Cabin camping near Siyeh Bend, Montana provides access to both east and west sides of Glacier National Park. Located along the Going-to-the-Sun Road at an elevation of 5,844 feet, the area experiences dramatic seasonal weather changes with heavy winter snowfall often lasting into June. Winter cabin rentals can be challenging to find as many properties close after September due to weather conditions.
What to do
Scenic day hikes from cabins: At Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast, visitors appreciate the strategic location. "This was the perfect place for us during our visit to Glacier National Park. The hosts were very kind and there is a gift shop onsite," reports one camper. Most cabin accommodations are within 10-15 minutes of trailheads.
Winter activities: While most cabin rentals close seasonally, Johnson's Campground & RV Park offers year-round cabin availability depending on road conditions. Some cabins remain accessible through the winter months. "Johnson's Campground is conveniently located near the east entrance of Glacier National Park. I love staying here because I can get up early and get into the park, up to Logan's Pass, before the crowds begin to filter in," one visitor notes.
Water recreation: Lakefront cabin options at Lake Five Resort provide immediate water access. "Located right on a lake just a few miles from the west entrance to the park, there are accommodations to fit everyone's needs. Cabins, some with bathrooms, some with kitchens, RV sites, and tipis," a reviewer explains. Rental equipment including kayaks and paddleboards is available on-site.
What campers like
Less crowded locations: Some cabin options provide quieter alternatives to busy park accommodations. At Divide Creek Campground, "The river side campground that we stayed at was private and stunning! We would stay here again in a heartbeat," according to one visitor. Several cabins offer creek or riverside settings.
Alternative to tent camping: Cabins serve as a weatherproof option when conditions turn challenging. "We almost cancelled our trip to Glacier due to the current forest fires that have closed some of the park. We decided to take a chance on it though, and stayed just outside the west entrance of the park, at the privately owned Glacier Campground. We decided, given possible problems with smoke and haze, to rent one of their camper cabins instead of tent camping," a camper reports.
Evening activities: Many cabin accommodations offer structured evening programs. "The staff is extremely friendly. Wifi, showers, community campfires, and laundry. Not to mention it's a super close drive to Glacier National Park," notes a visitor to Moose Creek RV Resort. West Glacier properties typically offer more organized activities than east side locations.
What you should know
Shower token systems: Many properties use pay-per-use shower systems. "Showers are on token base, 1 token for 6 minutes. It's either really hot or really cold, no in between," reports a camper at Johnson's Campground. Most cabin rentals provide one token per person per night.
Cell service variability: Connectivity differs dramatically between east and west sides. "Zero ATT coverage. Verizon is just ok. Only internet is at office, you have to be sitting just outside the office to get 1 bar of WiFi reception," explains a visitor to Johnson's Campground. Properties near West Glacier typically offer better connectivity.
Limited electrical outlets: Cabin designs often feature minimal power options. "The cabins are rustic (think summer camp) but clean. They have very limited outlets! One in the main room, used for the fridge and fan, and one in the bathroom, so don't plan on charging your devices," advises a Lake Five Resort guest. Consider bringing power strips or portable batteries.
Tips for camping with families
Group-friendly options: Apgar Group Sites offer designated areas for larger family gatherings. "Group sites: you must have at least 10 people to stay here. Booked for a family reunion, was a nice layout. Site is wooded and shady. Facilities modern but still basic. Tons to do nearby for all ages and interests, including ranger programs short walk away," a camper explains.
Wildlife education opportunities: Cabin stays put families closer to wildlife viewing areas. "Wildlife passes through frequently, and we were able to see a moose walking through the woods right next to our site," notes a visitor to Johnson's Campground. East side cabins generally provide more wildlife viewing opportunities.
Room configurations: Cabin sleeping arrangements vary widely across properties. "We loved this campground. The staff were helpful and they had a variety of sites. We had an asphalt pad, but some were gravel. There were tent spaces as well," reports a visitor to Moose Creek RV Resort and Bed & Breakfast.
Tips from RVers
Bear safety considerations: West Glacier KOA Resort features enhanced wildlife protection. "My wife really enjoyed the fact that it had an electric fence around the perimeter to try and preclude wildlife from entering the park area. It keeps everything out, so you won't see deer walking through your campsite. But at the same time you don't have to worry about a bear trying to steal your stuff," reports an RVer.
Cabin heating limitations: Most basic cabins lack adequate heat for shoulder seasons. "Beginning off season, pull through site with water and electric. Uncrowded, convenient, but close to highway so a bit noisy. Bathrooms could use some heat and attention," notes a visitor to Moose Creek RV Resort in October.
Reservation flexibility: Policies for changing cabin reservations vary widely. "We refunded them the time we did not spend in the site. That is very unexpected. No one should expect that. The staff went way beyond expectations when helping us deal with our reservation issues," reports a visitor to Glacier Campground, highlighting their flexible approach.
