Star Valley Ranch sits in western Wyoming at approximately 6,200 feet elevation, offering a mix of alpine and valley terrain for campers. The area experiences warm summer days and cool nights, with temperatures often dropping below 50°F after sunset even during peak summer months. Cabin camping options range from rustic forest service structures to modern resort accommodations with varying levels of amenities throughout the region.
What to do
Hiking nearby trails: Diamond Creek Guard Station provides an excellent base for exploring surrounding wilderness. "We cheated. It was too cold to sleep outdoors the month we arrived at the Diamond Creek Campground... give us a break, we're from Arizona! The guard station can be rented cheaply through Recreation.gov and it was worth every penny," notes Lisa C., who appreciated the wood-burning stove during cold weather.
Water recreation: Indian Creek offers water activities on Palisades Reservoir. "The lake and backdrop is beautiful and worth the visit. The clay quicksand-like ground close to the lake was fun to play in and explore!" reports Jeni N. Another camper adds, "We put our kayaks and floats right in there...you can peacefully float around for hours."
Mountain biking: Several cabin camping locations near Star Valley Ranch connect to trail systems. According to Brad C., Diamond Creek area offers "Lots of dirt bike/quad trails. Beautiful views. Wish we could have stayed longer." The terrain provides options for both beginner and intermediate riders.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Johnson Guard Station provides a quiet retreat despite some local traffic. Aaron W. notes, "Spent two nights. Slept one night in the cabin other night outside. It rained both nights. Stayed dry both nights...No cell service and no water. Propane stove and electric lights."
Convenient locations: Flat Creek RV Park and Cabins offers easy access to Star Valley amenities. "Quaint place with full hookups and amenities. The wifi worked well," shares Allyse. Another visitor adds, "Really nice people. Helped us out in a jam. Clean bathrooms and showers."
Clean facilities: Cabin rentals in the area maintain good standards. Elizabeth L. from Johnson Guard Station reports, "We absolutely loved this small cabin. It had a fenced area and plenty of room. Bathroom was clean." Visitors consistently mention cleanliness as a highlight of cabins near Star Valley Ranch.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Most rustic forest service cabins have limited operating seasons, typically May through September. Diamond Creek Guard Station visitor Jasmine C. advises, "Make sure to bring your own water." Winter access can be difficult or impossible for remote cabins.
Reservation requirements: Nearly all cabin accommodations require advance booking. Fireside Resort at Jackson Hole camper Sarah J. explains, "We stayed there for three nights to explore Jackson Hole. It was perfectly situated. I loved taking a shower in the showers there. They were so clean."
Wildlife encounters: Cattle grazing occurs in many areas around cabin sites. According to Aaron W. at Johnson Guard Station, "Cows everywhere. Side by sides race up and down the road." Brad C. echoes this: "Only annoying thing when we were there was there was a lot of cattle coming into our camp all the time."
Tips for camping with families
Comfort options: Wolf Den RV Park combines camping with amenities kids appreciate. Michael C. notes it's an "Extremely clean and organized RV park with cabins. Back-ins and Pull throughs. Park is surrounded by mountains. Very very scenic." The park includes a playground area for children.
Water play opportunities: For family entertainment, consider locations near water. At Indian Creek, Chelsie B. shares, "Amazing view, and great fishing access. Many places along the reservoir. Beach front available but be careful of tides."
Food planning: Some cabin locations have no nearby services. When staying at Diamond Creek, Jasmine C. suggests, "You can relax by the fire pit or read a book on one of the two picnic tables provided." Bringing sufficient supplies is crucial for family stays at more remote cabins.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Fireside Resort at Jackson Hole offers mixed experiences. Victoria C. advises, "The thing I didn't appreciate for the price we are paying is trash in our site and others people's pet waste that hadn't been picked up." Rebeca H. counters, "We had one of the premium sites with large trees and we loved it. It felt private enough for us."
Accessibility challenges: Road conditions affect access to cabin camping areas. Joshua W. from Indian Creek warns, "The roads in can be a little tricky without a raised truck and 4 wheel drive when towing a large 5th wheel. But once you pick a spot it is so beautiful."
Weather preparation: Temperature fluctuations demand planning. Debra M. from Wolf Den RV Park explains, "We were traveling from the snow in the Grand Tetons and Yellowstone and wanted to find a place close by with warmer temps. Found this campground on google search. Great view of the mountains from any site and in all directions."
