How much does camping cost at Mystic Lake Cabin?

Camping fees at Mystic Lake Cabin range from $65/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Mystic Lake Cabin first-come first-served or reservation?

Mystic Lake Cabin accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Mystic Lake Cabin before I book?

Yes! Mystic Lake Cabin has 10 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Mystic Lake Cabin?

Mystic Lake Cabin is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Mystic Lake Cabin?

Mystic Lake Cabin does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Mystic Lake Cabin have?

Mystic Lake Cabin has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Mystic Lake Cabin?

Pets are not allowed at Mystic Lake Cabin. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Mystic Lake Cabin?

Mystic Lake Cabin offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Mystic Lake Cabin?

Popular activities at Mystic Lake Cabin include Hiking, Fishing, Biking, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Mystic Lake Cabin

Q: Can I have a campfire at Mystic Lake Cabin?

Fire policies at Mystic Lake Cabin: Provided firewood is for indoor use only for indoor heating and cooking. Cabin users will bring or gather firewood for outdoor use. Provision of firewood is difficult at all times of year and impossible during the winter months. Burning of Wood Pallets is prohibited. Campfires must be contained within the fire ring adjacent to the facility; no other campfires are authorized. Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it o. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.80

31 reviews

Scenic ViewsPeace & QuietSummer Destination

Featured in:Spring Camping Montana#1 Hidden Gem Campgrounds Montana#3 Fall Camping Montana +5 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,400 ft

Price

$65/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Book on Custer Gallatin National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,400 ft

Price

$65/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Unknown

Pets

No Pets

Book on Custer Gallatin National Forest Official Website

Get Directions

Mystic Lake Cabin

$65.00 - $65.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $65.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

406-522-2520

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Mystic Lake Cabin

45.5411, -110.9194

Nearby places

Bozeman: approximately 15 miles (30 minutes drive to trailhead, followed by hiking or skiing).

Driving directionsThere is no motorized access to this cabin. From Bozeman, MT, drive south on S. 19th Ave. for 5.1 miles to Nash Rd. Turn left (east) onto Nash Rd. Drive 1.7 miles to Sourdough Canyon Road, turn right (south), and drive for 0.9 miles to the Sourdough Canyon Trailhead. From the trailhead, travel south on Trail 454 for 5 miles. Before reaching a bridge, turn left onto Mystic Lake Trail 457. Follow this single-track trail approximately 2.8 miles to Mystic Lake. Cross the outlet of the lake to find the cabin up the hill on the south end of the lake. Alternatively, cross the bridge and stay on Trail 454 for another 5 miles to the cabin. This is the recommended winter route.

Weather at Mystic Lake Cabin

Current alerts(11)

A small corral is present, otherwise stock is not permitted within 100 yards of the cabin.
Bears frequent the area; guests must carefully follow the food storage order for Custer Gallatin National Forest (Click here for more information)
Candles are not permitted inside the cabin
Click here for more information about Custer Gallatin National Forest

Best Time to Camp at Mystic Lake Cabin

Best season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access, longest days, and the fullest range of activities—hiking, backcountry fishing on Mystic Lake, mountain biking on lower trails, and wildflower meadows in full bloom. Expect daytime highs around 60–75°F and cool nights dipping into the mid-30s to mid-40s, with generally dry trails but the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms. Crowds are moderate (weekenders and guided groups), but the payoff is peak scenery, open high-country passes, and excellent stargraz Peak months: July, August, June, September

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.0 / 5

Shoulder season with good trails and solitude; fall scenery implied though less documented.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.

About Mystic Lake Cabin

Mystic Lake Cabin sits in mid-elevation forest within Custer Gallatin National Forest near Bozeman. Managed by the Forest Service, this single rental cabin offers a cozy base for backcountry fishing, hiking, and wildlife viewing with a wood stove, full kitchen amenities, and vault toilets. Summer brings reliable access and long days for exploring wildflower meadows and mountain biking lower trails.

Mystic Lake Cabin provides cabin accommodation in a remote setting accessible only by non-motorized travel. The cabin is equipped for up to four guests and offers a rustic camping experience.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: summer. Summer offers the most reliable access, longest days, and the fullest range of activities—hiking, backcountry fishing on Mystic Lake, mountain biking on lower trails, and wildflower meadows in full bloom. Expect daytime highs around 60–75°F and cool nights dipping into the mid-30s to mid-40s, with generally dry trails but the possibility of afternoon thunderstorms. Crowds are moderate (weekenders and guided groups), but the payoff is peak scenery, open high-country passes, and excellent stargraz Peak months: July, August, June, September

Elevation6400 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin is surrounded by pines and meadows in a landscape shaped by glaciers and volcanic activity. Jagged peaks rise above verdant valleys where evergreen forests transition to alpine meadows. Summer brings wildflowers. Indian paintbrush, lupine, mountain asters. Across the open ground. Mystic Lake reflects the surrounding peaks in its clear water. Black bears, grizzlies, moose, elk, bald eagles, and mule deer all move through the area. Granite faces and hidden cirques mark the geology. Mountain streams run cold from snowmelt.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe cabin is the primary lodging accommodation, featuring bunk beds for up to four people, a wood-burning stove, and basic kitchenware. User reviews confirm the cabin's rustic charm, cleanliness, and adequacy for small groups. 'Even though there are beds for four, it would have been pretty cozy for four adults with gear spread out,' noted one reviewer.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are mentioned.

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay of 5 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Maximum of 4 guests per site.

Groups

No group camping facilities are available.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is not allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online via Recreation.gov, through the contact center, or in person.

AccessibilityAccessibility is limited due to the remote location and the non-motorized access routes. Guests must hike, horseback ride, or use alternative modes such as mountain bikes in summer, and cross-country skis or snowshoes in winter.

Site SizeThe cabin accommodates up to four people, and guests must bring their own gear, including bedding and supplies.

PrivacyThe cabin is secluded, located near the southeastern shore of Mystic Lake and surrounded by pines and meadows.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesGuests should bring headlamps, fire starters, and extra toilet paper. Reviews suggest the cabin is more comfortable for two people despite sleeping arrangements for four.

Need help booking Mystic Lake Cabin?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Mystic Lake Cabin offers a rustic camping experience with limited amenities. As highlighted in the authoritative description, guests need to bring their own drinking water and various supplies, as the cabin lacks electricity and running water. Amenities provided include bunk beds with mattresses for up to four people, a wood-burning cook stove, cookware, dishes, and tableware. Firewood is supplied for the stove, and basic outdoor facilities include a campfire ring and a corral for up to two horses. The outhouse is equipped with a vault toilet. User reviews have confirmed the presence of these amenities, some noting the cabin's clean condition and adequate firewood supply. One review stated, 'The stove warmed the cabin quickly, and plenty of pots, pans, plates, and utensils made cooking straightforward.' Another review emphasized the importance of bringing fire starters and toilet paper as these are not provided.

Fire rings

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

Mystic Lake Cabin offers a diverse range of outdoor activities, including hiking, fishing, biking, wildlife viewing, and winter sports such as cross-country skiing and snowshoeing. The New World Gulch Trail and Bozeman Creek Trail are popular routes, with the Mystic Lake Loop favored among mountain bikers. Anglers can fish for brook, rainbow, and cutthroat trout, while hunters find good opportunities in the fall. Birdwatchers and wildlife enthusiasts may encounter bald eagles, bears, moose, elk, and mule deer in the area.

Hiking

Fishing

Biking

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyProvided firewood is for indoor use only for indoor heating and cooking. Cabin users will bring or gather firewood for outdoor use. Provision of firewood is difficult at all times of year and impossible during the winter months. Burning of Wood Pallets is prohibited. Campfires must be contained within the fire ring adjacent to the facility; no other campfires are authorized. Don't Move Firewood: Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it o

Trash & RecyclingThere is no garbage service. Guests must bring garbage bags and pack out all trash and belongings. User reviews emphasized the importance of removing all trash before departure.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.8

31 reviews

Top-Rated

Mystic Lake Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the scenic beauty, seclusion, and rustic charm of Mystic Lake Cabin. Positive feedback often focuses on the well-equipped nature of the cabin, its cleanliness, and the surrounding trails and wildlife. Common concerns include challenging access routes, especially during winter, and the need for guests to bring essential supplies.

Review Summaries

Based on 31 reviews

What Campers Love

Reviewers praise the cabin’s cleanliness, cozy wood stove, ample firewood, and well-stocked kitchen amenities. The surrounding natural beauty and diverse recreational opportunities are frequently...

Based on 31 reviews

Common Concerns

Negative feedback includes difficulties navigating trails in winter, the shattered glass on the wood stove door (reported by multiple users, but confirmed to still function), and the need for better...

Based on 31 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviews of campsite 001 in Loop AREA MYSTIC LAKE CABIN were overwhelmingly positive. Some reviews noted specific challenges, such as icy trails during winter and difficulties finding the cabin via...

Based on 31 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Tips from users advise bringing essential items like fire starters, matches, and extra toilet paper. Some recommend specific routes for easier access in winter, such as the Sourdough Canyon Trailhead...

Based on 31 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Winter reviews highlight the difficulty of skiing to the cabin, while summer visitors appreciate the trails and fishing opportunities. Snow conditions can vary drastically, as one user described...

Based on 31 reviews

Camper Quotes

1. 'Beautiful cabin located on a backcountry lake. Cabin was surprisingly well stocked with firewood and other amenities we weren't expecting.' - Michael Parker 2. 'Wonderful time at Mystic Lake...

Based on 31 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is limited due to remote, non-motorized access routes. Guests with mobility challenges or knee injuries struggled, as noted in a review about the New World Gulch Trail.

Based on 31 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are not recommended. Guests must remove solid pet wastes within 100 yards of the cabin.

Based on 31 reviews

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Go if

You want a well-equipped mountain cabin for summer hiking, fishing, and wildlife watching near Bozeman.

Skip if

You need winter access or prefer developed campgrounds with multiple site options.

Nearby Campgrounds

5242 HIGHWAY 89 SOUTH, Livingston, MT 59047, USA

Trail Creek Cabin is a remote US Forest Service rental in the Custer Gallatin National Forest near Livingston, Montana. This single backcountry cabin sits in mid-elevation forest and operates seasonally, with winter the standout season for cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and solitude. A wood stove, firewood, and basic cooking supplies make it a cozy base for wildlife viewing and hiking, though navigating the surrounding mix of public and private lands requires attention to signage.