Madison-Bear Creek Wildlife Management Area

  • Mailing Address
  • 1400 South 19th Avenue
  • Bozeman, MT 59718
  • Contact Information
  • Phone: 406-994-4042

Madison-Bear Creek Wildlife Management Area encompasses 3,458 acres and Bear Creek Angus Ranch Conservation Easement - 5,278 acres.

Management goal: To provide habitat for a variety of wildlife, including elk, mule deer, black bears, grizzly bears, mountain grouse and non-game species along the face of the Madison Range.

Hunting opportunities: Archery and gun seasons for elk and deer (see regulations for details), black bear, and grouse are open to licensed hunters. Late-season antlerless elk hunts (permit required) extend through the end of January. Permits are also required for mountain goat and moose hunting.

Wildlife viewing: Elk, mule and white-tailed deer, antelope, mountain goats, moose, black bears, mountain lions, occasionally grizzly bears, sandhill cranes, grouse, raptors, songbirds and numerous small mammals can be found through much of the year. Bear Creek is closed to all visitation from the end of the special late-season elk hunt until May 15 each year.

Area Activities

  • elk hunting
  • fishing
  • bird hunting
  • camping
  • deer hunting
  • fly fishing
  • stream fishing
  • tent camping
  • wildlife viewing
  • horseback riding
  • nature
  • group camping
  • hiking
  • hunting
  • outdoor activity
  • photography
  • picnicking
  • bird watching
  • big game

Driving Directions

Madison-Bear Creek Wildlife Management Area is located in Madison County, approximately 11 miles south of Ennis and 5 miles east of Cameron at the base of the west face of the Madison Range. From Montana Highway 287, travel south from Ennis to the small community of Cameron, turn east on the county road and follow signs to entrance.

Season / Hours Of Operation

  • Season
  • May 15 - November 30

For FREE Gold West travel information call 1-800-879-1159 or request online.
1105 Main Street, Deer Lodge, MT 59722

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