Cabin accommodations near Craters of the Moon National Monument typically range from $45-95 per night depending on amenities and season. Located in central Idaho at approximately 5,900 feet elevation, the area experiences dramatic temperature fluctuations with summer days reaching 90°F while dropping to 50°F at night. Winter stays require careful planning as most cabin options close seasonally, with Mountain View RV Park offering some of the only year-round cabin rentals in the vicinity.
What to do
Explore lava tubes and caves: The monument contains over 400 volcanic features including numerous caves accessible with a free cave permit. Mountain View RV Park provides convenient cabin access just 15 miles from these geological formations. "Nice campground, large fenced dog run, game area, restaurant & bar. Very convenient to town, and only some 15 miles from Craters of the Moon National Monument," notes Gary M.
Visit Mackay Reservoir: Located 30 minutes from cabin accommodations, this recreation area offers fishing and water activities. Mackay Tourist Park cabins provide a strategic base for exploring both the monument and reservoir. "I love mackay and its community, if you show up in the summer you get amazing weather and incredible fishing. Would 10/10 recommend to anybody," writes Michael A.
Experience nuclear history: The town of Arco claims the distinction of being America's first nuclear-powered city. Cabins at Wagon Wheel Motel & RV Park place visitors within walking distance of this unique historical site. "Nice & clean. Accommodating hosts. Nice & level pull thru and back in sites. Restrooms are key coded thus nice and clean," reports John H.
What campers like
On-site dining options: Several cabin providers offer food service, eliminating the need to cook or drive for meals. "Mountain View RV Park runs a great little restaurant right on the site with fantastic ribs!" shares Marty S., while another visitor mentions, "MUST eat at the restaurant within the campground! Southern smoked BBQ!"
Proximity to town services: Many cabin locations offer both seclusion and access to basic services. Murdock Creek Dispersed cabins balance natural settings with practical conveniences. "This is a fee based campground with a host that offers a first come first serve camping experience. The sound of water created a very serene environment for rest," notes Chad L.
Morning perks: Some cabin rentals include breakfast options. "In the morning they offer FREE waffles, so after packing up the car, we enjoyed breakfast before heading over to the National Monument," reports Bobby B. about his family's cabin stay at the KOA, while another camper confirms, "free waffle breakfast in the morning."
What you should know
Limited cell service: Connectivity varies widely around the monument. Plan communications and navigation accordingly as remote cabin locations may have no service. "We had good ATT service 2 and 3 bars," notes Nancy C. about her stay at a remote cabin site, but this isn't universal throughout the region.
Temperature swings: The high desert climate means significant day-to-night temperature variations. "Plan your visit for spring or fall, because this area can get HOT in the summer. In mid-September, we started our days in down jackets, but warmed into the low eighties by afternoon," advises Gary M. from his cabin stay near Craters of the Moon-Arco KOA.
Water availability: Many cabins have limited or no running water. "The ground was a bit limited for tent camping but we ended with a great location near moving water," explains Chad L. about camping near cabins, highlighting the importance of water proximity in this arid region.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access matters: During hot summer days, cabin options with swimming facilities provide essential relief. "Our boys got to enjoy the pool before it closed for the evening," mentions Bobby B., while Jen B. adds, "Small pool, but it's great after a hike in the park."
Consider pet restrictions: While many cabins allow pets, policies and facilities vary. "Great large off leash dog area available," notes Lloyd D. about his cabin experience at Mountain View RV Park, making it suitable for families traveling with four-legged members.
Pack entertainment: The remote location means limited outside activities after dark. "Nothing is around, so bring food and activities! The store is really cute, they serve ice cream in the evenings and pancakes for breakfast. Nice touch, since there isn't much else around," advises Jen B.
Tips from RVers
Check facility access hours: Some cabin and campground facilities operate on limited schedules. "Got there and the place was closed on Tuesday. The nice lady running the place told me about a free site 3 miles away toward the mountain and on the left," shares Kevin M., highlighting the importance of confirming operating hours before arrival.
Verify directions: GPS systems sometimes provide incorrect routing to remote cabin locations. "Beware google maps doesn't map properly to this campground and may take you down an old dirt road. You should turn in town at 'pickles place'," warns Ben H. about accessing his cabin rental.
Consider cabin cooling: In summer months, cabin temperature management becomes important. "The only thing is it took a while for the room to cool down. It would have been cool if they were able to set that air conditioner about an hour before arrival but no biggie," notes Stacey A. from her experience at Wagon Wheel Motel & RV Park.
