Stony Campground

For Montanans who cherish the quintessential Big Sky outdoor experience, Stony Campground near Philipsburg, MT, offers a delightful and serene escape. Tucked away within the scenic Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest, this small and inviting campground is a true gem for those seeking peace, pristine nature, and, perhaps most notably, exceptional fly fishing opportunities. Visitors consistently rave about its "nice campsite right by rock creek" and its overall cleanliness and quiet atmosphere, making it a perfect spot to unwind and reconnect with the natural world.

Stony Campground is ideally situated at an elevation of 5,500 feet, encompassing about 2 acres of beautiful forest land. Its primary draw is its immediate proximity to two renowned waterways: Stony Creek, which runs directly through or alongside the campground, and the legendary Rock Creek, often described as a blue-ribbon trout stream, located just across the road. This makes it an angler's paradise, offering bountiful opportunities for catching various trout species. Beyond fishing, the campground is surrounded by "beautiful rock formations," adding to the stunning visual appeal of the area. Whether you're looking to cast a line, explore the rugged landscape, or simply enjoy the tranquil sounds of the creek, Stony Campground promises a memorable and rejuvenating Montana adventure.

Stony Campground is conveniently located near Philipsburg, MT 59858, USA. This places it within the vast and beautiful Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest in southwest Montana, a region renowned for its rugged mountains, dense forests, and pristine waterways. The campground's address places it in an area that balances remote natural beauty with accessible routes for local Montanans.

To reach Stony Campground from Philipsburg, you would typically travel west on Rock Creek Road (County Road 348/Marshall Creek Road) for about 14 miles, then turn right onto Upper Rock Creek Road (County Road 102) and continue for approximately 4.7 miles. The campground is just a short distance (about 0.1 miles) further on the left after turning onto Forest Road 241/Stony Creek Road. This drive, while involving forest roads, is generally accessible for most vehicles, including those with trailers up to 32 feet in length, making it a viable option for RV and tent campers alike.

The accessibility is a significant advantage for Montanans. It's close enough to Philipsburg to allow for easy resupply or a quick visit to the charming historic town, yet far enough into the forest to provide a genuine sense of escape and wilderness. The elevation of 5,500 feet contributes to cooler temperatures during summer months, adding to the comfort of camping. This blend of ease of access and natural immersion makes Stony Campground a highly appealing destination for locals looking for a peaceful retreat without venturing into extremely remote backcountry areas.

• Individual Campsites: Offers 10 well-maintained campsites suitable for both tents and trailers (up to 32 feet max RV length).

• Picnic Tables: Each campsite is equipped with a picnic table for convenient outdoor dining and gathering.

• Fire Rings: Designated fire rings are provided at each site for campfires, subject to current fire restrictions.

• Vault Toilets: Two clean vault toilets are available on-site, providing essential restroom facilities.

• Drinking Water: Potable water is accessible via a hand pump, ensuring a source of safe drinking water for campers.

• Pack In/Pack Out Site: As is common in many National Forest campgrounds, Stony Campground operates on a pack in/pack out policy for trash, encouraging visitors to minimize their environmental impact.

• Pet-Friendly: Pets are welcome at Stony Campground, though responsible pet ownership, including leash laws and waste disposal, is expected.

• First-Come, First-Served: Campsites are available on a first-come, first-served basis, making it ideal for spontaneous trips (though early arrival is recommended during peak season).

• Accessible Facilities: The toilet facilities are noted as accessible.

• Seasonal Operation: The campground is generally open seasonally from May through September, weather dependent, and is available year-round for use (though water may be unavailable in winter).

• Premier Fly Fishing Access: A standout feature is its direct proximity to Rock Creek, a renowned "Blue Ribbon Trout Stream," and Stony Creek, which runs through the campground. This offers unparalleled opportunities for fly fishing, with anglers finding brook, brown, and rainbow trout. This is a major draw for fishing enthusiasts.

• Beautiful Rock Formations: The area surrounding the campground is characterized by "beautiful rock formations," adding a dramatic and picturesque element to the landscape, ideal for photography and scenic appreciation.

• Small, Quiet, and Clean Atmosphere: Visitors consistently praise Stony Campground for being a "very nice small campground," "clean," and "quiet." This ensures a peaceful and comfortable camping experience, perfect for relaxation and enjoying nature's tranquility.

• Creekside Setting: Being "right on the banks of Stony Creek" and having Rock Creek "across the street" provides the soothing sounds of flowing water, enhancing the serene ambiance of the campsites.

• Diverse Wildlife Habitat: The region is known for its variety of wildlife, including elk, moose, deer, bighorn sheep, mountain lions, and bears (both grizzly and black). This offers excellent opportunities for wildlife viewing, requiring visitors to be bear aware.

• Hiking and Mountain Biking Opportunities: The area provides access to numerous hiking, mountain biking, ATV, and horseback riding trails, including the Stony Lake trailhead a few miles further up the road, allowing for exploration of the steep drainages and canyons.

• Winter Recreation Potential: During the winter months, when snow is present (typically December to April), the area transforms into a haven for snowmobiling, cross-country skiing, and snowshoeing, offering year-round outdoor adventure possibilities.

• Well-Maintained Facilities: The presence of two clean toilets and a water pump, along with established fire pits and picnic tables, highlights the campground's commitment to providing essential amenities in a well-kept environment.

Address: Philipsburg, MT 59858, USA

Phone: (406) 859-3211 (Pintler Ranger District)

For more detailed information regarding Stony Campground, Montanans should contact the Pintler Ranger District of the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest directly using the provided phone number. This office can provide the most up-to-date information on campsite availability, current fire restrictions, road conditions (especially important during early or late season), and any other operational details. As sites are often available on a first-come, first-served basis, calling ahead for conditions is always a good practice, particularly during peak summer months or before planning a visit outside of the main season.

Stony Campground near Philipsburg, MT, is an exceptionally suitable and appealing destination for Montanans who cherish the authentic outdoor experience their state offers. For locals, this small, clean, and remarkably quiet campground provides an ideal retreat that perfectly encapsulates the allure of Big Sky Country's wilderness, all within a reasonable driving distance from various communities.

The primary draw for many Montanans will undoubtedly be the unparalleled access to world-class fly fishing. Situated directly by Stony Creek and just across from the legendary Rock Creek—a true "Blue Ribbon Trout Stream"—the campground offers a fishing paradise. This immediate proximity allows anglers to spend more time casting and less time traveling, making it a perfect spot for dedicated fishing trips or even just a relaxing day by the water. The confirmed presence of various trout species adds to the excitement and promise of a rewarding catch.

Beyond fishing, the overall ambiance of Stony Campground aligns perfectly with what many Montanans seek in their outdoor adventures. Its "quiet" nature ensures a peaceful escape from the everyday hustle, allowing for true relaxation and immersion in the sounds of nature. The "beautiful rock formations" surrounding the area add a stunning visual backdrop, enhancing the sense of being in a truly special place. The well-maintained facilities, including clean toilets and a water pump, provide essential comforts without detracting from the rustic charm. Furthermore, its location within the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest opens up a vast playground for hiking, mountain biking, wildlife viewing, and even winter sports, ensuring diverse recreational opportunities throughout the year.

For Montanans, Stony Campground isn't just a place to pitch a tent; it's an accessible haven that embodies the best of their state's natural heritage. It offers the rare combination of premier recreational access, serene beauty, and a welcoming, clean environment, making it an indispensable choice for locals looking to reconnect with the wild heart of Montana.

Stony Campground

Philipsburg, MT 59858, USA