Cabins are becoming a top choice for folks who enjoy the outdoors or want to simplify their lifestyle. Whether it’s a quiet guest house in the backyard, a weekend spot in the woods, or a compact living space, cabins strike a nice balance between comfort and function.
What draws many people to cabins is the way they bring you closer to nature. Surrounded by trees, hills, or open land, cabins give you a peaceful place to unwind and take a break from daily routines. They’re also a practical way to add more space—ideal for visitors, a vacation rental, or even a home office.
One of the best things about cabins is how many directions you can go with them. There are so many types of cabins to choose from, whether you’re drawn to a classic log design or prefer something more modern and minimalist. From one-room hideouts to full-size models with multiple rooms, different types of cabins allow you to find the perfect fit for your needs, style, and budget.
1. A-Frame Cabins
These cabins stand out thanks to their tall, triangular shape and sharp roof pitch that runs right to the ground. Not only do they look modern, but they also work well in areas with heavy snow, since the steep roof allows snow and rain to slide off easily.
If you’re building in the mountains or planning a cold-weather retreat, an A-frame is one of the smartest types of cabins to consider. They’re cozy, stylish, and well-suited for simple, low-maintenance living.
Pros:
- Modern, clean design
- Handles rain and snow with ease
- Stays warm with a compact layout
Cons:
- Slanted walls limit usable space
- Not much vertical wall area for shelves or decorations
If you’re after a cabin with a unique look that handles harsh weather well and gives you a warm, nature-connected space to unwind, an A-frame might be just right for you.
2. Log Cabins
Log cabins have a long-standing appeal for those who appreciate the beauty of traditional building styles. Constructed from solid logs, they bring a rugged and natural feel that fits perfectly into forested or mountain areas. Their strong structure and rustic charm make them ideal for anyone wanting a deeper connection to the outdoors.
They’re a great fit for mountain retreats, quiet escapes in the woods, or even off-grid living. Among all types of cabins, a log cabin stands out for its warmth, character, and timeless design—whether it’s a weekend getaway or a full-time home.
Pros:
- Great natural insulation keeps it comfortable all year
- Durable construction
Cons:
- Typically more expensive to build than other cabin styles
- Needs regular maintenance to prevent pests, settling, and weathering.
3. Prefab Cabins
Prebuilt cabins are made off-site, then brought to your property either fully assembled or in ready-to-put-together sections. This makes the building process faster and easier compared to building one from the ground up, while still giving you a cozy and good-looking space.
If you’re looking for a simple, budget-friendly way to add a cabin to your land, a prefab is one of the most practical types of cabins to consider. They’re ideal for use as hunting cabins, guest houses, vacation retreats, or even small permanent homes.
Pros:
- Budget-friendly compared to custom builds
- Quicker installation time
Cons:
- Limited customization options
- Needs to be placed on an accessible ground for transportation
4. Modular Cabins
Modular cabins are built in pieces at a factory and then put together at your location. This building style gives you the solid quality of a stick-built cabin, but with a much quicker and more efficient process.
Because of their flexible design, these types of cabins can be customized to fit your needs, whether you want something simple or a layout with more space and features. They’re a great option if you’re looking for a cabin that can grow with you over time.
Pros:
- Customizable floor plans and finishes
- Faster construction and setup compared to traditional on-site build
- Can meet residential codes and energy efficiency requirements
Cons:
- Higher upfront costs compared to prebuilt cabins
- It can take longer depending on the transportation and site preparation
5. Tiny Homes
Designed with efficiency in mind, these compact structures maximize every inch of space without sacrificing comfort or functionality. Perfect for a quiet escape or simple living, tiny cabins offer an innovative solution for those who value quality over quantity.
Tiny cabins are ideal for minimalists, guest accommodations, weekend getaways, or backyard offices. Whether you’re downsizing, simplifying, or just need a peaceful retreat, tiny cabins deliver cozy living with a smaller environmental and financial footprint.
Pros:
- Eco-friendly with small energy use
- Less expensive to build and maintain
- Low maintenance
Cons:
- Limited interior space and storage
- Not great for large families
6. Dry Cabins
Dry cabins are a great choice for people who want a low-maintenance, off-grid lifestyle. Unlike traditional homes, dry cabins don’t have indoor plumbing. That means no running water, sinks, or flush toilets, but they’re still functional and comfortable when planned well.
Many folks choose dry cabins for remote living, hunting camps, or weekend getaways. They offer shelter, warmth, and a place to unplug from modern life. With the right setup, like water storage, a composting toilet, and a nearby bathhouse or outhouse, a dry cabin can be a simple, affordable solution for living closer to nature.
Pros:
- Great for off-grid or remote areas
- Lower cost to build and maintain
- Encourages water conservation and a minimalist lifestyle
- Less complicated permitting in some regions
Cons:
- May require trips to haul water or access bathrooms
- No indoor plumbing
- Less convenient for full-time living without additional infrastructure
7. Hunting Cabins
There’s something about having a hunting cabin tucked away in the woods that makes the whole experience better. It’s not just about having a roof over your head—it’s about having a place to dry off, warm up, and catch some rest after a long day outdoors. For many hunters, a simple, sturdy cabin near their favorite spot is a game changer.
Most hunting cabins are built with purpose. They’re often basic—maybe a wood stove, a few bunks, and just enough space for gear—but that’s all you really need. Others are more dialed in, with electricity, insulation, or even a small kitchen, depending on how far off the grid you’re going.
Pros:
- Great for unplugging, even outside of hunting season
- Safe spot to store hunting equipment, food, and anything else you bring
- Provides shelter when the weather turns rough
- You stay closer to where you hunt—no early-morning drives
Cons:
- You might need a permit depending on your location
- Some remote spots don’t have power or running water
- Building costs depend on how simple or equipped you want it
8. Turn-key Cabins
Sometimes, the last thing you want is to deal with the stress of building something from the ground up. That’s where turnkey cabins come in. These ready-to-go cabins that show up finished, inside and out, so you don’t have to mess with contractors, long timelines, or a bunch of back-and-forth planning.
We build cabins in a way that makes it easy to get started. We handle the plumbing, electrical work, insulation, and interior finishings before the cabin even leaves their lot. Once it’s delivered and placed, it’s just a matter of hooking it up and moving in. Whether you’re thinking about a hunting spot, a weekend hangout, or a quiet place to stay full-time, these cabins make it simple.
Pros:
- No managing multiple crews or timelines
- No construction wait—you get the keys, and it’s yours
- Great option for rural land or second properties
- Everything’s built ahead of time, so quality stays consistent
Cons:
- The complete package costs more upfront than a basic shell cabin
- You’ll need to prep the site—think foundation, electric, and water access
- Once it’s built, there’s not much room to change the layout
9. Finished Cabins
A finished cabin takes the rustic charm of traditional cabin living and adds the modern comforts that make it feel like home. Unlike basic shell cabins, which typically require the buyer to handle the interior work themselves, a finished cabin comes move-in ready. This means it includes insulation, finished flooring, drywall or wood paneling, electrical wiring, lighting, and often plumbing, depending on the model and customization.
These cabins are popular among those looking for a guesthouse, vacation home, hunting lodge, or full-time residence. The beauty of a finished cabin is that it combines the cozy, woodsy look of a traditional cabin with the functionality and comfort of a standard home.
Pros
- Move-In Ready
- Customizable Interiors
- Adds Immediate Property Value
Cons
- Higher Initial Cost
- Less Flexibility After Delivery
- Site Prep Still Required
- Permitting May Be Stricter
10. Shell Cabins
If you’re the kind of person who likes putting your own spin on things, a shell cabin might be right up your alley. These cabins come with the outside completely built—walls, roof, floor, doors, and windows all in place. The inside, though? That’s up to you.
At Montana Structures, we build our shell cabins with expert craftsmanship so you get a strong, weather-tight structure delivered and ready to go. After that, you decide how to finish it. Want insulation, electricity, plumbing, or just a simple rustic interior? It’s your call.
These cabins are a solid choice for weekend getaways, hunting spots, home offices, or just a quiet place to get away. And since you’re handling the inside, you can finish it all at once—or take your time and do it as your budget allows.
Pros:
- Full control over the layout, style, and finish
- You save money upfront by doing the interior yourself
- Use it for whatever you need: a guest cabin, workspace, or retreat
Cons:
- Extra costs for insulation, electricity, plumbing, etc.
- Local permits and code compliance might be required, depending on what you add
- You’ll need the tools (or hire someone) to finish the interior
Montana Structures offers a few styles to choose from, like the Lofted Barn Cabin, Mt. Lair, and the Outfitter. All built to last with features like treated skids and tongue-and-groove floors and ready for you to make it your own. If you like the idea of building out a space that fits you perfectly, a shell cabin’s a great place to start.
Explore the Types of Cabins We Offer
Turn-Key Cabins
We know that no two cabin dreams are the same, and that’s why we offer multiple turn-key cabin styles, each designed to meet different needs, tastes, and property layouts. Whether you’re after something rustic and simple or spacious and versatile, we have a style that fits. Each one is built with care, backed by a 12-year warranty, and delivered move-in ready so you can start enjoying your space right away.
Ponderosa Cabin
If you’re looking for a premium cabin experience without the premium maintenance, the Ponderosa Cabin is your answer. This move-in-ready model is perfect for individuals or families who want a second home or a first one in the great outdoors. With pre-insulated interior walls, a hassle-free exterior, and state-tested plumbing and electrical systems already installed, the Ponderosa lets you skip the build stress and head straight for relaxation. It also features ample storage, making it easy to stay organized whether you’re using it for weekend trips or full-time living.
Granite Peak Cabin
Spacious, functional, and full of rustic charm, the Granite Peak Cabin is the ultimate getaway for families or anyone needing extra room to stretch out. Inside, you’ll find a large front living room and kitchen, a roomy bedroom, and smart overhead storage to maximize your space. It’s designed to feel like a true home away from home, with everything you need to cook, relax, and unwind. Whether you’re planning to use it seasonally or year-round, this cabin delivers comfort and versatility in every square foot.
Dry Cabin
For those who want simplicity and flexibility, the Dry Cabin offers a clean, comfortable space that’s ready for your finishing touches. It includes a spacious living area, designated kitchen space, and a large bedroom, all fully wired for electricity. While it comes without plumbing, that gives you the freedom to set up a water system that fits your needs, whether you’re going off-grid or installing custom utilities. It’s an ideal choice for backyard retreats, guest housing, or peaceful getaways in the woods.
Cabin Shells
We understand that not everyone needs a fully finished cabin right off the bat. That’s why we offer cabin shells, a flexible, budget-friendly option that gives you a solid head start without locking you into someone else’s design choices.
Our prefab cabin shells are ideal for anyone who wants to build out the interior themselves, whether you’re dreaming of a cozy hunting camp, a weekend bunkhouse, or a quiet spot for guests. You get the structure, the porch, the layout, but the inside? That’s up to you. It’s the perfect blend of ready-to-go and DIY freedom.
Mt. Lair Cabin
There’s something special about sitting on a porch at sunset, and with the Mt. Lair Cabin, that’s exactly what you’ll enjoy. This model features a 3-foot-deep full-length porch, perfect for sipping coffee, reading a book, or just taking in the view. Whether you’re tucking it into the trees or setting it up behind your home, the Mt. Lair gives you a peaceful place to unplug and unwind. Inside, you’ve got a blank slate to make it whatever you want—guest room, home office, or your own personal retreat.
The Outfitter Cabin
If you love the look of a classic cabin but don’t want to overspend, our Outfitter Cabin might be the right fit. It has a timeless design, a welcoming front porch, and plenty of potential inside. It’s one of our most affordable shell models, but it doesn’t skimp on style. Customers often choose the Outfitter as a family getaway space or as a rental unit on vacation properties. Either way, it’s a solid, attractive base for whatever you’ve got planned.
Lofted Barn Cabin
Need a little more room to spread out or stash your gear? Our Lofted Barn Cabin has built-in lofts at both ends, giving you extra space for sleeping or storage without adding square footage. It also comes with a 3-foot porch across one side, offering a nice place to relax after a long day. This is a great option if you want to make the most of your vertical space without stretching your budget.
No matter which style you choose, every one of our prefab cabins is built with quality materials and designed for life in Montana. From snow-load-ready roofs to well-insulated interiors, these cabins are made to handle the seasons while keeping you comfortable year-round.
Ready to start your journey toward a weekend retreat, hunting cabin, or full-time tiny home? Let’s make it happen. Reach out today to learn more or schedule a visit to see one in person.