West Fork Of Rock Creek Cabin (Mt)
4.8625 reviews88 Business Loop, Phillipsburg, MT, 59858, USA
West Fork Of Rock Creek Cabin (Mt)
$75.00 - $75.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$75.00
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
The rental fee is $75 per night. Any changes to scheduled dates may be assessed an additional fee by the National Recreation Reservation Service. The cabin is available year-round.
About this campground
Nestled deep within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, the West Fork of Rock Creek Cabin stands as a testament to Montana's rich forestry heritage. This lovingly preserved two-story log cabin seamlessly blends rustic charm with modern comfort, featuring electricity, heating, and a fully equipped kitchen that makes wilderness retreats surprisingly convenient. Wake up to breathtaking mountain vistas, spend your days exploring endless trails, casting lines into pristine waters, or simply watching wildlife wander through the meadows surrounding this forest sanctuary.
West Fork of Rock Creek Cabin is primarily for cabin lodging, with no tent or RV camping sites available.
Historical SignificanceThis storied cabin has watched over these forests for generations, first serving as a lonely outpost for Forest Service guards who protected these wild lands, then transforming into a beloved youth camp where countless young adventurers discovered their love for the outdoors. Today, as part of the US Forest Service Historical Preservation program, the cabin continues its legacy, offering modern travelers a chance to step into history while creating their own forest memories.
Weather and SeasonsEach season transforms this mountain retreat into a distinct wilderness playground. Winter blankets the landscape in pristine snow, creating perfect conditions for snowmobiling adventures and backcountry skiing through powder-filled glades. As spring melts into summer, the forests come alive with wildflowers and rushing streams, offering prime fishing conditions and endless hiking opportunities under warm mountain sunshine. Be prepared for winter's dramatic personality – heavy snowfall and bracing temperatures create a true alpine experience that rewards the well-prepared visitor.
ElevationPerched high in Montana's mountainous terrain, the cabin offers that perfect alpine setting where the air is crisp, the views are endless, and you feel wonderfully removed from the world below.
Natural Features and SceneryStep outside your door into a landscape that defines the American West. Towering evergreens frame expansive meadows where wildflowers dance in summer breezes. This rugged mountain sanctuary serves as nature's grand theater, where bighorn sheep traverse rocky outcrops, majestic elk bugle across valleys, and deer graze peacefully at forest edges. Lucky visitors might glimpse a mountain lion's silent prowl or spot bears – both black and grizzly – foraging in distant clearings. Don't be surprised if a curious moose wanders near the cabin, offering an unforgettable wildlife encounter from the safety of your porch.
Geological RegionGateway to the legendary Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness, this cabin sits amid some of Montana's most dramatic mountain country. Ancient geological forces have sculpted a landscape of soaring peaks and hidden valleys, where pristine meadows provide natural clearings in the dense evergreen tapestry. This is quintessential Rocky Mountain terrain – raw, beautiful, and utterly captivating.
Campsite details
AccessibilityThe cabin is gated and locked for guest privacy, and the large parking area can accommodate RVs and trailers. However, there are no hookups available.
Sites SizeThe cabin itself can accommodate up to six guests with ample parking space outside for RVs and trailers.
Sites PrivacyThe gated entrance ensures privacy. The cabin is situated in an open meadow surrounded by evergreens, providing a secluded and tranquil atmosphere.
Total Campsites1 campsites
Recommended CampsitesBring drinking water due to heavily mineralized pump water. A larger kettle for boiling water and a plastic dishpan are recommended based on user feedback.
Best CampsitesThe cabin itself is the sole rentable site and is highly praised for its comfort, amenities, and scenic location.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins anytime after 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 7 nights during a visit at this campground.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Up to 6 guests can stay at the cabin.
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe cabin is located in a fenced pasture and features a large parking area with a circular driveway.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round from January 1 to December 31.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov.
Walk-in AvailabilityNo walk-up availability; reservations are mandatory and must be booked in advance.
Cancellation PolicyReservations are nonrefundable unless extenuating circumstances warrant otherwise. Determination will be made on a case-by-case basis. Changes incur a $10 fee if dates are modified outside the original reservation period.
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
The campground offers a variety of recreational activities that cater to all seasons, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, cross-country skiing, snowmobiling, and snowshoeing during winter. In summer months, guests can fish in adjacent streams or hike in open sage land across the highway from the cabin.
Hiking
Numerous trails are available near the cabin, and open sage land across the highway offers hiking opportunities without defined trails. The location also provides easy access to Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness trailheads.Fishing
Fishing is a popular activity, with nearby streams hosting trout populations. Reviews mention "blue ribbon trout stream Rock Creek is nearby," but anglers must release Bull Trout immediately if caught.Biking
Biking opportunities exist but are not extensively detailed. Guests have described the area as great for exploration.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing is a major highlight, with elk, moose, deer, mountain lions, grizzly and black bears, and bighorn sheep frequenting the area. User reviews praise sightings of 'big horn sheep and elk' and evidence of bear and moose activity.Winter Activities
Winter activities include cross-country skiing, snowshoeing, and snowmobiling. The cabin is located about 45 minutes from Discovery Ski Area, which offers further winter recreational opportunities.Water Sports
Non-motorized water sports such as fishing are available, but other activities like kayaking or paddleboarding are not mentioned.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- A fire ring is provided outside the cabin for campfires. Firewood is typically available but cannot be guaranteed. Guests are asked to replenish split wood and kindling.
- Quiet hours are Not explicitly stated; presumed to follow general Forest Service guidelines.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include wildlife interactions (bears, mountain lions, moose) and harsh winter conditions requiring preparedness. Water is heavily mineralized and may not be suitable for drinking without treatment.
Active alertsGuests should be aware of Hantavirus risks within the cabin, as well as seasonal closures along Skalkaho Highway due to snowfall.
Weather forecast
73
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Mainly clear
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 19%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.2 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Mainly clear
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
Nearest emergency services can be accessed in Philipsburg, MT, approximately 20 minutes away. For immediate concerns, contact the Pintler Ranger District at (406) 859-3211.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31 (year-round availability).
Trash and recyclingGuests are required to pack out all trash and food. Cleaning supplies are provided to maintain the cabin, and paper towels and garbage bags are stocked monthly.
Proximity to water featuresThe cabin is near the West Fork of Rock Creek and several other mountain streams known for trout fishing.
Common complaintsSome user reviews noted squeaky bed frames and strongly mineralized water unsuitable for drinking. Additional complaints included small kitchen trash cans and lack of a vacuum for cleaning.
HostManaged by the Pintler Ranger District under the US Forest Service Historical Preservation Committee.
Campground Map
88 Business Loop, Phillipsburg, MT, 59858, USA
Driving directionsFrom Philipsburg, travel south on Highway 1 for just over 6 miles. Turn right onto Skalkaho Highway/Highway 38 and travel west for about 13 miles. The entrance to the cabin is on the left, behind a locked gate, which uses the same key code as the cabin. The last 200 yards of the road may be closed due to snowfall during the winter months.
Road access is generally available depending on weather conditions. Excessive snowfall may require renters to walk about 200 yards from the plowed highway to the cabin. The drive along Skalkaho Highway is primitive and was originally a trail used by Native Americans.Nearby places
Philipsburg - 20-minute drive
Moose Lake Day use area - 20 minutes south
Skalkaho Pass and Skalkaho Falls - 30 minutes west
Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness Trailheads - 20-30 minutes south.
Nearby supplies
Philipsburg offers essential supplies, including groceries, fuel, and camping gear. Gem Mountain Sapphire Mine and Moose Lake Day Use Area are also within driving distance.
Camper Reviews
4.9
25 reviews
West Fork Of Rock Creek Cabin (Mt) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews generally highlight the cleanliness, comfort, and well-stocked nature of the cabin. Guests appreciate the secluded location, abundance of wildlife, and seasonal activities. Common themes include praise for the wood stove, plentiful firewood supply, and well-appointed kitchen.
Review Summaries
Based on 25 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive reviews focus on the cabin's cleanliness, historical charm, and quality amenities. One reviewer noted, 'This is by far the nicest and cleanest forest service cabin we've stayed at.' Another...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Some reviews mention minor issues like squeaky bed frames and the heavily mineralized water from the pump. A reviewer shared, 'The water is strongly tinted with iron and is orange.' Another stated,...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Pro Tips & Recommendations
Tips from reviewers include bringing a plastic dish pan to boil water, extra blankets, and drinking water due to the pump's mineral content. Several reviewers emphasized leaving the cabin clean and...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter reviews highlight the cozy wood stove and ample firewood supply, while summer reviews praise fishing opportunities and wildlife sightings. Spring reviews mention bird activity and evidence of...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"This is, by far, the nicest and cleanest forest service cabin we've stayed at." "Magnificent views, beautiful solitude." "The vaulted outhouse is very clean and painted yellow inside." "The cabin...
Based on 25 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
All reviews specifically address the single cabin available (campsite: 001), Loop: AREA WEST FORK ROCK CREEK CABIN.
Based on 25 reviewsAccessibility Features
Accessibility features like the gated entrance and large parking area are praised, but no reviews specifically mention accessibility for guests with disabilities.
Based on 25 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed, and reviews do not mention any issues. However, authoritative sources do not elaborate on pet-specific amenities or restrictions.
Based on 25 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025