Moose Lake Cabin
4.7224 reviews88 Business Loop, Philipsburg, MT 59858, USA
Moose Lake Cabin
$20.00 - $45.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Facility rates vary by season. Year-round, the cabin is available for $20 per night until 2025 when rates increase to $45 per night. Reservation service fees may apply ($8 online, $9 via contact center, $3 in-person).
About this campground
Step back in time at Moose Lake Cabin, a charming 1917 log structure that serves as your gateway to the breathtaking Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness Area. This intimate, one-room retreat captures the essence of rustic mountain living with its cozy bunk beds, functional kitchen essentials, and warming wood stove—everything you need for an authentic backcountry experience without sacrificing the comforts of shelter.
Moose Lake Cabin offers a unique overnight lodging experience and can accommodate up to four people. The cabin is suitable for individual families or small groups looking for a rustic getaway in the Montana wilderness.
Historical SignificanceThis century-old cabin stands as a testament to the Forest Service's early conservation efforts, originally serving as a remote work station for rangers who protected these wild lands. Nestled near the historic Skalkaho Highway—once a vital Native American trail that later became a bustling route for miners and agricultural pioneers—the cabin connects visitors to layers of Montana's rich heritage.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic seasonal transformations of the Montana wilderness. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating a wonderland that often requires snowshoes or skis to navigate—a true adventure for those seeking solitude and beauty. Summer brings gentle warmth to the mountain air, with afternoon temperatures perfect for exploration, while the dense canopy of evergreens provides natural cooling shade throughout your stay.
ElevationPerched at the foot of towering mountain peaks, the cabin offers that perfect sweet spot where mountain grandeur meets accessible adventure, creating an ideal basecamp for explorations both gentle and challenging.
Natural Features and SceneryWake up to panoramic views of an alpine meadow stretching along the Middle Fork of Rock Creek, where wildflowers dance in summer breezes and frost crystals sparkle in winter sun. Towering evergreens frame dramatic mountain peaks that pierce the sky, creating a natural amphitheater of wilderness beauty. This pristine habitat supports an impressive cast of wildlife—majestic elk bugle in autumn, moose wade through wetlands, deer graze in twilight hours, and both black and grizzly bears roam their ancestral territory.
Geological RegionDiscover the raw beauty of southwestern Montana's Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness Area, where ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of stunning contrasts. Jagged mountain ranges rise above verdant valleys, dense evergreen forests give way to sun-drenched meadows, and crystal-clear mountain streams carve their paths through this rugged terrain, creating a diverse ecosystem that has remained largely unchanged for millennia.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe vault toilet is ADA-compliant. The cabin entrance is gated and locked with a combination code for privacy. However, there are no ladders for upper bunks, which may pose a challenge for physically impaired individuals.
Sites SizeThe cabin itself is small and cozy, accommodating up to four people using bunk beds. Outdoor space includes areas for horses and dispersed camping.
Sites PrivacyHighly private and secluded location, surrounded by evergreens and meadows. "The cabin itself and vault toilet were clean and well-stocked. We really liked the fact that screened windows on two sides open up and allow a cross breeze to keep the cabin cool and airy."
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring lanterns for additional light, chain saw or sharp tools for firewood, and hard-sided containers to store food to deter mice.
Best CampsitesSingle cabin campsite.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in starts at 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out ends at 11:00 AM.
Stay Limit
Maximum stay is 7 nights.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum occupancy of 4 people in the cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutSingle one-room cabin surrounded by meadow and trees with vault toilet, fire pit, picnic table, and fenced horse pasture nearby.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityCabin access is reservation-only due to locked gate. Walk-ups are not mentioned.
Cancellation PolicyChanges to reservations incur a $10 fee. Cancellations before check-in date result in a refund minus $10 cancellation fee and first night's use fee. Late cancellations (less than 14 days before arrival) forfeit first night's fee.
Accomodation available
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Lodging and accommodations
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
Moose Lake Cabin is surrounded by diverse recreational opportunities. Fishing for brook and cutthroat trout in nearby streams like Middle Fork Rock Creek is highly popular. Visitors can enjoy hunting, hiking, horseback riding, snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. The proximity to the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness offers access to three nearby trailheads within six miles of the cabin. "Various weather conditions can increase avalanche danger in the area; visitors are encouraged to carry proper backcountry equipment, including a beacon, shovel, and probe while recreating."
Hiking
Access to trails leading into the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness is available. The area has three trailheads within six miles of the cabin, suitable for hiking and horseback riding. "Hiking or just relaxing" is a common activity here.Fishing
Fishing for brook and cutthroat trout in the Middle Fork Rock Creek and Copper Creek is excellent. "It is illegal to target Bull Trout, if caught they must be released immediately with minimal handling."Swimming
Swimming is available during summer months at nearby Moose Lake day-use area.Wildlife viewing
The area is home to elk, moose, deer, mountain lions, and bears (both grizzly and black). "The cabin is located on the Middle Fork of Rock Creek near the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness."Winter Activities
Popular winter activities include snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing. "The cabin can be accessed by vehicle, depending on road and weather conditions. Moose Lake Road is plowed during winter."Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Wood stove provided for heating and cooking. Fire pit available outside. Bring own kindling, replenish split wood.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential dangers include grizzly and black bears, avalanche risks in winter, and hantavirus exposure. Consult bear safety guidelines and carry appropriate avalanche gear.
Active alertsBe bear aware; refer to safety guidelines. Winter access may require walking due to snow. Hand pump may freeze in extreme cold.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Overcast
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 4.6 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Overcast
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
For emergencies, contact Pintler Ranger Station at (406) 859-3211 during business hours (Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM). Closest hospital and fire stations are located in Philipsburg.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1, 2025 - December 31, 2025 (Peak Season)
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash and food to maintain the pristine environment. A user review suggested, "Bring fly traps during the summer."
Proximity to water featuresMiddle Fork of Rock Creek is 100 yards away. Moose Lake nearby for summer swimming and winter ice fishing.
Common complaintsSome reviews noted dull hatchets, mice activity in the cabin, and lack of bunk bed ladders.
HostPintler Ranger Station manages the site. Phone: (406) 859-3211.
Campground Map
88 Business Loop, Philipsburg, MT 59858, USA
Driving directionsFrom Philipsburg, travel south on Highway 1 for about 7 miles to the junction with Skalkaho Highway/Highway 38. Turn right onto Highway 38 and continue west for about 9 miles and turn left onto Moose Lake Road/Forest Road 5106. Travel another 9 miles to the cabin. Winter weather conditions may require visitors to park on the main road and hike about a quarter-mile to the cabin.
Moose Lake Road is plowed during winter, but the final 200 yards to the cabin are not regularly plowed. Guests may need to walk the final distance during winter conditions. Road access is considered remote and weather-dependent.Nearby places
Philipsburg (approximately 25 minutes by car, 16 miles), Discovery Ski Area (short drive), Georgetown Lake (accessible via both highways and dirt roads).
Nearby supplies
Philipsburg offers restaurants, gas stations, grocery stores, a candy shop, gift shops, and a microbrewery. Georgetown Lake and area roads provide access to general stores and camping supplies.
Camper Reviews
4.7
24 reviews
Moose Lake Cabin is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
Most users praised the secluded, peaceful location and well-equipped cabin. The wood stove was a highlight for many, both as a heat source and a cooking appliance. Complaints were rare, mostly concerning minor maintenance needs, such as dull tools and mice.
Review Summaries
Based on 24 reviews
What Campers Love
Users noted the cabin's cleanliness, abundant firewood, and well-stocked kitchen. "Beautiful, well-built old cabin, nice stove, lovely location."
"The cabin was awesome! It was the only time I ever...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Complaints included dull wood-splitting tools, lack of propane lanterns, and mice. "The maul and hatchet were VERY dull, so much so that they actually bounced off the wood, we couldn't cut at all."
Based on 24 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Visitors suggest bringing lanterns for lighting, fly traps during summer, and additional wood-cutting tools. "Be aware to keep everything sealed in protective containers otherwise you'll have a dash...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Summer months are praised for activities like fishing and hiking, while winter is favored for snowmobiling and the warm ambiance of the wood stove. "Very cozy cabin for winter stays, abundant...
Based on 24 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"We celebrated my 62nd birthday here and it was perfect."
"Easy drive weather permitted in a car."
"The cook stove was AMAZING! Baked a frittata and biscuits in the oven."
Based on 24 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Most reviews were specific to Moose Lake Cabin, often highlighting campsite 001 in the AREA MOOSE LAKE CABIN loop. "Comfortable bunks, spotted 4 whitetail deer."
Based on 24 reviewsAccessibility Features
The vault toilet is ADA-compliant, but upper bunks lack ladders, posing challenges for accessibility. "Perhaps use a chair for upper bunks."
Based on 24 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are welcome, and many reviews mention bringing dogs. "It was the only time I ever saw my dog sad to leave a place because it was so quiet and peaceful there."
Based on 24 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025