Little Bear Cabin
3.6323 reviews3710 FALLON ST SUITE C, BOZEMAN, MT 59718, USA
Little Bear 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 reservations cost $65 per night; additional fees for reservation service ($8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person). Discounts available for eligible Interagency Pass holders.
About this campground
Step back in time at Little Bear Cabin, a cherished 1938 wilderness retreat that beckons adventurers year-round with its timeless rustic appeal and spectacular panoramic vistas. Perched high above the Gallatin Valley with commanding views of the Bridger Range, this historic cabin invites you to disconnect from modern life—there's no running water or electricity here, just pure mountain solitude. Whether you're carving fresh tracks on your snowmobile through powder-filled meadows, exploring endless hiking trails in summer wildflower season, or gliding through silent forests on cross-country skis, Little Bear Cabin serves as your basecamp for authentic Montana adventures. Pack your supplies, bring your sense of wonder, and prepare for encounters with the remarkable wildlife that call these mountains home.
Little Bear Cabin provides cabin lodging for up to four people. It does not support tent, RV, group, or glamping accommodations.
Historical SignificanceSince 1938, Little Bear Cabin has stood as a testament to Montana's rich outdoor heritage, its weathered logs and sturdy construction telling stories of nearly a century of mountain memories. This enduring landmark in the Gallatin Range preserves not just its original architectural character, but also the spirit of simpler times when wilderness cabins served as essential shelters for rangers, trappers, and early recreationists exploring these rugged peaks.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of Montana's high country at Little Bear Cabin. Winter wraps the landscape in a pristine blanket of snow, with temperatures plunging well below freezing—snowmobile access becomes your lifeline to this frozen paradise. As summer arrives, the mountain roads open like welcoming arms under brilliant blue skies, making the cabin easily accessible for warm-weather explorations. Spring paints the meadows with wildflowers while autumn sets the aspens ablaze with gold, though both transitional seasons can surprise visitors with their mercurial mountain moods—from sudden snow squalls to unexpectedly warm afternoons.
ElevationCommanding its domain from a strategic ridgeline position near the northern terminus of the majestic Gallatin Range, Little Bear Cabin offers visitors a true mountaintop experience where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and the sense of elevation connects you to the greater landscape stretching in all directions.
Natural Features and SceneryFrom its privileged position on a windswept grassy knoll, Little Bear Cabin delivers some of Montana's most breathtaking mountain theater. The surrounding tapestry of mixed conifer forests—Douglas fir, lodgepole pine, and subalpine fir—frames sweeping vistas across the Gallatin Valley to the dramatic peaks of the Bridger Range. This remarkable ecosystem supports an extraordinary cast of wildlife characters: majestic grizzly and black bears roam the forests, elusive gray wolves traverse ancient game trails, mountain lions patrol rocky outcrops, while deer, elk, and moose graze in hidden meadows. Lucky visitors might even glimpse the rare Canada lynx padding silently through the shadows or bighorn sheep navigating impossible cliff faces with sure-footed grace.
Geological RegionNestled at the northern gateway of the storied Gallatin Range, Little Bear Cabin occupies a unique geological crossroads where ancient mountain-building forces created today's dramatic landscape. This convergence point offers unparalleled views across the fertile Gallatin Valley to the neighboring Bridger Range, while the immediate surroundings showcase classic Rocky Mountain ecology with dense stands of mixed conifers that have thrived here since the last ice age retreated, creating the perfect backdrop for your mountain adventure.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWinter access requires snowmobiling or skiing 10 miles from the paved road. The cabin remains locked, and the gate requires a combination code for entry. Accessibility is limited during winter months due to snow conditions.
Sites SizeThe cabin is medium-sized and accommodates up to 4 guests.
Sites PrivacyUser reviews mention limited privacy due to visitors peeking through windows or attempting entry.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring cleaning supplies due to reports of prior occupants leaving trash. Consider visiting during summer for easier road access.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the only available site.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 5 consecutive nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin sleeps up to 4 guests.
Groups
No group camping sites are available.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin with outdoor facilities including a campfire ring and vault toilet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Vehicle access June 16 to December 31; winter access via snowmobiling or skiing.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov or through the contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability from June 21, 2025, through June 24, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled up until the scheduled arrival date. Late cancellations (less than 14 days prior to arrival) incur a $10 cancellation fee and forfeit the first night's fee. No-show customers are charged a $20 no-show fee and forfeit the first night's 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
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Little Bear Cabin offers multi-season recreational opportunities including hiking, mountain biking, off-road vehicle riding, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and bird watching. Fall hunting is popular in the surrounding area. User reviews also highlight views of the Gallatin Valley and Bridger Range.
Hiking
Several multi-use trails and roads crisscross the area. One user noted that hiking to a nearby creek was approximately 25 minutes, though snow conditions increased difficulty.Biking
Mountain biking is supported on forest service roads near the cabin. User reviews mention fat biking as a winter activity in the area.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to grizzly and black bears, gray wolves, mountain lions, deer, elk, moose, bighorn sheep, and Canada lynx, along with diverse bird species.Winter Activities
Winter activities include snowshoeing, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and fat biking.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires must be contained within the designated fire ring. Burning of wood pallets is prohibited.
- Quiet hours not specifically mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsPresence of grizzly bears and other wildlife; winter accessibility requires snowmobiling or skiing.
Active alertsRoad closures for wheeled vehicles from January 1 through June 15.
Weather forecast
72
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.8 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
Emergency services located in Bozeman, MT, including hospitals and police stations.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingNo garbage service is available; guests must pack out all trash and personal belongings.
Proximity to water featuresNear Wilson Creek, approximately a 25-minute hike away.
Common complaintsFrequent issues include broken stove glass, trash left by previous occupants, lack of privacy due to visitors attempting to enter the cabin, and wildlife activity at night.
Campground Map
3710 FALLON ST SUITE C, BOZEMAN, MT 59718, USA
Driving directionsFrom Bozeman, MT: Drive west towards Four Corners, then south towards Big Sky/West Yellowstone on US Highway 191 for 14 miles to Little Bear Road which is on the left (east) side of Highway 191. This road turns into Forest Service Road 980. Summer (June 16 to December 31): Drive about 5.2 miles on Little Bear Road. Turn right onto Wilson Creek Divide Road FS 3138 for approximately 6 more miles. The gate to the cabin will be on the right (north). The cabin combination will open the gate. Winter (December 31 to June 16): Park at or before the gate 3 to 5 miles from Highway 191 (depending on snow conditions).
Accessible by vehicle June 16 - December 31, with road closures for all wheeled vehicles from January 1 - June 15 beginning at the 2.7-mile gate. Winter access requires snowmobiling or skiing 10 miles from the paved road. Groomed multi-use winter trails are open to snowmobiles but not tracked ATVs or UTVs.Nearby places
Bozeman: 14 miles (approx. 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies can be obtained in Bozeman, MT, approximately 14 miles away.
Camper Reviews
3.6
23 reviews
Little Bear Cabin has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Little Bear Cabin are mixed, with an average sentiment score of 3.69. Positive sentiments highlight beautiful views, cozy accommodations, and winter recreational activities, while negative feedback addresses cleanliness issues, lack of privacy, and broken amenities.
Review Summaries
Based on 23 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include 'beautiful views,' 'cozy and warm cabin,' 'excellent accommodations,' 'comfortable beds,' and 'fun winter activities like snowmobiling and fat biking.'
Based on 23 reviewsCommon Concerns
Common issues include broken stove glass, trash left by previous visitors, carpenter ants and mice activity, ripped screens, lack of privacy, and poor maintenance.
Based on 23 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Bring cleaning supplies to address leftover messes. Guests should pack essentials such as drinking water, bedding, and light sources. Be prepared for winter access difficulties requiring snowmobiles...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews emphasize challenges like snow-covered roads requiring snowshoeing or snowmobiles, while summer reviews highlight crowded conditions and limited privacy. Fall hunting season is popular...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
1. 'Wonderful cabin with beautiful views!!' - Annie S
2. 'The cabin was warm and cozy despite the wind that raged outside.' - Dawn B
3. 'The stove in the cabin was broken and we nearly froze.' -...
Based on 23 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Most reviews are linked to the cabin itself (site 001, loop AREA LITTLE BEAR CABIN). Pros include scenic views and comfortable beds, while cons address poor maintenance and lack of privacy.
Based on 23 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility challenges due to snow conditions are noted. Winter access requires snowmobiles or skiing 10 miles from the paved road. Gates require unlocking, and directions may be unclear.
Based on 23 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not recommended, and solid pet waste must be removed within 100 yards of the cabin.
Based on 23 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025