Cabin camping near Deer Lodge, Montana offers options between basic Forest Service accommodations and more developed resort properties. Located in Powell County at 4,500 feet elevation, the area experiences cool summer nights even when daytime temperatures reach the 80s. Winter cabin rentals often require snow vehicle access from December through April.
What to do
Hiking trails: Douglas Creek Cabin serves as a convenient base for nearby trails. "We set up a Luggable Loo rather brave the outhouse," mentions one visitor, highlighting the rustic nature of the facilities but noting the beautiful surroundings.
Hot springs access: At Fairmont RV Resort, visitors can enjoy thermal waters year-round. "About 2 blocks from hot spring resort with indoor/outdoor pools, dining & bar," notes a camper who appreciated the convenient location despite finding "limited shade" and "staff not very welcoming."
Fishing opportunities: The Little Blackfoot River offers productive fishing spots near Kading Cabin. One visitor recommends: "A five mile hike leads to Blackfoot meadows a popular fly fishing location. The campground has been recently cleared of its beetle killed trees making the campground much more open than it used to been."
What campers like
Affordability: Many cabins provide cost-effective alternatives to hotels. At Moose Creek Campground, visitors enjoy budget-friendly rates. "It was only $5 per night so it was worth it! The only negative was all the mosquitos," reported one camper who used it as "a nice stopping point between Glacier and Yellowstone."
Wildlife encounters: Natural settings around cabins attract diverse wildlife. One visitor at Douglas Creek Cabin found unexpected neighbors: "The area was very pretty, but had some broken fencing allowing tons of cows to surround the cabin on the morning. Very funny, but a little odd."
Recreation facilities: Boulder Creek Lodge offers entertainment options beyond basic cabin amenities. "After we ate, we went down stairs to the game room and played pool, table soccer and checkers for about 4 hours," shares a visitor who called it their "family favorite" during a month-long trip.
What you should know
Seasonal availability: Most cabins operate with limited winter seasons. Fairmont RV Resort runs from "April 15 to October 15," while Boulder Creek Lodge operates from "May 1 to Nov 21," requiring advance planning for shoulder season visits.
Cabin condition variations: Maintenance differs significantly between properties. "Trip in was easy enough, road was slightly rutted, but nothing intolerable. A couple bunk beds were in the cabin, and it was definitely warm enough to survive," reports a Douglas Creek Cabin visitor.
Water access: Water availability varies by location. At Bernie & Sharon's Riverfront RV Park, campers appreciate the riverside setting: "The location is stunning – nestled right by the river, offering breathtaking views and a peaceful atmosphere. It's the perfect spot to relax and reconnect with nature."
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Seek cabins with additional recreation facilities. Boulder Creek Lodge offers diverse options as one visitor notes: "This campground is small but offers rv sites, cabins, teepees and covered wagons. So far on our month long trip (two weeks in) this is our family favorite!"
Bathroom considerations: Facility quality varies widely between properties. Bernie & Sharon's Riverfront RV Park maintains clean facilities with "a family friendly rec room" and "coin showers with hot water," according to visitors.
Space requirements: Cabin sizes differ significantly between properties. Moose Creek Campground provides adequate spacing between sites, with one visitor noting: "Clean and relaxing. Table and fire ring at each site. Nice creek and very little traffic noise."
Tips from RVers
Hook-up quality: Electrical systems vary between campgrounds. Bernie & Sharon's Riverfront RV Park received praise for reliable utilities: "The wiring held up great, ran both AC's at the same time with no issues. Right when you pull up, someone comes to greet you."
Navigation assistance: Some campgrounds provide arrival support. As one visitor to Bernie & Sharon's noted: "Terry and Mike meet you at your arrival and usher you to your site. We have a 40' w/tow and opted for a pull thru for 1 night."
Winter accommodations: Most cabin options have limited cold-weather availability. While Butte KOA closes October 31, Boulder Creek Lodge remains open until November 21, providing shoulder season options for late autumn visitors seeking cabin accommodations near Deer Lodge.
