How much does camping cost at Hogback Homestead?

Camping fees at Hogback Homestead range from $75/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Hogback Homestead first-come first-served or reservation?

Hogback Homestead accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Hogback Homestead before I book?

Yes! Hogback Homestead has 4 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Hogback Homestead?

Hogback Homestead is open April 01 to November 30. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Hogback Homestead?

Hogback Homestead does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

How many campsites does Hogback Homestead have?

Hogback Homestead has 1 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Hogback Homestead?

Pets are not allowed at Hogback Homestead. This policy helps protect local wildlife and other campers. Consider nearby pet-friendly campgrounds if traveling with animals.

What amenities are available at Hogback Homestead?

Hogback Homestead offers: Restrooms. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

What activities can I do at Hogback Homestead?

Popular activities at Hogback Homestead include Hiking, Fishing, Wildlife Viewing. The surrounding area offers plenty of outdoor recreation opportunities for all skill levels.

Hogback Homestead

4.65

32 reviews

2933 Rock Creek Road

Top 9% in MTFall

Featured in:Primitive Camping Montana

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,500 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from April 1 to...

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Book on Missoula Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

4,500 ft

Price

$75/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

1 campsites

Season

Open from April 1 to...

Cell

No Service

Pets

No Pets

Book on Missoula Ranger District Official Website

Get Directions

Hogback Homestead

$75.00 - $75.00 / night

Campsite Fees

CABIN NONELECTRIC: $75.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

No paid fee categories listed.

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

406-329-3814r1_lolo_www@fs.fed.us

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Hogback Homestead

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Campground Map

2933 Rock Creek Road

Hogback Homestead

2933 Rock Creek Road

Nearby places

Philipsburg: approximately 25-35 minutes by car, Missoula: approximately 50 miles and 1-hour drive.

Driving directionsFrom Missoula, Montana, travel east on Interstate 90 for about 20 miles to exit 126. Drive south on Rock Creek Road for about 29 miles. Rock Creek Road is a hardened surface for 12 miles, and the remainder is a gravel, single-lane road with intermittent pull-outs. It is not suitable for RVs or trailers due to blind turns, steep grades, and narrow width. During late fall and early spring, take the Drummond exit 153 on Interstate 90 and follow Scenic Highway 1 south toward Philipsburg. One mile north of Philipsburg, turn west on State Road 348. Travel 13 miles west, cross Rock Creek, and turn north onto Rock Creek Road. Continue 12 miles to the homestead. The road is plowed within 3 miles of the cabin. A four-wheel drive vehicle equipped with chains is recommended.

Weather at Hogback Homestead

Best Time to Camp at Hogback Homestead

Best season: fall. Fall showcases the homestead at its most scenic — crisp, clear days (daytime highs roughly 45–65°F, nights often dipping into the 20s–30s) and peak color across lodgepole pine and aspen pockets make for spectacular photography and quiet hikes. Wildlife activity (elk and deer rut) increases, improving viewing opportunities while fishing remains productive in cooler water temperatures. Crowds are generally low to moderate (weekends busier), and the cabin’s wood stove makes for cozy evenings after日 Peak months: September, October, July, August Avoid: December, January, February, March

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

4.5 / 5

Top 9% in MT

Fall is standout: cool days, wood stove nights, aspen color and improved wildlife viewing.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: April 01 to November 30. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Open from April 1 to November 30.

About Hogback Homestead

Hogback Homestead sits in mid-elevation Lolo National Forest near Philipsburg, operated by the Missoula Ranger District. This very small campground centers on a historic rental cabin, with primitive camping options for those seeking a backcountry experience. Guests hike, fish, and watch for elk and deer in a quiet forest setting where fall color and wildlife activity peak during the best season.

The campground features a historic log cabin available for rent, catering to small groups or families. The cabin offers a rustic experience without modern conveniences such as electricity or flush toilets.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall showcases the homestead at its most scenic — crisp, clear days (daytime highs roughly 45–65°F, nights often dipping into the 20s–30s) and peak color across lodgepole pine and aspen pockets make for spectacular photography and quiet hikes. Wildlife activity (elk and deer rut) increases, improving viewing opportunities while fishing remains productive in cooler water temperatures. Crowds are generally low to moderate (weekends busier), and the cabin’s wood stove makes for cozy evenings after日 Peak months: September, October, July, August Avoid: December, January, February, March

Elevation4500 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe cabin sits within Douglas fir and lodgepole pine forest alongside Hogback Creek. The Sapphire Mountains rise on all sides, and wildlife sightings include elk, deer, and occasionally black bears and mountain goats. The five-acre property provides significant seclusion, with ample hiking terrain nearby and fishing access in the creek. Fall brings peak color in aspen pockets and increased elk and deer activity during the rut.

Lodging & AccommodationsThe Hogback Homestead cabin features three bedrooms and accommodates up to 8 people. The first floor includes a living room, dining area, and one bedroom with a double bed. The second floor houses two bedrooms: one with a double bed and the other with two bunk beds. The cabin is outfitted with period furniture and includes a wood stove for heating.

Programs & ActivitiesCultural or educational programs are not mentioned.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

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Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum consecutive stay of 6 nights permitted.

Guests Allowed Per Site

The cabin accommodates up to 8 guests.

Groups

No group-specific camping sites are available
the cabin accommodates up to 8 people.

Tents

Tents are not allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are not allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made through Recreation.gov online or via the app.

AccessibilityThe first floor of the cabin is wheelchair accessible. Accessible vault toilets are also provided on-site.

Site SizeCabin has ample indoor space with three bedrooms, accommodating up to 8 people.

PrivacyThe cabin is located on a remote five-acre property along Hogback Creek, offering significant privacy and seclusion.

Total Campsites1 campsites

Recommended SitesBring extra water, bedding, and food supplies. Sheets and blankets may be preferable over sleeping bags. Access from Philipsburg is smoother but takes longer.

Best CampsitesThere's only one cabin, but guests recommend it for anyone seeking a quiet, historic retreat. Reviewers call it "exceptional" and "fully stocked." The beds can be uncomfortable, so bring extra blankets and sleeping bags. Inside slippers are a nice touch for the cabin floors.

Need help booking Hogback Homestead?

Reservation tips, booking windows, and free cancellation alerts.

Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

Find your booking window

Cancellation Alerts

Free alerts for this campground

Amenities available

Pets are not allowed in this facility or on the property Water is available intermittently at the hand pump located behind the homestead. Potable water cannot be guaranteed,recommended you bring an adiquate supply of your own drinking water.

Food storage lockers

Lodging and accommodations

Vault toilets

Cabin Lodging

I manage this campground

Activities you can enjoy

A range of recreational activities is available in the spring, summer, and fall, including hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, and hunting. The area is particularly known for its big game hunting and the nearby Rock Creek, a Blue Ribbon trout stream. The Hogback Ridge trailhead provides access to an extensive network of trails.

Hiking

Fishing

Wildlife viewing

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

No Potable WaterThis campground does not have potable water on-site. Bring all the water you need for drinking, cooking, and cleaning.

No Cell ServiceCell phone service is not available at this campground. Plan accordingly for emergencies and download offline maps before arriving.

Food Storage RequiredSecuring food is mandatory to prevent wildlife encounters.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

Researching this campground? Ask anything — other campers and our team will weigh in. No visit required.

Tips from campers

Short heads-ups about the road in, gear quirks, timing, and more. You don't have to have been here to share what you know.

Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.7

32 reviews

Top-Rated

Hogback Homestead is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Overall, users highlight the unique off-the-grid experience, excellent condition of the cabin, and scenic location as memorable aspects of their stay. The cabin's remoteness and the need for preparation are commonly noted.

Review Summaries

Based on 32 reviews

What Campers Love

Guests praise the cabin's historic charm, comfort, and cleanliness. "Love this place! So wonderful for a quiet retreat from the Missoula area," says Kathleen Y. "Exceptional historic cabin, clean,...

Based on 32 reviews

Common Concerns

Some users mention the challenging road conditions leading to the cabin, particularly along Rock Creek Road, which is described as bumpy and slow to travel. "The road is very full of potholes, and we...

Based on 32 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Most reviews pertain to the single cabin site, with positive feedback on its condition and setting.

Based on 32 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Bring plenty of water, blankets, and sheets or sleeping bags. Guests also recommend using the Drummond/Philipsburg route for smoother access. "Inside slippers are nice to have too," suggests one...

Based on 32 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Reviews indicate that the cabin is more accessible and enjoyable in spring, summer, and fall. During these seasons, the cabin's scenic location and outdoor activities are particularly appreciated....

Based on 32 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Wonderful space! The lodging, the views, the location... Wow!" (Jennifer M.). "Great visit! Nice to leave the windows open and hear Hogback Creek all day and night." (Brian P.). "The splitting maul...

Based on 32 reviews