Cabin camping near Montpelier, Idaho offers accommodations at elevations ranging from 5,900 feet in town to over 7,000 feet in surrounding canyons. The region experiences cold winters with heavy snowfall and mild summers, with many forest service cabins accessible only during summer months. Weather patterns can shift quickly in this mountain region with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August.
What to do
Creek fishing opportunities: Diamond Creek Guard Station provides access to excellent small-stream fishing. "Beautiful area to camp! Dispersed camping with space for very large groups. Lots of dirt bike/quad trails. Beautiful views," notes a visitor about the Diamond Creek Guard Station.
Hot springs relaxation: Maple Grove Hot Springs offers both camping and cabin options with natural hot springs access. "This is one of my favorite places on earth. They have tent sites, van sites and a selection of shelters to choose from. Camping gets you access to the hot springs from check in until 4pm the next day," shares a visitor to Maple Grove Hot Springs.
Mountain trail exploration: The Cub River area features numerous mountain trails accessible from cabin sites. "I have been so blessed to have shared fun times on razor rides on all the many trails up the Mountainside. There is the Deer Cliff Lodge and plenty of campsites all up the Cub river," reports a visitor to the region.
What campers like
Creek-side locations: Tent and cabin sites near creeks rank among campers' favorites. "The campsites are beautiful, nestled right beside the creek. The scenery all around is beautiful rolling, green hills. Very quiet and clean," remarks a guest at Montpelier Creek KOA.
Off-grid experience: Many forest service cabins offer a true escape from modern conveniences. "I loved staying at the guard station! There is a spot to hang your hammock. You can relax by the fire pit or read a book on one of the two picnic tables provided," shares a camper about Diamond Creek Guard Station.
Family amenities: Many cabin accommodations include family-friendly facilities. "This KOA is close to the mouth of Montpelier Canyon and therefore can be hot in the summer. It does however lie right next to the creek! Also right next to the creek before the campground is a doggy walking and poo area," notes a visitor about Montpelier Creek KOA.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Many cabins close during winter months. "The guard station can be rented cheaply through Recreation.gov and it was worth every penny! With a wood-burning stove, we stayed nice and toasty," explains a visitor about the winter experience at Diamond Creek.
Water requirements: Forest service cabins typically require bringing your own water. "Make sure to bring your own water," advises a camper about Diamond Creek Guard Station.
Wi-Fi limitations: Even equipped cabins may have limited connectivity. "There is no cell service here but they do offer Wi-Fi. Not sure if it was due to the amount of people, but the wifi was useless as we couldn't even make a phone call," reports a visitor to Cub River Lodge & RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Cabin selection for privacy: Choose locations based on your desired privacy level. "We got the last site which was for a RV but was given to us for our tent camping. It had both water and electric hook ups on site, and plenty of space for our tent," shares a guest at K O A Campgrounds Montpelier.
Activity options for children: Some locations offer dedicated children's areas. "Wonderful area with lots of history and natural beauty. There is a center grass location that's great for kids to play," notes a camper about Cub River Lodge.
Temperature considerations: Mountain nights get cold even in summer. "With a wood-burning stove, we stayed nice and toasty. There were plenty of cots to move close to the wood-burning stove for a cozy night sleep," explains a visitor about Diamond Creek Guard Station.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for RVs: Check site dimensions and hookup details before booking. "This RV park would be good for a few RV friends to make reservations and stay as the sites are really close. From the pictures I saw, it appeared as if there was space between sites which was not the case," cautions a visitor at Cub River Lodge & RV Park.
Noise levels: Consider location relative to recreation areas. "Smaller in size and way less amenities than the other KOA but way more quiet. If you're looking to have a more peaceful stay, this is your place," advises a camper at Bear Lake/Trail Side KOA Journey.
Seasonal access: Mountain roads may be impassable during winter months. "The drive up to the lodge and RV park is amazing," notes a visitor about the Cub River area, though these roads can become snow-covered and inaccessible during winter.
