Cabin Creek Cabin
4.1510 reviewsPO BOX 520, WEST YELLOWSTONE, MT 59758, USA
Cabin Creek Cabin
$65.00 - $65.00 / 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
The nightly recreation use fee for Cabin Creek Cabin is $65. This does not include taxes, reservation fees, or other incremental charges.
About this campground
Step back in time at Cabin Creek Cabin, where the craftsmanship of 1930s Civilian Conservation Corps workers still stands strong against the Montana wilderness. This historic backcountry retreat beckons modern adventurers seeking authentic mountain solitude far from the digital world. Here, primitive charm meets spectacular natural beauty, creating the perfect basecamp for those who measure luxury not in amenities, but in pristine wilderness experiences and star-filled skies.
Cabin Creek Cabin offers primitive camping through a single rustic cabin facility that provides basic amenities for those seeking an adventurous and remote camping experience.
Historical SignificanceThese weathered walls tell the story of America's Great Depression, when young men of the Civilian Conservation Corps carved civilization from wilderness with little more than determination and hand tools. Built in the 1930s as part of Roosevelt's New Deal, this cabin stands as a testament to an era when conservation and craftsmanship went hand in hand, offering visitors a tangible connection to the workers who helped shape our nation's outdoor heritage.
Weather and SeasonsSummer transforms this mountain sanctuary into a temperate paradise, with pleasant days reaching 77°F and cool nights dipping to 54°F—perfect for campfire stories and restful sleep. When winter's mantle descends, the landscape becomes a snowmobiler's dream, though temperatures plunge and storms can roll through with mountain fury. Each season paints the cabin's surroundings with its own dramatic palette, from wildflower-dotted meadows to snow-laden pines, demanding respect for nature's ever-changing moods.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 8,700 feet, this mountain aerie offers more than just spectacular views—it provides a natural escape where the air grows thin and crisp, temperatures drop refreshingly cool even in summer, and weather can shift from sunshine to storm in moments. At this elevation, every breath reminds you that you've truly climbed above the ordinary world into the realm of eagles and alpine meadows.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled among towering mixed conifers beside the babbling Middle Fork Cabin Creek, this wilderness haven offers front-row seats to nature's grandest theater. The surrounding meadows burst with wildflowers in summer, while the majestic Madison Range creates a dramatic backdrop for wildlife watching. Here, grizzly bears roam ancient paths, elk bugle across valleys, wolves pad silently through forests, and deer and moose emerge at dawn and dusk, reminding visitors they're guests in one of North America's last great wild places.
Geological RegionSet within the rugged embrace of the Madison Range, the cabin serves as your gateway to a geological wonderland where ancient mountains meet pristine wilderness. The nearby Lee Metcalf Wilderness and Cabin Creek Wildlife Management Area expand your playground exponentially, offering endless exploration through diverse ecosystems where meadows give way to dense conifer forests, and crystal-clear creeks carve their paths through valleys shaped by millennia of natural forces.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility options are not detailed for the cabin; access requires a hike or use of an ATV/UTV with restrictions.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to three persons, with a maximum group size of four.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin provides relative privacy in a remote forested setting, though snowmobile activity during winter may reduce solitude.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring additional padding for the sleeping cots and certified weed-free hay for stock. Plan outdoor activities during quieter seasons if seeking solitude.
Best CampsitesCabin Creek Cabin only has one site, often praised for its privacy and breathtaking views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time: After 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out time: Before 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay duration: 7 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy: 4 persons.
Groups
Group camping facilities are not available.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle-room cabin with basic amenities including bunk bed platforms, cots, table and chairs, and wood stove.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season: June 15 - December 31. Closed during spring due to weather and trail conditions.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityLimited first-come-first-serve availability from June 21 through June 22 each year.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be cancelled up to 14 calendar days before the scheduled arrival date for cabins, with a $10 cancellation fee and forfeiture of the first night's recreation use fee. Additional late fees apply for cancellations within the 14-day window.
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
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Cabin Creek Cabin provides access to a wide range of recreational activities including hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, ATV/UTV and motorcycle routes, challenging backcountry snowmobiling, big game hunting in the fall, and opportunities for wildlife viewing.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities include access to the Monument Mountain Unit of the Lee Metcalf Wilderness, which climbs to Monument Peak at 10,995 feet in elevation. The trails also feature hitching rails for equestrians.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available near the cabin, with routes offering varying levels of difficulty.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing includes species such as grizzly bears, elk, gray wolves, bighorn sheep, deer, and moose. Guests have reported seeing grizzly bears and various smaller animals.Winter Activities
Winter recreation includes backcountry snowmobiling with access to the Big Sky Snowmobile Trail. Guests have reported challenging snowmobiling conditions and scenic experiences.Water Sports
No non-motorized water sports are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires allowed in designated areas. Guests must bring their own firewood as none is provided.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated; null.
Hazards
General hazardsGrizzly bears frequent the area, requiring strict food storage compliance. Wildlife encounters include elk, deer, and gray wolves. Snowmobiling hazards include challenging terrain and high numbers of snowmobiles.
Active alertsSeasonal motorized trail restrictions apply. The cabin is closed in spring due to weather and trail conditions.
Weather forecast
70
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 12%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.3 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Hebgen Lake Ranger District, located in West Yellowstone, handles emergencies and can provide road/trail condition updates. For immediate medical emergencies, West Yellowstone Medical Clinic (~10 miles away).
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 15 - December 31 (non-peak season rates apply).
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all trash; garbage bags are necessary as no garbage service is provided.
Proximity to water featuresMiddle Fork Cabin Creek flows nearby, serving as a water source for visitors (requires boiling).
Common complaintsComplaints include noise from nearby snowmobiles ('days I counted more than 50 snowmobiles in the drainage'), lack of cleaning between visits, and uncomfortable cots ('plenty of complaints in the logbook about poor nights sleep').
HostManaged by the Hebgen Lake Ranger District, visitors are encouraged to contact them for road and trail updates.
Campground Map
PO BOX 520, WEST YELLOWSTONE, MT 59758, USA
Driving directionsSummer access from West Yellowstone involves hiking, mountain biking, or horseback riding: Take U.S. Highway 287 to Forest Service Road 681 (Red Canyon Rd), then to the Red Canyon Trailhead. Follow Trail #205 for approximately 5 miles to the junction with Cabin Creek Trail, then an additional mile to reach Cabin Creek Cabin. Motorcycle access is available between July 16 and Oct. 14 due to motorized trail restrictions. For motorcycles, follow the same route as hiking. ATV/UTV access is possible for vehicles 50 inches or less in width between July 16 and Dec. 1, parking at the Tepee Creek Trailhead after following Trail #151 for 3.5 miles, then hiking the remaining mile. Winter access includes snowmobiling via the Big Sky Snowmobile Trail from Fir Ridge Cemetery pullout 9.5 miles north of West Yellowstone, then an 11-mile ride to the cabin.
The cabin requires backcountry access and is not directly reachable by car. Summer access involves hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, or restricted motorized access (ATV/UTV and motorcycles) during specific dates. Winter access is primarily via snowmobile, with parking available at Fir Ridge Cemetery pullout.Nearby places
West Yellowstone (~10 miles, ~20 minutes). Yellowstone National Park (~20 miles, ~45 minutes).
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be accessed in West Yellowstone (~10 miles away), including groceries, fuel, camping supplies, and general stores.
Camper Reviews
4.2
10 reviews
Cabin Creek Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Cabin Creek Cabin vary widely, reflecting both positive experiences of solitude and nature and frustrations with overcrowding and snowmobile activity. The cabin is praised for its rustic charm and stunning views but also criticized for noise during winter.
Review Summaries
Based on 10 reviews
What Campers Love
Guests appreciated the cabin’s stunning location, rustic charm, and its well-stocked supplies such as cookware, cleaning items, and basic tools. "The views to the West of the Madison range are...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviewers expressed dissatisfaction with snowmobiles in the winter, noting noise and environmental concerns: "Days I counted more than 50 snowmobiles in the drainage... they park and hang out...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing extra bedding due to the cots being hard and cold, as well as additional cookware. Others suggest avoiding peak snowmobile season for quieter stays. "Hope to rent it again...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Reviews noted seasonal variances, with summer praised for sunny weather and beautiful wildflowers, while winter was described as challenging due to snowmobile activity and cold conditions. Fall is...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The cabin is clean, easy to find, and plenty big enough," said one user. Another added, "I spent 2 nights... It was nice sitting on the porch out of the rain watching the flashes from lightning."
Based on 10 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Most reviews referenced campsite 001 in the Cabin Creek Cabin loop. Positive remarks included its rustic ambiance and scenic views, while negative comments largely focused on winter snowmobile...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility challenges are noted as the cabin requires a hike or ATV/UTV use for access, with trails described as rocky and steep. "Trails were fairly challenging, rocky, steep, and muddy at...
Based on 10 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed at the cabin, but guests are reminded not to leave them unattended. One reviewer noted their enjoyment of bringing pets.
Based on 10 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025