Georgetown Lake and the surrounding mountains of western Montana provide exceptional glamping and camping opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts at elevations between 5,000-6,500 feet. The region experiences cold winters and mild summers, with daytime temperatures averaging 75-80°F in July and August. Camping near Deer Lodge offers access to mountain terrain, forests, and water recreation with several campgrounds providing amenities beyond traditional tent sites.
What to do
Water recreation at Georgetown Lake: Piney Campground and Boat Launch offers easy access to Georgetown Lake with sites overlooking the water. One camper noted, "Lots of people out on the lake boating. There is a boat launch in the campground. Snow covered peaks still visible in late June." Remember that all watercraft including inflatable kayaks require inspection at a Montana inspection station before launching.
Hot springs soaking: While Fairmont RV Resort is known for its proximity to hot springs, campers appreciate the access beyond what's mentioned in most descriptions. A visitor reported, "The hot springs resort has indoor/outdoor pools, dining & bar" just "about 2 blocks from" the campsite. The front desk typically offers day passes for access to these facilities.
Hiking local trails: The area surrounding Deer Lodge offers multiple trails for day hikes. Near Delmoe Lake, campers enjoy "rock formations in the area to climb and explore. There's a few trail heads to get to the peaks and get an amazing view of the lake and surrounding valley." These trails vary in difficulty and are accessible from late spring through early fall.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: At Philipsburg Bay Campground, campers appreciate the site layout. As one visitor mentioned, "The sites are far enough apart and angled to give a nice sense of privacy." Another noted, "This campground has three loops. The third loop C is reservable, the other loops A and B are a first come basis."
Clean facilities: Multiple campgrounds maintain clean amenities. A guest at Town of Drummond Campground praised it as "Well worth $10 for the night. Playground for kids, and river nearby. Occasional train goes by but much rather that than noise of trucks in Walmart parking lots." The affordable rates combined with clean facilities make this a popular stop.
Calm water for paddling: Several lakes in the region provide ideal conditions for non-motorized water activities. A visitor to Delmoe Lake shared, "The water is nearly always calm and great for paddle boarding!! There is dirt bike trikes up above and didn't mind it at all, in fact I thought it was awesome for those that do enjoy biking."
What you should know
Limited availability without reservations: During summer months, campgrounds fill quickly, especially on weekends. A camper at Philipsburg Bay advised, "Know that there is a Loop B which doesn't show on Recreation.gov, that is all FCFS…. Many sites that seem to go unused!" Calling ahead or arriving early on weekdays improves chances of securing a spot.
Seasonal considerations: Most campgrounds operate from late May through early September or October. At Beavertail Hill State Park Campground, one visitor observed: "The campground is clean and the campsites have plenty of room. There are flush toilets and they are clean. I did not give this campground five stars because it lacks a shower house and feels more like a place to stay the night."
Noise factors: Some campgrounds experience noise from nearby transportation. At Town of Drummond Campground, a camper noted, "There didn't seem to be designated camping spots but it wasn't bad at all......... except for the train that came through every few hours!" Consider bringing earplugs if you're sensitive to nighttime noise.
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several campgrounds offer play areas for children. At Butte KOA, families appreciate that "This KOA is right next to the Butte Visitor's Information Bureau and some nice looking walking trails. We were in a site with full hook-ups, gravel pad with concrete patio, grill, firepit, picnic table and two rocking chairs."
Swimming options: Georgetown Lake provides swimming areas with gradual entry points suitable for children. One visitor mentioned, "Such a nice campground, nice neighbors. Lots of people out on the lake boating." Additionally, some campgrounds like Fairmont RV Resort offer access to swimming pools.
Pet-friendly sites: Most campgrounds in the region welcome dogs with standard leash requirements. At 2 Bar Lazy H RV Campground, a camper reported, "The campground as well laid out plenty of room to drive around with big rigs. Each site has a picnic bench. The staff was friendly. We were planning on staying for just one night and ended up staying for two."
Tips from RVers
Level sites availability: Many campgrounds provide level pads for RVs. At 2 Bar Lazy H RV Campground, a reviewer noted, "Parked our van in a tent site, which was just a grassy area in the back half of the property. Road noise was not bad there, further from the highway. The host was friendly and helpful."
Hookup options: Electric and water hookups are available at select campgrounds. At Fairmont RV Resort, guests find "Nice level gravel site. Sites are close to each other. There were no picnic tables and wood fires are not allowed so no fire rings."
Dump station locations: Several campgrounds provide dump stations, though not all have full hookups. One camper at Fairmont RV Resort mentioned, "Frost free spigots were good especially since the weather at night was below freezing." Check ahead for availability or locate nearby dump stations in Deer Lodge, Butte, or Anaconda.
