Camping cabins near Thayne, Wyoming provide year-round shelter options at elevations ranging from 5,600 to 7,000 feet in Star Valley. The area experiences warm summer days with temperatures averaging 75-85°F and cool nights dropping to 40-50°F. Winter temperatures frequently fall below freezing, making cabins particularly valuable for cold-weather visitors seeking shelter while exploring the surrounding Bridger-Teton National Forest.
What to do
Fishing access year-round: Indian Creek offers direct access to Palisades Reservoir with numerous shoreline sites. "The beach and the sunset views over the water and mountains are amazing. It's smallish but you never feel like it's over crowded," notes camper Da J.
Hiking nearby trails: Diamond Creek Guard Station serves as an excellent base camp for local hiking. A reviewer mentioned, "There is a spot to hang your hammock. You can relax by the fire pit or read a book on one of the two picnic tables provided."
ATVing on forest roads: The forest service roads surrounding Johnson Guard Station offer extensive off-road opportunities. "Side by sides race up and down the road. Hike around the cow trails. No cell service and no water. Propane stove and electric lights," reports Aaron W.
What campers like
Wide spacing between sites: At Indian Creek, campers appreciate the room to spread out. "Spacious dispersed camping on the edge of the Palisades Reservoir... There are so many options here!" shares Katherine B.
Clean facilities: Wolf Den RV Park maintains high standards for their amenities. "Meticulously cared for family owned and run campground with log cabins. Many pros to this campground... Nice wide sites, most pull through, clean showers and laundry room," notes deb K.
Mountain views: Flat Creek RV Park and Cabins offers scenic vistas in all directions. "Sweet people and a nice overnighter. Really nice people. Helped us out in a jam. Clean bathrooms and showers. Full hook ups," reports Heather H.
What you should know
Reservations essential: Most cabin facilities require advance booking through Recreation.gov or directly with private operators.
Limited amenities at guard stations: Government cabins have basic facilities. At Diamond Creek Guard Station, "Make sure to bring your own water," advises Jasmine C.
Weather preparedness: Temperature swings require layered clothing and proper bedding. "We cheated. It was too cold to sleep outdoors the month we arrived at the Diamond Creek Campground... With a wood-burning stove, we stayed nice and toasty," says Lisa C.
Road conditions vary: Access to some cabin sites requires careful driving. "The roads in can be a little tricky without a raised truck and 4 wheel drive when towing a large 5th wheel," explains Joshua W. about routes near Indian Creek.
Tips for camping with families
Fenced areas for safety: Some cabins provide enclosed spaces for children. At Johnson Guard Station, one family noted, "We absolutely loved this small cabin. It had a fenced area and plenty of room. Bathroom was clean."
Playground access: Wolf Den RV Park includes play equipment for children. "Has a total of 14 RV sites, all full hook ups with a picnic table, some tent sites and about a dozen cabins. There is a playground and picnic area," reports Debra M.
Bring sleeping pads: Many forest service cabins require sleeping gear. "Bring a nice pad to sleep on for sure. Cows everywhere. Stayed dry both nights," advises Aaron W. about Johnson Guard Station.
Pack extra supplies: Most cabins require guests to bring essentials. "Must bring your own toilet paper, water and mattresses but it's worth the hassle," shares Elizabeth L.
Tips from RVers
Level sites available: Wolf Den RV Park offers properly graded parking. "RV sites are gravel and very level. There is a playground and picnic area. There is a shower house and a laundry," notes Debra M.
Connectivity options: Internet access varies by location. "Great hook ups, reception and even better WiFi. Only cons are that it is just off Hwy 89, but you don't hear road noise at night," reports deb K. about Wolf Den RV Park.
Supply stations nearby: Most private parks offer basic necessities. "The office has ice and some supplies. There is a package store in the front and the town of Alpine is about 10 miles away," explains Debra M.
Year-round availability: Unlike national forest cabins, some private facilities operate throughout winter. Flat Creek RV Park and Cabins remains open all seasons, providing shelter options when forest service roads become impassable.
