Cabins near Cardwell, Montana provide direct access to the Jefferson and Madison rivers, with the surrounding valley sitting at 4,300 feet elevation. Winter temperatures often drop below freezing from November through March, while summer evenings cool significantly compared to daytime highs. Most cabin rentals in this area require advance planning, especially during peak fishing season when availability becomes limited.
What to do
Fishing access: 7-minute walk from Sportsman Lodge to river fishing spots. "This area is popular for fly fishing and the Sportsman Lodge is a 7 minute walk from the fishing access on the river," notes one guest who appreciated the proximity to quality fishing spots.
Explore historic tours: 2 miles uphill from the campground to Lewis and Clark Caverns. "Beware, it's a 2mi hike uphill from the campground if you don't want to drive your RV up the caves," warns a visitor at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park. Cave tours cost extra beyond camping fees and reservations are recommended during peak season.
Hot springs access: Daily passes included with some cabin stays. "We were in a back in site that had a huge yard area and super convenient walking path to the hot springs just feet away," reports a camper at Bozeman Hot Springs Campground. The evening hot springs experience features "propane flames and soft music all around."
What campers like
Cabin privacy: Secluded options at several parks. "We were in Row C in a back-in site with fhu. The lawn behind the sites in C Row were immaculate with green grass, nice stone-lined fire pits and large decorative rocks," explains a visitor about their cabin experience at Bozeman Hot Springs Campground.
Kid-friendly amenities: Playground access in multiple locations. "We camped here with a group of families and the playground was nice for the kids. There aren't many trees and the land is flat but we were able to really keep a decent eye of the kids running around," reports a camper at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park.
Wildlife viewing: Early morning opportunities near cabins. "Deer visited camp at night!" shares a visitor at Missouri Headwaters State Park, who enjoyed watching wildlife during their stay in the cabin area of the park.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Heavy mosquitoes in some locations. "When the sun sets in June and July the mosquitos will come out. They are quite nasty but an hour after sunset they are gone, having a campfire going helps too," notes a camper at Missouri Headwaters State Park about dealing with insects near riverside cabins.
Utilities and connectivity: Variable cell service throughout the region. "One to 2 bars on AT&T or Verizon," reports a camper at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, indicating that while service exists, it may be limited for those needing reliable connectivity.
Reservation windows: Book early for summer weekends. "Check in ends at 9 p.m. The gate closes at 10," advises a visitor at Three Forks KOA Journey, highlighting important arrival timing constraints for cabin guests.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Print activity packets for kids at state parks. "Did you know you can print out a packet for your little ones to become Cub Rangers at this State Park?" asks a visitor at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, suggesting a free activity for children.
Bathroom facilities: Coin-operated showers at some locations. "Bathrooms were clean, showers were good- cost 50¢ per minute with a minimum of 6 minutes, there was a change machine outside the bathrooms," advises a camper about facilities at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park.
Food options: Limited restaurant hours in small towns. "Melrose is teeny tiny, so don't expect several restaurants to choose from. There are 2 and one is closed on Sundays," explains a visitor at Sportsman Lodge, suggesting families should plan meals accordingly when staying in cabin accommodations.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Check leveling requirements at some parks. "Had to use all our jack stands to combat the slope of our site (P007). Others looked much more level," notes an RVer at Lewis & Clark Caverns State Park, indicating the importance of asking about site grade when booking.
Overnight convenience: Easy highway access for single-night stays. "Very handy to all the area has to offer, and the country setting lets you relax and rest peacefully after a long day exploring," shares a visitor at Three Forks KOA Journey. Their cabin sites include "spacious, level" accommodations with reliable hookups.
Weather preparation: Sprinkler awareness for exterior belongings. "I do have one complaint and that is the sprinklers that came on overnight - it soaked the chairs and picnic table by our camper," mentions a guest at Three Forks KOA Journey, suggesting RVers should store equipment appropriately at night.
