About
Johnny Sack's Cabin is perhaps one of the most photographed sites at Island Park—and there's a good reason for that!
This simple home sits on the waterfront with a water wheel, creating serene and majestic experience. Many people come to see its unique craftsmanship featuring stones and logs.
When I visited the cabin, I was first struck by just how beautiful it really is.
An interesting fact is that it took Johnny three years to build using hand tools. He built the structure itself and the water wheel that is next to the spring.
It’s incredible to think that wheel was critical to creating a level of power to help with the operation of the region, including the creation of electricity on the property. While the park has renovated the cabin periodically, they did so with great attention to detail.
The cabin is 20 by 27 feet with two bedrooms on the upper floor. The stone Johnny used is native granite, adding to the allure of a visit.
I highly recommend making some time to stop by Johnny Sack’s Cabin and soak in the serene history! This is definitely a one-of-a-kind Yellowstone experience.
Johnny Sack's Cabin: Fun Facts & Cool Features
Interestingly the property was first leased by Johnny Sack in 1929. He leased the small tract of land with the goal of living there without realizing just how amazingly beautiful and lush the area is.
Over the years, the cabin has become synonymous with visiting Yellowstone National Park.
In fact, in 1979, the cabinet became a part of the National Register of Historic Places, so it will be maintained for visitors for years to come. Currently, it’s maintained by the United States Forest Service.
Currently, Johnny Sack’s Cabin is what would be considered a typical vacation home from the 1920s through the 1950s. People would build these types of properties to have a rustic charm with a mountain life getaway.
What makes this location so different is Johnny’s excellent craftsmanship. You can tell, even with an untrained eye, that it’s truly a unique and special spot!
Getting There
Getting there is about a five-mile drive to Big Springs, but it’s worth it! It is located to the east of Mack's Inn, and you can access the area along Highway 20 to Island Park.
Local Tips
- This is a great learning experience for younger teens who need to learn a bit more about the history of the region. It's an excellent hands-on experience.
- The property has two bedrooms on the second story. Take a closer look at the property to see its unique features, including the ways it was changed and modified over time.
- The furniture throughout the property is also handmade, which is impressive in itself (don't you wish they made stuff that great still today!)
- Spend some time looking at the surrounding area. There are some outstanding wooded areas here that show you the type of wood that was used in the construction of this property.
- And if you’d like to take a walking tour to learn more, Island Park Historical Society through the Fremont County Parks and Recreation offers an incredible tour.