Camping cabins near Philipsburg, Montana are scattered throughout the surrounding Deer Lodge National Forest at elevations ranging from 4,500 to 7,000 feet. Summer temperatures typically range from 45°F at night to 80°F during day, with afternoon thunderstorms common in July and August. Winter cabin use requires snow access planning, with some areas receiving up to 300 inches of annual snowfall.
What to do
Fishing access points: The Flint Creek Campground offers easy creek access for anglers. "Very peaceful and beautiful site. We stayed in #3 which was creekside and had plenty of space for a tent. You can drink water from the stream if you have a filter," notes camper Sadie C. Sites 1-6 along the "stick" portion of the campground loop provide the best fishing access.
Ghost town exploration: Historic Garnet Ghost Town is located 22 miles from Boulder Creek Lodge, making a convenient day trip from your cabin rental. "I can't say enough good things about this place. The husband and wife that run this are very nice. At check in it was raining so we decided to eat at the restaurant. Simple menu with good burgers (beef, bison and elk) also good selection of local beers," shares Aaron L.
River floating: Many cabin properties near Philipsburg provide river access for summer recreation. "They made sure we had a shady pull through near our friends staying in a cabin and even provided a shuttle up and down the river so we could tube!" explains Reames C. about their stay at Bearmouth Chalet. Tube rentals cost approximately $10-15 per person at most outfitters.
What campers like
Cabin diversity: Cabin options range from minimal shelters to fully equipped homes. The Hogback Homestead provides a rustic experience. "Take a trip back in time with this camp and up to Hogback where you can dig for Montana fossils. Lots of good hiking, no bathrooms but fire pits and creek and firewood available!! So fun camping here with our family!" reports Carla S.
River proximity: Many rental cabins sit near waterways, providing both recreation and ambiance. "Very cute little cabin nestled next to a small creek. The area was very pretty, but had some broken fencing allowing tons of cows to surround the cabin on the morning. Very funny, but a little odd," describes Kristin about Douglas Creek Cabin.
Recreational facilities: Some cabin properties include additional activities beyond outdoor recreation. "After we ate, we went down stairs to the game room and played pool, table soccer and checkers for about 4 hours. We went ahead and took showers in the downstairs bathroom/shower house. Huge clean shower stalls," writes Aaron L. about Boulder Creek Lodge.
What you should know
Access challenges: Some remote cabins require preparation for difficult roads. "Flies everywhere, if you do get there. Also, nails all over the place. Got a flat. We ended up sleeping in the SUV. If we had gone there with that intent, and not parked close to the cabin, it would've been a great time," cautions Michael S. about Douglas Creek Cabin.
Reservation requirements: Most cabin rentals fill quickly during peak season (June-September). "We stayed here 3 nights as part of a 9-night trip. We loved the site we were in (9). It was along the water and opened up to a grassy area and the river," shares BarbDave B. about their stay at Beavertail Hill State Park Campground.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects some cabin locations. "The train mentioned in another review is a pretty big deal breaker though honestly. The tracks are right next to the wall in spaces. And during my visit on a weekday it was about every 2 hours," warns David H. about his experience at Beavertail Hill State Park Campground.
Tips for camping with families
Entertainment options: Properties with kid-friendly amenities help during inclement weather. "The playgrounds are fun for the kiddos and the river walk is super close. There is lots of shade available from the trees, but our site was full sun," notes Samantha S. about Bernie & Sharons Riverfront RV Park.
Space requirements: Consider cabin size when traveling with children. "We enjoyed a van battery issue so needed to plug in for the cold night. Is as advertised, not for typical bookdockers. Owner is nice and accommodating. Maybe 12 sites with some long term renters - it appeared," explains Eric A. about The Inn at Philipsburg RV Park.
Wildlife encounters: Animal sightings enhance the cabin experience but require proper preparation. "I saw a deer walking through the campground in the late evening as well," mentions Annie C. about Flint Creek Campground. Store food properly to avoid attracting wildlife to your cabin site.
Tips from RVers
Hookup availability: Confirm electrical capacity before arrival if planning to use appliances. "The wiring held up great, ran both AC's at the same time with no issues. Right when you pull up, someone comes to greet you to make sure you know where you're going and what direction to pull in," shares Samantha S.
Site positioning: Request specific cabin or RV sites based on your needs. "We were driving an electric car(Tesla) and were told that we could use the 30 amp to recharge it at no extra costs. At less than 40$ for a site with 30 amp this was a steal compare to what we paid at other campgrounds," notes JP C. about Bernie & Sharons Riverfront RV Park.
Winter considerations: For off-season cabin use, verify road maintenance schedules. "Frost free spigots were good especially since the weather at night was below freezing," mentions Chris D. about his stay at Fairmont RV Resort. Many forest service roads to cabins remain unplowed from November through April.
