Indian Flats Cabin
4.5713 reviews2880 Skyway Dr.
Indian Flats Cabin
$30.00 - $45.00 / 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 cabin costs between $30 and $45 per night depending on the season. Additional charges like reservation fees may apply.
About this campground
Nestled deep in the Big Belt Mountains, Indian Flats Cabin stands as a rustic sanctuary where time seems to slow down. This charming single-room guard station, embraced by towering mixed conifers and the dramatic backdrop of Hogback Mountain, offers adventurers a genuine taste of Montana's wilderness heritage. A crystal-clear mountain stream babbles nearby, providing a natural soundtrack to your backcountry escape.
Indian Flats Cabin is a rustic cabin rental designed for small groups. It supports a remote and self-sufficient camping experience with no additional campsite types available.
Historical SignificanceStep into living history at this 1944-built forest guardian's retreat. Originally christened Conway Station, this cabin once sheltered Forest Service rangers as they patrolled Montana's vast wilderness. Carefully relocated to its current spectacular setting, the cabin continues its legacy of providing refuge in the mountains, now welcoming modern adventurers seeking authentic connections to the region's conservation heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the Big Belts' dramatic seasonal transformations at Indian Flats. Summer unveils wildflower meadows and perfect hiking weather, while autumn paints the surrounding forests in brilliant golds and crimsons. When winter arrives, the cabin transforms into a snow-globe paradise accessible only by snowmobile or cross-country skis, offering intrepid visitors a true wilderness adventure through pristine powder.
ElevationPerched at a breathtaking 7,813 feet above sea level, Indian Flats Cabin offers visitors a true high-country experience. At this elevation, you'll find yourself immersed in the dramatic mountainous terrain of the Big Belts, where the air is crisp, the stars shine brilliantly, and the views stretch endlessly across Montana's rugged landscape.
Natural Features and SceneryDiscover a landscape that reads like a naturalist's dream journal. From the cabin's doorstep, explore a mosaic of subalpine wonders: sun-dappled forest groves give way to alpine meadows bursting with wildflowers, while barren ridges offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding peaks. Mountain streams carve through valley bottoms, creating ribbons of life that attract elk herds at dawn, curious deer at dusk, and a symphony of birds and chattering squirrels throughout the day.
Geological RegionThe Big Belt Mountains of west-central Montana create a spectacular geological playground around Indian Flats Cabin. This diverse subalpine region showcases nature's artistry through dramatic elevation changes, from lush river valleys carpeted in wildflowers to windswept ridges sculpted by centuries of mountain weather. Dense coniferous forests alternate with open meadows and rushing streams, creating a constantly changing landscape that captures the essence of Montana's untamed beauty.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are limited given the rustic nature of the cabin. Winter access requires snowmobiles, snowshoes, or skiing over an 8-mile stretch of road.
Sites SizeThe cabin itself is compact and designed for up to 4 guests.
Sites PrivacyThe location provides high privacy as it is surrounded by mixed conifer forests and situated in a remote area.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesVisitors recommend bringing snowshoes in winter and filtering water from the nearby creek.
Best CampsitesNot applicable; the cabin itself is the only site.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Entry is by a combination lock provided in the reservation email.
Check-out
Guests must vacate the cabin by the end date of their reservation.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
The cabin accommodates up to 4 people.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle-room cabin with nearby vault toilet.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Reservable start dates vary but typically begin June 25. Winter access requires snowmobiles or skiing.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityThe cabin does not explicitly state walk-up availability; reservations are required on Recreation.gov.
Cancellation PolicyReservations at Indian Flats Cabin can be canceled with a $10 cancellation fee before the date of arrival. Reservations canceled less than 14 days before arrival will forfeit the first night's recreation use 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
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Indian Flats Cabin offers a range of recreational activities, including hiking, biking, wildlife viewing, and winter sports. Nearby Refrigerator Canyon provides a unique hiking experience with cooler temperatures due to evaporative cooling. Guests can also explore Hogback Mountain Lookout for panoramic views and access trails for mountain biking and hiking.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities abound near the cabin, including Refrigerator Canyon, which features a 10-foot-wide, 200-foot-high limestone passage and temperatures 20 degrees cooler than surrounding areas. Trails like FS trail 270 and the Vigilante Campground trail offer challenging terrain with icy patches during winter.Fishing
Fishing is possible in nearby streams and rivers, though specific details about fish types are not provided.Biking
User reviews and authoritative descriptions suggest that trails and terrains around the cabin are suitable for mountain biking.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is abundant, with frequent sightings of elk, deer, squirrels, and various birds. Rare species like badgers, wolverines, mountain lions, and lynx may also be encountered.Winter Activities
Winter sports include snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling along an 8-mile stretch to access the cabin.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking and canoeing are not directly supported at the cabin but may be available at nearby attractions like the Missouri River.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Guests must bring their own firewood (not provided from June 1 - August 31).
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated.
Hazards
General hazardsRoads can be washed out or drifted in during wet weather or snow. Wildlife such as mountain lions and wolverines may be present. Guests should also be aware of hantavirus risks in remote cabins.
Active alertsRoad conditions may be hazardous, especially during wet weather or snow. Guests are advised to confirm access conditions with the Helena Ranger District prior to arrival.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 27%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 7.9 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
Helena is the nearest population center with emergency services (hospital, police, and fire stations).
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash and food. Garbage bags must be brought by visitors, and no recycling facilities are mentioned.
Proximity to water featuresA small stream flows in front of the cabin.
Common complaintsRoad conditions are described as rough, with potentially washed-out or drifted areas. Flies can be bothersome during certain seasons.
HostNo explicit information is provided regarding hosts.
Campground Map
2880 Skyway Dr.
Driving directionsIndian Flats Cabin is located 40 miles northeast of Helena. Take Highway 280 east from Helena. Several miles after crossing the Missouri River, you will come to the small community of York. Turn left at the York Bar and proceed 5 miles to the smaller community of Nelson, where you should turn right. Stay on the main road up Beaver Creek, through a series of switchbacks up Burnt Gulch, past Pikes Gulch Campground to the junction of Hogback Lookout and Indian Flats Roads. Take the left hand fork for about 0.5 miles, and the cabin will be on the right.
Access to the Indian Flats Cabin depends on the season. During summer and fall, passenger cars can drive directly to the cabin. In winter, the cabin can only be accessed by snowmobiling or cross-country skiing over an 8-mile stretch, as heavy snow often blocks vehicle access.Nearby places
Helena: 40 miles northeast of the cabin.
Nearby supplies
Helena offers the nearest location for groceries, camping supplies, and fuel. Smaller communities like York and Nelson may provide limited supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.6
13 reviews
Indian Flats Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews indicate overall satisfaction with the cabin's cleanliness, remote location, and amenities. However, guests consistently warn about difficult road conditions and poor cell service.
Review Summaries
Based on 13 reviews
What Campers Love
The cabin's cleanliness, well-stocked kitchen, and peaceful surroundings are frequently praised. The vault toilet is described as exceptionally clean. Hiking trails like Refrigerator Canyon and Trout...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Road conditions are a common issue, with users noting washed-out sections and sharp gravel causing tire punctures. Weak cell service is also mentioned. Seasonal challenges such as flies in summer and...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Guests recommend bringing snowshoes in winter, carrying extra propane cylinders, and preparing for weak cell service. Filtering water from nearby streams and packing garbage out are advised.
Based on 13 reviewsSeasonal Insights
Winter reviews emphasize the need for snow-specific gear to access the cabin. Summer reviews highlight the abundance of flies and challenging road conditions after rain.
Based on 13 reviewsCamper Quotes
1. 'The cabin kept us warm and dry despite cold and wet weather.' - Kan Truk
2. 'Nicest outhouse ever!' - Sue F
3. 'The road left a lot to be desired—especially after the rain.' - Jane S
4. 'We had...
Based on 13 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews focus on the cabin (site 001), with consistent praise for cleanliness and functional amenities. Guests also note signs of mice during some visits.
Based on 13 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features are limited due to the remote nature of the cabin. Winter access requires snowmobiles or skiing, making it unsuitable for individuals with mobility challenges.
Based on 13 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are mentioned in some reviews but are not officially allowed at the cabin.
Based on 13 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025