West Boulder Cabin
4.2720 reviews5242 HWY 89 SOUTH
West Boulder Cabin
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Peak Season rates for cabin rental are $75 per night. Displayed rates do not reflect discounts, taxes, or incremental charges.
About this campground
Nestled at the gateway to Montana's wild heart, West Boulder Cabin beckons adventurers year-round with its perfect blend of rustic charm and modern comfort. Whether you're lacing up hiking boots for summer trail exploration, saddling up for an equestrian adventure, or gliding through winter wonderlands on cross-country skis, this cozy retreat serves as your basecamp for unforgettable experiences. Inside, you'll find thoughtful amenities including electric lights that cast a warm glow, a fully equipped kitchen with electric stove and refrigerator, and a crackling wood-burning stove that transforms chilly evenings into cherished memories.
West Boulder Cabin operates year-round and offers a unique lodging experience within a forested setting.
Historical SignificanceWhile the cabin's walls may not whisper tales of bygone eras, its location serves as a modern gateway to timeless wilderness experiences, continuing Montana's legacy of providing shelter to those who seek solace in wild places.
Weather and SeasonsSummer visitors enjoy the luxury of fresh mountain water on tap from Memorial Day through Labor Day, making meal prep and hydration effortless. As winter transforms the landscape into a pristine wonderland, the cabin becomes a coveted backcountry refuge accessible by snowmobile or ski, rewarding the intrepid with solitude and stunning snow-draped vistas. The changing seasons paint the canyon in ever-shifting palettes, from spring's vibrant greens to autumn's golden aspens.
ElevationPerched at 5,538 feet where mountain meets meadow, the cabin occupies a breathtaking threshold at the mouth of West Boulder River Canyon. This elevated sanctuary offers the perfect balance of accessibility and alpine atmosphere, where the air is crisp, the stars shine brighter, and every sunrise feels like nature's personal invitation to explore.
Natural Features and ScenerySet against a dramatic backdrop where emerald meadows meet towering forests of quaking aspen and stately lodgepole pine, West Boulder Cabin offers front-row seats to nature's grand theater. The snow-kissed peaks of the Absaroka Mountains pierce the sky while the melodic West Boulder River provides a constant soundtrack. This pristine ecosystem serves as home to an impressive cast of wildlife characters: majestic moose browsing through willows, herds of elk traversing ancient paths, and the occasional grizzly bear reminding visitors of the wild's untamed spirit. Above, bald eagles soar on thermal currents while mountain bluebirds add splashes of cerulean to the forest canvas, creating a living masterpiece that changes with each passing hour.
Geological RegionPositioned at the dramatic confluence of meadow and mountain, the cabin stands as your personal gateway to the legendary Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. Here, ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of stunning contrasts: gentle meadows give way to rugged canyon walls, while forests of aspen and lodgepole pine climb toward the snow-etched peaks of the Absaroka Mountains. The West Boulder River has carved its signature through this terrain over millennia, creating a corridor of beauty that serves as both destination and departure point for wilderness adventures.
Campsite details
AccessibilityWinter access may require snowshoes, skis, or snowmobiles for up to one mile. The cabin is locked with combination locks, and guests must bring the code from their confirmation letter.
Sites SizeThe cabin accommodates up to 15 people, making it suitable for larger groups.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers a secluded and quiet setting, with few people present in the adjacent campground during certain times, according to user reviews.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring own firewood, potable water, bedding, cookware, and cleaning supplies. Hard-soled slippers recommended.
Best CampsitesCampsite 001; no other campsites available at the cabin.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
12:00 PM
Stay Limit
Maximum consecutive stay allowed is 5 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum group size for using the facility and adjacent area is 15 people.
Groups
The cabin accommodates a maximum of 15 guests, making it suitable for group use.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin setup separate from the adjacent West Boulder Campground.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Peak season dates: January 1 - December 31, 2025.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov, NRRS Contact Center at 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo mention of walk-up availability; reservations are mandatory.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations outside of arrival dates incur a $10 fee, while cancellations incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of first night's fee if done within 14 days of arrival.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
West Boulder Cabin offers a range of recreational activities suitable for all seasons. "We hiked to the meadows and had to cut our hike short due to grizzly bear sightings. So be bear aware," cautioned one user review. Popular activities include hiking, fishing, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing.
Hiking
Hikers and equestrians can explore trails leading west into the Absaroka Mountains, connecting to a network of trails in the Absaroka-Beartooth Wilderness. "Nice cabin along the Boulder. Porch is great for hanging out and the cabin is roomy," wrote one reviewer who hiked nearby.Fishing
Fishing is available in the West Boulder River, with opportunities to catch Yellowstone cutthroat and rainbow trout. "The spot at the entrance to the meadows made for some great fishing," noted one reviewer.Wildlife viewing
The region is home to moose, mule deer, elk, and grizzly bears, with bird-watching opportunities for bald eagles, owls, Stellar's jays, western meadowlarks, and mountain bluebirds. "Saw a moose in the front yard!" commented one reviewer.Winter Activities
Cross-country skiing and snowshoeing are popular winter activities. "The winter landscape is ideal for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing," according to official sources.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Firewood provided indoors only during winter; guests must bring own wood or collect from forest for campfires.
- Quiet hours are No mention of quiet hours.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential for grizzly bear encounters. Mouse activity noted by users. Winter ice buildup around cabin.
Active alertsNo current alerts mentioned.
Weather forecast
62
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 26%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 2.6 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Livingston Office of the Yellowstone Ranger District (406-222-1892).
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31, 2025.
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not provided. Guests must pack out all trash they bring in, as garbage bags are not available.
Proximity to water featuresSteps away from the West Boulder River; potable water available seasonally at adjacent campground.
Common complaintsSome users noted cleanliness issues related to mouse droppings and previous guests' trash. Challenges with the reservation system and high cancellation fees were also cited.
HostNo host information provided.
Campground Map
5242 HWY 89 SOUTH
Driving directionsFrom Big Timber, Montana, travel 16 miles south on Highway 298 to McLeod. Just past the turn off to McLeod, turn right (west) onto West Boulder Road for approximately 6 miles. It turns into Swingley Road. Drive on Swingley Road for 1.5 miles, then turn left onto West Boulder Road. The cabin is between West Boulder Campground and the trailhead parking area. During winter months, it is advisable to call the Livingston Office of the Yellowstone Ranger District at (406) 222-1892 for local road conditions. Winter access may only be possible by snowmobile, snowshoes or cross-country skis for up to a mile on county road.
The cabin is accessible by car year-round, though a 4-wheel drive vehicle is recommended. During winter months, access may only be possible by snowmobile, snowshoes, or cross-country skiing for up to a mile on county road.Nearby places
Big Timber, Montana - 16 miles south
McLeod, Montana - approximately 6 miles west.
Nearby supplies
Rental camping equipment, such as ice chests, bear spray, and campstoves are available locally in Bozeman, Montana.
Camper Reviews
4.3
20 reviews
West Boulder Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
Overall, user reviews highlight the cabin's excellent location, functional amenities, and cozy atmosphere. However, recurring concerns about mice and cleanliness issues emerged in some reviews.
Review Summaries
Based on 20 reviews
What Campers Love
Many users praised the cabin's quiet, secluded location and modern appliances. "Absolutely amazing! Cabin was clean, appliances worked, no sign of mice," commented one reviewer. "The cabin was right...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Key complaints include cleanliness issues, particularly mouse droppings and odors. "I spent the first hour or so just scrubbing the fridge/freezer out, cleaning up mouse poop," noted one user. Some...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Recommendations include bringing bleach spray for cleaning, extra light bulbs, mugs, drinking glasses, and hard-soled slippers for added comfort. "Bring your own firewood and enjoy the experience,"...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews frequently mention snowshoeing and cross-country skiing opportunities, while summer visitors highlight hiking, fishing, and wildlife observation. Grizzly bear sightings were noted as a...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The directions to get there were pretty vague at the end so we had to drive around a little to find it," commented one reviewer. "Excellent location. Cozy cabin with new appliances, great light, and...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Most reviews pertain to campsite 001 under West Boulder Cabin loop. Positive comments focus on its privacy and proximity to nature, while negative remarks include mouse concerns and lack of...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Guests noted that winter access may require snowmobiles, snowshoes, or cross-country skis for up to one mile. "Be sure to have combination locks," stated one user.
Based on 20 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Reviews highlighted pet-friendly features but also emphasized the importance of cleaning up after pets. "We also picked up a ton of dog poop!!! People need to clean up after themselves and their...
Based on 20 reviewsShow more
Last updated August 10, 2025