Lost Horse Cabin
3.9711 reviews2880 Skyway Drive, Helena Ranger District, Helena, MT, 59602
Quick Facts
5,200 ftPrice
$60/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Quick Facts
5,200 ftPrice
$60/night
Booking
Reservable
Sites
1 campsites
Season
Year-round
Cell
Unknown
Pets
Not Allowed
Lost Horse Cabin
$60.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
$60 per night for cabin rental. Additional fees may apply for reservations made online ($8), through the contact center ($9), or in person ($3).
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
Total Campsite Fees$0.00
Get Notified When Available
We'll monitor this campground and alert you the moment sites become available.
Free with account · Checks every 2 minutes
167,000+ sites monitored · Email, SMS, or in-app notifications
Share this campground
Recreation Dot Gov
Provider406-449-5201
What Campers Say
3.97
Mixed Reviews
Based on 11 reviews
Most mentioned
cleanspacious
"User reviews highlight the Lost Horse Cabin's secluded location, spacious interior, and ample amenities, but note recurring issues with the wood stove and mice infestation. The cabin is widely regarded as a good retreat for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, especially in fall and winter."
Fees & Passes at Lost Horse Cabin
$60/night
Campsite fees
Cancellation: Cancellations made more than 14 days prior to arrival incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first n...
Prices verified November 24, 2025
Prices may vary by season and site type. Always confirm current rates on the official Helena Ranger District, Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest website.
Best Time to Camp at Lost Horse Cabin
Winter transforms Lost Horse Cabin into a snow-laden wonderland, where access becomes an adventure in itself—snowmobiles carve paths through pristine powder as you journey to your cozy mountain refuge. When summer arrives, the landscape bursts with life, revealing hidden trails that wind through wildflower meadows and ancient forests, perfect for day-long explorations and sunset hikes.
Spring (Mar-May)
Wildflowers bloom, mild temperatures, fewer crowds. Great for hiking and photography.
Best
Summer (Jun-Aug)
Peak season with warm days. Most facilities open. Reserve ahead.
Fall (Sep-Nov)
Beautiful fall colors, cooler temps, quieter campgrounds. Ideal for peaceful trips.
Winter (Dec-Feb)
Snow activities available. Some facilities may close. Check conditions.
Planning Tips
- Peak Season: January 1st to December 31st. Book 2-3 months ahead.
- Operating Season: Open year-round. Snowmobiles allowed from December 2nd to May 15th.
- Current Alerts: The wood stove currently experiences issues with smoke leakage, and extreme mice infestation has been reported. Snow conditions may affect vehicular access.
About Lost Horse Cabin
Nestled deep in the Helena Ranger District's pristine wilderness, Lost Horse Cabin beckons adventurers seeking an authentic Montana backcountry experience. This charming rustic retreat, tucked away on protected public lands, serves as your personal basecamp for exploring untamed forests and discovering the solitude that only remote mountain country can provide.
Lost Horse Cabin provides a rustic and secluded cabin experience in the Divide Mountains of Montana, catering to adventurers seeking access to hiking, wildlife, and historical exploration.
Historical SignificanceSince joining the Forest Service family in 2017, Lost Horse Cabin has become a window into Montana's storied past. Scattered throughout the surrounding wilderness, weathered mining relics tell silent tales of fortune seekers who once called these mountains home, offering modern visitors a tangible connection to the region's gold rush heritage.
Weather and SeasonsWinter transforms Lost Horse Cabin into a snow-laden wonderland, where access becomes an adventure in itself—snowmobiles carve paths through pristine powder as you journey to your cozy mountain refuge. When summer arrives, the landscape bursts with life, revealing hidden trails that wind through wildflower meadows and ancient forests, perfect for day-long explorations and sunset hikes.
ElevationPerched at 5,200 feet in the rugged embrace of the Divide Mountains, the cabin offers that perfect high-country atmosphere where crisp mountain air invigorates your senses and expansive views reward every uphill trek.
Natural Features and SceneryA babbling intermittent creek serves as your soundtrack at Lost Horse Cabin, its seasonal waters dancing past your doorstep through a cathedral of towering firs and pines. This living landscape pulses with wildlife—black bears forage through berry patches, majestic elk bugle across valleys, deer bound through forest clearings, and elusive mountain lions patrol their ancient territories, reminding visitors they're guests in a thriving ecosystem.
Geological RegionThe Divide Mountains cradle Lost Horse Cabin at 5,200 feet, where dramatic ridgelines give way to dense coniferous forests of aromatic fir and stately pine. Intermittent streams carve gentle valleys through this elevated terrain, creating diverse habitats for upland birds that fill the air with song. This remarkable ecosystem supports an impressive cast of wildlife characters—from powerful bears and graceful elk to nimble deer and secretive mountain lions—all thriving in their natural mountain sanctuary.
Advertisement
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is not wheelchair accessible. Access during winter requires snowshoes, skis, or snowmobiles for up to 2 miles due to road closures.
Sites SizeThe cabin is described as spacious and able to accommodate up to 8 people inside, with additional room for three full-sized vehicles nearby.
Sites PrivacyThe cabin offers high privacy due to its remote location. The nearest significant road is 0.3 miles away, and the area is surrounded by forest.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesWinter visitors should prepare for cold nights and challenging snow conditions; parking at the gate and walking to the cabin is recommended.
Best Campsites
Curated by campers, for campers
Reveal picks
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
2PM
Check-out
11 AM
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 8 people
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle cabin layout.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Snowmobiles allowed from December 2nd to May 15th.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made via Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityFirst-come, first-served availability between June 20th, 2025, and June 21st, 2025.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made more than 14 days prior to arrival incur a $10 fee plus forfeiture of the first night's fee. Cancellations within less than 14 days also incur the $10 fee and loss of the first night's fee.
Accomodation available
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
Fire rings
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Lost Horse Cabin provides access to a wide range of outdoor activities suitable for varying seasons. Popular activities include hiking, hunting, photography, exploration, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing. The nearby road system offers opportunities for scenic drives and OHV use in warmer months, while the surrounding forest and wildlife attract hunters and nature enthusiasts.
Hiking
Hiking opportunities abound around the cabin. Notable trails include ridgeline hikes that offer views of the Continental Divide. Some trails are remote and sparsely marked, ideal for experienced hikers.Biking
Mountain biking is possible on the extensive road systems south and east of the cabin. Trails vary in difficulty, and off-highway vehicles are also permitted in some areas during summer and fall.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing near the cabin includes chances to see black and grizzly bears, mule deer, elk, mountain lions, and upland bird species. Encounters are more likely during quiet exploration of the forest.Cultural and Educational Programs
The area includes old mining relics accessible via nearby road systems, offering historical interest. Exploration of these sites may require a high-clearance vehicle or OHV.Winter Activities
During winter, the cabin and surrounding area support activities such as snowshoeing, skiing, and snowmobiling. The road to the cabin is snow-covered and open to snowmobiles from December 2 to May 15. The terrain makes it a popular destination for winter sports enthusiasts.Advertisement
Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
- No firewood guaranteed; guests encouraged to source firewood locally to prevent the spread of pests.
- Quiet hours are null
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include exposure to hantavirus from mice and encounters with wildlife such as bears or mountain lions.
Active alertsThe wood stove currently experiences issues with smoke leakage, and extreme mice infestation has been reported. Snow conditions may affect vehicular access.
Weather at Lost Horse Cabin
34
°F
Dec 7
Sunday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 72%
High humidity, may feel muggy
Wind: 6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
Weather History
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Detailed 7-Day Forecast
Powered by AI weather analysis
Reveal forecast
Emergency Services
Emergency services located in Helena approximately 35 miles from the cabin.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1st to December 31st
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash and food. Trash and recycling services are not provided on-site, emphasizing the need for campers to bring garbage bags.
Proximity to water featuresCabin sits along a small intermittent creek.
Common complaintsRecurring complaints include smoke leakage from the wood stove, difficulty heating the large cabin, and mice infestations.
Hostnull
Campground Map
2880 Skyway Drive, Helena Ranger District, Helena, MT, 59602
Driving directionsFrom Helena: take I-15 north for 5 miles and take exit 200 for Lincoln Road/County Rd 453 and turn left onto Lincoln Road/County Rd 453. Stay on Lincoln Road/County Rd 453 for 13 miles. As you pass through Canyon Creek, take a slight left off the main road, onto Little Prickley Pear Road (gravel road). In one-half mile, turn right to stay on Little Prickley Pear Road, continue 7.5 miles. Then, turn left onto Lost Horse Creek Road (gravel road) and continue 1.3 miles. Turn right at the ‘Y’ in the road, onto Anderson Road and continue straight for 1.4 miles (through the unlocked grey gate) to the green gate on the right side of road. The cabin entrance code unlocks the green gate. Close and lock the gate behind you and proceed through the gate 0.3 miles to the cabin. NOTE: During the winter season, customers will likely not be able to drive all the way to the cabin. The main road is plowed to the 'Y' described above. The rest of the way (1.7 miles) is accessible by foot, ski, snowshoe, dog sled or snowmobile. The area is open to snowmobiles 12/2 to 5/15. Do not leave unattended vehicles parked on the main roads.
The cabin is typically accessible by car, but heavy snow can close the last 2 miles during winter. Access to the cabin during winter requires snowmobiles, snowshoes, skis, or dog sleds for the final stretch.Nearby places
Helena: 35 miles (approximately 45-minute drive)
Nearby supplies
No commercial stores or services are near the cabin
all supplies must be brought in by campers.
Reviews from booking and map sources
4.0
11 reviews
Lost Horse Cabin has mixed reviews, placing it in the bottom 85% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews highlight the Lost Horse Cabin's secluded location, spacious interior, and ample amenities, but note recurring issues with the wood stove and mice infestation. The cabin is widely regarded as a good retreat for adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts, especially in fall and winter.
Review Summaries
Based on 11 reviews
What Campers Love
Common praise includes the cabin’s spaciousness, cleanliness, proximity to national forest land, and well-stocked amenities such as cookware and a functioning Coleman stove. The surrounding area’s...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Major complaints include the wood stove leaking smoke, making it difficult to heat the cabin in winter. A significant mouse infestation has been reported, with users encountering mice on beds and...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors recommend bringing extra propane cylinders, headlamps or portable lights, mouse-proof containers for food storage, and warm layers for winter stays. During winter, travelers are advised to...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews are mixed, with issues regarding the wood stove and heating being prominent. However, the snow-covered landscape and winter activities like sledding and skiing were appreciated. Summer...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The cabin is very spacious and well stocked with cooking supplies." - Janice H. "Be prepared for a cold night without heat if the stove is not fixed." - Chris P. "The access to the cabin itself is...
Based on 11 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site-specific reviews indicate that the Lost Horse Cabin is ideal for those seeking seclusion and outdoor adventure. However, issues with the wood stove and mice detracted from some experiences.
Based on 11 reviewsAccessibility Features
The cabin is not accessible for individuals with mobility impairments due to its remote location and the final access stretch being unmotorized during winter.
Based on 11 reviewsCamper Reviews by Outdoorithm campers
0
0 review
1
2
3
4
5
Last updated November 24, 2025
Advertisement