About WHITETAIL CABIN
Overview Whitetail Cabin sits at an altitude of 4,048 feet in the north end of the Custer National Forest approximately 20 miles from Ashland, Montana. The cabin was built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps. Formerly a ranger station, it is now a registered historic site. The cabin is available year-round and is accessible by car, but guests should be prepared to hike about 100 yards to the cabin in winter, depending on road conditions. Some creature comforts are provided, but guests will need to bring several of their own amenities. Recreation Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding are popular options in the area. Horse facilities are provided at the cabin. In winter, the landscape is ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The cabin is popular with hunters during elk, deer and turkey hunting seasons.Facilities The 2-room cabin sleeps 4 and comes furnished with 2 sets of bunkbeds with mattresses, a table with 4 chairs, electric range, electric refrigerator, cleaning equipment and some basic cooking and eating utensils. A wood burning stove is provided, along with a limited supply of firewood. A picnic table and campfire ring are located in front of the cabin. An outhouse with pit toilet is located nearby. Horse facilities include a corral, 1 hitching rails and approximately 5 acres of fenced area to contain livestock. Seasonal spring water can be used for livestock consumption only, but guests should call the Ranger District to check water availability in advance. No water is available at the cabin. Guests must bring their own supply of water for drinking, cooking and washing. Items such as bedding, lanterns or flashlights, matches, extra toilet paper, first aid supplies, trash bags, dish soap, and towels are not available. Guests are expected to pack out their trash and clean the cabin before leaving.Natural Features The cabin sits in an open area backed by a stand of ponderosa pine. It is located in the Ashland Ranger District, which fe
How to Get There
From Ashland, Montana, take Highway 212 east for approximately 5 miles to East Fork Otter Creek Road. Turn northeast onto East Fork Otter Creek Road and travel 12 miles to Whitetail Cabin.
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 WHITETAIL CABIN
Heading to WHITETAIL 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 WHITETAIL CABIN?
No central reservation system listed for WHITETAIL CABIN. Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234359) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to WHITETAIL CABIN?
From Ashland, Montana, take Highway 212 east for approximately 5 miles to East Fork Otter Creek Road. Turn northeast onto East Fork Otter Creek Road and travel 12 miles to Whitetail Cabin.
How do I contact WHITETAIL CABIN?
You can reach the park at phone: CALL FOR COMBINATION PRIOR TO YOUR STAY - M-F 8:00 TO 4:30 CALL 406-784-2344. AFTER HOURS OR WEEKENDS CALL 406-740-1594. or email: gccampgrounds13@gmail.com.
References & Official Resources
