Cabins near Howe, Idaho offer shelter from the area's high desert climate, where summer temperatures can reach 90°F and winter lows often drop below freezing. Located in the shadow of the Lost River Range, cabin accommodations vary in elevation from approximately 5,400 feet in Arco to 7,800 feet at Copper Basin Guard Station. These structures range from basic shelters to furnished units with several providing access to nearby volcanic landscapes and mountain recreation areas.
What to do
Explore volcanic formations: Craters of the Moon National Monument sits approximately 20 miles southwest of Arco, making Craters of the Moon-Arco KOA a strategic base camp. "We stayed here on our way to Yellowstone. Near Craters of the Moon National Monument. The town of Arco was charming and has an interesting history as the first nuclear-powered city in the US," notes Jeff P.
Visit nearby ghost towns: The area surrounding Mountain View RV Park provides access to several historical mining sites. "Staying at this campsite made it really easy to explore the Craters Of The Moon National Park, the ghost towns, and historical interests in the area," shares Lloyd D.
Utilize ATV trails: The terrain around Mackay offers extensive off-road opportunities. "Great area for ATV/UTV riding!" reports John H. from Wagon Wheel Motel & RV Park, where cabins serve as convenient base camps for trail access.
What campers like
Mountain views: Cabin stays offer scenic vistas that change with the seasons. "We stayed here for 2 days and it's a standard KOA. It's surrounded by views of huge mountains and open plains with a horse pasture next door," reports a visitor about the KOA near Arco.
Breakfast offerings: Some cabin providers include morning meals. "They offer FREE waffles, so after packing up the car, we enjoyed breakfast before heading over to the National Monument," mentions Bobby B. about his stay at Craters of the Moon-Arco KOA.
Spacious sites: Mackay Tourist Park features cabins within a park-like setting. "Beautiful city park that offers free dry camping. They only ask for a donation. Tree'd grassy park with picnic tables & fire pits at each site. Beautiful views of the mountains," explains Lori.
What you should know
Seasonal limitations: Most cabin facilities operate spring through fall, with many closing during winter months. "We stayed here 1 night in mid-October, 2024. Bulletin board directed us to our reserved site," notes Corvid C. about late-season camping at Craters of the Moon-Arco KOA.
Varying amenities: Cabin options range from primitive to fully furnished. Wagon Wheel Motel & RV Park offers amenities not found in more basic cabins: "Dog friendly AC units the only thing is it took a while for the room to cool down," reports Stacey A.
Location isolation: Many cabins sit in remote areas with limited services. "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 for camping with families
Seek out recreation amenities: Some cabin providers offer entertainment options for children. "Our boys got to enjoy the pool before it closed for the evening. In the morning they offer FREE waffles," mentions Bobby B., highlighting family-friendly features at the KOA.
Consider cabin spacing: Families need room to spread out. "The sites are very wide and spacious with grass in between," notes Marty S. about Mountain View RV Park, where cabin options provide more space than typical camping arrangements.
Look for wildlife viewing: Natural encounters enhance family experiences. "Had 2 deer meander through the campground in the morning!" shares Lori about her stay at Mackay Tourist Park, offering opportunities for wildlife education.
Tips from RVers
Navigation challenges: GPS directions to cabins may be unreliable. "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 finding the Craters of the Moon-Arco KOA.
Facility maintenance: Condition of cabin accommodations varies widely. "Nice & clean. Accommodating hosts. Nice & level pull thru and back in sites. Restrooms are key coded thus nice and clean," explains John H. about Wagon Wheel Motel & RV Park.
Local dining options: On-site food service supplements cabin stays that lack kitchens. "The owners are friendly and helpful. The restaurant serves delicious BBQ, southern style in a small, homey setting," shares Lisa F. about dining options at Mountain View RV Park.
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