own certified weed seed-free feed; no grazing is allowed. Natural Features Axolotl salamanders exist in a few of the nearby lakes; please observe only, do not handle. Several lakes provide ample opportunities for fishing and paddleboarding. The surrounding lands are primarily managed by the Bureau of Land Management and provide a variety of recreational opportunities. Certain restrictions are in place for the Wilderness Study Area lands; please ensure your understanding of these. Nearby Attractions Visitors to the area may like to explore nearby Virginia City and Nevada City historic districts, as well as ac

How to Get There

From Ennis (most direct route) - 4WD/High clearance Vehicle strongly recommended. Road may become impassable when wet!! Take State Highway 287 towards Virginia City. About 1/4 mile east of MM11 (or 3/4 mile west of MM10) turn south into the paved parking area near the top of Virginia City Hill. Pass through the gate with the cattle guard at the west end of the parking area. Proceed 3.1 miles on the dirt road (blind corners exist). The road will descend a very steep hill and intersect with another road. Turn Left (east) at the intersection. Go 0.7 miles, and the cabin will be on the right (south) side of the road. There will be a locked gate to mark the 0.25 mile driveway. If you come to the Twin Lakes parking area and vault latrine, you've gone too far. Turn around and drive back up to the gate.

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 Axolotl Cabin

Heading to Axolotl Cabin? 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 Axolotl Cabin?

No central reservation system listed for Axolotl Cabin. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/251354) for the latest entry policy and availability.

How do I get to Axolotl Cabin?

From Ennis (most direct route) - 4WD/High clearance Vehicle strongly recommended. Road may become impassable when wet!! Take State Highway 287 towards Virginia City. About 1/4 mile east of MM11 (or 3/4 mile west of MM10) turn south into the paved parking area near the top of Virginia City Hill. Pass through the gate with the cattle guard at the west end of the parking area. Proceed 3.1 miles on th…

How do I contact Axolotl Cabin?

You can reach the park at phone: 406-683-8000.