Maxey Cabin
4.7621 reviews3710 W FALLON STREET SUITE C, BOZEMAN, MT, 59718, USA
Maxey 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 Nonelectric nightly rate is $65. This does not include discounts, taxes, or additional incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked away in the breathtaking Hyalite Canyon recreation area, Maxey Cabin offers adventurers a genuine backcountry experience within Gallatin National Forest. This charming rustic retreat invites you to disconnect from modern life and reconnect with nature's rhythms. Inside, you'll find cozy bunk beds, a warming wood stove, and simple furnishings that create an authentic mountain cabin atmosphere. While the cabin embraces simplicity without running water or electricity, it compensates with immediate access to pristine wilderness. Steps from your door, a network of trails beckons hikers to explore, while the shimmering waters of Hyalite Reservoir promise excellent fishing and endless opportunities for wildlife encounters.
Maxey Cabin caters to those seeking cabin lodging with a rustic, primitive experience, suitable for individuals and groups.
Historical SignificanceMaxey Cabin stands as a testament to Montana's outdoor heritage, having sheltered generations of adventurers seeking refuge in the Hyalite wilderness. This historic retreat has long served as a basecamp for those drawn to the raw beauty of the Gallatin Mountains, continuing a tradition of backcountry exploration that defines the spirit of the American West.
Weather and SeasonsEach season transforms Maxey Cabin into a different kind of paradise. Winter blankets the landscape in deep snow, creating a wonderland accessible only by cross-country skis or snowshoes—a journey that rewards the hardy with unparalleled solitude and beauty. As spring awakens the mountains, trails emerge for hiking and mountain biking adventures. Summer brings nature's grand performance with cascading wildflower displays painting the meadows in vibrant colors beneath warm, sunny skies. Autumn arrives with crisp air and golden aspens, though visitors should note that seasonal closures may affect access during shoulder seasons.
ElevationPerched at mountain elevation where the air is crisp and the views are endless, the cabin's specific altitude creates the perfect environment for both alpine adventures and peaceful mountain retreats.
Natural Features and SceneryImagine waking to towering evergreen forests that stretch up steep mountain ridges, their dark silhouettes etched against the dramatic peaks of the Gallatin Mountains. In summer, wildflower meadows burst with color—Indian paintbrush, lupine, and beargrass creating a natural tapestry. Winter transforms this landscape into a crystalline wonderland of untouched snow and frost-kissed pines. This remarkable ecosystem serves as home to some of North America's most iconic wildlife, where grizzly bears roam ancient paths, elk bugle across valleys, and mountain goats navigate impossible cliffs. Lucky visitors might spot mule deer at dawn, hear wolves howling under starlit skies, or catch a glimpse of elusive mountain lions and bighorn sheep.
Geological RegionMaxey Cabin sits within the geological wonderland of Hyalite Canyon, carved over millennia into the heart of Gallatin National Forest. This dramatic landscape showcases nature's artistry through every season—from summer's emerald forests and rainbow wildflower meadows to winter's pristine snowscapes that transform the canyon into a glittering ice palace. The surrounding Gallatin Mountains rise majestically, their ancient peaks and ridges creating a natural amphitheater that shelters this special corner of Montana wilderness.
Campsite details
AccessibilityGuests must prepare to hike, ski, or snowshoe during seasonal access restrictions. Winter access involves a 0.75-mile ski; spring closures necessitate a 9-mile hike or bike ride to the cabin.
Sites SizeThe cabins are small and rustic, designed to accommodate up to 15 people collectively.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin site provides solitude amid a meadow and forest setting, but occasional visitors on nearby trails may intrude on privacy.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring propane for lanterns, extra mantles, and backup supplies. Prepare for winter conditions with sleds and additional firewood.
Best CampsitesMaxey Cabin is the only campsite available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
12:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 5 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 15 guests allowed across both cabins.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin site with additional smaller cabin available in summer.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen January 1 through December 31. First-come, first-served availability from June 21 to June 24. Reservations begin June 24.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made on Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served from June 21 to June 24. Limited availability.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before the check-in date. A $10 fee applies for modifications and cancellations. Late cancellations incur a fee of $10 plus forfeiture of the first night's fee for cabins, which begins 14 calendar days before scheduled check-in.
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
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Maxey Cabin offers a wide variety of recreational activities catering to hikers, skiers, ice climbers, and nature enthusiasts. Hyalite Canyon and Reservoir provide opportunities for hiking, skiing, fishing, and wildlife observation.
Hiking
The Hyalite Peak trailhead leads hikers to waterfalls and wildflower meadows. Accessible trails also exist in Hyalite Canyon, providing easy access to natural attractions like Palisade Falls.Climbing
Climbing opportunities may be available in nearby natural areas such as rocky outcrops, boulders, or cliff faces. Visitors should bring appropriate gear and check local regulations or park guidelines before attempting any climbs.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available one mile away at Hyalite Reservoir, known for trout fishing.Biking
Hyalite Canyon Road is suitable for bicyclists, offering scenic rides through the area.Boating
Non-motorized boating is available at Hyalite Reservoir, located one mile from the cabin.Wildlife viewing
The area is a habitat for grizzly bears, elk, mule deer, mountain lions, bighorn sheep, wolves, and mountain goats. User Kaylee La Spisa noted observing "over 11 bird species" and a black bear near the cabin.Winter Activities
Winter activities include backcountry skiing and ice climbing, as noted by multiple users.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as paddleboarding are available nearby at Hyalite Reservoir.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires permitted only in the designated fire ring. Wood pallets are prohibited.
- Quiet hours are not explicitly mentioned.
Hazards
General hazardsGrizzly bears and black bears frequent the area, requiring visitors to practice bear safety. Winter conditions can be severe, requiring snowshoes and preparation for sub-zero temperatures.
Active alertsSpring road closures from March 31 to May 16 restrict motorized access, requiring hiking or biking to the cabin.
Weather forecast
66
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 6.7 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
Closest emergency services are in Bozeman, MT, approximately 12 miles away.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash and personal belongings, as there are no garbage services on-site.
Proximity to water featuresHyalite Reservoir is located approximately 1 mile away and offers non-motorized boating and trout fishing opportunities.
Common complaintsSome reviews mention mouse infestations and limited supplies of firewood. Others note challenges in heating the cabin during extremely cold weather.
HostNo onsite host. Assistance may require contacting Bozeman Ranger District.
Campground Map
3710 W FALLON STREET SUITE C, BOZEMAN, MT, 59718, USA
Driving directionsFrom Bozeman, MT: Drive south on S. 19th Ave. for about 7 miles. Turn left onto Hyalite Canyon Road FS 62. Drive 11.1 miles on the Hyalite Canyon Road to the Maxey Cabin access road which is on the left (east) side of Hyalite Road 62. Travel about a tenth of a mile on the Maxey Cabin access road to the gate. Pass through the gate and travel for about 1/2 mile to the cabin. Winter Route: Park at the Maxey Cabin access road off Hyalite Canyon Road FS 62 and ski, snowshoe, or hike the final 2/3 mile to the cabin. Spring Road Closure: Hyalite Canyon Road closes to all motorized vehicles from March 31 through May 16. Guests must walk, ski, or bike approximately 9 miles to the cabin during this closure.
Accessible by car during summer months. Winter access requires a high clearance, four-wheel-drive vehicle due to infrequent plowing. Guests should ski, snowshoe, or hike the final mile. Motorized access is restricted in spring due to road closure, requiring hiking or biking 12 miles.Nearby places
Bozeman, MT (approximately 12 miles, 20 minutes)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including water, groceries, and camping essentials, are available in Bozeman, MT, approximately 12 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.8
21 reviews
Maxey Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, reviews for Maxey Cabin are highly positive, with many praising its scenic location, cleanliness, and suitability for winter and summer activities. A few issues such as mice infestations, limited supplies, and accessibility challenges during seasonal closures were mentioned.
Review Summaries
Based on 21 reviews
What Campers Love
Users consistently highlighted the cabin's stunning views, proximity to trails, and well-maintained facilities. "Beautiful views. Great trails for hiking surround the cabin," noted Kim O. Another...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some users reported mice infestations and limited firewood supplies: "Unfortunately it's now infested with mice," stated Matt S. Others mentioned issues with icy conditions and occasional maintenance...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Bring your own toilet paper, water, cooking supplies, and a light source. Prepare for seasonal access restrictions and cold temperatures. Reviewers also suggested bringing sleds for winter supplies...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter stays are popular among skiers, but access challenges due to snow or icy roads were frequently noted. Summer visitors appreciated the wildflower meadows and proximity to hiking trails. Spring...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Hard to get a reservation, but there's a good reason why, Maxey is sacred ground," shared Kaylee La Spisa. "Clean well-maintained cabin a short and easy 0.75 mile ski in from the road," stated Jason...
Based on 21 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 001 was frequently mentioned in reviews. Multiple users appreciated its proximity to trails and scenic views but noted issues with limited supplies and occasional maintenance problems.
Based on 21 reviewsAccessibility Features
Guests highlighted the need for snowshoes or skis during winter stays and noted challenges with icy patches near the cabin.
Based on 21 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are not recommended due to solid waste removal policies and wildlife concerns. "Bring your bear spray," advised Alex S.
Based on 21 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025