Squirrel Meadows Cabin
4.5818 reviewsASHTON/ISLAND PARK RANGER DISTRICT
Squirrel Meadows Cabin
$40.00 - $40.00 / 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
Nightly rate for cabin is $40. Additional reservation fees apply: $8 online/app, $9 contact center, $3 in-person. Discounts available for eligible Interagency Pass holders.
About this campground
Step back in time at Squirrel Meadows Cabin, where rustic charm meets wilderness adventure just 24 miles east of Ashton, Idaho. This 1934 treasure sits peacefully on the Yellowstone Plateau, offering an authentic unplugged escape where mountain vistas stretch to the horizon and wildlife roams freely through ancient forests. Here, the modern world fades away, replaced by the simple pleasures of crackling fires, starlit skies, and the whisper of wind through towering pines.
Squirrel Meadows Cabin is a rustic, historic cabin offering primitive camping accommodations. It is focused on cabin lodging with no RV or tent sites available.
Historical SignificanceThis architectural gem stands as a testament to 1930s craftsmanship, earning its place on the National Register of Historic Places as one of only two cabins built from its distinctive original blueprints. Constructed in 1934 by skilled hands that understood both beauty and function, every weathered log and hand-hewn beam tells a story of American ingenuity and the enduring appeal of simple mountain living.
Weather and SeasonsSummer brings bluebird skies and comfortable temperatures perfect for hiking and wildlife watching, while the dry mountain air keeps afternoons pleasant and evenings refreshingly cool. When winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, temperatures can dip to a brisk 15°F, turning the cabin into a cozy snow-globe retreat accessible only by snowmobile or cross-country skis—an adventure that makes arrival all the more rewarding.
ElevationPerched at 6,500 feet where the air is crisp and pine-scented, the cabin commands a stunning position on the Yellowstone Plateau. This elevated sanctuary offers more than just spectacular views—it provides a natural climate that keeps summer days comfortable and transforms the landscape into a photographer's dream, where morning mist dances through valleys and sunset paints distant peaks in shades of gold and purple.
Natural Features and ScenerySurrounded by whispering pines and wildflower meadows that burst with color each spring, the cabin sits in perfect harmony with its natural surroundings. Mountain peaks frame the horizon while the meadow serves as nature's theater, where black bears amble through berry patches, elk bugle at dawn, moose browse in willow thickets, and the occasional grizzly bear reminds visitors of the wild heart that still beats in these ancient forests.
Geological RegionThe cabin rests in the embrace of the legendary Yellowstone Plateau, where southwest Wyoming's dramatic geology creates a landscape of rolling meadows, dense pine forests, and distant volcanic peaks. At 6,500 feet, this high-country paradise showcases the raw beauty of the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a wilderness playground that captivates the soul and refreshes the spirit.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is accessible via snowmobiles and cross-country skis during the winter season. Vault toilets are accessible.
Sites SizeThe cabin is designed to accommodate six occupants. The site includes ample space for parking and adjacent trails.
Sites PrivacyThe location offers significant privacy, surrounded by pine trees and distant mountain views. However, one review noted an issue with unauthorized visitors occupying the area.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesUsers recommend doubling sleeping pads for comfort and bringing additional cookware for larger meals. Several reviews suggest signage to enforce reservation-only policy.
Best CampsitesOnly one cabin available (Squirrel Meadows Cabin).
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
8:00 AM (key pickup from ranger station).
Check-out
4:30 PM (return keys during ranger station hours).
Stay Limit
Maximum of 7 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 guests allowed.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle structure cabin in a meadow surrounded by trees; includes outdoor facilities such as hand pump, vault toilet, picnic table, and horse corrals.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens June 1 and closes December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov or by contacting the facility.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations required in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled prior to arrival. A $10 fee applies, and cancellations within 14 days of arrival forfeit the first night's fee. No-show penalties include the first night's fee and an additional $20 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
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Guests can engage in a wide variety of activities year-round, including horseback riding, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, berry picking in late summer, and hunting during the appropriate season. Available within a few miles are off-road vehicle and motorcycle riding, snowmobiling, hiking, and mountain biking.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available directly from the cabin. One reviewer mentioned hiking trails as a key activity.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are nearby, although specifics about types of fish or quality are not provided.Biking
Mountain biking is listed as a popular activity within a few miles of the campground.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to black bears, wolves, elk, moose, mule deer, and grizzly bears. One reviewer highlighted seeing a moose and calf, ruby-crowned kinglets, and a squirrel.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing and snowmobiling are key winter activities. Snowshoeing is also available.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports like kayaking or canoeing are not mentioned as available.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Outdoor campfires allowed in designated rings; must be extinguished completely before leaving. Wood provided for indoor stove use.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential dangers include wildlife such as grizzly and black bears, exposure to hantavirus in remote cabins, and extreme winter conditions requiring snowmobiles or skis.
Weather forecast
78
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 10.6 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
Nearest emergency services are located in Ashton, Idaho, including Ashton Ranger Station for key pickup and local emergency response.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 1 - December 31 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingThis is a pack-it-in/pack-it-out facility, so guests must take all trash with them when leaving the cabin.
Proximity to water featuresNo major water bodies nearby; hand pump available for drinking water.
Common complaintsUser concerns include cleanliness of vault toilets, lack of cooking utensils, issues with uninvited visitors, and difficulty returning keys to Ashton Ranger Station.
HostKey pickup available at Ashton Ranger Station, Monday-Friday during business hours. After-hours arrangements can be made via phone.
Campground Map
ASHTON/ISLAND PARK RANGER DISTRICT
Driving directionsFrom Ashton, ID, take Highway 47 a half-mile to Highway 32 and turn right (south). Travel 1 mile to Ashton-Flagg Ranch Road (#261). Turn left (east) and travel 22 miles to Road #032. Turn right (south) and go a half-mile to the cabin.
Accessible via paved road for approximately half of the route, with the remaining 10 miles on gravel roads. From early December to mid-May, access requires snowmobiles or cross-country skis for a 10-mile trek due to snow conditions.Nearby places
Ashton, ID (24 miles, approx. 40-minute drive).
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries, fuel, and camping essentials, can be found in Ashton, Idaho, approximately 24 miles from the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.6
18 reviews
Squirrel Meadows Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, Squirrel Meadows Cabin is highly praised for its rustic charm, historical significance, privacy, and surrounding natural beauty. The cabin is described as clean, cozy, and well-maintained, with wildlife sightings adding to the experience. However, occasional issues with unauthorized visitors and mixed reviews about bathroom cleanliness and access logistics were mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 18 reviews
What Campers Love
"Lovely place!! So comfortable and such history behind the cabin!" "The cabin was warm and cozy. There was plenty of firewood." "We love Squirrel Meadows Cabin." "Beautiful setting; saw moose and...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Unauthorized visitors occupying the area were noted in one review: "Mountain bikes scattered around the cabin, with people sleeping in the parking zone...not a good situation." Bathroom cleanliness...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own cookware if you plan to make larger meals. One reviewer suggested: "There are only 3 small saucepans and a skillet, so if you plan to cook pasta or something large, bring a pan."...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter visitors praised the cabin's warmth and accessibility via snowmobiles and cross-country skis. Some summer reviews mentioned bugs and unauthorized visitors.
Based on 18 reviewsCamper Quotes
"We cross-country skied here in December. My GPS tracker recorded 9.5 miles one way." "No cell service, which is a plus." "Lovely place!! So comfortable and such history behind the cabin." "Beautiful...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews primarily focused on the cabin (Site 001, Loop: SQUIRREL MEADOWS CABIN). Winter reviews highlighted the cabin's warmth and fresh snow while summer reviews noted wildlife...
Based on 18 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
"We skied in and enjoyed the fresh snow and the quiet. Cabin was in immaculate condition." Winter accessibility was praised for snowmobile and ski routes, although summer access involves gravel roads.
Based on 18 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, although no specific facilities or pet-friendly features were highlighted in reviews.
Based on 18 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025