Cabin camping near Red Lodge, Montana provides rustic accommodations at the base of the Beartooth Mountains, with elevations ranging from 5,500 to over 7,000 feet. The area receives significant snowfall from November through April, with summer temperatures typically ranging from 45°F to 80°F. Most cabin rentals in this region remain accessible from late May through early October, when road conditions permit travel on the scenic Beartooth Highway.
What to do
Explore Beartooth Highway: The 68-mile Beartooth Highway offers spectacular mountain views accessible from cabins near Red Lodge. A visitor at Red Lodge KOA noted, "Beartooth hwy was undescribable! Amazing views. Close to Red lodge. It's not perfect by no means but felt safe."
Visit downtown Red Lodge: The historic mining town features local shops, restaurants, and museums within walking distance of several cabin options. A guest staying at Perry's RV and Campgrounds mentioned, "Short drive into the town, which is worth a visit! Very cute."
Go horseback riding: Cabins with equestrian facilities provide direct trail access to Forest Service land. According to a review of Meyers Creek Cabin, "The trails into the forest service are endless in a couple different directions. There is also a vault toilet for day travelers."
What campers like
Private creek access: Many cabins sit adjacent to Rock Creek or other mountain streams, providing natural water features. A camper at Perry's RV and Campgrounds shared, "Nice tent sites give you a primitive feel and are right on the heavy flowing Rock Creek making sleeping nice."
Clean, well-maintained facilities: Most cabin sites feature regularly serviced amenities despite remote locations. One visitor to Cody KOA reported, "The grounds were well maintained and was an overall nice atmosphere. Connectivity was good."
Winter accessibility: Some cabins remain open year-round with heating options for cold weather stays. A reviewer mentioned, "The cabins at Red Lodge KOA include amenities like beds, small refrigerators, and microwaves, with access to shared bathroom facilities."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Forest Service cabins book months in advance, especially during peak summer season. A reviewer for Sunlight Rangers Cabin advised, "You do have to call ahead of time to make your reservations because they do not take walk-ins."
Cash-only policies: Several smaller cabin rental operations don't accept credit cards. A visitor at Perry's RV and Campgrounds noted, "This is a cash only campground!"
Cleaning responsibilities: Most cabins require guests to clean before departure. A Sunlight Rangers Cabin guest explained, "You also are responsible for cleaning the cabin before you leave- they did tell us that you will be charged if you leave the place a mess."
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly amenities: Several cabin sites offer dedicated children's facilities. A visitor to Red Lodge KOA shared, "Safe and clean sites with lots of fun things for the kids! Pool is great with showers close by. Super fun campground to explore!"
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cabins located in more remote settings provide chances to see local wildlife. At Deer Creek Cabin, a camper noted, "There is a family of very large owls. This is bear country, act accordingly."
Supply planning: Most cabins require bringing specific items that aren't provided. A Sunlight Rangers Cabin visitor advised, "You do need to bring your own food and supplies because the campground does not provide that. You also need to bring your own sheets and sleeping bags."
Tips from RVers
Access limitations: Many forest service cabin roads have size restrictions for vehicles. According to a reviewer at West Bridger Cabin, "It's a bit of a tight squeeze to get a big horse trailer in there I would not recommend anything much over 30 feet."
Alternative cabin options: RV parks often offer cabin rentals with more accessible amenities than remote options. A visitor to Cody KOA explained, "Sites are set up with alternating hookups so you are not picnicking over your neighbors dump hose. Most sites have a paved patio as well."
Seasonal considerations: Mountain roads leading to cabins can become impassable during spring snowmelt or after heavy rain. A West Bridger Cabin camper shared, "The road in wasn't terrible, a little rutted past the gate up to the cabin, but easy enough to manage."
