Cabin camping in the Big Horn region provides overnight options between 4,000-9,000 feet elevation throughout the foothills and mountains. Seasonal availability varies significantly, with most facilities closed during winter months due to heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures. Most cabin rentals require advance booking, particularly during summer when temperatures average 75-85°F during daytime hours.
What to do
Wildlife viewing opportunities: At Bighorn National Forest, moose sightings are common, with one visitor reporting "We camped along a stream in a 32 foot RV. We were visited by a mother and baby moose." Pronghorn are frequently spotted at multiple locations throughout the area.
Fishing access: Mikesell Potts Recreation Area offers lakeside camping with fishing opportunities. "Beautiful lake. You can camp next to the lake," notes one camper. The location provides easy water access for both boating and shoreline fishing.
Mountain exploration: Forest Service roads throughout the region provide access to hiking trails and scenic overlooks. "The Bighorns are AMAZING!" writes one visitor who "saw my 1st moose!" while staying at Bighorn National Forest. Multiple campgrounds serve as gateways to mountain recreation options ranging from casual day hikes to multi-day backpacking routes.
What campers like
Cabin variety: Deer Park RV Park and Campground offers cabins with "lovely shady spots" according to one reviewer who appreciated that "they have a pool!" The property features a walking trail where wildlife is commonly spotted.
Privacy between sites: At Tongue River State Park Campground, "spaces are fairly private" and many sites have "immediate access to the water." Another reviewer noted the "wide area for each space" making it "quiet even on a full weekend."
Clean facilities: Guests consistently mention cleanliness as a priority. One visitor to Deer Park noted, "The campground is large, super charming and very clean." At Buffalo KOA, a reviewer highlighted that "showers and bathrooms were clean though" despite some road noise from nearby trucks.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most cabin facilities fill quickly during peak summer months. For Buffalo KOA, one visitor advised they "needed a quick, last-minute spot in December and this KOA was perfect." Off-season availability is limited but possible at select locations.
Cabin amenities vary widely: Some cabins provide basic shelter while others include more comforts. A Buffalo KOA visitor noted their cabin included a "TV with a Roku adaptor" and mentioned "laundry room/shower open 24 hours."
Weather considerations: Thunderstorms are common in summer afternoons. At Sheridan/Big Horn Mountains KOA, one camper mentioned staying "on a rainy/snowy weekend in September" and found the covered picnic shelters at tent sites useful since they were "envious of the tent campers being able to eat outside without getting wet!"
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Lazy R Campground features family-friendly amenities including a bakery that serves breakfast. "Order their homemade biscuits," recommends one visitor. Multiple campgrounds in the region offer playground equipment suitable for various ages.
Swimming options: Several campgrounds provide pools for summer use. One visitor to Sheridan/Big Horn Mountains KOA mentioned "a pool and nice playground for the kids" along with being "pet friendly." Most pools typically operate from Memorial Day through Labor Day, weather permitting.
Spacing between sites: Family groups often appreciate campgrounds with adequate separation between campsites. At Mikesell Potts Recreation Area, sites are "semi-private" with a "park for playing that was a big hit" according to a recent visitor.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Full hookup sites at most locations require advance reservation. One RVer at Foothills Campground noted they "pulled into this small town at 7pm needing a place to stop for the night and they helped us right away. They had a pull through spot with full hook up available for $34 for the night."
Level sites: Several campgrounds feature engineered sites that require minimal leveling. An RVer at Buffalo KOA found "nice and level" pull-through sites, while another at The Lake Stop appreciated "very nice level sites with picnic tables."
Cell service: Connectivity varies significantly throughout the area. A camper at Deer Park reported "We got 3 bars on Verizon" while their WiFi "worked above average." In contrast, dispersed camping areas in Bighorn National Forest typically have "no facilities, stores or cell service. You must be prepared and self sufficient."
Traveler
