Zips Place Cabin
4.5830 reviewsHungry Horse Ranger Station, PO Box 190340, HUNGRY HORSE, MT 59919, USA
Zips Place Cabin
$70.00 - $70.00 / 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 Electric: $70 per night. Federal pass discounts do not apply. Additional fees may apply for reservations, modifications, or cancellations.
About this campground
Escape to Zip's Place Cabin, where rustic charm meets modern comfort in the heart of northwestern Montana's wilderness. This secluded mountain retreat sleeps up to eight adventurers and comes thoughtfully equipped with electricity, an electric stove, refrigerator, and cozy propane heating. During summer months, you'll drive right up to your doorstep, but winter transforms the journey into an enchanting mile-long trek by snowshoe, cross-country ski, or snowmobile through a snow-draped forest. With its vault toilet facilities and peaceful setting, Zip's Place strikes the perfect balance between backcountry solitude and essential amenities.
Zip's Place Cabin offers cabin lodging for up to eight guests, providing a rustic and secluded environment with essential amenities.
Historical SignificanceStep into a piece of Montana's homesteading heritage at this storied mountain retreat. What began as a humble homestead grant in 1937 transformed into a beloved family legacy when the Kimmet family acquired the property in 1945. Nine years later, in 1954, they built the cabin that stands today—a testament to the pioneering spirit that shaped this wild corner of Montana. For nearly 70 years, these walls have sheltered adventurers, witnessed countless stories, and served as a gateway to the surrounding wilderness, continuing a tradition of recreation and respite that honors the land's rich past.
Weather and SeasonsExperience Montana's dramatic seasonal transformations at Zip's Place, where winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow and temperatures plunge, creating ideal conditions for snowshoeing adventures and cross-country skiing expeditions right from your cabin door. When summer arrives, the mountain air turns warm and crystal-clear, revealing endless blue skies perfect for hiking the surrounding trails and mountain biking through sun-dappled forests. The region's characteristically dry winters mean powder-soft snow for winter sports, while summer's reliable sunshine beckons outdoor enthusiasts to explore from dawn to dusk.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to a postcard-perfect scene where a emerald lawn stretches from your cabin door before giving way to towering lodgepole pines and majestic Douglas firs that stand sentinel behind the property. Listen for the gentle murmur of the creek that babbles just beyond the treeline, providing a natural soundtrack to your mountain retreat. This intimate setting serves as your personal basecamp for exploring the legendary landscapes that surround you—from the wild waters of the Middle Fork Flathead River to the soaring peaks of nearby Glacier National Park and the untamed expanse of the 286,700-acre Great Bear Wilderness.
Geological RegionNestled within the spectacular Hungry Horse Ranger District of northwestern Montana, Zip's Place occupies a privileged position in one of America's last great wildernesses. To the east, the mighty Middle Fork of the Flathead River carves its ancient path along the western boundary of Glacier National Park, while the vast Great Bear Wilderness stretches endlessly in all directions. This remarkable location places you at the crossroads of 286,700 acres of protected wilderness, where grizzly bears roam free, mountain goats traverse cliffsides, and some of the Continental Divide's most dramatic peaks pierce the Montana sky.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly described.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to eight guests.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin is described as secluded and surrounded by a large grassy lawn and a stand of lodgepole pine and Douglas fir trees.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCabin 001 offers privacy and proximity to trails and stream. Recommended to bring additional cleaning supplies and drinking water.
Best CampsitesCabin 001 is the only site available.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum stay of 3 consecutive nights with a total of 7 days per calendar year.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 guests allowed.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin is standalone with a grassy lawn in the front, forested area to the back, and stream behind the structure.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen June 1 - December 31 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available via Recreation.gov website and contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-in availability. Reservations required.
Cancellation PolicyReservations can be canceled anytime before arrival. Late cancellation within 14 days forfeits the first night's fee and incurs a $10 penalty. Federal pass discounts do not apply.
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
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Activities at Zip's Place Cabin include hiking, mountain biking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, snowmobiling, and wildlife viewing. Elk and moose are among the native animals frequently spotted.
Hiking
Hiking trails are available and are popular among visitors during warmer months.Biking
Mountain biking is noted as a popular activity during the summer season.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife such as elk and moose can often be observed near the cabin, particularly in the surrounding wilderness areas.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing.Water Sports
No mention of non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or canoeing.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires permitted with on-site fire pit. Adhere to 'Don't Move Firewood' campaign to prevent tree-killing pests.
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent bear activity—secure food and trash. Winter hazards include icy conditions around the outhouse and icy overhangs on the front porch roof. Mice may be present in the cabin.
Weather forecast
84
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 22%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.1 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
Hungry Horse Ranger District, emergency contact available at (406) 387-3800. The nearest hospital and police station are likely in Hungry Horse.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - March 31 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to bring their own garbage bags and pack out all trash. There are no specified facilities for trash or recycling.
Proximity to water featuresA small stream runs directly behind the cabin.
Common complaintsRecurring issues include uncleanliness (rug debris, dirty windows, kitchen utensils left unwashed), furniture condition complaints, and mice presence.
Campground Map
Hungry Horse Ranger Station, PO Box 190340, HUNGRY HORSE, MT 59919, USA
Driving directionsFrom Hungry Horse, travel east on U.S. Highway 2 for 48 miles, to mile marker 191. Travel south on Geifer Greek/Lodgepole Lane (a gravel road that veers left initially). Follow the signs to the cabin. During the winter months or when the road conditions are impassable, renters must park at the designated parking area and hike, snowmobile, ski or snowshoe about a mile to the cabin. Please respect the adjacent property owners and do not block the driveway.
The cabin can be accessed by vehicle during summer months when roads are passable. Winter access requires a hike, snowmobile, ski, or snowshoe approximately one mile due to snow or impassable road conditions.Nearby places
Hungry Horse - 48 miles / approximately 1 hour.
Nearby supplies
Hungry Horse, located an hour away, provides grocery stores, gas stations, and other basic supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.6
30 reviews
Zips Place Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews of Zip's Place Cabin are mixed, with some guests appreciating the rustic charm, peaceful environment, and essential facilities, while others expressed concerns about cleanliness and maintenance.
Review Summaries
Based on 30 reviews
What Campers Love
"Very peaceful, quiet and clean." "Awesome cabin in a beautiful location!" "Great jumping off spot for hiking, Nordic skiing or backcountry skiing." "The cabin is well maintained and very clean."
Based on 30 reviewsCommon Concerns
Several reviews mention issues with cleanliness, including dirty windows, bugs, and insufficient cleaning supplies left by previous occupants. Some guests noted that the furniture is old and requires...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors are advised to bring sufficient drinking water due to seasonal water availability and possibly rusty well water. Packing thoroughly for winter conditions and being prepared for a 1-mile hike...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews often highlight a positive experience involving snowshoeing, skiing, and enjoying the propane fireplace. In warmer months, guests appreciate hiking trails and the secluded setting but...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"Cabin very cozy with propane heat." "The trails surrounding are adventurous but amazing." "Clean and cozy." "We enjoyed the firepit near the creek and the nearby trails." "The propane fireplace is...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews mainly focus on the cabin itself (Site 001). Positive reviews often describe the cabin as well-stocked and cozy during winter, while negative reviews highlight maintenance...
Based on 30 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No specific reviews address accessibility features for individuals with disabilities.
Based on 30 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and reviews highlight the requirement for cleaning up after pets. No specific complaints or praises regarding pet amenities were noted.
Based on 30 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025