How much does camping cost at Strawberry Cabin?

Camping fees at Strawberry Cabin range from $30-$50/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Strawberry Cabin first-come first-served or reservation?

Strawberry 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 Strawberry Cabin before I book?

Yes! Strawberry Cabin has 5 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 Strawberry Cabin?

Strawberry 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 Strawberry Cabin?

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

How many campsites does Strawberry Cabin have?

Strawberry 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 Strawberry Cabin?

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

What amenities are available at Strawberry Cabin?

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

Strawberry Cabin

Q: Can I have a campfire at Strawberry Cabin?

Fire policies at Strawberry Cabin: Don't Move Firewood : Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org .. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.22

43 reviews

Helena Ranger District, 2880 Skyway Dr, Helena, MT 59602, USA

Top 24% in MTWinter

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,100 ft

Price

$30 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Access to the cabin ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Helena Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

6,100 ft

Price

$30 - $50/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Access to the cabin ...

Cell

Unknown

Pets

Check Policy

Book on Helena Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Strawberry Cabin

$30.00 - $50.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $30.00; New increase 2020: $50.00. 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

406-449-5201

I manage this campground

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Campground Map

Helena Ranger District, 2880 Skyway Dr, Helena, MT 59602, USA

Strawberry Cabin

Helena Ranger District, 2880 Skyway Dr, Helena, MT 59602, USA

Nearby places

Helena: 15 miles, approximately 30 minutes by car.

Driving directionsLocated about 15 miles south of Helena. From Interstate 15, take exit 187 for Montana City/MT-518. East on Jackson Creek road for 0.5 miles. Turn right/south onto Johns St (Papa Rays Pizza) and continue onto McClellan Creek road for four miles. Turn right/south onto Warm Springs Creek/Strawberry Lookout Rd and proceed 1.7 miles. Turn right/west onto the Strawberry Lookout Rd, proceed 1 mile to the cabin. NOTE: From October 15th through May 15th the road is closed to motorized vehicles for the last 1 mile so access is walk-in only. Snow conditions only allow driving to within about a mile of the turn to Strawberry Lookout road, thus requiring about 2-3 miles of snowshoeing or cross-country skiing. Snowmobiling is not allowed in this area.

Weather at Strawberry Cabin

Current alerts(13)

Access to the cabin in winter is by snowshoeing, skiing, or dog sledding. Snow conditions only allow driving to within about a mile of the turn to Strawberry Lookout road, thus requiring 2-3 miles of snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.
Access to the cabin starting October 15th is by walking up a closed road one mile to the site.
All garbage and food must be packed out.
Do not leave food or trash outside the cabin.

Best Time to Camp at Strawberry Cabin

Best season: winter. Winter offers the most unique, quiet experience — expect deep snow, panoramic frosted ridges, and near-total solitude above the valley. Typical winter temperatures at 6,100 ft range from around -14°F on cold nights to highs in the teens–20s°F on milder days; travel requires snowshoeing or cross-country skiing (vehicle access closes Oct 15 and reopens May 15). This is prime time for snowshoeing, backcountry ski outings from the cabin, and wildlife tracking in fresh snow, with very low crowds but, Peak months: January, February, March

Best

Winter(Dec-Feb)

3.5 / 5

Top 24% in MT

Quiet, more secluded winter stays but require snowshoe/ski access and winter prep.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Access to the cabin in winter is by snowshoeing, skiing, or dog sledding. Snow conditions only allow driving to within about a mile of the turn to Strawberry Lookout road, thus requiring 2-3 miles of snowshoeing or cross-country skiing.

About Strawberry Cabin

Strawberry Cabin sits in the Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest at mid-elevation, operated by the Helena Ranger District. This small rental cabin offers a wintertime backcountry experience, accessible only by snowshoe or cross-country ski after vehicle access closes mid-October. Guests find a well-stocked shelter with cookware, games, firewood, vault toilets, fire rings, and picnic tables, plus sweeping views of frosted ridges and valley below.

Strawberry Cabin is a primitive, nonelectric cabin designed for up to four guests. It is best suited for those seeking a rustic experience with minimal amenities.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: winter. Winter offers the most unique, quiet experience — expect deep snow, panoramic frosted ridges, and near-total solitude above the valley. Typical winter temperatures at 6,100 ft range from around -14°F on cold nights to highs in the teens–20s°F on milder days; travel requires snowshoeing or cross-country skiing (vehicle access closes Oct 15 and reopens May 15). This is prime time for snowshoeing, backcountry ski outings from the cabin, and wildlife tracking in fresh snow, with very low crowds but, Peak months: January, February, March

Elevation6100 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe Elkhorn Mountains rise across Broadwater and Jefferson counties, where ancient batholiths push through sedimentary layers and create distinctive hogback ridges. Conifer forests mix with aspen groves around the cabin. The calcareous rock and mineral-rich soils support diverse plant and animal life. Elk, deer, and birds of prey are commonly spotted. Trails from the cabin lead into alpine meadows with views across the ridges and valleys below.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe cabin accommodates up to four guests with two twin beds. It is a fully enclosed structure with some comforts, such as a wood stove and basic kitchen supplies. However, there is no electricity or running water.

Programs & ActivitiesNo cultural or educational programs are explicitly mentioned.

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay: 14 nights.

Guests Allowed Per Site

Designed for up to 4 guests.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.

AccessibilityAccess to the cabin requires navigating uneven terrain, and during winter, a 1-mile hike or snowshoe trek is necessary due to road closures. The cabin itself does not have specific features for those with mobility impairments.

Site SizeThe cabin accommodates up to four guests with its two twin beds and small interior space.

PrivacyPrivacy is a major issue at this location. Many reviews mention frequent visitors driving or walking up to see the lookout tower nearby. "Over the two-night stay, we had 22 separate vehicles with multiple people show up," one reviewer stated.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesChoose winter stays for peace and solitude as the road closure limits vehicle traffic. Summer visits will be busier with frequent visitors to the nearby lookout tower.

Need help booking Strawberry Cabin?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

There is no water on site, so guests must bring a sufficient supply for drinking, cooking and washing. The cabin is not wired for electricity. Fuel is not provided for the propane stove or lanterns, so guests should bring a couple of small propane cylinders, as well as backup lighting. An outhouse with vault toilet is located on-site.

Fire rings

Picnic tables

Firewood available

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

The area offers a range of recreational opportunities, including hiking, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and wildlife viewing. The cabin is located near several popular trails.

Winter Activities

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 Flush ToiletsFlush toilets are not available. The site is equipped with a vault toilet, which users have described as being clean and well-maintained.

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 PolicyDon't Move Firewood : Prevent the spread of tree-killing pests by obtaining firewood near your destination and burning it on-site. For more information visit dontmovefirewood.org .

Trash & RecyclingNo trash or recycling facilities are provided. Guests must pack out all garbage and leave the cabin clean for the next visitor.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is mentioned as available but limited. "4G service is available, but you will want to turn off your phone in order to truly enjoy your off-the-grid experience," one reviewer advised.

Trip Planning Tools

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Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.2

43 reviews

Satisfactory

Strawberry Cabin is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews

User reviews highlight the cabin's cleanliness, well-stocked amenities, and rustic charm. However, privacy is a recurrent issue due to the frequent foot and vehicle traffic from visitors exploring the nearby lookout tower.

Review Summaries

Based on 43 reviews

What Campers Love

The cabin is described as clean, comfortable, and well-stocked with essentials such as cookware, games, and firewood. Many visitors appreciated the stunning views and the opportunity to disconnect....

Based on 43 reviews

Common Concerns

The lack of privacy is the most significant complaint. Numerous reviews mention frequent disturbances from visitors driving or walking up to the lookout tower. "It was NOT peaceful to say the very...

Based on 43 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Reviews for Strawberry Cabin consistently mention its cleanliness and well-maintained facilities. However, the high volume of visitors negatively impacts the private, secluded experience many users...

Based on 43 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring your own water, propane, and lighting. A vehicle with high ground clearance is recommended for the rough road. Visitors emphasized the importance of being prepared for winter conditions,...

Based on 43 reviews

Seasonal Insights

The winter months offer a quieter and more secluded experience for visitors who don’t mind snowshoeing or skiing to the cabin. The summer months see significantly more traffic and disturbances due to...

Based on 43 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The cabin may look a bit stark until you open up the shutters and kick back, but once you're there, it is a warm and inviting place." "Over the two-night stay, we had 22 separate vehicles with...

Based on 43 reviews

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Go if

You want a quiet winter cabin experience with snow access and don't mind occasional foot traffic near the site.

Skip if

You need guaranteed privacy, summer vehicle access, or prefer not to snowshoe or ski to your lodging.

Nearby Campgrounds

Park Lake Campground sits at 6,388 feet beside a clear alpine lake in Helena-Lewis and Clark National Forest. The 15-dollar-per-night sites accommodate both tents and RVs, with picnic tables scattered along the shoreline. Reviewers praise the peaceful atmosphere and lake access, though some note crowding during summer weekends and close site spacing during peak times.