Cabin rentals near Carmen, Idaho range from rustic forest service accommodations to waterfront lodging with modern amenities. The region sits at elevations between 4,000-7,200 feet with significant temperature variations even in summer months. Most cabins operate seasonally from late spring through early fall, though several year-round options exist for travelers seeking winter accommodations.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several cabins provide direct creek or river access for anglers. At Salmon Gypsy Bed & Breakfast, guests can fish directly from the property with boat-in access options during higher water seasons.
Historical exploration: Visit Bannack State Park's preserved ghost town buildings near Vigilante Campground. "The 1860s mining town's buildings have been stabilized but not restored. It's fascinating," notes one visitor. The park offers gold panning demonstrations and seasonal tours.
Non-motorized boating: Twin Lakes is ideal for paddle craft with restrictions on motor boats. "Clear water to see the bottom where it's shallow enough. No motorized boats allowed, so bring your own kayak or canoe and a fishing pole or two to enjoy the refreshing waters at the bottom of the mountains," reports one camper.
What campers like
Mountain wildlife viewing: Hogan Cabin at 7,200 feet elevation provides excellent wildlife spotting opportunities. "Saw several deer and elk feeding in the field near the cabin, as well as a moose in the marsh along the creek," writes one guest who stayed for three nights.
Riverside camping: Waterfront sites allow for direct access to fishing and water activities. "We enjoyed 2 nights here alongside the river with full hookups. Easy 5 minute walk to town," notes a visitor to Andreas on the River RV Park.
Secluded settings: Many cabins offer true isolation for those seeking privacy. "The guard station sits in a little meadow beside a creek in a small canyon," describes a visitor to Yellowjacket Guard Station, adding that they "didn't see anyone I didn't plan to" during a two-week stay.
What you should know
Water availability: Most rustic cabins lack running water. "There's no running water so be sure to bring plenty," advises a Hogan Cabin guest. Even at developed sites, prepare for limited resources.
Road conditions: Access to remote cabins requires preparation. Twin Lakes has "about a 15 mile commute on a gravel road to get there," according to one review, while another notes the road is "pretty long, and narrow. Not advisable for pulling a large trailer."
Temperature fluctuations: Twin Lakes experiences dramatic temperature drops even in summer. "In July it gets to be around 30° F at night so bring lots of extra blankets," warns one camper who found the area "breathtaking and cold."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Look for cabins with additional recreation options. "There is free put-put golf, horseshoes, tetherball and a small well stocked fishing pond with benches to watch the action," notes a visitor to Sula Country Store and Resort.
Spacious sites: Choose locations with room for multiple tents and vehicles. One Twin Lakes visitor noted "Site 10 had room for 3 tents, 3 SUVs, 1 picnic table + extra side table, fire ring/grill, canoe, chairs around fire and shoreline, laundry lines."
Cabin alternatives: Consider traditional campgrounds for families needing more space. "Campgrounds are right by the creek, awesome 100+ year old buildings. Check out Bannack Days!" suggests a family camper at Vigilante Campground.
Tips from RVers
Limited access: Many forest service cabins have parking constraints. "Parking space was limited to one single vehicle without a trailer," notes a visitor to Twin Lakes Cabin.
Full hookup alternatives: For RVers wanting amenities, choose developed campgrounds. "There was plenty of room for our 36' toy hauler. Dogs were happy to play in the creek," reports an RVer at Sula Country Store and Resort.
Generator considerations: Plan for power limitations at remote sites. A Bannack State Park camper noted: "Bring a generator to charge you bank, though I felt bad about running them because of the disruption in the serenity."
