Camping cabins near Spencer, Idaho sit at approximately 5,900 feet elevation, positioned near the Continental Divide in the eastern part of the state. This high-elevation location experiences significant temperature variations between day and night, even during summer months. Winter access to many cabin sites requires snowmobiles or specialized vehicles from December through April.
What to do
Fishing at Henrys Lake State Park: The park offers excellent fishing opportunities with some campers noting the exceptional conditions. One visitor mentioned, "Beautiful lake setting, surrounded by snow capped mountains even in July, great fishing, boating, hiking and nature walking" while another called it "a true gem" with "full service spots" that "are a nice size with a great view of the lake."
Paddling at Wade Lake Campground: Located within driving distance from Spencer, this lake has remarkably clear water. A visitor noted: "Crystal clear waters and white sandy beaches – surrounded by mountains in the middle of Montana, this place has absolutely stunning scenery." Paddleboarding and kayaking are popular activities, with one camper emphasizing it's "a bit of dirt road driving" but worth it for "two of the most beautifully colored blue lakes I have seen!"
Hiking near Warm Slough: This free camping area provides access to multiple hiking trails. A camper wrote, "We took a walk around in the surrounding hills, saw tons of cows and what was definitely a grizzly." Another visitor mentioned, "There's also a resident moose!" The area offers varied terrain suitable for different skill levels.
What campers like
Peace and quiet: Many cabin campers appreciate the solitude available at more remote sites. At Warm Slough, a visitor noted it was "quiet and peaceful" and "we spent 2 nights here in between trips to Yellowstone and Tetons due to winter road closures. Great spot to hang out outside of Rexburg."
Cabin amenities at Jolley Camper RV & Cottages: These cabins provide a comfortable base with nice views. A visitor wrote: "Small cottonwood shaded sites adjacent to farmland and Teton views. Clean bathrooms with warm comfortable showers." Another camper noted, "We had full hookup. Ashton is a quaint little town with a hardware store, coffee shop, and a drive-in diner."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cabin sites throughout the region offer chances to observe native wildlife. At Flat Rock, a camper reported, "One near encounter with a bear. Beautiful night sky. Easy access to the river. So clean." The camp host at this site received praise for checking on everyone after brief storms.
What you should know
Seasonal availability varies: Many cabin facilities have limited seasons. At Buffalo Run Campground, a visitor noted they have "seats open while most other places are closed after Oct 1." Most higher elevation cabins close by mid-October due to snow.
Road conditions can be challenging: Some of the more remote cabins require preparation for rough roads. A visitor to Antone Cabin wrote, "It took us a very long time to get to the cabin, and the forest road in was several miles of ruts and herds of cows blocking the road. It took triple the time we expected to arrive."
Services are limited: Stock up before arrival as rural locations have minimal services. A camper at Warm Slough recommended: "Pro tip: don't try to find this location using Apple Maps. iOS will take you to the main road and that's it. Then you have to hunt for the dirt road that goes to Warm Slough."
Tips for camping with families
Water activities for kids: Lakes and rivers provide natural entertainment for children. At Wakeside Lake RV Park, a visitor reported, "My kids loved playing in the lake" and noted the "site was large and shaded by beautiful mature trees."
Space for outdoor games: Look for cabins with open areas for play. At Henrys Lake State Park Campground, a camper shared: "It's a pretty huge campground. We didn't even realize it until we wandered through for an evening walk and saw the entire other section. My kids loved riding their bikes around the campsites."
Wind protection is important: Several campers noted strong winds at higher elevations. One visitor to Henrys Lake State Park warned: "Be advised that the winds can be very strong there, so make sure you stake your tents well." This applies to securing items around cabin sites as well.
Tips from RVers
Electrical capacity varies: Many cabin sites with electrical hookups have limitations. At Wakeside Lake RV Park, a camper noted: "The only thing I didn't love was that we had to share an electrical juncture box with our neighbors. So there was one 50 amp and one 30 amp on the box."
Road access considerations: For those towing RVs to cabin areas, accessibility is crucial. At Flat Rock, a visitor mentioned: "We fit our 33' pull behind easily. Close to the main road so you can hear traffic but it was tolerable!" while another noted it's "right off Hwy 20 easy In and Out."
Check renovation status: Some campgrounds with cabin options are undergoing improvements. A Buffalo Run Campground visitor stated: "This will be a great campground in a few months. With great facilities and a restaurant. Call and see if it's all done."
Ranger
