Cabins near Missoula, Montana range from basic forest service lookouts to fully-equipped family accommodations with varying amenities and accessibility. Located in the Northern Rockies at approximately 3,200 feet elevation, the Missoula area experiences warm summers with temperatures averaging 82°F in July and cold winters that typically see January lows around 18°F. Most cabin rentals operate year-round, though mountain locations above 5,000 feet often close during winter months due to snow accumulation.
What to do
Fishing access sites: Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground offers excellent creek access for anglers, with one visitor noting the "beautiful creek running along the campground with beautiful Mountain views" and that "fly fishing is very good."
Winter snowmobile adventures: West Fork Butte Lookout provides off-season cabin options for winter enthusiasts. A visitor shared: "When we went it was a winter retreat for us and we had to pay someone to take us up there by snowmobile as we did not feel like renting snowshoes and getting there ourselves."
Nature trails: Beavertail Hill State Park Campground offers walking paths along the river and beaver pond. A camper mentioned, "We did a little exploring by the beaver pond and river. The staff was super friendly."
Family recreation: Granite Peak RV Resort provides multiple recreation options within walking distance of cabin accommodations. A visitor highlighted the "WiFi, hook ups, small & big sites, clean showers, shop with stickers, gym, mini golf" available at the resort.
What campers like
Proximity to water: Many cabins sit near creeks or rivers, with The Holmestead dry cabin offering direct stream access. A guest commented, "This cabin is so lovely, my dogs had a blast playing in the stream."
Mountain views: The Jack Saloon cabins provide scenic mountain vistas and hiking opportunities. A reviewer wrote: "There are several cute hiking trails with gorgeous scenery. Also, the saloon offers good comfort food and beverages."
On-site amenities: Jocko Hollow Campground cabins include practical facilities. A camper noted: "Small camp, has shower, and laundry. I was by a lovely gurgling creek."
Stargazing opportunities: West Fork Butte Lookout offers exceptional night sky viewing from its elevated position. A visitor shared: "It can be a bit of a spooky walk down at night but an amazing view at sunrise."
What you should know
Train noise: Some locations near railroad tracks experience regular train traffic. At Beavertail Hill, a camper reported: "The train mentioned in another review is a pretty big deal breaker though honestly. The tracks are right next to the wall in spaces. And during my visit on a weekday it was about every 2 hours."
Seasonal water notices: Water quality issues may affect some facilities seasonally. At Ekstrom's Stage Station Campground, a visitor noted: "Staff provided jugs of water due to the water boil notice, but we would have preferred a discount from the $53 charge for our no water / no electric site."
Wood stove heating: Forest service cabins typically rely on wood heat rather than electric. A West Fork Butte visitor explained: "Stayed in June and needed to keep the fire going all night for warmth. At the time there was plenty of roughly pre-cut firewood on site, but bring your axe as the one on hand was plenty dull."
Limited water access: Many remote cabins lack running water. A West Fork Butte reviewer mentioned: "No running water but there's a wood stove with plenty of firewood and a pit toilet."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Some cabin locations offer built-in entertainment for children. At Missoula KOA Holiday, one parent remarked: "Playground, pool, mini golf, clean showers, restrooms and laundry! It was great!"
Kid-friendly activities: Ekstrom's Stage Station has multiple recreation options. A visitor highlighted: "There is a basketball court, sand volleyball court, horse shoes and a playground. There's also a beautiful creek running along the campground."
Reservations essential: Family-friendly cabins book quickly during summer months. A KOA visitor advised: "I think some of the other reviews do not paint a quality picture of this place from a child's eye. This is my daughters favorite place. From the bike rental to the playground, putt putt golf, swimming pool."
Pet accommodation: Many cabins welcome pets for families traveling with animals. At The Holmestead, a camper shared: "This cabin is so lovely, my dogs had a blast playing in the stream."
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Carefully research site dimensions when booking. At Granite Peak RV Resort, a camper noted: "Need about 20 foot of sewer hose to reach the sewer drain."
Highway noise levels: Traffic sound affects some locations more than others. A Jocko Hollow visitor mentioned: "Only drawback was highway traffic. But convenient from 93."
Electrical issues: Power supply varies significantly between facilities. At Turah Store & Campground, one long-term resident commented on electrical billing practices that affected their experience.
Store access: On-site stores provide convenient supplies at some locations. An Ekstrom's visitor appreciated that they had a "Great restaurant on site" despite noting that "Campsites are the reason for not giving 5 stars. Very tight and not great space for maneuverability."
