Cabin accommodations near Florence, Montana range from rustic forest service lookouts to modern RV resort cottages. The area sits at elevations between 3,200-5,000 feet along the Bitterroot Mountain range, creating varied camping conditions depending on season and location. Winter access to some cabin sites requires additional preparation as snowfall can make roads impassable without proper equipment.
What to do
Creek exploration: Lolo Hot Springs RV Park & Campground offers excellent water access. "Spacious. Water and electricity hook up only. Bring a portable RV waste tank to the pump out station," notes one visitor. The creek provides a natural playground during summer months.
Hot springs soaking: After setting up at your cabin, cross Highway 12 to visit the mineral baths. A camper described, "The Hot Springs are $15 and worth the relaxation. This is old Montana so don't expect fancy, but unique." The indoor mineral bath maintains 106°F while the outdoor pool stays around 86°F.
Mini golf and recreation: Several cabin locations include family activities. At Granite Peak RV Resort, guests appreciate the "mini golf, horse shoes, pool, dog park" amenities. Though some reviews note the mini golf course is showing age with "rotten wood and holes all ruined."
What campers like
Mountain views: The West Fork Butte Lookout cabin offers panoramic vistas. "This is my favorite lookout that I have been to so far. The price was very cheep for what you get and they stay open late into the fall season," reports one visitor. Winter access requires snowshoes or snowmobile transportation.
River access: Waterfront cabins remain popular choices. At Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground, visitors enjoy "beautiful setting with big trees, and very quiet" surroundings. Another camper noted the "beautiful creek running along the campground with beautiful Mountain views."
Historical ambiance: The cabin options near Florence include restored structures with character. "Fun bar, easy atmosphere and convenient cabins," writes one guest about The Jack Saloon, which features "4 cabins and a bar on site" with "several cute hiking trails with gorgeous scenery."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Cabin availability varies significantly by season. The West Fork Butte Lookout requires advance planning as it's "the closest you can get to overlanding without... overlanding." Visitors need to "be prepared to pack your sleep goods in from the parking spot, about 1/4 mile-ish."
Limited services: Most remote cabins lack utilities. "No running water but there's a wood stove with plenty of firewood and a pit toilet," explains one West Fork Butte visitor. Even at developed sites, guests should verify exact amenities before arrival.
Weather preparedness: Mountain cabins experience temperature fluctuations. One visitor noted staying "in June and needed to keep the fire going all night for warmth." Winter visitors must prepare for snow conditions, as some cabins remain accessible only by "renting snowshoes" or arranging transportation.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Beavertail Hill State Park Campground offers unique lodging. "The tipis were a lot of fun to sleep in! The river trail was beautiful to walk," writes one family. The park includes a nature trail and clean bathrooms that visitors describe as "excellent."
Wildlife viewing: Children enjoy animal encounters around cabins. One campground features "three very large bunnies that roll around the campground." Another visitor mentioned viewing deer from their cabin window.
Budget considerations: Cabin pricing varies widely. Basic state park accommodations cost less than resort cabins with electricity and plumbing. Some locations charge additional fees—one parent noted "kids are $10 extra per night" at certain properties.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When booking cabin locations with RV sites, check sizing carefully. "We paid for a deluxe extra wide site" but found "if I moved over my slide wouldn't open all the way due to the power box," reports one RVer at Granite Peak.
Utility connections: Hookup locations can create challenges. One RVer advised needing "about 20 foot of sewer hose to reach the sewer drain" at certain sites. This varies by property, with some cabins offering full connections while others provide only partial hookups.
