Sunlight Rangers Cabin
4.8212 reviews203A Yellowstone Ave, Cody, WY 82414, USA
Sunlight Rangers Cabin
$225.00 - $225.00 / 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 during peak season (May 9, 2025 - September 27, 2025) is $225. This fee does not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Tucked away in the heart of Sunlight Valley, the historic Sunlight Rangers Cabin offers an authentic mountain retreat where rustic charm meets modern comfort. This beautifully preserved three-room log cabin welcomes up to eight guests into a world where time slows down and nature takes center stage. Step inside to discover a thoughtfully equipped kitchen perfect for preparing hearty meals, a cozy dining area where stories are shared, and a crackling fireplace that beckons on cool mountain evenings. With the convenience of an indoor bathroom and the allure of endless outdoor adventures, guests find themselves perfectly positioned to explore miles of hiking and biking trails, discover hidden off-road paths, or cast a line into the pristine waters of nearby Sunlight Creek, where fly fishing dreams come true.
The Sunlight Rangers Cabin offers cabin-style lodging in a scenic and secluded environment. It is highly praised for its cleanliness, comfort, and functionality.
Historical SignificanceYour journey to the cabin follows the legendary Chief Joseph Scenic Highway, a road that carries profound historical weight. This storied route traces the path of the Nez Perce people during their remarkable 1877 flight toward freedom, adding layers of meaning to every mile. As you travel this scenic byway, you're not just driving through stunning landscapes – you're following in the footsteps of history, where every bend in the road tells a story of courage, resilience, and the enduring spirit of the American West.
Weather and SeasonsMountain weather here dances to its own rhythm, bringing dramatic shifts that add to the valley's wild character. Pack layers and embrace the unexpected – from sun-drenched mornings to afternoon thunderstorms that roll across the peaks. July emerges as the fly fisher's paradise, when snowmelt subsides and creeks run clear, revealing pools teeming with native trout. As winter transforms the landscape into a crystalline wonderland, temperatures plunge and snow blankets the valley, creating a magical backdrop for those seeking true mountain solitude.
ElevationWhile specific elevation details await discovery upon arrival, the cabin's mountain setting promises that refreshing high-altitude experience where the air feels cleaner, the stars shine brighter, and every breath connects you more deeply with the wilderness around you.
Natural Features and SceneryPicture yourself stepping onto the cabin's porch to greet a morning where wildflower-dotted meadows stretch toward forests of towering conifers, their green spires pointing to endless sky. The surrounding landscape unfolds like a living painting – grassy meadows ripple in the mountain breeze while mixed conifer forests create a patchwork of shadows and light across the valley floor. Dramatic mountainsides rise on all horizons, their faces changing color with each passing hour, from rose-gold at dawn to deep purple at twilight.
Geological RegionNestled within the vast wilderness of Shoshone National Forest, Sunlight Valley represents a geological masterpiece millions of years in the making. Here, ancient forces sculpted a landscape where verdant meadows carpet valley floors, dense forests of pine, fir, and spruce climb the slopes, and rugged peaks pierce the Wyoming sky. This diverse terrain creates a natural playground where every ecosystem tells its own story – from the delicate alpine flowers in high meadows to the powerful rivers carving their paths through stone, all waiting to be explored from your basecamp at Sunlight Rangers Cabin.
Campsite details
AccessibilityAccessibility features are not explicitly detailed in the source.
Sites SizeThe cabin can accommodate up to eight people in its three spacious rooms, equipped with two queen beds and two bunk beds.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy is inherent as the cabin is located in the scenic Sunlight Valley near Sunlight Creek, surrounded by grassy meadows and mixed conifer forests.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesCampsite 001 is recommended for its proximity to trails, fishing opportunities, and exceptional hosting services.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself (Campsite 001, Loop: Sunlight Ranger) is highly rated for its cleanliness, well-stocked amenities, and scenic setting.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM (14:00).
Check-out
Check-out time is 10:00 AM (10:00).
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 16 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to eight guests are permitted to stay in the cabin.
Groups
Group camping is not applicable to this location.
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 a standalone facility near the ranger station.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 9, 2025 - September 27, 2025. First come, first serve from June 21, 2025, with reservations available starting June 22, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made through Recreation.gov via its website or contact center at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-ins allowed. Reservations must be made in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations must be made before the scheduled arrival. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) will also forfeit the first night's fee. No-shows incur a $20 fee and forfeiture of the first night's fees.
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
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
The campground offers a variety of recreational activities. Guests can enjoy fly fishing in Sunlight Creek, hiking, biking, and off-road riding on nearby trails. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, and some reviews mention sightings of moose. The cabin's spacious yard is ideal for games, campfires, and stargazing.
Hiking
The surrounding area features several motorized and non-motorized trails suitable for both hiking and mountain biking. Some user reviews highlight the challenging nature of hikes in this region, with hosts providing helpful advice on trails.Fishing
Sunlight Creek is a popular fly-fishing stream. Anglers can fish for cutthroat, rainbow, and brook trout. July is noted as a particularly good time for fishing after the high-water season.Biking
The area includes trails suitable for mountain biking, catering to various skill levels.Wildlife viewing
The cabin is surrounded by natural beauty, offering opportunities to view wildlife such as moose, as noted in user reviews.Winter Activities
No specific winter activities like skiing or snowshoeing are mentioned.Water Sports
No water sports facilities like kayaking or paddleboarding are mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- Campfires are permitted but firewood must be obtained locally to prevent the spread of tree pests and disease.
Hazards
General hazardsGrizzly bears are common; proper food storage is mandatory. The area has no cell service, requiring additional safety measures.
Weather forecast
74
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 19%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 12.6 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
Emergency services are located in Cody, Wyoming, approximately 40 miles away and include hospitals, police stations, and other services.
Good to know
Peak season datesMay 9, 2025 - September 27, 2025.
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to clean the cabin before departure, but specifics about trash and recycling facilities are not available.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near Sunlight Creek, a popular spot for fly fishing.
HostHosts Cindy and Dell are praised in multiple reviews for their helpfulness, professionalism, and pride in maintaining the property.
Campground Map
203A Yellowstone Ave, Cody, WY 82414, USA
Driving directionsFrom Cody, drive approximately 16 miles north on Highway 120, then take Chief Joseph Scenic Highway/Highway 296 west for 22 miles, up and over Dead Indian Pass and on to Sunlight. Sunlight Road/Forest Road 101 will be on your left just before you reach the Sunlight Bridge Overlook. Drive west on Sunlight Road for about 8 miles. The ranger station will be on your left. Upon pulling into the parking lot, you will find the cabin on your left on the east side of the station.
Road access includes Highway 120 and Chief Joseph Scenic Highway/Highway 296, which offers paved roads climbing over Dead Indian Pass. Sunlight Road/Forest Road 101 is unpaved, potentially challenging depending on weather conditions.Nearby places
Cody (40 miles, approximately 1 hour driving)
Nearby supplies
Closest supplies, including groceries, camping gear, and fuel, are available in Cody, WY, located about 40 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.8
12 reviews
Sunlight Rangers Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the Sunlight Rangers Cabin as an exceptional facility maintained by dedicated and helpful hosts. The cabin's cleanliness, well-equipped kitchen, beautiful setting, and proximity to Yellowstone National Park make it a favorite among visitors. Guests particularly appreciate the privacy, peaceful surroundings, and wildlife viewing opportunities.
Review Summaries
Based on 12 reviews
What Campers Love
- "The property exceeded our expectations. The cabin is by far the best National Forest Service cabin we have ever stayed in." -Kingdon P
- "Clean and well stocked with everything we required."...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
No significant complaints were mentioned in the source materials.
Based on 12 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Several reviews advise being prepared for the lack of cell service and potential weather changes. Guests also recommend staying for more than one night to fully enjoy the experience.
Based on 12 reviewsSeasonal Insights
High-water season affects fishing opportunities until July. The cabin is well-suited for summer visits (May-September), with peak usage during this time.
Based on 12 reviewsCamper Quotes
- "Excellent property. Huge yard. Horseshoes, games, campfires, and stars." -Brett N
- "Beautiful cabin in a gorgeous location. Pretty pampered life with electricity and all the appliances." -Jeff...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Reviews consistently praise the Sunlight Rangers Cabin for its cleanliness, comfort, and amenities. Site-specific mentions highlight the quality of the cabin and the helpfulness of hosts Cindy and...
Based on 12 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
No reviews specifically addressing accessibility features are available.
Based on 12 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are prohibited in this facility, as explicitly stated in the authoritative content.
Based on 12 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025