Philipsburg Bay Campground

Star4.62
303 reviews
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Summer Destination

Quick Facts

6,000 ft

Price

$17 - $30/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

65 campsites

Season

Open May 23 (reserva...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens Big Sky Recreation under U.S. Forest Service site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Philipsburg Bay Campground
$17.00 - $30.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Fees range from $17 for non-electric sites to $30 for electric sites during peak season. Extra vehicle charges apply at $5 per day for more than two...
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Standard Site Fee$17.00
Hookup Site Fee$30.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
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What Campers Say

4.62

Top-Rated

Based on 303 reviews

139 Google reviews

Most mentioned

privacyspaciouswell-maintainedsites

Some mention

noise

"User reviews for Philipsburg Bay Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with frequent praise for the cleanliness of facilities, the friendliness and helpfulness of campground hosts, and the scenic beauty of the location. Many campers highlighted their experiences with wildlife sightings, fishing at Georgetown Lake, and the overall sense of relaxation and tranquility. Complaints primarily focused on generator noise, barking dogs, limited beach access for swimming or fishing, and occasional theft near the boat ramp."

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Campground Map

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Philipsburg Bay Campground

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Driving directionsLocated in southwestern Montana, the campground is about 11 miles south of Philipsburg. Follow U.S. Route 1 south and take a right on Georgetown Lake Road. The campground is adjacent to Georgetown Lake, on the left.
Roads are paved leading into the campground, providing easy accessibility for boats and RVs.
Nearby places
Philipsburg (11 miles), Anaconda (approximately 21 miles), Missoula (approximately 68 miles)
Nearby supplies
Nearby supplies such as groceries, camping goods, and fuel, can be found in Philipsburg, approximately 11 miles away.

Best Time to Camp at Philipsburg Bay Campground

Summer transforms this high-country haven into a refreshing retreat where morning temperatures hover around a crisp 38°F before warming to a comfortable 62°F by afternoon. The generous 15 hours of daylight invite extended adventures, while the dry mountain climate keeps you comfortable whether you're casting a line at sunrise or stargazing around the campfire. Even on the occasional rainy day, the forest comes alive with the earthy fragrance of pine and the gentle patter of raindrops on your tent.

Best
Summer(Jun-Aug)
5.0 / 5

Peak season with cool summer temps, long daylight and many positive summer reviews.

Fall(Sep-Nov)
4.0 / 5

Fall offers reduced crowds and a quieter, more relaxing experience per reviews.

Spring(Mar-May)
2.0 / 5

Opens May 23 (late spring); limited season and cooler mornings reduce spring appeal.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
Not recommended

Campground closed from Sept 14 until May 23; winter recreation not supported on-site.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: May 23 - September 14 yearly.. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open May 23 (reservable segment begins June 25) and closes September 14.
  • Current Alerts: /

About Philipsburg Bay Campground

Nestled on the shores of pristine Georgetown Lake, Philipsburg Bay Campground beckons outdoor enthusiasts with 65 thoughtfully positioned campsites where the scent of pine mingles with mountain air. Whether you secure one of the 34 reservable spots for peace of mind or embrace spontaneity at one of 31 first-come, first-served sites, you'll find yourself perfectly positioned for dawn fishing expeditions, afternoon paddling adventures, and sunset hikes along forested trails.
Philipsburg Bay Campground accommodates a range of camping styles, including tent and RV camping, with dedicated reservable and first-come, first-served sites. Group camping and other alternative accommodations such as cabins or glamping options are not specifically mentioned.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
2:00 PM
Check-out
11:00 AM
Stay Limit
16 consecutive nights during a visit.

Amenities available

Potable water
Fire rings
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Firewood available
Vault toilets

Activities you can enjoy

Philipsburg Bay Campground offers a variety of recreational activities suitable for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers. The nearby Georgetown Lake is a hub for water-based activities such as fishing, boating, and canoeing. The surrounding wilderness provides numerous hiking and biking trails within a few miles of the campground, suitable for all skill levels. Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with species like moose and bighorn sheep frequently spotted. Birdwatchers can enjoy sightings of blue herons, hawks, and other birds of prey. While there is no designated swimming area, swimming is possible in Georgetown Lake, although some reviews noted limited beach access.
HikingHiking trails near the campground cater to various skill levels. The proximity to the Anaconda-Pintler Wilderness offers scenic routes through forested paths and mountain landscapes, ideal for exploring Montana’s natural beauty.
FishingGeorgetown Lake is renowned for fishing, with kokanee salmon, rainbow trout, and brook trout being popular catches. Bull trout are also present, but targeting them is illegal. Many reviews highlight successful fishing trips at the lake.
BikingBiking opportunities include trails near the campground suitable for mountain biking enthusiasts. The terrain varies from paved roads to rugged wilderness paths.
BoatingThe campground features a boat ramp providing easy access to Georgetown Lake, supporting activities like canoeing, kayaking, and motorized boating.
Wildlife viewingWildlife viewing is common, with moose, elk, white-tailed deer, bighorn sheep, and various bird species frequently spotted by campers. Some reviewers mentioned moose sightings close to campsites.
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsCommon hazards include bear activity requiring strict food storage enforcement, occasional thefts near the boat ramp, and loud generator noise from campers.
Active Alerts/
Food Storage RequiredBear-resistant lockers are available in compliance with Food Storage Order rules.

Weather at Philipsburg Bay Campground

Reviews

4.6
303 reviews
Top-Rated
Top-Rated
Philipsburg Bay Campground is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews for Philipsburg Bay Campground are overwhelmingly positive, with frequent praise for the cleanliness of facilities, the friendliness and helpfulness of campground hosts, and the scenic beauty of the location. Many campers highlighted their experiences with wildlife sightings, fishing at Georgetown Lake, and the overall sense of relaxation and tranquility. Complaints primarily focused on generator noise, barking dogs, limited beach access for swimming or fishing, and occasional theft near the boat ramp.
Review Summaries
Based on 303 reviews

What Campers Love

Users frequently commended the spotless vault toilets, spacious campsites providing privacy, and the well-maintained grounds. The camp hosts received significant praise for their friendliness and...
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Based on 303 reviews

Common Concerns

The lack of a dump station for RVs and generator noise were commonly cited negatives. Some users noted issues with barking dogs, limited beach access for fishing and swimming, and occasional theft...
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Based on 303 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Several users suggested reserving sites in advance, especially in Loop C, for better lake views and proximity to amenities. Bringing bug spray was recommended due to insects near the lake. Campers...
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Based on 303 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer is the peak season for camping at Philipsburg Bay, with most reviews highlighting positive experiences during this period. Fall sees reduced crowds, offering a quieter and more relaxing...
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Based on 303 reviews

Camper Quotes

"Lovely and clean campground. The host Bill in Loop A is friendly, helpful and works hard to keep the loop clean and neat." - Barbara Eggert "Beautiful campground! Lots of trees and shade! Perfect...
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Based on 303 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 63 in Loop C received criticism for its proximity to vault toilets, which reviewers described as smelly and disruptive to privacy due to heavy traffic. Site 43 in Loop C was praised for its...
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Based on 303 reviews

Accessibility Features

Accessibility-specific reviews highlight paved roads and vault toilets situated near campsites for easy access. Detailed reports regarding wheelchair or mobility aid users are not available.
Based on 303 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcome at Philipsburg Bay Campground, but reviews mentioned barking dogs as a recurring issue. Owners are reminded to keep dogs leashed at all times and manage noise levels to ensure a...
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Based on 303 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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