Crandall Creek Cabin
4.4319 reviews5242 HWY 89 South, Livingston, MT 59047, USA
Crandall 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
Cabin rental fee is $65 per night during peak season (June 16 - December 31, 2025). Reservation fees are non-refundable. Late cancellations incur a $10 penalty plus forfeiture of the first night's use fee.
About this campground
Escape to Crandall Creek Cabin, where rustic charm meets untamed wilderness in the shadow of the Crazy Mountains. This authentic log cabin invites adventurers seeking a true back-to-basics experience—no electricity hums through the walls, no faucets flow with water, and no propane powers modern conveniences. Instead, you'll find yourself immersed in the raw beauty of Montana's backcountry, where self-sufficiency becomes part of the adventure. Pack your supplies, bring your sense of wonder, and prepare for an unforgettable retreat where simplicity reigns supreme.
Crandall Creek Cabin provides rustic cabin accommodations with limited amenities. It is a reservable facility, and guests often describe it as clean and modern.
Historical SignificanceCrandall Creek Cabin stands as a testament to Montana's enduring frontier spirit, thoughtfully constructed to carry on the legacy of the historic Bennett Creek Cabin that once stood over a mile away. This newer structure honors the memory of its predecessor while creating new chapters in the story of human connection to this remarkable landscape. The cabin serves as both shelter and storyteller, linking past and present in the timeless narrative of life in the Crazy Mountains.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic dance of seasons at Crandall Creek, where each time of year paints the landscape with its own unique palette. Winter transforms the cabin into a snow-globe sanctuary, accessible only by snowshoe, ski, or snowmobile as temperatures plunge and powder blankets the mountains. As spring melts into summer, the landscape awakens with wildflowers and warming sunshine, creating perfect conditions for trail adventures and casting lines into crystal-clear waters. Fall arrives in a blaze of golden aspens and crisp mountain air, offering some of the year's most spectacular hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities.
ElevationPerched at 6,400 feet above sea level, Crandall Creek Cabin offers a high-country experience where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and winter's snow lingers longer. This elevated sanctuary provides natural air conditioning during summer months and transforms into a winter wonderland perfect for snowshoeing and cross-country skiing adventures. The altitude adds an extra dimension to your stay, offering cooler temperatures, clearer skies, and that invigorating mountain air that makes every breath feel like a gift.
Natural Features and SceneryNestled in nature's amphitheater beneath the dramatic peaks of the Crazy Mountains, Crandall Creek Cabin offers front-row seats to some of Montana's most spectacular scenery. The iconic Target Rock stands sentinel above, while creeks whisper their ancient songs and the Shield River winds through the valley below. On clear nights, the absence of light pollution reveals a celestial show that will leave you breathless. This wild sanctuary serves as home to an impressive cast of wildlife—black bears lumber through the forests, elk bugle across meadows, deer bound through morning mist, and the occasional moose makes a majestic appearance along the waterways.
Geological RegionThe cabin rests in a geological wonderland where the Crazy Mountains rise like ancient sentinels from the surrounding foothills. This dramatic landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where tectonic forces pushed these peaks skyward and countless seasons of wind, water, and ice carved the valleys and creeks that define the region today. The Shield River and its tributary streams have sculpted pathways through this mountainous terrain, creating diverse habitats that support an abundance of wildlife. Here, in this meeting place of water and stone, forest and meadow, you'll discover a landscape that captures the very essence of the American West.
Campsite details
AccessibilityBoth the cabin and adjacent vault toilet are wheelchair accessible. The cabin also features a locked gate for privacy.
Sites SizeThe cabin is spacious and can accommodate up to six people.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers privacy with a locked gate and is surrounded by natural features. Recent fire damage has affected the surrounding tree coverage.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors should bring propane for the cookstove and lantern, bedding, cookware, and cleaning supplies. Winter guests should be prepared for cold temperatures and snowshoe or ski access.
Best CampsitesThe single campsite is the Crandall Creek Cabin itself.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
5night maximum stay limit
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum group size for using the facility and adjacent area is 15 people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin site located 200 yards from the gated road, surrounded by open space due to fire damage.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen season runs from June 16 to December 31 annually. Winter access requires non-motorized methods such as skiing, snowshoeing, or snowmobiling.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov or the NRRS Contact Center at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityOnly reservable in advance, walk-up availability is not mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to online reservations can only be made via the NRRS Contact Center. Late cancellations incur a $10 fee and forfeit the first night's recreation use fee. Refunds for weather or accessibility issues are not considered. Refund requests can be submitted within 7 calendar days after the reservation ends.
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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Crandall Creek Cabin offers diverse recreational opportunities, including hiking, mountain biking, birding, hunting, and horseback riding. Winter activities such as snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing are popular. Fishing in nearby creeks is highly regarded. Reviews emphasize the cabin's location as ideal for hiking and hunting.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available in the area, and the location is praised for its accessibility to scenic routes and clear paths.Fishing
Fishing is excellent in nearby creeks, providing opportunities to catch various fish species.Biking
Mountain biking is available, with trails offering various difficulty levels.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to bears, elk, deer, moose, and various bird species, offering excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing.Winter Activities
Winter recreational activities include snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and cross-country skiing.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted in the fire ring, but guests must collect their own firewood. Provided firewood cannot be used for outdoor fires.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly mentioned; null.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential dangers include bear and wildlife encounters. Winter guests face risks such as snowdrifts and cold temperatures, requiring preparedness for extreme weather.
Active alertsWinter guests are advised to carry topographic maps and compasses for navigation due to wind-blown conditions and potential sign damage.
Weather forecast
75
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 23%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.6 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
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
Livingston (52 miles); nearest emergency services include hospitals and ranger stations accessible through Highway 89.
Good to know
Peak season datesJune 16 - December 31, 2025
Trash and recyclingThere is no garbage service available; guests must pack out all trash and personal belongings. Recycling facilities are not mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresNear Shields River and several creeks. Water is accessible nearby but must be treated before consumption.
Common complaintsSome user reviews mention issues with flies inside the cabin and miscommunication regarding amenities such as the corral.
HostManagement is handled by the Yellowstone Ranger District staff, contactable at 406-222-1892 during business hours.
Campground Map
5242 HWY 89 South, Livingston, MT 59047, USA
Driving directionsFrom Livingston, travel north on Highway 89 to Wilsall. Turn right from Highway 89 onto Shields River Road. Follow Shields River Road until the pavement ends and turn right at the end of the pavement. Travel approximately 7 miles to a fork in the road, and take the left fork towards the Shields River Camp (approximately 2 miles to the camp). About 100 yards beyond the campground, take a left onto a gated road. The cabin combination code will open the gate. The cabin is located 200 yards down this road. Due to road conditions, a high-clearance, four-wheel drive vehicle is suggested. From Dec. 2 through March 31, the last seven miles of the access road to Crandall Cabin are not plowed. Plan to ski, snowshoe or snowmobile this distance from the end of the plowed road to the cabin.
Access to the cabin is via a semi-primitive dirt road, and four-wheel drive is highly suggested from June 16 to Dec. 1. From Dec. 2 through March 31, the last seven miles of the access road are not plowed, requiring travel via hiking, snowshoeing, skiing, or snowmobiling.Nearby places
Livingston (52 miles)
Wilsall (24 miles)
Nearby supplies
Livingston (52 miles) provides access to grocery stores, camping supplies, and fuel.
Camper Reviews
4.4
19 reviews
Crandall Creek Cabin is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Crandall Creek Cabin are generally positive, emphasizing its cleanliness, spaciousness, and suitability for hiking and hunting. Some users mentioned issues with flies and concerns about communication from the forest service regarding fire damage and corral availability.
Review Summaries
Based on 19 reviews
What Campers Love
Cleanliness and modern facilities are frequently mentioned positively. Guests appreciate the spacious cabin, large tables for dining and games, and the picturesque scenery.
Based on 19 reviewsCommon Concerns
Some users reported fly infestations, especially during warmer months. Others noted a lack of communication from the forest service regarding recent fire damage and missing corral facilities.
Based on 19 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing sufficient supplies, including bedding, propane canisters, and cookware. Winter renters should prepare for snowshoeing or skiing to access the cabin. Bring topographic maps...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews often praise the cabin's warmth and cozy atmosphere but note the need to frequently tend the woodstove. Summer reviews highlight the surrounding greenery and wildlife but mention the...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Crandall Creek Cabin is probably the cleanest and most modern of any cabin I’ve ever stayed at.' - Charles R.
2. 'It was awesome well kept thank you for a lovely night.' - Jordan J.
3. 'We heard...
Based on 19 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews varied, with poor experiences during fly infestations (Keith N.) and high praise for the cabin's cleanliness and spaciousness (Charles R., Lisa T.).
Based on 19 reviewsAccessibility Features
The cabin and adjacent vault toilet are wheelchair accessible, which reviewers appreciated for their convenience.
Based on 19 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pet-related experiences and policies are not specifically mentioned in the reviews.
Based on 19 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025