Cabin camping near Conner, Montana offers access to the wilderness of the Bitterroot National Forest at elevations ranging from 4,000 to 7,200 feet. The area experiences warm summer days with cool nights and cold winter conditions when some forest service cabins require snowmobile or ski access. Most Forest Service cabins in this region operate on a reservation system through Recreation.gov with booking windows opening six months in advance.
What to do
Fishing access points: Several cabin rentals provide direct river access for anglers. At Angler's Roost On the Bitterroot River, site 15 sits directly on the river according to camper Alexis M., who notes "the campground had access to water and trash. Gas station and store on site."
Winter recreation: The Gordon Reese Cabin and Hogan Cabin areas offer excellent snowshoeing and cross-country skiing from December through March. Miles G. reported that McCart Lookout is "well worth the drive and the short hike up the mountain. Beautiful views from all around the tower. Very peaceful and relaxing."
Wildlife viewing: Seasonal wildlife viewing opportunities abound near forest cabins. One visitor to Hogan Cabin reported: "Saw several deer and elk feeding in the field near the cabin, as well as a moose in the marsh along the creek." Bring binoculars for optimal viewing.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Travellers Rest Cabins & RV Park receives consistent praise for maintenance. Abbas K. reported, "$12 gets you campsite showers and toilets, WiFi and coin laundry. Also really great access to the bitterroot valley if you're into hikin and river activities."
Fishing opportunities: Dedicated anglers appreciate streamside access. Scott H. called Sula Country Store and Resort a "little gem" where "dogs were happy to play in the creek." The resort also features a stocked fishing pond.
Elevated views: Forest Service lookout cabins provide panoramic vistas. Julie P. noted that Gird Point offers views of "three different mountain ranges that you are able to look out and see. Honestly, this is the best thing to wake up to. Talk about picturesque."
What you should know
Reservation timing: Forest Service cabins fill quickly during summer months. Book 6 months in advance for peak season dates.
Water availability: Most remote cabins lack running water. A visitor to McCart Lookout detailed: "Items provided are a coleman latern, a 2 burner propane stove, a wood stove for heat, a bow saw, and an axe." Bring sufficient water containers.
Variable quality: Cabin conditions can differ significantly. Riley G. warned about Woods Cabin: "We stayed in the winter and the fireplaces needed to be refilled hourly to keep it somewhat comfortable. Also all night you could hear mice and some other kind of animal in the ceiling."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly activities: Some cabin sites offer recreational amenities beyond hiking. Trina B. noted that Sula Country Store and Resort has "free put-put golf, horseshoes, tetherball and a small well stocked fishing pond with benches to watch the action."
Sleeping arrangements: Check sleeping capacity carefully. Julie P. reported that Gird Point Lookout "has two beds that you are able to put your sleeping bags/pads on, and the lookout sleeps 4 people. When I went, we did have 4 people and it fit us pretty well."
Meal planning: Store access varies by location. Cande D. noted that Angler's Roost offers a "gas station and store on site," while more remote cabins require complete meal planning with no resupply options.
Tips from RVers
Site sizing: Confirm RV space dimensions before booking. Scott H. found that Sula Country Store and Resort had "plenty of room for our 36' toy hauler."
Seasonal access: Many Forest Service cabin access roads become impassable for RVs during winter months or after heavy rain. Call the ranger district for current road conditions.
Utility connections: RV sites with full hookups are limited to commercial properties. Jim L. notes that Angler's Roost is a "fairly nice park. The people that run the park are very nice. There are cabin right next door."
