Crystal Lake Cabin
4.2024 reviews109 Central Ave, P.O. Box 484, Stanford, MT 59479, USA
Crystal Lake Cabin
$60.00 - $60.00 / 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 rate for the cabin is $60. This fee excludes other charges like taxes or reservation fees.
About this campground
Nestled on the tranquil shores of Crystal Lake, this charming one-room cabin offers an authentic Montana wilderness experience deep within the embrace of the Big Snowy Mountains. While modern conveniences like electricity and running water are left behind, the cabin compensates with cozy propane lighting and a reliable stove, creating the perfect balance between rustic simplicity and essential comfort. Steps away from Crystal Lake Campground, your mountain retreat serves as an ideal basecamp for endless adventures—from dawn fishing expeditions and scenic trail hikes to peaceful afternoons spotting local wildlife. Here, disconnecting from the digital world isn't just encouraged; it's part of the magic.
Crystal Lake Cabin is designed for those seeking a rustic, cabin-style accommodation experience. It features basic amenities and requires effort to access during winter months.
Weather and SeasonsEach season paints Crystal Lake Cabin with its own unique palette. Winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland accessible only by snowshoe, cross-country ski, or snowmobile—your journey becoming part of the adventure. Summer welcomes visitors with gentle mountain breezes and perfect temperatures for exploring forest trails and casting lines into crystal-clear waters. Autumn brings a fascinating transformation as the lake gradually recedes, while spring arrives with dramatic beauty, though lingering snowpack may test your determination to reach this alpine sanctuary.
ElevationPerched at 5,700 feet above sea level, the cabin exists in that sweet spot where the air is crisp and clean, yet still comfortable for most visitors. This elevated setting gifts guests with naturally cooler temperatures—a refreshing escape from summer heat—and positions you perfectly for breathtaking mountain vistas that stretch across the Big Snowy range.
Natural Features and SceneryCrystal Lake's 45 acres of pristine water create a stunning centerpiece for this mountain escape, reflecting the surrounding peaks like nature's own mirror. The majestic Big Snowy Mountains rise dramatically around you, their peaks soaring to 8,600 feet and cloaked in lush mixed conifer forests that whisper with mountain breezes. Watch as this dynamic landscape transforms with the seasons—from winter's frozen tableau to autumn's surprising metamorphosis when the lake's porous limestone bottom allows it to drain, revealing a hidden meadow where water once stood.
Geological RegionSet within Central Montana's remarkable Big Snowy Mountains, the cabin sits amid a geological wonderland where ancient limestone formations create unique natural phenomena. The surrounding mixed conifer forests thrive in this distinctive environment, where Crystal Lake's unusual porous limestone bottom creates a rare disappearing lake effect—a captivating reminder of the powerful geological forces that shaped this extraordinary landscape over millions of years.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccess to the cabin from December 1 through June 15 requires snowshoes, snowmobiles, cross-country skiing, or hiking 6 miles uphill from the gate at the Forest Boundary. During other months, vehicle access is possible.
Sites SizeThe cabin is spacious for up to six guests and includes bunk beds with mattresses, futons, and chairs.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is limited due to clear-cutting in surrounding areas and proximity to campgrounds. Several campsites are located close to the cabin.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesPrepare for flies indoors and limited privacy from adjacent campgrounds. Winter campers should plan for strenuous access due to elevation climbs on snow-covered trails.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the sole designated camping site.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in time is flexible upon arrival. Guests must obtain a combination code for the cabin from their reservation confirmation.
Check-out
Check-out time is 11 AM.
Stay Limit
Up to 14 nights per visit.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin accommodates up to six guests.
Groups
No group-specific camping sites are mentioned.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin is adjacent to Crystal Lake Campground, which has seen significant deforestation due to disease and insect damage.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens January 1 and closes December 31. Reservations are possible starting June 25, with availability released every six months.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov online, its mobile app, or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability for the cabin. Reservations are required.
Cancellation PolicyThere is a $10 cancellation fee for reservations canceled before the scheduled arrival date. For cabins, late cancellations (less than 14 days before the arrival date) incur the $10 fee and forfeit the first night's fee. No modifications or cancellations are allowed once the reservation start date begins.
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
Crystal Lake Cabin offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking on nearby trails such as the Ice Caves and Lake Loop trails, fishing in Crystal Lake, and kayaking or canoeing during summer months when the lake is stocked with rainbow trout.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities are abundant, with trails like the Ice Caves Trail leading to the ridgetop of the Big Snowy Mountains and the Lake Loop Trail offering views from Grand View Trail Junction. Winter snow may impact trails until early July.Fishing
Fishing is available in Crystal Lake, which is stocked with rainbow trout during the summer months. Ice fishing is also possible in winter if conditions allow.Boating
Kayaking and canoeing are popular activities on Crystal Lake, which allows non-motorized boats. A boat ramp is available near the cabin.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a highlight, with deer and other animals commonly spotted near the cabin during quiet evenings.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. The cabin is a 6 to 7-mile uphill trek from the gate, requiring stamina and preparation.Water Sports
Water sports include kayaking and canoeing on Crystal Lake during the warmer months.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Fires are prohibited outside using the supplied wood. Guests must restock the wood box inside the cabin before departure.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsFlies can be a severe nuisance, as noted in user reviews, with dead flies accumulating on windowsills and floors. Winter snow may impact trail usability, and disease/insect damage has led to deforestation around the cabin.
Weather forecast
67
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 34%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 4.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
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
Judith Ranger District in Stanford, Montana; nearest hospital or police services are located in Lewistown.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31 (Peak Season).
Trash and recyclingGuests must pack out all trash and recycling items, as this is a pack-in/pack-out facility. Garbage bags are essential.
Proximity to water featuresThe cabin is near Crystal Lake, which spans 45 acres and has a maximum depth of 15 feet.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include excessive flies, lack of screens on windows, mouse droppings, and limited privacy due to tree clearing around the cabin.
Campground Map
109 Central Ave, P.O. Box 484, Stanford, MT 59479, USA
Driving directionsFrom Lewistown, drive west on Montana Highway 200/US 87 for about 8 miles. Turn left (south) on Crystal Lake Road. Continue south, following the well-signed directions to the lake for 20 miles. At the 'T' junction, turn left and continue on to Crystal Lake. The last 6 miles is paved and mostly a single lane. On December 1, the paved section is gated, and access beyond the gate is by snowmobile, skis, snowshoes or hiking only.
Access during the non-winter season is via a paved road that is mostly single lane for the last 6 miles. From December 1 through June 15, the paved section is gated, requiring access by snowmobile, skis, snowshoes, or hiking for 6 miles.Nearby places
Lewistown (20 miles, approximately 30-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
Supplies, including groceries, fuel, and other essentials, are available in Lewistown, about 20 miles north of the campground.
Camper Reviews
4.2
24 reviews
Crystal Lake Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews show mixed sentiments about the cabin, with many appreciating its rustic charm, propane amenities, and proximity to hiking trails and fishing opportunities. However, issues such as flies, mice, and limited privacy due to clear-cutting are common concerns.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects include the availability of propane lights and heat, a clean and spacious cabin, and access to stunning hiking trails and fishing opportunities. "The cabin was clean and comfortable...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include infestations of flies and mice, lack of privacy due to clear-cutting, and challenges in accessing the cabin during winter months. "The windowsills were jammed with flies,...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips include bringing extra cleaning supplies to deal with flies and mice, packing provisions carefully for winter trips, and ensuring you have the correct access code. One reviewer suggested, "Pack...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews are highly positive, focusing on the cabin's warmth and suitability for cross-country skiing. Summer reviews often highlight fishing and hiking but also mention issues with insects and...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"I really love doing winter trips to this cabin. It's always pretty and peaceful," shares one user. Another notes, "Great rustic cabin worth the 6+ mile trek all uphill." "The cabin itself can have 6...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Most reviews provide insights into campsite 001, noting its proximity to hiking trails and the lake but also issues like insect infestations and reduced privacy. "Crystal Lake is a very short walk...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Accessibility during winter requires snowshoes, skis, or snowmobiles for the 6-mile trek uphill. Some reviewers highlight the challenge but also praise the setup as rewarding. "The cabin is larger...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Pet-Friendly Features
Pets are not allowed inside the cabin but can be kept outside in kennels or on leashes. No specific user reviews address pet-related experiences.
Based on 24 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025