Ashley Lake South Campground

Ashley Lake South Campground offers a more rustic camping experience with only about 6-7 first-come, first-served sites. Unlike some other areas, this campground is suitable primarily for tent camping or very small, agile trailers due to the rough access road. The campground provides direct lake access and basic facilities including a centrally located pit toilet. The setting is generally peaceful on weekdays, though it can become more active on weekends. The campground's small size creates a more intimate experience than larger facilities around Ashley Lake.

Ashley Lake South Campground is located on the southern shore of Ashley Lake in northwestern Montana, near Kalispell. Access requires navigating a rough, unpaved road that can be challenging for larger vehicles. The road conditions make it advisable to use high-clearance vehicles, and RVs or larger trailers are not recommended. For specific directions, contact the Flathead National Forest office as GPS directions may not be reliable due to the remote location and unmarked forest roads.

Ashley Lake's remarkable blue clarity results from a combination of natural factors. The lake is fed by clean mountain springs and streams with minimal sediment, allowing light to penetrate deeply. Low algae content due to the cool mountain temperatures and limited nutrient inflow helps maintain its clarity. The surrounding limestone geology may also contribute minerals that enhance the water's distinctive blue coloration. This pristine water quality makes Ashley Lake particularly appealing for swimming and fishing compared to other Montana lakes.

Yes, Ashley Lake South Campground provides easy water access for boating. While not a formal developed boat launch, the campground offers direct lake access that makes it convenient to launch small watercraft. The location is ideal for those wanting to enjoy the crystal clear waters of Ashley Lake for fishing or recreational boating. Smaller boats, canoes, and kayaks can be launched with relative ease from the shoreline.