Camping at Mystic Lake Cabin Campground

Overview of Mystic Lake Cabin Campground

Mystic Lake Cabin Campground is located in the Custer Gallatin National Forest in Montana, USA. It is a popular destination for camping, hiking, fishing, and a variety of other outdoor activities. The campground is situated near Mystic Lake, which is the largest and deepest lake in the Custer Gallatin National Forest.

Camping Facilities

Cabin Rental:

• The site features a historic cabin that was originally built in the early 1900s. This cabin can be rented and provides basic amenities for a rustic backcountry experience. It typically includes beds or bunks (without bedding), a table, chairs, and a wood stove for heating and cooking.

Campsite Features:

• While primarily centered around the cabin, the area may also have outdoor fire pits, picnic tables, and potentially toilet facilities. However, it is important for visitors to check the specific amenities available at the time of booking.

Access and Transportation

• The campground can be accessed by trail, and it usually requires a hike to get to the cabin. Depending on the season, the trails can be covered in snow, and access might be more challenging.
• Visitors are encouraged to check trail conditions and access restrictions before their trip, especially considering the potential for seasonal closures due to snow or other weather-related issues.

Activities and Recreation

• Hiking: There are several trails for hikers of all levels, including the trail to Mystic Lake itself.
• Fishing: Mystic Lake offers opportunities for fishing, and it is known for its cutthroat trout.
• Boating: Non-motorized boating is allowed on Mystic Lake, making it an excellent location for kayaking or canoeing.
• Wildlife Viewing: The surrounding forest is home to a wide variety of wildlife, including elk, deer, and bears. Wildlife viewing is a popular activity, but visitors should be aware of safe wildlife practices, especially in bear country.

Important Considerations

Bear Safety:

• This area is bear country, so proper food storage and bear safety precautions are essential.

Leave No Trace:

• Visitors are expected to adhere to Leave No Trace principles to minimize their impact on the environment.

Reservations and Permits:

• The cabin often requires reservations, which can be made through the National Recreation Reservation Service. Additionally, visitors should check if any permits are required for activities such as fishing.

Weather and Seasonal Information:

• The region can experience significant weather changes, and snow can be present late into the spring and early in the fall. Visitors should prepare accordingly and always check the forecast before setting out.

Pack-In, Pack-Out:

• Since the cabin rental is in a remote location, visitors must pack in all their supplies and pack out all their trash.

Making a Reservation

To reserve the Mystic Lake Cabin or a campsite in the Custer Gallatin National Forest, visitors can go to Recreation.gov or contact the local ranger district for availability and booking details. It's vital to plan ahead, especially during peak seasons, as the cabin and campsites can be in high demand.