Cabin accommodations near Preston, Idaho range from basic guard station rentals to full-service resort cabins with hot springs access. The area sits at approximately 4,700 feet elevation in southeastern Idaho's Cache Valley, with most cabin rentals available year-round despite the region's snowy winters. Temperatures can drop below freezing from November through March, making heated cabin options particularly valuable during winter months.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: The cabin at Egan Basin Guard Station provides access to mountain habitat where visitors can observe native wildlife. "For $30 a night this camping site is a real deal! The site is well maintained, and the A-frame cabin on the site was perfect for our family of 5. The cabin and campsite has no electricity and no water, so you need to pack it all in," reports one visitor who appreciated the remote setting.
Hot springs soaking: Several cabin properties offer hot springs access within walking distance of your accommodation. At Maple Grove Hot Springs, "Camping gets you access to the hot springs from check in until 4pm the next day. There's running water in the bathhouse with a toilet and shower. There's yoga classes included in the price as well," notes a regular visitor.
Fishing access: Many cabin properties provide direct fishing access. Near the Cub River Lodge & RV Park, visitors can fish the Cub River. "A special friend has built a cabin right on the river. 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," writes one visitor describing the recreational opportunities.
What campers like
Winter cabin accessibility: While many campgrounds close during colder months, heated cabins remain available. "Cold winter months and you need to get away? Wow we rented a cabin three times this last winter. Great little cabins with bathrooms the hot pools were 100 feet away and a heated swimming pool," explains a guest at Downata Hot Springs about winter cabin options.
Variety of cabin configurations: Cabin rentals vary from basic rustic structures to multi-bedroom units. "My boyfriend and I had stayed in one of the cabins for 2 people. The cabins were clean, came with full shower and toilet. A sink and microwave, coffee pot, and storage. Also had a futon, tv with DVD player," shares a Downata Hot Springs guest about their cozy accommodation.
Affordable prices: Guard station cabins offer some of the most economical options. At Malad Summit Guard Station, visitors appreciate the value: "Bathrooms and developed campsites with plenty of trees and a creek running through it!" The station offers electric hookups, running water, and toilet facilities at rates lower than commercial cabin rentals.
What you should know
Seasonal variations in cabin availability: During winter, fewer options exist but key properties remain open. "It occured to me that since I visited this property a second time that I should get perspective on my earlier spring visit. We had a wet spring so it was a bit muddy in places, gravel on these roads would go a long way in keeping the mud down and the hole smaller," notes a Downata Hot Springs guest about springtime conditions.
Variable amenity levels: Cabins near Preston range from primitive to fully equipped. At Malad Summit Guard Station, "It has picnic tables and a bbq grill and sleeping space inside for a few people." Meanwhile, some commercial properties offer more amenities: "It's small but busy so make reservations, when you check in ask about the steak and soak...so worth it especially if you arrive later and only have a few hours."
Internet connectivity concerns: Rural cabins typically have limited connectivity. At Cub River Lodge, a camper noted: "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." Plan accordingly if staying at more remote cabin locations.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Look for cabins with dedicated children's activities. "Tons to do for the kids. Pancake breakfast was a nice plus for breakfast. Restaurants are close. Marina was close. Lots of activities for all ages," explains a visitor at Bear Lake/Marina Side KOA Holiday, which offers numerous family-focused amenities.
Multiple cabin options for larger groups: For family reunions or larger gatherings, some properties offer multi-room options. "The 1st time we stayed here, we were with a group of friends who rented out the Ranch House. It had 3-bedrooms with 5 beds, a couch that could sleep 3 grown adults. There was a full kitchen and dinning area, another sitting area to visit."
Consider accessibility to supplies: When planning a cabin stay with children, proximity to stores matters. "No sewer, electricity and water at most sites," notes one Downata guest, indicating the need to plan for limited utilities. Others mention: "This is a high recommendation for this great place for families where parents can relax as the kiddos entertain themselves."
Tips from RVers
Seasonal road conditions: Access to some cabin properties requires navigating unpaved roads. "Hard to maneuver in the campground as well as getting up the narrow road," reports a Malad Summit Guard Station visitor with a 28-foot trailer. Consider cabin locations with better road access during winter months or after heavy rain.
Combination cabin and RV options: Many properties allow both RV camping and cabin rental. "We love this campground! There are a variety of ways to camp here, tent, RV, cabins and the set up allows for privacy. It really feels like a resort," shares a visitor about the diverse accommodation options at Bear Lake Marina KOA.
