Elk Creek Cabins
04 reviewsC/O 7359 HWY 21, LOWMAN, ID 83637, USA
Elk Creek Cabins
$45.00 - $50.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Cabin rates range from $45 to $50 per night during peak season (November 1 - December 31). Additional reservation fees include $8 if booked online, $9 via contact center, and $3 in-person. Cancellation fees apply.
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About this campground
Deep in the heart of Bear Valley, where winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland, Elk Creek Cabins await those seeking an authentic backcountry escape. Your journey begins where the road ends—these remote retreats are accessible only by snowmobile, cross-country skis, or snowshoes, adding to the adventure. Each of the two cozy cabins features the essentials for wilderness comfort: a crackling wood stove to ward off the mountain chill, a welcoming fireplace for evening gatherings, and a simple dry sink. While propane stoves are available during warmer months, winter visitors should note they're disconnected for the season. True to their rustic nature, the cabins operate without electricity or running water, and guests need to bring their own bedding for the ultimate self-sufficient mountain experience.
Elk Creek Cabins cater primarily to winter sports enthusiasts and groups, offering rustic cabin accommodations in a remote mountainous setting. They are open exclusively from November through April.
Historical SignificancePerched on the edge of the legendary Frank Church - River of No Return Wilderness, these cabins serve as your gateway to one of America's last great wild places. This massive wilderness preserve stands as one of the largest roadless areas in the lower 48 states, a testament to the untamed spirit of the American West. Here, the landscape remains much as it was centuries ago—a place where nature still reigns supreme and the rhythms of the wild continue uninterrupted.
Weather and SeasonsWinter at Elk Creek Cabins is nothing short of magical, with Mother Nature painting the landscape in brilliant whites and crystalline blues. Daytime temperatures hover between a crisp 20°F and 30°F—perfect for outdoor adventures—while nights bring a deeper cold, with thermometers dipping between -15°F and +5°F. Fresh powder arrives regularly, with the area receiving approximately 7.47 inches of new snow each week, creating an ever-changing canvas of winter beauty and ensuring excellent conditions for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing right from your cabin door.
ElevationAt 6,400 feet above sea level, Elk Creek Cabins occupy that sweet spot where the air is crisp and clear, and winter truly comes alive. This significant elevation means reliable snow coverage throughout the season and those special high-altitude winter conditions that create stunning hoarfrost displays and powder-perfect mornings. The thin mountain air adds an extra dimension to your wilderness experience, reminding you that you've truly escaped to the high country.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled in an enchanting high mountain meadow, the cabins are embraced by towering Douglas firs and stately lodgepole pines that stand like silent sentinels against the winter sky. The musical babble of Elk Creek provides a constant companion, though often muffled beneath its blanket of snow and ice. This is prime wildlife territory, where lucky visitors might spot majestic elk picking their way through the deep snow, moose browsing in the willows, or catch a glimpse of the elusive lynx padding silently through the forest. Deer are frequent visitors to the meadow, and the entire scene—especially on those crystal-clear mornings when fresh snow sparkles like diamonds—creates memories that last a lifetime.
Geological RegionThe cabins sit in Bear Valley's spectacular high mountain meadow, a natural amphitheater carved by ancient glaciers and framed by the dramatic peaks of the Sawtooth Range. This unique geological setting, where the rugged wilderness of the Frank Church meets the accessible beauty of Bear Valley, creates a rare combination of remoteness and mountain grandeur. The surrounding forests of Douglas fir and lodgepole pine tell the story of centuries of adaptation to this harsh but beautiful environment, while the meadow itself serves as a natural gathering place for the region's diverse wildlife.
Campsite details
AccessibilityNo specific mentions of accessibility features for guests with disabilities.
Sites SizeThe cabins accommodate groups of 8-10 people, depending on the cabin.
Sites PrivacyThe cabins are located in a remote, high-elevation meadow providing significant privacy and seclusion.
Total Campsites2 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCabin 1 is suitable for larger groups (up to 10 guests). Visitors should bring adequate cold-weather gear and supplies for cooking and heating.
Best CampsitesCabin 1 offers space for up to 10 guests, while Cabin 2 accommodates 8 guests. Both are equipped with wood stoves, dry sinks, and basic furniture.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is not specified.
Check-out
Check-out time is not specified.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 14 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Cabin 1 accommodates up to 10 guests, Cabin 2 accommodates up to 8 guests.
Groups
The cabins are not explicitly identified as group sites, but their occupancy limits (8-10 people per cabin) make them suitable for small groups.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutTwo standalone cabins in Bear Valley.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: November through April. Closed outside of these months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityWalk-up availability is not applicable for cabins.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the scheduled arrival date. Late cancellations for cabins are defined as cancellations within 14 days of the arrival date, incurring a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers access to 30 miles of groomed trails ideal for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The cabins are located adjacent to the Frank Church - River of No Return Wilderness, providing a backcountry experience. Wildlife viewing during the winter months is popular due to the abundance of local fauna.
Hiking
The area includes groomed trails suitable for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. While these are not traditional hiking trails, they offer a challenging and scenic experience.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with opportunities to spot snowshoe hares, deer, moose, coyote, and even lynx. One reviewer mentioned, "Wildlife enthusiasts can watch carefully for snowshoe hares or ermine with their white winter coats."Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. Snowmobiles, however, are prohibited in the adjacent Frank Church Wilderness.Water Sports
No water sports are available or mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are not allowed outside the cabins.
- Quiet hours are Null
Hazards
General hazardsTravel requires preparedness for deep snow, extreme cold, and the risk of wildlife encounters including lynx and moose.
Active alertsNo active alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 44%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 9.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Closest emergency services are null. Based on the remoteness of the area, visitors are advised to prepare for emergency situations adequately.
Good to know
Peak season datesNovember 1 - December 31.
Trash and recyclingGuests must bring their own garbage bags and are required to pack out all trash, as there are no trash or recycling facilities provided.
Proximity to water featuresSituated near Elk Creek.
Common complaintsUser reviews highlight issues such as rough snowmobile trails, disconnected propane stoves, clutter inside cabins, and difficulty heating cabins.
HostNull
Campground Map
C/O 7359 HWY 21, LOWMAN, ID 83637, USA
Driving directionsFrom Lowman, take State Highway 21 east approximately 40 miles to Cape Horn. Park in the plowed parking lot and snowmobile/ski/snowshoe on the Stanley-Landmark Road (FS579) for approximately 15 miles to Elk Creek. Alternate access from the Boise area if Highway 21 is closed between Grandjean and Banner Summit: from Lowman, snowmobile north on the Clear Creek Road (FS582) for approximately 34 miles. Go west on the Stanley-Landmark Road for approximately 3 miles to the cabin.
Access to Elk Creek Cabins requires snowmobile, snowshoe, or ski travel for at least 15 miles from the parking lot. Alternate routes may require up to 34 miles of snowmobile travel. Roads may be affected by grooming conditions and seasonal closures.Nearby places
Lowman (40 miles), Boise (null miles, alternate route via Clear Creek Road FS582).
Nearby supplies
Guests must bring their own supplies including food, water, garbage bags, and emergency gear. Supplies are not mentioned as being available near the site.
Camper Reviews
0.0
4 reviews
Elk Creek Cabins has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight both the rustic charm and the challenges of staying at Elk Creek Cabins. The cabins' remote location and lack of amenities may not appeal to all guests, but they offer a unique backcountry experience for those prepared for the conditions. The average sentiment for the campground is 2.75, indicating mixed feelings among users.
Review Summaries
Based on 4 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests appreciate the scenic beauty, the abundance of firewood, and the backcountry adventure opportunities. "It's a neat spot," noted one reviewer, emphasizing the appeal of the location.
Based on 4 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common complaints include difficulties with propane stoves, poor trail grooming for snowmobiles, and the overall clutter and lack of cleanliness in the cabins. One reviewer noted, "Lots of clutter...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Future visitors are advised to bring their own water, bedding, and emergency supplies. Snowmobiles are essential for accessing the cabins, given the 15-mile journey from the parking area. Guests...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews indicate that the winter season offers both opportunities and challenges. While the snow-covered landscape is beautiful, trail conditions and the lack of modern amenities can make the...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Visitors should be prepared for a rustic experience." "Firewood is plenty, but we struggled to get the cabin warm." "This is our fifth annual event at Elk Creek with sons and grandsons."
Based on 4 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Reviewers identified the Fish Cabin and Ranger Cabin as key sites. The Fish Cabin was described as having ample firewood but cluttered interiors. The Ranger Cabin received a mixed review about trail...
Based on 4 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility features are not mentioned in user reviews or official descriptions, suggesting they may be minimal or nonexistent.
Based on 4 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Guests are allowed to bring pets but must keep them under control and clean up after them. No issues or specific praises related to pets were identified in reviews.
Based on 4 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025