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photo credit: Zachary Airtraps

Have you ever wanted to stay in a real frontier cabin in Montana? If you have looked at cabin rentals in Montana then you have probably been surprised at the fact that the majority of them rent for more than $150 per night. Not only that, but many of them are located within walking distance of the next cabin, with limited views and very little to suggest the ruggedness and natural beauty that the state is known for.

However, there is a way that you can stay in authentic Montana cabins for less than $30 per night. In some cases, you can even stay in them for less than $25 per night.

Before the National Forrest Service came about, settlers lived in Montana much like they did in any other state. Communities were far and in between and the homesteads were pretty self-sufficient. Later, when the government bought up land, or had it donated, for the National Forests, many of these older cabins remained. Some were turned into dwellings for park rangers. Others were simply rented out. Today, you can rent out the cabins, too.

You must keep in mind that these cabins are far from luxurious. In fact, many of them do not contain indoor plumbing. You will have to bring in your own bedding, cooking utensils, and supplies. Some of them can be fairly isolated, too, and miles and miles from other structures and even towns.

However, what you will get is a natural setting, an inexpensive place to stay, and a retreat that is a far cry from some of the cookie cutter cabins that you can find in many new developments. Hiking trails, fishing spots, and a variety of natural wildlife are just a sample of what you will find near these cabins.

It’s not just cabins that you can rent, either. In fact, there are also lookouts and fire towers available for rent, too. Remember that fire towers are very high up and not suitable for small children or for people that have trouble climbing. The view from the tops of them, though, is amazing.

Most of these cabins need to be rented pretty far in advance, although the National Forest Service doesn’t allow bookings more than 6 months in advance. Some of them have a maximum stay of a week, while others do not. In addition, although you are able to drive easily up to the front doors to some of them, others will require hiking, sometimes through areas that are known for having grizzly bears.

For hikers and campers, these cabins can be an excellent way of resting indoors after a week or two of being on the trail. For families, they can be a fun way of getting back to nature in a way that doesn’t completely blow the trip’s budget. Artists and writers also enjoy staying in the cabins as a means of getting a personal retreat away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.