Gardiner, MT, August 21, 2026—The Gardiner Ranger District of the Custer Gallatin National Forest has implemented a temporary closure of the Tom Miner Campground, effective August 21, 2026, due to the presence of hazard trees caused by tomentosus root disease. National Forest System Road #6692 will remain open for motorists traveling through the campground to access the Buffalo Horn and Petrified Forest trailheads.
Tom Miner Campground contains many mature spruce trees that have experienced long-term decline. Symptoms consistent with tomentosus root disease have been observed in both fallen and standing trees throughout the area. Tomentosus root disease, caused by the fungus Onnia tomentosa, leads to decay and mortality in spruce and, occasionally, other conifer species.
Given the combination of active decay, tree mortality, and proximity of hazard trees to public use areas, forest staff have determined that Tom Miner Campground is currently unsafe for public use. The temporary closure will allow specialists to conduct a thorough assessment of existing hazards and develop mitigation strategies. These efforts may include removing hazardous trees, addressing site-specific safety concerns, and implementing vegetation management practices that encourage younger, more resilient forest conditions.
Visitors are encouraged to explore other camping opportunities on the Custer Gallatin National Forest while Tom Miner Campground is closed. Nearby alternatives include Eagle Creek, Timber Camp, Bear Creek, and Canyon campgrounds. For a full list of campgrounds and recreation sites, please review our Camp & Picnic Guide: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r01/custergallatin/recreation/camping-cabins.
The Gardiner Ranger District remains committed to providing safe and enjoyable recreation opportunities while protecting forest health. Updates on the status and reopening of Tom Miner Campground will be provided as evaluation and mitigation work continues.
For additional questions, please contact the Gardiner Ranger District at (406) 848 7375. The official closure order is available online at: https://www.fs.usda.gov/r01/custergallatin/alerts.
About the Forest Service: The Forest Service has brought people and communities together to answer the call of conservation for more than 100 years. Grounded in world-class science and technology—and rooted in communities—the Forest Service connects people to nature and recreation opportunities. The agency manages 193 million acres of public land, supports the nation’s forest industry and energy needs, and operates the largest and most respected wildland fire and forestry research organizations in the world. By providing assistance to state and private landowners and working with Tribes and other partners, the Forest Service also helps steward an additional 900 million forested acres within the U.S.
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