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Welcome to the Sportsman Lodge
My family and I just purchased the Sportsman Motel in 2021. This was a 2-year process for us by way of Pennsylvania and West Virginia.
Our journey with the Sportsman Motel in Melrose MT started over 7 years ago. It all began with our oldest son Cody, who was deployed with the Army at the time, wrote me a letter. In his letter, he reflects on the passion he and his brother Marcus (also serving in the Army National Guard) and I have for the outdoors. Growing up in the Appalachian Mountains of West Virginia, I have developed a love of the outdoors for as long as I can ever remember. We have always wanted to go west to Montana. In Cody’s letter, he spoke of a small town in Montana called Melrose and about one of the best Rivers to fish in the country, The Big Hole, running through Melrose. He spoke about staying at the Sportsman Motel. Almost immediately upon his return to the states after his deployment, we booked our trip to the Sportsman Motel.
We have been coming back every year, multiple times a year, and staying at the Sportsman ever since. We fell in love with the town, the great people of Melrose and of course the World Class Fishing and Hunting.
In 2018 I approached the previous owners of the Sportsman about buying it. I brought my wife Bonnie out so she can experience what the boys and I have come to love. Bonnie grew up in the Pittsburgh Pennsylvania area and although she had been a city girl at heart, she has gained the love and appreciation of the great outdoors through my own lifetime passion. We have relocated here from Pennsylvania to Montana living our greatest dream and want to help bring the same joy to others.
No matter what you are in search of — hunting, fishing, camping, or just being one with nature – The Sportsman Lodge in Melrose, Montana is your ideal outdoor paradise and home away from home.
For fishing, Sportsman Lodge is in close proximity to some of the best and most famous streams in the country. Our rivers are legendary. If you’re looking for fly fishing or trout, there’s nothing better than a stay in one of our cabins on the water.
The hunting here is as good as it gets anywhere. If you’re after the big game, trophy-class elk, mule deer and whitetail are out there. You’ll also find black bears, moose, bighorn sheep, mountain goats and antelope. If bird hunting and waterfowl are more your style, there are strong sage, sharp-tailed, and mountain grouse, as well as migratory ducks and geese. Melrose is home to a beautiful diversity of habitats and wildlife!
Sportsman Lodge has accommodations for everyone. Our cozy cabins can serve as your mountainside oasis coming completely furnished with various bedroom options and each with a kitchen, living room and bath. Our cabins by the river offer outstanding access for fishing.
Our RV park boasts seventeen, full-service hookup spots allowing you to enjoy our Montana views with all of your creature comforts. Or if you’re looking to get a little closer to nature, it doesn’t get any better than camping out under the vast and wild Montana sky.
Roaming around this part of the country can’t help but impress. In Melrose, while the surroundings are peaceful, the ability to explore the outdoors awakens a strong sense of adventure.
Melrose is a small town on the Big Hole River. Between our 8 rooms, 6 cabins, 17 RV sites and grass tent spaces, we can suit any traveler looking to experience the best of the outdoors.
$29 - $48 / night
Fleecer Cabin is popular for hunters, hikers and winter activities during the fall, winter and spring months. It is not far from Butte, giving locals a respite from everyday life; however, a variety of recreational opportunities await every guest. The cabin was built in 1924 and has been used as headquarters for Forest Service crews ever since. It is available between October 20th and April 15th each year. The cabin is used during the summer field season to house crews. The cabin can generally be accessed by vehicle; however, during the fall and winter, alternative resources may be required to reach the cabin, depending on weather conditions. Usually by January, alternative methods such as ski, snowshoe, ATV or snowmobile are needed to reach the cabin. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
Hunting in designated areas is a popular activity, as wildlife is abundant. Fishing is also a possibility in any of the nearby mountain creeks and streams. The Big Hole River is just minutes away and is best known for its trophy-class trout fishing. There is a variety of hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding trails that are easily accessed from the cabin into the surrounding forest. winter months provide opportunities for cross-country skiing and snowshoeing (unmarked). Off-road vehicles and motorcycles are also allowed in the area, but must be properly permitted and licensed to be on trails and roads. Access to the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail is located 1 mile from the cabin.
The cabin is located in the Fleecer Mountain Range approximately 15 miles south of Butte. A horse corral and grassy pasture are adjacent to the cabin. The region is home to a variety of wildlife, including elk, mule deer, moose, black bear, and a variety of birds and small mammals (learn more about bear safety). The Fleecers provide a year-round range for elk and deer and large populations winter on nearby Fleecer Mountain or on sagebrush slopes in the southeast portion of the landscape.
$75 / night
Flint Creek Campground covers 3 acres in southwest Montana 3 miles west of Georgetown Lake.
Hells Canyon Guard Station is a quaint log cabin located in the Highland Mountains of Montana's Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest. It is most often used as a base camp by hunters and hikers. The area is replete with wildlife and provides access to scenic mountain views, as well as plentiful opportunities for recreation. It was originally built in 1906 and used as a line cabin for ranchers before being donated to the Forest Service in 1910. The Forest Service has used the cabin as a guard station and now offers it for public enjoyment. The cabin can be accessed by vehicle; however, during winter months, alternative resources may be required to reach the cabin. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
Hunters frequently use the cabin as a base camp. Fishing is also available in nearby Hells Canyon Creek. Hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding are popular activities enjoyed by visitors to the Hells Canyon area. Off-road vehicles are allowed on designated trails. Off-road vehicles and motorcycles are also allowed in the area, but must be properly permitted and licensed to be on trails and roads. During winter months, the area is popular for cross country skiing, snowshoeing and snowmobiling. Winter sports enthusiasts should carry and know how to use proper backcountry equipment, including a beacon, shovel and probe.
The cabin is in an idyllic setting, with pristine nature all around. It is situated along Hells Canyon Creek in a lush meadow of sagebrush and tall grasses. The Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest is famous for its wide array of big game animals. Elk and deer are the most sought after by hunters on the forest and in the Hells Canyon area. Upland game birds are also in the area.
$55 / night
Canyon Creek Cabin is located in the middle of an old mining district. Historic sites that can be explored on foot or on a bike are nearby. A variety of trails exist in the area, as does abundant wildlife. The cabin is a quaint location for guests to enjoy the scenic Pioneer Mountains in southwestern Montana. The cabin is accessible by a four-wheel drive or high clearance vehicle, depending on conditions. Snowmobiles, skis or snowshoes may be necessary during the months between December and April each year. Guests are responsible for their own travel arrangements and safety, and must bring several of their own amenities.
A variety of old roads exist in the area, providing plentiful hiking and biking opportunities. A trail climbs 5 miles up to a group of glacial lakes in the Pioneer Mountains, and can be accessed near the ranch on Forest Road 7401. Charcoal kilns, which date back to mining days, are situated in the area near the cabin, as another point of exploration. Hunting is a popular activity. Canyon Creek is available for fishing. Anglers might see brook, rainbow and cutthroat trout, among other species, in the cold creek. Fishing is also available in the lakes in the area. The trails and roadways provide excellent snowmobiling, cross-country skiing and snowshoeing in the winter. Guests must realize the potential for avalanche danger, and carry and know how to use proper backcountry equipment, including a beacon, shovel and probe while recreating (learn about avalanche danger).
The cabin was built in 1930 to be used as a guard station. It is situated at the base of a sheer cliff in the eastern Pioneer Mountain Range at an elevation of about 7,300 feet. The Wise River runs nearby and a mountain creek is adjacent to the cabin. The cliff and surrounding area is home to many mountain goats. Moose can usually be found in nearby willow bottoms. During the winter, deer and elk can be seen on their winter range located up and down-canyon from the cabin. Black bears also frequent the area.
A short drive takes visitors to Vipond Park where there are spectacular wildflowers in early summer. Glendale, an old smelter town, is nearby. There isn't much left of Glendale, just a few old buildings, the red brick smelter stack and the foundations of many buildings. Two cemeteries are located nearby. Most of the area around Glendale is privately owned.
$45 / night
McCart Lookout is a historic tower located on McCart Peak, east of Sula. It has been restored to reflect a lookout of the 1940s, including the stove, furniture, dishes and other small touches. It offers a unique chance for visitors to camp on a mountain peak, on the border of the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness, in a rustic, old-time setting. The tower provides spectacular views of the surrounding western Montana wilderness.
The trail to reach the tower continues south and joins the Continental Divide National Scenic Trail, which extends 3,100 miles across the United States, from the borders of Mexico to Canada. While it might take about six months to complete, a variety of day hikes and points of exploration are available within the area of the lookout tower. Trails can be enjoyed on foot or on horseback. Backpackers also enjoy the terrain. Aside from hiking and horseback riding, the area is replete with wildlife and offers scenic views. A lookout journal is kept inside, providing instructions of what to do in case of emergency or a storm. Danger from lightning is largely abated due to a lightning rod implanted at the structure.
The tower is situated east of the Bitterroot Valley, at an elevation of 7,115 feet. It was named for William McCart, who settled the area but failed to complete his homestead entry to patent. It is poised on the edge of the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness and offers beautiful views of the Pintler Mountains to the east and the Bitterroot Mountains to the west. The Bitterroot forest is home to many species of wildlife, from mule deer, whitetail deer, elk, bighorn sheep, mountain goats, black bear, mountain lions, and moose, to many varieties of smaller animals and birds.
A variety of natural hot springs exist in the area, including the the Lost Trail Hot Springs, which is located about 13 miles northwest of the tower. It provides swimming and additional amenities, including a general store and lodging.
$30 / night
Guide
We stayed here twice this year, once going North and then headed South for home. First time they put us in a full hook-up that was to small so I asked for a bigger spot and because about 1/3rd of the spots were empty, they moved me. Owner was very friendly and willing to find us a better spot. Second time was on Sunday and the note on door put us in an even smaller full hook-up, despite me asking for a bigger site so I wouldn't have to unhook. This is one reason for only three stars. Office was closed and no one answered the phone or returned our call. The site was totally unacceptable. Even if I un-hooked there was not enough room to park the pick-up truck. Left several messages, no response. We moved to an empty water/electric only site and set up. An hour later another camper came in and said we were in their spot. We moved again to another spot hoping no one would claim it. Still no response from owner. I guess camp is unsupervised on Sunday. Maybe owner was out of town.
Second reason for only three stars: Camp is older and full hook-up sites are close to each other. I did not see any 50 amp, only 30 amp. The openings for dumping are a couple of inches below ground level and the kind you just point the hose down and put a few rocks over to hold it down. Gravel sites that are mostly level.
The Good: The water and electric only sites in the back (spots 28 to 36) of the park are long and spread out. I recommend if you can go without having sewer connection, the ones in back (spots 28 to 36) are the best to stay in. Don't get the ones in front. Big trees and lots of grass (but watch out for the gofer holes). Quiet and peaceful night.
Did not use their restrooms or showers or pool (may not have been open) so no comment. There is a dump site. Wifi was 17 mbs but slowed down in the evening. We use AT&T and got two bars of 5G.
Guide
Great easy access spot! This area is free to use and is well maintained. Each site has a fire pit and a picnic bench. Also, each site has lots of space and decent privacy. Toilet, water, and food storage is provided. Lots of spots have creek access which is nice.
LegendBeautiful kept park. Lots of activities. Large dog park. Propane, laundry, store.
TravelerVery nice stop. Just a few others here on a weekend.
GuideWe found this beautiful small campsite while we drove up to Georgetown lake and decided to camp up next to this beautiful creek. Very wide campingspots with firepit and picknick table. Vault Toilets are at the entrance of the campsite. Campground is not recommended for RVS. Its next to a road so keep in mind some noise from traffic.
Guide
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. Trip in was easy enough, road was slightly rutted, but nothing intolerable. A couple bunk beds were in the cabin, and it was definitely warm enough to survive.
Guide
This is a very well maintained park with all the amenities. A welcoming host and nice sites.
Legend
We pulled off I-15 in little Melrose, MT and imagine our surprise to find this RV park. Beautiful setting, full hookups, well maintained, friendly small small town, near Big Hole National battlefield, great restaurant in town. Would be a perfect place to stop for the night or a few nights on the road.
Legend
Loved staying at this campground with Mike as the owner
Guide
Had 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. All hook ups available up to 50amp. Not quite close enough to down town to walk (in winter). Philipsburg is an awesome small Montana town that’s worth a stop.
Traveler
Nice RV park. Very well managed. Very clean restrooms and showers. Small store, gas pump. Near Fairmont Hit Springs Resort. Very quiet.
TravelerFriendly management. My family only stayed one night and didn’t use their facilities. When I called to set up the reservation, the manager was busy but called back shortly after. Clean well maintained grounds. Would definitely stay again.
RangerWonderful place, hosts, amenities! what a great spot and even better are the owners of the campground. They did everything they could to make sure that we had what we needed! The campground, showers, laundry room were spotless clean. There was a great fishing shop just round the corner and all services u need for your fishing trip. Campground is surrounded by absolutely beautiful mountains and rivers! Thank u !
Traveler
Of all the places we have stayed at this KOA had the nicest restrooms/ showers of any we have stayed at. This means a lot to me and this the reason for 5 stars. The actual site we stayed in was not anything special
TravelerThey need trees to liven this place up. Very clean.
GuideAfter driving 5 hours from Glacier National Park through arid ranch land, the Sportsman Lodge was like happening upon an oasis in the desert. Beautifully maintained property with lots of green grass for the pups to walk through. And there are doggie bag stations galore!
The sites themselves are level on gravel. No pull-throughs, but plenty of space to maneuver. I would have liked a little more space between sites and maybe some shrubbery for a bit of privacy, but that is being picky.
This area is popular for fly fishing and the Sportsman Lodge is a 7 minute walk from the fishing access on the river.
Melrose is teeny tiny, so don't expect several restaurants to choose from. There are 2 and one is closed on Sundays.
Bonnie, one of the owners, is super friendly and helpful. And the free wifi is really strong! And the water pressure is amazing.
The open skies and no city lights make for great stargazing.
Overall, highly recommend the Sportsmans Lodge.
Guide
Large, flat sites - many of which are right on the water. Gorgeous views with the lakes nestled between mountains! Plenty of space between sites. Great hiking trail. We didn't fish, but we watched others catch many trout out of kayaks with fly rods. There were about ten sites (and the cabin) full while we were there over a weekend. Vault toilets. No hook-ups. Long, bumpy road going in and out.
GuideReally wonderful RV camp. Lots of space between spots. Most are pull through. All gravel except the grass but very level and really well surfaced. Every spot has grass and a table in great shape. All the utility hookups are very well maintained. Baths and showers super clean. DVD’s to borrow. Couldn’t ask for more, this place is a wonderful spot to be weather your singing through or staying for a bit. We were just here for 1 night.
RangerEntire place is clean and well maintained. Very accommodating hosts.
Guide
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. 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. Afterwards we moved down to our campsite and went to sleep in our roadtrek. This campground is small but offers rv sites, cabins, teepees and covered wagons. So far on our month long trip (two weeks in) this is our family favorite!
GuideLove this campground very well maintained. The owner is super nice!!! Bathrooms and showers are very clean with a good amount of hooks to hang your towels and clothes on. In the mens room there’s two showers one toilet one urinal and one sink. Overall just a great simple campground it’s small enough to not be so crowded which I love.
GuideEasy pull thru sites. Grocery store, gas on site!
Guide
The cabin appears to be frequented by regulars. It sleeps 6 (ish), has a wood stove and a propane grill/cooktop, and a fair few canned supplies, games, puzzles, etc . It's not filthy but far from spotless. The problem is getting there. We pulled in a 23ft trailer. Its a 15 mile dirt road, severely rutted in spots. Steep hills, sharp corners and lots of both. I spent 90+ minutes driving in, in fear of not getting back out, then another 90+ minutes getting out. Successfully! Whew!
While taking the trailer was our mistake, the road would be daunting for anyone used to pavement and I would strongly suggest 4-wheel-drive.
TravelerNicely laid out RV park. Bathrooms very clean. Nice laundry. Right next to Fairmont Hot Springs.
ScoutThe rudest people to deal with, especially an employee named Dan. Do not stay here and do not expect any kind of customer service from this place. Horrible attitude and horrendous manners.
Will never stay here in the future nor recommend this place to anyone!
Not the only RV Park in the area; the owner should be happy to have business and money coming in!! Rude to the max!!
ScoutClean rv campground, friendly and welcoming. Near highway for convenience but get the sound. The town has the coolest old houses.
TravelerVery 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.
Frequently Asked Questions
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