Georgetown Lake offers pet-friendly campground options just a short drive from Philipsburg, Montana at 6,000 feet elevation. The mountainous setting creates a dog-friendly camping environment with cool summer temperatures even during July and August. The area's combination of forested campgrounds and lake access provides versatile options for camping with pets.
What to Do
Lake activities and fishing: Campers staying at Stuart Mill Bay can access both motorized and non-motorized boat launches directly from camp. "If you like to fish, and/or boat the Stuart Mill Bay is just for you. This state fishing access site campground has you right on the lake shore or very close to lake for easy fishing and boating access," notes reviewer Dexter I.
Wildlife viewing: The forested areas near Piney Campground create opportunities for spotting various animals. Campers report diverse wildlife sightings: "Lots of people out on the lake boating. There is a boat launch in the campground. Snow covered peaks still visible in late June," writes Kathy B. At night, some campgrounds offer natural soundscapes, with one camper at Stuart Mill Bay mentioning "red-necked grebes had a loud raucous party all night."
Hiking to waterfalls: Lost Creek State Park Campground features a waterfall just a short walk from campsites. "Lost Creek State Park campground is a 25 site campground along lost creek. This campground sits in a narrow canyon with colorful white and pink granite walls extending over 1000 feet above the campground. If you like waterfalls then you are in luck, after a very long 125 yard hike you will be treated with the 50 foot Lost Creek Falls," writes Dexter I.
What Campers Like
Privacy between sites: Philipsburg Bay Campground offers well-spaced sites throughout its three loops. "This campground has many sites shaded by lodgepole pines. The sites are far enough apart and angled to give a nice sense of privacy," shares Holly H. Another camper, Elizabeth O., notes: "Sites are spread out enough and campground is wooded, so you aren't on top of your neighbors."
Clean facilities: Campgrounds in the area maintain clean restrooms. At Racetrack Campground, you'll find "large roomy sites well spread out from each other. Plenty of level ground to place a tent(s) at every site. Two vault toilets serve this campground," according to Dexter I. Another camper at Spillway Campground mentioned "Camp sites are clean and well maintained with fire rings and picnic tables. Vault toilets are very clean."
Natural features: The varied terrain creates diverse camping experiences. "The campground sits in very large mature evergreens along a small creek," writes Dexter I. about Racetrack Campground. At Lost Creek, a camper shared: "Lost Creek is in a beautiful canyon spot... There is a beautiful hiking trail that starts at the top of the campground and there is a beautiful waterfall and rushing creek that is a pleasure to listen to at night."
What You Should Know
Weather conditions: Despite summer warmth in Montana, nights at 6,000 feet elevation can be cold. A camper at Piney Campground reports: "We got a surprise snow on the 2nd night but stayed 8 days/nights." Due to high elevation, temperature swings between day and night can be significant.
Reservation systems: Campground availability varies across the area. At Philipsburg Bay, "The third loop C is reservable, the other loops A and B are a first come basis," according to Sara M. Lodgepole Campground has a similar split system: "Of the 31 sites in the campground, 20 are reservable on recreation.gov."
Wildlife awareness: Bears and other wildlife frequent the area, requiring proper food storage. At Racetrack Campground, a camper advises: "It's Montana, so bearproofing is necessary." Another camper at Philipsburg Bay reported: "We heard wolves after dusk and saw elk at dawn. Fishing is good and plenty of waterfowl in the lake."
Tips for Camping with Families
Accessible attractions: Lost Creek State Park offers options for all mobility levels. "A nice hundred yard path that is paved to the waterfall for anyone with mobility issues. A longer hike up to the bridge is nice and wooded," reports Erik B. The paved path makes this attraction suitable for both young children and older family members.
Kid-friendly biking: Philipsburg Bay Campground has dedicated areas for children to explore safely. "3 separate loops make it kid and bike friendly," notes Elizabeth O. The campground's layout creates natural boundaries for younger campers.
Berry picking: Seasonal wild berries offer a family-friendly activity at some campgrounds. At Lost Creek State Park, one camper mentioned: "During our visit the raspberries and thimble berries located along the creek were ripe." Another visitor at the same campground confirmed: "Thimbleberries were ripe during our stay and plentiful."
Tips from RVers
Site sizing and access: RV campers should check site specifications before booking. At Lodgepole Campground, Robert R. advises: "This was a bit tight pulling our 35 ft fifth wheel, but just be careful with a couple of the turns. The campground roads need some work in spots - there were several potholes as deep as 6-8 inches - enough to jar your teeth out if you're not watching for them."
Water access considerations: Most campgrounds don't have hookups, requiring planning for water needs. "I have a 55 gallon bladder I fill and then I use a pump to fill my rig from the bladder. This saves me from having to move the rig to get water," shares Robert R. at Lodgepole Campground.
Off-season options: For RVers seeking year-round options, The Inn at Philipsburg RV Park provides services during colder months. "Owner is nice and accommodating. Maybe 12 sites with some long term renters - it appeared. All hook ups available up to 50amp," reports Eric A., who needed to "plug in for the cold night."
