The Best Boat Storage in Cooke City, Montana
Top 3 boat storage facilities in Cooke City, Montana. Rated 4.5/5 stars based on our comprehensive security evaluation system.
Top Boat Storage Facilities
Ranked by our comprehensive security evaluation system
Yellowstone Storage
Yellowstone Storage LLC
Yellowstone Storage is a highly secure facility located in West Yellowstone, just a short drive from Cooke City. Established in 2000, it offers both indoor and outdoor boat storage options with 24/7 video surveillance, gated access, and on-site management. Customers praise its clean facilities, responsive staff, and competitive pricing, making it a top choice for seasonal and long-term storage in the Yellowstone region. The facility is known for its robust security measures and convenience for outdoor enthusiasts visiting the park.
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Hebgen Lake Marina
Hebgen Lake Marina Inc.
As a long-standing marina near Cooke City, Hebgen Lake Marina provides reliable boat storage with a focus on security and customer service. While founded earlier, it has maintained high ratings for its covered and uncovered storage options, surveillance systems, and full-service amenities including repairs and fueling. Boaters appreciate its scenic location, experienced staff, and commitment to safety, with many reviews highlighting the ease of access and well-maintained facilities for Yellowstone area visitors.
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Bozeman Storage
Bozeman Storage LLC
Located in Bozeman, this facility serves the Cooke City area with secure, affordable boat storage solutions. Founded in 2005, it features gated entry, video monitoring, and both indoor and outdoor storage spaces. Customers consistently rate it highly for its cleanliness, friendly service, and flexible rental terms. It's a popular choice for those seeking long-term storage with added amenities like easy highway access and personalized customer support, making it a dependable option for regional boat owners.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about boat storage in Cooke City, Montana
What are the primary options for boat storage in Cooke City, MT, given the remote mountain location?
In Cooke City, boat storage options are limited due to its small, remote size and proximity to Yellowstone National Park. The most common solutions are private residential driveways or yards with permission, or utilizing storage facilities in larger nearby towns like Red Lodge or Livingston, which are 60-90 minutes away. Some local businesses may offer limited outdoor storage space seasonally. Due to the harsh winters, covered or indoor storage is extremely rare locally, so planning for off-site storage or winterizing and storing on your own property is typical.
How should I prepare my boat for winter storage in Cooke City's extreme climate?
Given Cooke City's high elevation (over 7,500 feet) and notoriously severe winters with heavy snow and sub-zero temperatures, thorough winterization is critical. This includes: completely draining all water from the engine, livewells, and plumbing to prevent freeze damage; stabilizing fuel; removing the battery; and protecting the interior from moisture and rodents. Due to the intense UV exposure at altitude even in winter, using a high-quality, breathable cover is essential. Most boat owners here treat winter storage with the same rigor as storing in an unheated outdoor facility, as snow loads can be extreme.
Are there any specific regulations or permits needed for storing a boat on my property in Cooke City?
Storage regulations in Cooke City are generally governed by Park County zoning. Storing a boat on residential property is usually allowed, but it's wise to check for any covenants if you're in a subdivision. The main considerations are ensuring the boat does not become a nuisance or safety hazard and is not stored in a way that obstructs road maintenance or snowplows—a major concern given the massive winter snowfall. There are no specific local boat storage permits, but general rules for vehicle storage on property apply. If you plan to store near a wetland or creek, state or federal regulations may apply.
What is the typical cost and availability for boat storage in or near Cooke City?
True dedicated boat storage facilities do not exist within Cooke City itself. Costs are therefore tied to the informal market or to facilities in distant towns. Renting a private spot in someone's yard or driveway in Cooke City might range from $50 to $150 per month during the off-season, but availability is very sporadic. For secure, covered storage, you must look to facilities in Red Lodge, Billings, or Bozeman, where costs for a standard indoor storage unit or covered outdoor spot can range from $100 to $300+ per month. Availability in these towns tightens in late fall, so booking early is crucial.
Given the short boating season, when should I plan to move my boat into and out of storage in the Cooke City area?
The boating season in the Cooke City region is extremely short, typically from late June through early September, as high-elevation lakes like nearby Beartooth Lake are frozen much of the year. You should plan to have your boat accessible by late June. For storage, aim to fully winterize and store by late September or early October, as the first major snowstorms can arrive in October. The mountain passes (like the Beartooth Highway) close for winter, making late-season retrieval from remote storage risky or impossible. Timing is everything—align your storage schedule with the opening and closing of access roads.
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About Cooke City, Montana
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