Montana Ranches For Sale with Public Land Adjacent are in high demand as discussed in our Montana Ranch Real Estate Market Report. Property For Sale That Borders Public Land includes land bordering or adjacent to BLM, National Parks, National Forests, State Lands & Parks. Without question, the spectacular public lands surrounding our community in Southwest Montana give the region a natural competitive advantage.
View property listings that border public land below, or contact our expert ranch real estate agents to help you find property that borders public land.
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Craig Delger BROKER / REALTOR 406-581-7504 craigdelger@gmail.com |
- 588 Upper Cottonwood Road, Wilsall MT 59086
PRICE: $599,000
Acres: 3.13 STATUS: Active MLS#: 408530
Opportunities like this rarely come along. Set at the base of the iconic Crazy Mountains, this beautifully updated cabin offers a truly rare level of access to Montana wilderness—within walking distance to thousands of acres of Forest Service land, trailheads, and high mountain lakes. Properties with this kind of proximity to protected public land are increasingly hard to find, making this an exceptional and limited offering. Situated on 3.2 private acres, the cabin has been thoughtfully updated within the last year, including a recent addition that blends modern comfort with timeless, vintage-inspired touches. The interior features three bedrooms, two and a half baths, a full kitchen, and warm, inviting living spaces anchored by a charming gas stove—perfect for cozy evenings with a good book after days spent exploring. The primary bedroom opens to a private deck with sweeping views of the Crazy Mountains, an ideal spot to greet the morning or unwind at sunset. Cottonwood Creek runs through the corner of the property, adding to the peaceful, natural setting. A dry bunkhouse provides additional space for guests, while a fire pit invites evenings under Montana’s expansive, star-filled skies. The cabin is tied to power, and a heat pump added in 2025 offers efficient heating and cooling for the primary bedroom. Outdoor recreation is truly at your doorstep—fly fishing, hunting, hiking, wildlife watching, and access to vast stretches of public land are all just steps away. Access is via a Forest Service road, making the property seasonal unless you have a snowmobile or track vehicle, though there has been winter access by car this winter. The plumbing is not currently configured for winter use but could be modified if year-round use is desired. Quiet, private, and surrounded by wilderness, this is the kind of Montana retreat that seldom becomes available. A rare chance to own a legacy cabin in one of the state’s most sought-after and tightly held mountain settings at the doorstep of the Crazy Mountains. MLS# 408530
Property Area: 6SV - Liv Area - Shields Valley Subdivision: None Nearest City: Wilsall
Acres: 3.13
- 8392 American Bar Road, Helena MT 59602
PRICE: $255,000
Acres: 0.90 STATUS: Active MLS#: 408170
Don’t miss this rare opportunity to own property on the Missouri River & Upper Holter Lake, located in the highly desirable Gates of the Mountains Lakeshore Homes. Whether you envision a seasonal cabin or a year-round residence, this vacant lot offers an exceptional setting for lakeside living. The property is adjacent to U.S. Forest Service land, providing a natural buffer and the only space between the lot and the waterfront, offering added privacy and preserved views. Build to suit and design a cabin or home that fits your vision and lifestyle. A perk test has been completed, and septic approval is on file with the County, providing added value and peace of mind. Enjoy breathtaking scenery, endless recreational opportunities, and the tranquility that makes Upper Hauser Lake one of the most sought-after locations in the area. Properties like this are rarely available - don’t miss your chance to own a piece of Upper Holter Lake and Missouri River paradise. MLS# 408170
Property Area: 12M - Other Montana Counties Subdivision: Other Nearest City: Helena
Acres: 0.90
- 1903 Mount Ellis Lane, Bozeman MT 59715
PRICE: $5,750,000
Acres: 119 STATUS: Active MLS#: 407600
1903 Mount Ellis Lane encompasses 119± acres in Bozeman’s highly sought after southeast corridor, offering a rare combination of scale, privacy, and proximity to town. The property includes an older farmhouse with a long term renter in place, providing flexibility and interim income while future plans are considered. Zoned Agricultural and Rural Residential, the land is free of covenants and conservation easements and borders state land with nearby Forest Service access. Gently expansive in feel, the property features perimeter fencing, a driveway already installed, pond has been excavated and electric pulled to the build site. Panoramic views stretch across surrounding farmland, the valley floor, and multiple mountain ranges, all just minutes from Bozeman. Locati Architects plans (including main home and shop) are available and negotiable with the sale, presenting a compelling opportunity to create a legacy estate or thoughtfully planned retreat in one of the area’s most desirable settings. MLS# 407600
Property Area: 2SE - Boz S of City E of 19th Subdivision: Other Nearest City: Bozeman
Acres: 119
- 1073 US Hwy 89 N, White Sulphur Springs MT 59645
PRICE: $379,900
Acres: 0.97 STATUS: Active MLS#: 407666
Nestled about 10± miles outside of White Sulphur Springs, this charming cabin-style home blends rustic Montana character with cozy modern amenities- and it’s completely move-in ready. Set on approximately .97± acres in Meagher County and bordered by Forest Service land, this property offers privacy, space, and direct access to the Montana lifestyle. The home features two bedrooms, one bathroom, and 1,120 square feet of comfortable living space. Two garage bays provide ample room for vehicles, gear, and storage. A standout feature of the property is the RV hookup with a separate septic system—perfect for hosting family year- round or renting it for extra income. This property offers the best of both worlds: peaceful country living with convenient access to town. Whether you’re looking for a full-time residence, a recreational getaway, or an income-producing opportunity, this rare slice of Montana is something you won’t want to miss MLS# 407666
Property Area: 11A - Meagher County Subdivision: Other Nearest City: White Sulphur Springs
Acres: 0.97
- 4220 Sunset Ridge Drive, Helena MT 59602
PRICE: $2,900,000
Acres: 10.01 STATUS: Active MLS#: 406980
Luxury Estate with Expansive Views of Canyon Ferry Lake ~ Imagine arriving at your private 10-acre estate, where a custom automatic gate opens to reveal a breathtaking 6,958± sq. ft. home overlooking the blue waters of Canyon Ferry Lake. The grand timber-frame entry and five-car heated garage set the tone for the elegance and craftsmanship found throughout this property. A paved driveway winds past manicured landscaping to a beautifully designed barn and a fully equipped 36x36 heated shop - perfect for storing your RV, boat, or outdoor toys. The barn includes four stalls with heated automatic waterers, rubber mats, a wash rack, a tack room, and fenced pastures, an ideal setup for horses or hobby livestock. Inside, the home blends luxury and comfort with a spacious open floor plan and floor-to-ceiling windows that frame panoramic lake and mountain views. The gourmet kitchen features travertine flooring, Italian Esmeralda granite, and top-tier Viking and Subzero appliances. Each of the four bedrooms includes an en suite bath, walk-in closet, and walk-in shower, offering privacy and relaxation for family or guests. Entertainment abounds with a dedicated theater room featuring a 220-inch screen, Panasonic projector, and Klipsch Reference Gold speakers, plus a game room complete with surround sound, card table, and pool table. Step outside to unwind on the stamped concrete patio and take in the sweeping views of Canyon Ferry Lake - just 1.6 miles away - or explore the nearby Forest Service land only .22 miles from your doorstep via the open space easement. MLS# 406980
Property Area: 12M - Other Montana Counties Subdivision: Other Nearest City: Helena
Acres: 10.01
- 00 Above Paradise Trail, Livingston MT 59047
PRICE: $299,500
Acres: 20 STATUS: Active MLS#: 406923
Mountain Meadow Property with Electricity! This 20 acres has multiple build sites and the land is very friendly for development and livestock, if desired. The Livingston Peak land is a rare treasure and a mountain retreat like this would be nearly impossible today - especially for the price. Within a mile is 990,000 acres of USFS and Wilderness land for exploring adventures. There is a community water system (spring water) that allows owners to fill up water storage tanks in fall, spring, and summer. Excellent views are included. Note: THIS IS NOT YEAR ROUND ACCESS UNLESS YOU HAVE TRACK MACHINES OR X COUTNRY SKIS, but once you are there in the winter it is magical and private. Come get away and own the Mountain Meadow Property - they aren't making any more of these! Easy carry cost with $59 property taxes and $250 fee to maintain water system and some road work. 8 miles from county road, using non winter maintained Forest Service Road and private road behind locked gate. MLS# 406923
Property Area: 6E - Liv Area - E of City S of I90 Subdivision: Yellowstone Basin Properties Nearest City: Livingston
Acres: 20
- 396 Lower Promontory Road, Big Sky MT 59716
PRICE: $5,995,000
Acres: 19.80 STATUS: Active MLS#: 406577
Welcome to 396 Lower Promontory, a true Big Sky retreat where privacy, recreation, and timeless mountain design converge. Nestled on over 19 acres with sweeping views of the Spanish Peaks and Gallatin Range, this property combines serenity and convenience—just 25 minutes from world-class skiing at Big Sky Resort, a short drive to the Gallatin River, and direct neighborhood access to snowmobiling, ATV, hiking, and biking trails. Spanning nearly 7,500 square feet, this thoughtfully designed estate features five bedrooms, a custom sleeping nook, seven full bathrooms, three living areas, and a spacious game room, providing ample space for family and guests. Two fully equipped kitchens make entertaining effortless—perfect for hosting holidays or gatherings when everyone wants to experience life in Big Sky. Enjoy over 2,000 square feet of decks and porches, including an outdoor dining area beside a massive stone wood-burning fireplace—the perfect setting for summer dinners, stargazing, or making s’mores under Montana’s vast night sky. A spring-fed pond with a custom rock waterfall adds a tranquil touch to the property, creating your own private mountain sanctuary. Built in 2014 with a substantial addition completed in 2019, the home blends modern finishes with enduring mountain architecture. A pristine asphalt driveway leads to two garages, providing abundant space for vehicles, outdoor toys, and recreational gear. Located within Buck Ridge Ranch, the only neighborhood in Big Sky with direct trail access to thousands of acres of U.S. Forest Service land, residents enjoy a truly unique privilege—unparalleled adventure right from the doorstep. 396 Lower Promontory is more than a home; it’s an invitation to live the Big Sky lifestyle at its best. Schedule your private tour today and experience this remarkable estate firsthand. MLS# 406577
Property Area: 5CS - Gallatin Canyon South Subdivision: Buck Ridge Ranch Nearest City: Big Sky
Acres: 19.80
- 572 Upper Cottonwood Road, Wilsall MT 59086
PRICE: $1,600,000
Acres: 29.90 STATUS: Active MLS#: 406203
Come explore this pristine 30 acres located at the base of the Cottonwood Creek drainage on the West side of the Crazy Mountain Range which is part of the Custer Gallatin National Forest. Just 45 minutes from Livingston and an hour away from Bozeman, this could be your weekend getaway and basecamp for many hunting, fishing and other outdoor adventures! The parcel of land is incredibly secluded and hosts a variety of wildlife including deer, elk, moose and bear. Just up the Forest Service Road are two trailheads offering access to the vast alpine backcountry. Within the property and perched on top of a forested knoll sits a 3bd, 1 bath rustic log cabin, plumbed in with well water and sanitation. Additionally, there is a 2-car garage with a 2bd loft and gaming room. To the North of the property is a 25ft x 60 ft Quansah hut, perfect for storing any side-by-side, snowmobiles, toys or tractors. Parcels of this size do not come on the market very often so do not miss out on a rare opportunity to own your legacy property to enjoy for generations to come. MLS# 406203
Property Area: 6SV - Liv Area - Shields Valley Subdivision: Certificate Of Survey COS Nearest City: Wilsall
Acres: 29.90
- 572 Upper Cottonwood Road, Wilsall MT 59086
PRICE: $1,600,000
Acres: 29.90 STATUS: Active MLS#: 406092
Come explore this pristine 30 acres located at the base of the Cottonwood Creek drainage on the West side of the Crazy Mountain Range which is part of the Custer Gallatin National Forest. Just 45 minutes from Livingston and an hour away from Bozeman, this could be your weekend getaway and basecamp for many hunting, fishing and other outdoor adventures! The parcel of land is incredibly secluded and hosts a variety of wildlife including deer, elk, moose and bear. Just up the Forest Service Road are two trailheads offering access to the vast alpine backcountry. Within the property and perched on top of a forested knoll sits a 3bd, 1 bath rustic log cabin, plumbed in with well water and sanitation. Additionally, there is a 2-car garage with a 2bd loft and gaming room. To the North of the property is a 25ft x 60 ft Quansah hut, perfect for storing any side-by-side, snowmobiles, toys or tractors. Parcels of this size do not come on the market very often so do not miss out on a rare opportunity to own your legacy property to enjoy for generations to come. MLS# 406092
Property Area: 6SV - Liv Area - Shields Valley Subdivision: Certificate Of Survey COS Nearest City: Wilsall
Acres: 29.90
- TBD Joy Road, Big Sky MT 59716
PRICE: $1,050,000
Acres: 7.33 STATUS: Active MLS#: 405097
An extraordinary opportunity awaits in Big Sky, Montana: over 7 acres of pristine land showcasing sweeping mountain and valley views, a gently sloped terrain, and the rare privilege of bordering 360 acres of protected conservation land. This striking property offers unmatched privacy at the end of a quiet dead-end road, while still placing you within minutes of Big Sky’s world-class amenities. The neighboring conservation parcel provides unrivaled wildlife viewing and seamless access to low-impact recreation, including direct connections to Forest Service trails that lead deep into Montana’s backcountry. Adding to its uniqueness, the northeast corner of the property touches a serene tributary commonly known as Beehive Creek, infusing the land with the calming presence of water. From here, you are also within walking distance of the coveted Beehive Basin Trail, one of Big Sky’s most celebrated hikes, offering dramatic alpine scenery and year-round adventure. The setting strikes an exceptional balance of untouched natural beauty and accessibility to Montana’s most sought-after experiences. The location is simply extraordinary: just 10 minutes to the world-class skiing at Big Sky Resort, 15 minutes to luxury services and fine dining at the first stateside One&Only Resort, 15 minutes to Big Sky Town Center, and 30 minutes to the Montage Big Sky. Beyond Big Sky, you are a scenic hour’s drive to the wonders of Yellowstone National Park, the Yellowstone International Airport, and the historic charm of downtown Bozeman. Here, you’ll experience the rare combination of true mountain seclusion with effortless access to world-class amenities, dining, and cultural experiences. The property’s flexible land-use opportunities further enhance its appeal. With over 7 acres, multiple structures can be built, allowing you to design an estate that fits your vision—whether that includes a guest house, barn, detached garage, or other spaces to complement your Montana lifestyle. Horses are permitted, opening the door to equestrian living against a backdrop of awe-inspiring mountain vistas. This is more than a homesite—it is a sanctuary where conservation, privacy, and convenience converge. Whether you’re envisioning a family retreat, a legacy property, or an investment in one of Montana’s most coveted regions, this acreage captures the very essence of Big Sky living. MLS# 405097
Property Area: 5BMT - Big Sky Mountain Subdivision: Minor Subdivision Nearest City: Big Sky
Acres: 7.33
