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River Lodge Tipi at Stepping Stone

Photo gallery for River Lodge Tipi at Stepping Stone

A spacious industrial interior with large machinery, a central table with colorful objects, and a large cylindrical tank.
A grassy field with a tree and rocks, a white building with a fence, and a clear sky.
A tent with a bed, a small table, and a rug.
Majic skys over Bird & Star Lodge
A spacious kitchen with a large table, a refrigerator, and a window.

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Highlights

  • Top-rated comfy beds
    Guests liked the comfy beds here.
1 bedroom0+ bathroomsSleeps 2

Popular amenities

  • Onsite parking available
  • Garden
  • Internet access
  • Non-smoking

Explore the area

View in a map
Bigfork, MT
  • Place, Flathead River
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, North Shore State Park
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Echo Lake
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Airport, Kalispell, MT (FCA-Glacier Park Intl.)
    ‪30 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

River Lodge

1 Queen Bed

1 half bathroom

Shared bathroom

Soap · Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Garden

About this property

River Lodge Tipi at Stepping Stone

Facing east towards the Swan Mountains on twenty beautiful, rolling acres are three tipis available for those looking for a more down-to-earth experience. Under the night sky, you can relax and enjoy the wonder of being/sleeping in an ancient conical structure. This experience is fully out of doors — no power, water, or heat/AC. It is advised to bring a flashlight or lantern.

RIVER LODGE tipi has ONE QUEEN BED; additional guests can bring camping mats & sleeping bags. The bathroom (toilet/sink) is located in the glassblowing studio. An outdoor solar shower is located between the tipis and the studio. Towels and bed linens are provided.

Feel free to stop by the studio and check out the latest from the Proctor Studios team.

DIRECTIONS:
From Hwy 35 at Saint John Paul Catholic Church, it's the fourth driveway on your left immediately after Rising Mountain Assisted Living. Apple & Google Maps may direct you too far down Coverdell Road — look for the large, sculptural metal mailbox and gravel driveway. Please drive slowly as there are nesting birds in the grass and gravel along the road, as well as a small dog who doesn't navigate well around moving vehicles.

PARKING:
Park along the sides of the driveway near the studio. Driving up to the tipis is not permitted.

ENVIRONMENT:
If you are squeamish about insects, expect a hotel-style bathroom, or are uncomfortable with possible varied weather conditions, this destination is probably not for you.

PETS:
Well-behaved dogs are welcome; please notify us in advance.

SEE OUR OTHER ACCOMMODATIONS:
Bird Lodge Tipi VRBO #2225128
Star Lodge Tipi VRBO #1963724
Guest House VRBO #1601986
Our prices include all fees. No hidden fees.

Add dates for prices

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Adults only
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted

Check-out instructions

The host requires you to complete the following before checking out:
Remove personal items
Failure to complete these may result in a negative review from the host.

Important information

You need to know

Property # 1704715vb
This property is managed by a private host (a party not acting within their trade, business or profession). EU consumer law, including the right of withdrawal, will not apply to your booking. The cancellation policy set by the private host will cover your booking.
Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there are no carbon monoxide detectors or gas appliances on the property
Host has indicated that there is no smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher

About the area

Bigfork

Bigfork is home to this campsite. Eric Thorsen Art Studio and Bigfork Summer Playhouse are cultural highlights, and some of the area's attractions include Kehoe's Agate Shop and Eva Gates Homemade Preserves. Flathead Lake Alpine Coaster and Labyrinth are also worth visiting.
View more RV parks in BigforkOpens in a new window
Map
Bigfork, MT

What's nearby

  • Flathead River - 4 min drive - 3.8 km
  • North Shore State Park - 5 min drive - 5.2 km
  • Echo Lake - 7 min drive - 9.1 km
  • Bigfork Summer Playhouse - 10 min drive - 7.3 km
  • Wayfarers State Park - 10 min drive - 8.3 km

Getting around

  • Kalispell, MT (FCA-Glacier Park Intl.) - 31 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Growlers Bar, Grille and Casino - ‬3 min drive
  • ‪El Topo Cantina - ‬5 min drive
  • ‪Flathead Lake Brewing Company - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Dairy Queen - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪The Tall Pine Lounge And Casino - ‬6 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Is River Lodge Tipi at Stepping Stone pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

How much does it cost to stay at River Lodge Tipi at Stepping Stone?

As of 18 Jul 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at River Lodge Tipi at Stepping Stone on 31 Aug 2026 start from £79, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

How much is parking at River Lodge Tipi at Stepping Stone?

On-site parking is available at the property.

What time is check-in at River Lodge Tipi at Stepping Stone?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at River Lodge Tipi at Stepping Stone?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is River Lodge Tipi at Stepping Stone located?

Situated in Bigfork, this campsite is 2 mi (3.3 km) from Flathead River and 3 mi (4.9 km) from North Shore State Park. Flathead Lake and Kehoe's Agate Shop are also within 6 miles (10 km).

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Reviews are presented in chronological order, subject to a moderation process, and verified unless otherwise labelled.
Learn moreOpens in a new window
Rating 10 - Excellent. 69 out of 79 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 4 out of 79 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 79 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 2 out of 79 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 79 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Amenities

9.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.6/10

Check-in

9.6/10

Communication

9.8/10

Location

9.6/10

Listing accuracy

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael G.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Great peaceful experience
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Wesley H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Absolutely amazing experience i would do it 10 more times!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jorge C.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The place was amazing first time staying in actual Tipi , very nice and clean and central to many things and easy to find and get too , definitely recommend
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tyler

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
For what it is, and for the price it is a really great place to stay. If you are into outdoor activities its a must do. Lee is a great host and the shop cat is real sweet.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

John S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great stay!

Lee was very accommodating and made the whole experience super easy and enjoyable.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rounak

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
Great place with a comfortable bed. Unique experience to spend the night in a teepee under the gorgeous moonlit Montana sky. Lee is a very communicative and helpful host.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bridget N.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fun place to stay

Nice host and cute cat.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Chad S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Super fun experience. It's more like camping than a hotel but both my daughter and I loved the experience. Bring a light and activities and enjoy this beautiful location!
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Shari A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great Stay

I stayed in a Tipi 2 nights. Lee was a great host and my stay was very peaceful. I typically stay in hotels or VRBO houses when traveling. This was the “different” experience I was looking for during my quick trip to Montana. I would stay here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joshua

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities, communication
Loved the experience
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

lisa A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Beautiful property and views. Tipi was comfortable and loved the light coming through the canvas in the morning. Lee was a perfect host. Great choice!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Nicole G. S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Amazing experience! Very comfortable and the host was incredibly hospitable. Pro-tip: if there’s no sun, there’s no warm water for the shower. All was great for us and we would stay again!
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Dan W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
We were greeted by a very friendly barn cat and serenaded by owls. Fantastic!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Amber

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
He was so kind and accommodating. Our plans got skewed but he took care of us. Thank you!
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Susan S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

May 2025

Was spectacular, your property is beautiful. Spent last summer on Oregon coast. Look at photo we have!!
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Charles W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

My motorcycle adventure

Staying in a tipi was a great way to end my trip through beautiful Montana. There were deer in the meadow and I could an owl hooting both nights I was there.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sean D.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Fantastic!

Have stayed here many times- we love it! Sean
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Christina B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing

To be honest we weren't sure what to expect but the property is gorgeous and the town of Big Fork is incredible. Lee is a fantastic host and the beds in the teepee's are quite comfortable also the washroom facilities are great. 10/10 would definitely stay here again! Thank you Lee!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

McKenna L.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Unique Montana experience

We had the absolute BEST experience here! The host, Lee was so kind and accommodating and had an adorable cat which made our stay that much better. It’s a very fun experience and the outdoor shower was a hit! Would highly recommend this spot for a cute weekend getaway. Lee is also a talented artist and we were lucky enough to watch his glass blowing
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

Lucy

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, communication
It was a unique experience and I slept well. The bed was comfy, but I did keep on thinking about the grasshoppers that were also in the tipi. The view from out of the door was great and communication was great.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Tyler H.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
Quant and peaceful, very professional host. As advertised, this is literally just a teepee, with a partially open ceiling and sitting right on the ground. We had some grasshopper visitors inside the teepee with us. The property is great, tucked in. This is the place to stay if you're looking for an old fashioned outside/ outdoor experience without modern luxury. The bed, however, was quite comfortable :)
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sarah S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Connect back to the land

We love the tipis because they take us back to our connection with the Earth. We love looking at the stars at night and staying in simplicity. And just a hop skip and a jump away is the lake, food, etc. we absolutely this love this place and Lee is a super awesome human. His glass blowing is out of this world.
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2022
Response from VrboOwner on 25 Aug 2022
So love having you guys, I feel the same way about connecting back to the earth!! Sharing this piece of land is VERY fulfilling for me.
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laura P.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy
The tipis are in a beautiful prairie and we enjoyed the view from chairs outside our tipi. As discussed in listing, the furnishings are basic (comfortable bed!). Open air. I always like to comment on access. Tipis require a short, level walk through tall grass (path to restroom marked with solar lights). Basic, clean half bath plus outdoor solar shower. Tipis have a small, circular entrance which requires bending and stepping in (about 4’ high).
View from tipi
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025
Verified

6/10 Okay

Sara N.

Liked: Cleanliness, location, listing accuracy
Disliked: Check-in, communication

Cool Experience but Needs Improvement

My fiance and I stayed in one of the tipis for 2 nights. When we were on our way, I messaged the host 3 times with no response. When we arrived, no one was there to help so we left and got dinner. When we came back, we had to go knock on the door at the main house and a clearly intoxicated man pointed us to tipi #2. No other direction or introduction. We luckily got there early enough in the day that we could manage. But if we had arrived after dark, it would have been extremely difficult. The tipi itself is good, the bed is pretty comfortable. But know that bugs are going to get into the tent and even the cat if you've made friends. Didn't bother me but my fiance really struggled with it.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2021
Response from VrboOwner on 27 Jul 2021
#1 I never received any messages ! #2 No one was intoxicated!! Any Travelers who have experienced the tipi's, myself, and the studios knows I would never point at tipi #2 (as they have names etc) and give no further directions .... which is absolutely absurd !!! Let's be truthful PLEASE !!
Verified

4/10 Poor

Kathleen T.

Liked: Location
Disliked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, listing accuracy

Not what we expected!

No floor in tent; tent not secure to ground; I love cats, but not when they jump on me after midnight when sleeping!!! I can do with basic amenities, such as no shower and walking to the restroom, but NO HOT WATER!?!? The toilet that was available was filthy - no attempt to have cleaned it for possibly years!! Host was there at checkin, but I asked via messages several questions after we arrived and I never heard from him again!! We paid for 2 nights, and didn’t go back after the first night!! Pictures showed tepees at night glowing, implying that there were lights of some kind inside - there were NO LIGHTS! The outside solar lights were scarce and very dim; outside furniture was old and unsafe to sit on. Very bad experience!! I’m still suffering from ptsd from the cat jumping on us in the middle of the night!! Camping should be fun, not terrifying!! On the plus side: beautiful property, the bed was comfortable (until the cat attack!) and host is an excellent glass worker and had an interesting shop.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2022

About the host

Hosted by Lee Proctor

Host profile image
My first summer in Montana my girlfriend and I lived in a tipi. The moon lit July nights and the horse (Nanuk) grazing up close to the edge of the lodge were a wondrous experience I will always remember. So I wanted to offer the experience of an overnight stay in a tipi to anyone with such a longing !

Languages:

English

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